AS the Easter break approaches and more of us head outdoors, Natural Resources Wales is reminding dog walkers how to enjoy the outdoors responsibly by following the Countryside Code.

A new law came into force on March 18, strengthening protections for livestock from dog attacks. The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) (Amendment) Act 2025 introduces unlimited fines for livestock worrying, gives police stronger powers to detain dogs and gather evidence, and extends protections to roads and paths.

The definition of livestock has also been updated to include camelids such as alpacas and llamas.

Any dog can worry livestock, so the safest approach is to keep dogs on a lead around farm animals. If you feel threatened by livestock or horses, release your dog so you can both reach safety more easily.

Dog Friendly Retreats has created a comprehensive guide looking at National Trust locations that genuinely welcome dogs and Pembrokeshire’s Stackpole Estate has come in at number 8. Dogs are welcome throughout the 3,000 acre estate, including parkland, woodland trails and coastal walking routes. Owners should be aware that there are lots of livestock and wildlife animals across the estate, so dogs should be kept under control and preferably on a lead.

Spring also marks the start of nesting season for ground-nesting birds, which are especially vulnerable to disturbance at this time of year.

Even calm, well-trained dogs can scare birds from their nests or damage eggs. Keep your dog on a short lead during nesting season, and remember it's a legal requirement to do so on open access land between March 1 and July 31.

Respect any signs, temporary diversions, and dog restrictions you come across, and stick to well-travelled routes to reduce the risk of disturbing nesting sites.

You can read the full Countryside Code on https://naturalresouces.wales/ .