Nature’s recovery is taking priority in the Surrey Hills National Landscape through a new project, Love Dogs, Love Nature, which empowers responsible dog ownership to enjoy our outstanding countryside whilst safeguarding farming and sensitive habitats.
Dog ownership across the UK has surged, with figures from Dogs Trust estimating as many as 13 million dogs now call the UK home. In Surrey, the rise in canine companions has been particularly significant, as more people turn to dogs for exercise, companionship, and mental wellbeing.
However, with this increase in dog ownership come challenges that need to be addressed. Disturbances from dogs have a negative impact on wildlife and the natural environment, slowing recovery efforts in sensitive ecosystems. Dogs also pose major risks to farming communities, as livestock can be threatened by uncontrolled canine behaviour, and dog waste can contribute to infertility in livestock and environmental pollution.
The Surrey Hills National Landscape has partnered with the University of Surrey, Surrey Nature Partnership, landowners, farmers, and various local stakeholders to develop a programme of practical and promotional initiatives that foster a healthy balance between enjoying the natural environment and ensuring its preservation. As more people take their dogs out into the countryside, it’s an opportunity to engage with the environment, learn about wildlife, and promote conservation efforts. This work will help develop the Surrey Hills Management Plan vision and policies to ensure that the Surrey Hills is a thriving place for people and nature over the next 75 years.
Marisa Heath, Cabinet Member for Environment said.
“As a dog owner and as someone who runs the Canine and Feline Sector Group which advises Government, I understand only too well how important dogs are to so many people. We are a nation of dog lovers and certainly Surrey is a county of dog lovers. However, it does not come without its problems, especially the threat that some behaviours bring to our wildlife and farming communities. In 2024 Surrey County Council produced its dog code of conduct, and this project can help continue the progress the code has made. The countryside belongs to everyone, we are all equally responsible and any interventions must be balanced, clear and achievable. I think this work can really make a difference and ensure we can remain a county of dog lovers and enable nature to return and farming to continue.”
Professor Richard Murphy, Chair of Surrey Nature Partnership said.
“We recognise the importance of dogs to people and how they encourage their owners to get out and about in their local green space and further afield. We are also aware that dogs can have an impact on wildlife, particularly ground nesting birds and small mammals and on livestock such as sheep and cattle. We are therefore keen to work with our partners and dog owners to raise awareness of the negative impacts, support responsible dog ownership and the use of green and natural spaces”
Dr Tom Roberts, Institute for Sustainability, University of Surrey commented.
“Dog walking is a fantastic way for people to stay fit, manage their mental health and engage with nature. But as the dog population grows it is essential that it is managed carefully to ensure dog walking doesn’t undermine the natural environment people are seeking to enjoy and the vital process of nature recovery. By engaging and playing with their dogs while out and about, responsible dog owners can remain aware of what the dog is doing and where it is going, minimising the impact on the environment and enhancing the experience for both the dog and the owner.”
As more dog owners engage with these initiatives, they can help ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the beauty of the Surrey Hills, with nature and dogs coexisting in harmony. Responsible dog ownership, after all, is key to preserving the very spaces we love to explore with our furry friends.
