Dog On or Dog Off Leash?

 

I don't know if you're a fan of the great outdoors.  I'm more of a city dog myself but my owners insist on hiking in the wilds of the Berkeley Hills.  We usually go to off-leash areas since we move at much different speeds.  I tend to lag behind and "smell the roses" so to speak.  I'm kind of an "in the moment" sort of dog.  I get lost in contemplating the fragrances surrounding us that my people completely ignore.  They stride on ahead totally unconscious of the interesting stories I'm absorbing in my dog's version of Facebook.

Sometimes a runner will race by.  I have given chase in the past, but I've learned I may not do that in no uncertain terms.  I love a good chase, so this pains me, but I guess in the interests of being a mannerly creature I will curb my natural instinct to pursue fast moving objects. 

Unless they're mountain bikes. 

I can't abide a mountain bike.  All that whirring and speed!  And they're sneaky.  You might have your nose in a particularly delightful and instructive odor, and they spring out of nowhere, zipping by at speed.  I have to chase that!  My people have learned to keep their eyes peeled for the illusive and wily Wheelie and snap my leash on at first sighting.

All this aside, I love off-leash areas, and there are many in the East Bay.  They satisfy a dog's need to meander or play (or chase) and an owner's need for exercise. As an aside, more care should be taken by many dog walkers to collect our leavings, but most endeavor to keep the trail clean and clear, lugging off another dog's mess in some cases. 

Despite this, there are people who object to off-leash dogs, even in off-leash areas.

I believe we can all share the trails, and that those who are uncomfortable with animals like myself should find trails that don't allow dogs to roam free. Nervous people make dogs nervous too, and sometimes a nervous dog forgets him or herself and resorts to more primitive reactions in response.

I can, of course, understand (from sad personal experience) the problems, and sometimes injuries, caused by poorly mannered, managed, or ill tempered canines. Ones such as those should be snapped to the leash at all times whether it's an off-leash area or not.

My point, really, is this: Know yourself, know the trail, and know your dog.  Much dog/human friction can be avoided if we follow these simple rules.
 
I'd like to help out, so here is a handy list of trails that allow dogs in general in the Bay Area.  Click the links to see which ones are Off-leash trails. Those are the ones to avoid if you're canine adverse, and the ones to enjoy if you're a canine.

Pixie (Guest Blogger)



PS from Chris

22 Windsor will be open this Sunday from 1:00 to 3:00.  I suggest you do more than just take a look at the house.  Walk around the neighborhood and see how wonderful it is to live in Kensington.  Remember, the price has been reduced to $860,000.  Last Sunday  a lot of admiring people came through. Don't miss a chance to see this gorgeous place!

For more information about local real estate, events, home sales and values in the Berkeley Area, keep reading this blog.  If you're interested in buying or selling a home in the Berkeley Area, Call Chris Neddersen at 510-527-0174 or if you're a buyer go to  That House Detective.  If you're a seller go to What's Next Homes.

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