The autumn forest is at its loveliest right now: cool air, soft light, exciting scents everywhere. No wonder forest walks are among many dogs' favourite outings, and our Vico too loves nothing more than sticking his nose into rustling leaves. At the same time, autumn is a sensitive season in the forest: hunting season is under way in many Swiss cantons, and wildlife is getting ready for winter. With a few simple rules you can still enjoy relaxed walks without disturbing anyone.
Why the forest needs extra consideration in autumn
Between autumn and early winter, hunting takes place across large parts of Switzerland. Exactly when and where is regulated differently by each canton, so it pays to check the signs at the forest entrance and the information provided by your municipality. At the same time, deer and other wild animals are now building up the reserves that will carry them through winter. Every flight costs them energy they will miss later.
From a deer's point of view, even the best-behaved family dog is a predator. It does not distinguish between a hunting dog and one that is merely nosing curiously through the undergrowth. That alone is reason enough in autumn to err on the side of consideration.
Leash, paths, time of day: the three basic rules
Three simple habits keep you on the safe side in the autumn forest:
- Leash on wherever it is required, and wherever you are unsure. Whether and when leash rules apply in the forest varies by canton and sometimes even by municipality. Follow the signs on site. And be honest with yourself: if your dog cannot be reliably recalled at the sight of a deer, he belongs on a leash in the forest, regardless of the regulations.
- Stay on the paths. Wild animals rest in thickets and young growth. If you and your dog keep to the paths, their retreats stay undisturbed.
- Walk during the day if you can. Wildlife is most active at dusk and dawn, and hunters are often out then too. If possible, schedule the big forest loop for daytime hours.
You will find a suitable leash and a well-fitting harness in our Dog collars, leashes & harnesses collection. And if you are planning a whole autumn hike, our packing list for autumn hikes with your dog will help.
Prepared for a runaway: tag, chip and tracking
Even well-trained dogs can follow a fresh trail in an unguarded moment. So practise the recall regularly and reward it generously, especially in the forest with all its distractions. For dogs with a strong hunting instinct, a long training line is a sensible tool, and if in doubt a dog school can support you.
For the worst case, it is best to prepare twice over. First: keep your contact details in the Swiss dog database Amicus up to date, so that whoever finds your dog can reach you via the chip. Second: a tag on the collar that anyone can read at a glance. With the VicoTrack AirTag collar with engraving (CHF 29.95), your dog's name and your phone number are engraved directly onto the plate, and the integrated pocket holds an Apple AirTag. That way you can pull out your phone and see where your runaway has got to, instead of just hoping.
If your dog does disappear: do not run after him and do not call out in panic. Stay as close as possible to the spot where he vanished, as many dogs return exactly there. Wait calmly, make yourself noticeable with familiar sounds and give him time.
Leave nothing behind: poo bags belong in the forest too
"It just rots away in the forest" is something you hear a lot, but it is not quite that simple. Dog waste can carry pathogens that become a problem for wildlife and, via neighbouring meadows, for grazing animals as well. And at the edge of the path it lies exactly where other people and dogs walk. So: pick it up, take it with you and dispose of it in the next bin. Throwing full bags into the bushes is no solution either, as that leaves plastic on top of the waste.
To keep this from becoming a fumble on the go, the SilkeN walking bag (CHF 69.00) has proved its worth with us: water-repellent nylon, a dedicated side pocket for poo bags and two front pockets for treats, so the reward for a successful recall is always within reach. You can wear it as a belt bag or across the shoulder.
Through the autumn forest with a clear conscience
Consideration in the autumn forest is no great art: respect leash rules and paths, walk during the day, prepare for the worst case and leave nothing behind. That way the forest loop stays the highlight of the day for you and your dog, and wildlife, hunters and other forest visitors get their share too.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a general leash requirement in the forest?
No, there is no uniform rule across Switzerland. However, many cantons and municipalities require a leash, or at least effective control of your dog, particularly in spring and during hunting season. Follow the signs on site, and when in doubt, leash up.
What do I do if my dog chases a deer?
Do not run after him, as that only fuels the chase. Stay where you are, call once calmly and wait, as many dogs return to the spot where they disappeared after a short while. Dogs that chase game can cause serious harm to wildlife and legal consequences for you, so start recall training early and involve a dog school if needed.
Do I really have to pick up my dog's waste in the forest?
Yes, in the forest too. Dog waste can spread pathogens and belongs neither on paths nor in wildlife zones. Take the bag with you to the next rubbish bin, as there are often no dog-waste bins in the forest itself.
