Code of Conduct

Version: 31-07-2024, Translation: 26-01-2025 (Rights can only be vested in the Dutch version.)

As dog owners, we are all very pleased when our dog can romp, run, and play with other four-legged friends. Not all behavioral rules are self-evident to everyone, which is why they are listed here for you. Let's try to maintain as many areas as possible and follow the rules below.

  1. Ensure that your dog is always under command. This means that your dog remains off-leash at a short distance from you and promptly follows commands. Your dog returns under all circumstances when called back or whistled back.
  2. In not all off-leash areas is there a clean-up requirement, but always pick up your dog's feces as much as possible. Not only for humans but also for the environment. Your dog's feces are full of phosphorus and nitrogen. These substances damage flora and fauna.
  3. Always keep your dog visibly under control when passing other users in nature. A horse can be startled by your dog, which can have unpleasant consequences for the rider. Additionally, not all walkers are fond of dogs. Try to recognize their body language and adjust you and the dog to the situation. Ensure your dog does not jump on passersby.
  4. Leash your dog when passing another leashed dog and maintain an appropriate distance. Ensure your off-leash dog never approaches a leashed dog. Some dogs are less social, but it may also be that the dog is unwell, in heat, or recovering from surgery. You do not know why this dog is leashed. Therefore, consider each other and do not let your dog play with a leashed dog, as this feels threatening for the leashed dog. It cannot evade.
  5. For walking with an off-leash dog, it is important that your dog is social. You know your dog best and recognize its body language. Not all dogs play the same way or are always in the mood to play. Recognize the dog signals and intervene timely when necessary.
  6. You and your dog are guests at all times. Follow the rules of the nature area. Ensure your dog is leashed in the parking area, even if it borders the off-leash area. This keeps it safe for everyone. Snufl is an app indicating the off-leash area. The signs on the location always prevail. Does an area in the app not match reality? Notify us!
  7. When you walk, think of the desires of your dog. There can be harsh winters; dress not only yourself for this but also your dog. Not all off-leash areas have water available. Therefore, on hot summer days, think of sufficient water for you and your dog. Adapt to the weather conditions.
  8. In many off-leash areas, there is standing water. During hot days, there is a chance of blue green algae. Dogs can get sick from drinking water with blue green algae. A small amount can lead to poisoning and put your dog in danger. Always check the water quality for your dog's safety before going into the water at zwemwater.nl.
  9. Often you have rewards with you for your own dog. Do not give these, without permission from the owner, to another dog. You never know if this other dog has allergies. Always ask the owner's permission.
  10. When an off-leash area is fenced, always ensure the gate is properly closed. This prevents dogs that do not listen well from slipping away. This way, dog owners can walk relaxed.