The RSPCA has welcomed new guidance on dog walking in lockdown.

They say this will make it easier for people in England to walk and exercise their dogs amid ongoing lockdown restrictions.

People with dogs can go out more often than once a day to exercise their canine companion if necessary. However, people are still advised by the to "limit this where possible".

Dr Samantha Gaines, the RSPCA's head of companion animals, said: "The RSPCA really welcomes this important new guidance for England from the UK Government, which is a common sense approach for dog owners and their pets.

"Dog walkers may now go out more than once a day to meet the exercise needs of their dogs. This stops the rules penalising dogs living with one person."

So what are the rules? 

You may leave your house to walk your dog:

  • by yourself
  • with the people you live with
  • with your support bubble (if you’re legally permitted to form one)
  • or, when on your own in a public outdoor space, with one person from another household

This is covered by the exemptions for animal welfare and exercise.

Although the government generally advises you should exercise once a day, you can go out more often if you need to walk your dog but should limit this where possible.

You should stay 2 metres apart from anyone outside of your household or support bubble.

When walking your dog in areas used by other people, you should consider putting your dog on a lead to ensure you can stay 2 metres away from others.

You should wash your hands before and after handling your dog.

If you’re walking dogs on behalf of someone not able to

You may walk a dog for someone who is unable to leave their house because they are self-isolating.

You should wash your hands before and after handling the dog and keep 2 metres away from other people and animals, including when handing over the dog to the owner.

If you’re self-isolating

If your dog cannot be exercised at home, you should ask someone outside of your household or support bubble to walk your dog for you, or access walking services provided by a professional.

You should notify anyone walking your dog on your behalf in advance that you’re self-isolating and arrange a no-contact service where possible.