Comparing Countries

What is it like owning a dog in various parts of the world?

Scandinavia
When I visited Scandinavia to lecture in 2003 & 2004 I was told that almost all the land is free for everyone to walk on (apart from getting too close to houses) so dogs can spend most of their exercise time off lead "reading the newspaper" and exploring the environment. However, in the UK almost all land is owned, and walkers are not allowed to trespass or walk their dogs - except when walking along recognised foot paths. Many dogs in the towns and cities never have the opportunity to really run free to use their amazing sense of smell, and live a very frustrating life walking around the local park and streets. - Sally Hopkins

New Zealand
We have so much land that is un-owned and unexplored in New Zealand and it is OK for dogs to run free in these areas. BUT there are so many sheep everywhere, (wild and not wild) and loads of bird and reptile wildlife, and all are protected. So if your dog worries sheep, or kills the protected birds or animals, then the owner is prosecuted and dog may be put to sleep. It is unfortunate that some irresponsible dog owners have allowed their dogs to roam the countryside, fiorlands, forests, beaches and rainforests and kill wildlife such as our beautiful Kiwi's who cannot fly to get out of the way. So the wildlife has to be protected. Dogs are generally not allowed on most beaches and not allowed to walk around town centers or streets close to town centers. Dogs are never allowed on busses, trains or any public transport.