A good dog walk comes down to the right kit, a dog who walks nicely on the lead, and knowing the rules of wherever you are walking. Get those three in place and walks become easier for you, your dog and everyone you pass.

This guide gathers every walking article in our Journal, from choosing a lead to walking through fields of sheep, with our favourite London routes at the end. Whatever the walk, make sure your dog wears a collar with your name and address on it or on an attached tag, as UK law requires in public places.

Leads and lead training

The right length of lead and a kind, consistent approach to pulling make the biggest difference to everyday walks.

• What Length Dog Lead Do I Need?: from standard 120cm leads to longer leads and long lines for recall training.
• How to Stop Your Dog Pulling on the Lead: reward-based ways to teach loose lead walking, and when to call in a trainer.

What to take

A short, well-organised kit means you are never caught without poo bags or water.

• What to Take on a Dog Walk: The Essentials Checklist: the essentials for every walk, plus easy ways to carry them.
• The Best Dog Walking Accessories for Stylish London Owners: the considered walking accessories worth owning.

Etiquette and the countryside

Shared paths, parks and farmland all come with expectations, and some come with legal rules.

• Dog Walking Etiquette in the UK: picking up, leads and other dogs, the yellow ribbon and council PSPOs.
• Walking Your Dog Near Livestock: UK Rules and Advice: the Countryside Code and the law on walking near sheep, cattle and horses.

Weather, darkness and mud

British walks mean short winter days and plenty of mud. A little preparation keeps you both safe and your home clean.

• Walking Your Dog on Dark Winter Evenings: Staying Safe and Seen: reflective kit, lights, route planning and lead control after dark.
• Muddy Walks: How to Clean Your Dog (and Your Kit) Afterwards: a five-minute routine for paws, coats, leads and collars.

Where to walk in London

London has some wonderful places to walk a dog, each with its own rules.

• The Best Dog Walks in London: Parks, Heaths and Riverside Routes: eleven of London's best dog walks with a practical tip for each.
• Walking Your Dog in Richmond Park: Rules, Deer and Best Routes: the Royal Parks rules, walking safely around the deer, and three routes.
• Walking Your Dog on Hampstead Heath: Routes and Rules: the rules for dogs on the Heath, Kenwood and the ponds, and three routes.

Shop the walk

Leads, hands-free walking bags and carriers are in The Walk collection.

For collars, fit and ID tags, see our complete collar and ID guide. Planning a day out further afield? Our travel and London guide covers trains, cars and beaches.

Frequently asked questions

What length of dog lead is best for everyday walks?

A standard lead of around 120cm suits most town walking, keeping your dog close on pavements. Longer leads give more freedom in open spaces, and long lines are used for recall training.

Do dogs have to be on a lead in the Royal Parks?

The Royal Parks ask that any dog whose obedience cannot be guaranteed is kept on a lead, and that all dogs stay in sight and under control. Deer parks such as Richmond and Bushy have extra restrictions during the autumn rut and spring birthing season, so follow the signage.

What should I always take on a dog walk?

At minimum: your dog wearing a collar with ID, a lead, and poo bags. Water, treats and a towel are worth adding for longer walks, and reflective kit or a light on dark evenings.