Unfortunately, sometimes these instincts can take over and result in undesirable behaviours, such as chasing or fleeing. This can be distressing for both animals and handlers, and in the worst-case scenario can be fatal.
In recent years, at British Horse Society, we have seen an increase in the number of dog-related incidents involving horses - not just in fields but also those being ridden or driven. As both horses and dogs offer us companionship, and enjoy exercising with us in outdoor spaces, they need to share common areas safely.
Top tips for horse owners
Always slow to a walk to pass dogs
Communicate with the owner if they have not seen you, or call out for an owner if a dog is loose or unaccompanied
If necessary, stop to allow the owner to put their dog on a lead
Give dogs a wide berth so they do not feel threatened
Always wear hi vis to enable other route users to see you
Be nice and say hi.
If the worse happens and your horse is attacked by a dog
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Try to:
Stay calm
Distance yourself from the dog by riding away
Protect young or vulnerable riders if possible and safe to do so
Keep the horse's head away from the dog
Allow your horse to defend itself
Make a note of any identifying details of either the dog or their owner and any other relevant details e.g. date and time of incident, witness details, photos etc.
After the event:
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Make sure that you and your horse are safe
Try to get the dog owner's contact details in case the incident needs following up
Always report any incident to the Police and ask them to refer it to the Dog Legislation Officer, who will be an expert in these matters
Top tips for dog owners
Always keep your dog on a lead or in sight
Be confident your dog will return on command
Make sure your dog does not stray from the path or area where you have right of access
Introduce your dog to horses and train them to maintain calm around horses
Don’t allow your dog to jump up at the horse
If you’re not sure how your dog will react around horses, keep them on a lead and ask them to sit and stay while the horse passes
Be nice and say hi.
Close control
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It's important to keep your dog under proper control when walking in areas where you might meet horses to help everyone stay safe and avoid potential prosecution under Dangerous Dog Act 1991, Section 3 for having your dog "dangerously out of control".
Owners should make sure that they can effectively control their dog and prevent it from approaching or chasing horses. If unsure how they will react to a horse, you may need to keep your dog on a lead.
Consequences of having a dog deemed "dangerously out of control"
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Destruction of the dog
Disqualification from owning dogs
Compulsory muzzling and keeping the dog on a lead in public, which may be required through a post-sentence prohibition order
Two years' imprisonment
Unlimited fine.
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