Be a responsible dog owner

Dogs are our best friends, but caring for one responsibly takes time, planning and commitment. Responsible dog ownership helps keep your dog safe and healthy while reducing risks to people, wildlife and shared public spaces.

Caring for your dog responsibly

Before getting a dog, research your options carefully so you choose the breed, size and temperament that suits your home, lifestyle and ability to provide long-term care.

• Desex your dog to avoid contributing to unwanted litters and dogs without forever homes.
• Microchip and register your dog so it can be identified and returned to you if lost.
• Keep your dog under control at all times, including when exercising outdoors.
• Use a leash and keep your dog well away from native wildlife.
• Follow local rules at parks, beaches and reserves - some areas require dogs to be on a leash, while others prohibit dogs altogether (such as offshore islands).
• Consider kiwi avoidance training, which reduces the likelihood of your dog harming kiwi if they encounter one.
• Immediately remove and appropriately dispose of your dog’s faeces.
• Rehome your dog responsibly. If you can no longer care for your dog, never release it into the wild. Instead, find a responsible new owner or contact a dog rescue centre, such as Pet Rescue NZ.

How your choices make a difference

Dogs can unintentionally harm wildlife through chasing, predation, disturbance and spreading disease. Keeping dogs under control and out of sensitive environments helps protect native species, supports shared public spaces and ensures dogs remain welcome in many outdoor areas.