Dog Walking Regulations in Your Area

3 minutes

Did you know there are dog walking regulations set in place? There are many risks that come with taking your pet out around public places. So, in order to avoid them, you should be familiar with the laws set in place in your area.

Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García.

Last update: 27 December, 2022

Everyone with a dog should be able to bring them along wherever they go. Of course, it would be great if the dog could just run free, unleashed. Unfortunately, there are many dog walking regulations nearly everywhere.

It’s priceless to watch your dogs enjoy themselves as they run and sniff around everything they can. For the most part, walks are a lot more enjoyable and pleasant experiences for the animal. However, they often fear or distrust some people and, for that reason, they ought to be restrained. Hence the dog walking regulations that state that canines must be leashed at all times.

That’s just one of the many rules in regard to dog walking regulations, and there are many others. Note that each county has its own specific rules. Here we’ll mainly tell you about some standard ones to keep in mind when you go out with your furry pal.

Your duties as a dog guardian

A woman sitting on a bus with a dog on her lap.

You should be aware of the commitment and duties you’re taking on before you even think of adopting a dog or any other animal. You won’t just have to take care of the animal and provide them with everything they may need. In addition, you’ll be fully responsible for the behavior of your dog, especially if it hurts another being.

Then, if you realize you can no longer take care of your dog, it’s your duty to place them in a loving home or shelter that can look after them until someone else adopts them. It’s never acceptable to simply abandon them, especially in public spaces.

As for walking with your dog, there are also many regulations you should respect. Our society becomes more pet-friendly as time goes by, but there are still many restrictions and you must be familiar with those as well.

Dog walking regulations

Public transportation

For the most part, pets can’t use regular city public transportation here in the US. There are exceptions with AMTRAK and most ferry systems. As per their written policies:

“Amtrak allows one small dog or cat per passenger in carriers that can fit under seats. The combined weight of the pet and carrier can’t be greater than 20 pounds, and the trip duration can’t exceed 7 hours. Reservations must be made in advance, with only five pets allowed per train (service dogs are not included in the limit). You must pay a small fee to travel with your pet.”
Most ferry systems allow pets on board. Their regulations vary but, for the most part, dogs must be leashed and attended to by their guardians at all times. They can be in the cabin as long as they’re kept in a carrier. Some restrict them to a specific pet-friendly area. Lastly, you must clean up after any accidents.

Streets and urban parks

As for public streets and urban parks, check with your city as each has its own regulations. However, use common courtesy as it applies to every public place such as:

Clean up any excrement your pet may drop
Keep them on a leash
Don’t abandon them, especially not in the streets or parks.

In general, dogs can travel on public roads as long as they’re on a leash. As you well know, it doesn’t matter how friendly and affectionate your dog may be, their reactions are hard to predict. Dogs can be unleashed in pet-friendly park areas, however.

You must be in charge of your dog at all times throughout the duration of your walks, whether the dog is on a leash or not. This will prevent problems and/or damage to other beings or their property.

Walking regulations: pick up your dog’s excrement

Finally, regulations place special emphasis in regard to picking up after your dog. Make it a habit to carry bags along for that purpose. Keep them next to their leash so you won’t forget.