Rules for dogs in public

Registering your dog

All dogs over eight weeks old must be microchipped by law. Details need to be stored on a government approved microchip database. You need to keep information up to date, such as a change of contact details or address, or if you have sold your dog.

Any dog that we come into contact with will be scanned for a microchip. If the dog is not microchipped we will try to help. If you reject our support, we will issue an enforcement notice. This notice gives 21 days to take action.

You can find more information on microchipping on the Dogs Trust website.

You will need to contact your local vet for more details on how to get your dog microchipped.

Collar and tags

It is also an offence for a dog to be in a public place without a collar and tag with the owners name and address on it.

Rules in public spaces

We have rules for dogs in public spaces to protect the health and safety of everyone. This is known as the Dogs in Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).

Dogs in Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO)

If you're responsible for a dog, you need to:

• pick up dog poo left by a dog in all public spaces
• carry a poo bag or similar to clear up after the dog
  
• keep your dogs under close control
• keep dogs on leads in designated areas. In Leeds this includes all roads, pavements and footpaths (included gated alleyways) next to carriageways. Also where signage is in place, in cemeteries, crematoria, specialist gardens, and some council owned golf courses
• know that dogs can be let off the lead in parks except in areas where there is specific signage in place
• make sure your dogs don’t stray from the public right of way onto private land, as this may be considered trespassing
• put dogs on a lead when directed to do so by an authorised officer such as a dog warden and police officer
• ensure dogs do not enter designated exclusion areas. Dog exclusion areas include children’s playgrounds, some sports courts, council owned tennis courts, multi-use games areas, remembrance and wildlife gardens, and many school grounds
• limit the number of dogs walked to a maximum of four at a time. The exception to this rule is professional dog walkers which are allowed to walk up to 6 providing that they do not walk with or alongside any other dogs. Professional dog walkers choosing to walk with others lose this privilege and can only then walk 4 dogs

There is also a requirement that prohibits smoking in children’s play area to reduce the exposure of children to second hand smoke and for them to see less smoking happening as they grow up.

Read the full 2025 Dogs in Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO).

Events and educational talks

We attend community events and provide educational talks in schools to promote responsible dog ownership. This can include working with partner agencies to provide free microchipping and subsidised neutering for specific circumstances. 

Contact us to discuss how we can help you.