Dogs are one of our best-loved companions and going on walks in nature with our four-legged friends is a pleasure that millions of us enjoy each year.

"Just over a quarter of households in the UK are now dog owners, and with over 10 million dogs roaming the country it’s more important than ever to be as conscientious and considerate as we can." says Emma Settle, GWT's Land Management Advisor.

Responsible owners and their dogs are welcome on almost all of GWT nature reserves, though there are some areas where dogs must remain on leads or cannot go due to the delicate nature of these wildlife havens.

To showcase how to strike a balance between getting out and about with your dog and giving wildlife and wild places space, a short film has been produced in partnership with Cotswolds National Landscape and The National Trust.

The film was shot at Crickley Hill, which boasts far-reaching views, an abundance of wildlife and a place of historic importance that is very popular place for dog walkers to get out in nature. 

The film accompanies a leaflet that can be picked up at Crickley Hill café or viewed online.

Our vision is to see wildlife thriving across Gloucestershire, with everyone enjoying the natural world on their doorstep, whether they’ve got two legs or four.

For more tips on how to make this summer an enjoyable one for you, your dog, the grazing herds and wildlife as a whole, read the canine code.

The canine code  Find out more about conservation grazing