Dogs in nature
Dogs are welcome in the nature. However, dog owners must observe strict rules so as not to disturb the wildlife.
Keeping your dog on a leash or under close supervision in natural areas is important to protect wildlife. Unleashed dogs can disturb or chase animals – especially during sensitive times like nesting or calving.
Keep in mind
- From March 1 to August 20, dogs should be kept on a leash.
- National parks and nature reserves may have additional rules regarding dogs - may be restricted or required to be on a leash year-round.
- In areas where reindeer are kept, dogs must always be leashed.
Leash your dog between March and August
From March 1 to August 20, dogs must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife during their most vulnerable time, which is the birthing and hatching season. This rule helps safeguard wild animals when they need it most. The regulation applies to nearly all natural areas, including large parks and other outdoor spaces.
Leashing recommendations
For the rest of the year, it's strongly recommended to keep your dog on a leash to prevent any disturbance or harm to wildlife. This ensures that you and your dog enjoy nature responsibly.
Livestock
When trails pass through pastures, crossing is usually permitted, but it’s best to avoid bringing your dog. Animals like horses or cows with calves can be protective and may react aggressively. Keep a safe distance and consider leaving your dog at home in these areas. Unsupervised dogs can cause significant issues, such as disturbing or attacking livestock, leading to serious consequences like miscarriages in pregnant ewes or injury and even death to the animals.
Dogs in reindeer herding areas
If you're visiting areas where reindeer herding takes place – often in the mountains and northern parts of Sweden – it's important to keep your dog under control at all times. Dogs that are not used for herding must always be kept on a leash, especially when reindeer are nearby or being moved.
Reindeer are easily disturbed, and it is strictly forbidden to scare, chase, or stress them in any way. This is particularly important during the sensitive calving season, from April to June, when both adult reindeer and young calves are especially vulnerable.
Always keep your dog on a leash and help protect the peace and well-being of the reindeer.
National parks and nature reserves
In some national parks, dogs must always be on a leash, and in certain parks, dogs may not be allowed at all. Every national park has its own set of regulations, which you can find, in English, on the Swedish EPA website.
Most nature reserves also require dogs to be leashed, especially those with sensitive wildlife or areas that attract many visitors. Make sure to check the notice boards or ask at the local county administrative board or municipality for the relevant rules.
Local and regional regulations
County administrative boards may require dogs to be leashed between March 1 and August 20, or at other times of the year. For example, leashing is mandatory in large parts of the Baltic coastal archipelago. Municipalities can also set their own rules for outdoor recreation areas, jogging trails, and other public spaces.