Dog Off-Leash Policy Reminder
Dog Off-Leash Policy Reminder
Posted on: 09/17/2025 - 10:33
Keeping the Research Forest a welcoming place for all users- two feet or four feet
Two separate incidents came to our attention this morning that suggested a reminder might be necessary when it comes to our dog policy. One was a report of a dog owner and her dog being approached by an aggressive off-leash dog, resulting in the proverbial dog fight. The other was a little dog that ran away from his owner, resulting in a significant and worrisome separation. Fortunately, both situations were resolved without serious negative outcome, but the point remains- dogs can be a risk to themselves and others out here on the Research Forest!
We here at the Research Forest love dogs- a lot of us on the staff are dog owners and appreciators of all of our canine friends. That said, we need dog owners to help us keep the Research Forest a safe and enjoyable place for all users. It’s important to pick up after your dog, ensure your dog is comfortable given the weather conditions, and avoids chasing the wildlife (or the Research Forest staff…). But the most important thing for a dog owner visiting the Research Forests with their canine companion is exercising certain control of the dog.
There are two options currently permitted on the Research Forests:
- Leash your dog. Keeping your dog leashed is the most certain approach to avoiding conflict. Even with your dog leashed, obtain permission from other forest visitors before your dog approaches them or their dog/horse/llama/etc. It doesn’t matter how friendly your pup is; others may not perceive it that way, or their dog might be reactive, etc.
- Voice control (recall) with certainty that your dog will return to you. Off-leash use of the Forest is a privilege, not a right. You must ensure that your dog will return to you at your command. Otherwise, return to option #1 (leash control). Again, it doesn’t matter how friendly your dog is, or you think your dog is. Have your dog return to you when you encounter other trail users or wildlife. If you feel your pup and the other party could greet in a friendly way, obtain permission from the human part of the party before allowing your dog to approach them or their dog.
We don’t want to restrict option #2. However, if we continue to receive reports of conflict between users due to poorly-controlled dogs, we may find that necessary.
Want to help the situation? A good way to start is to review the dog policy on our "Trail Etiquette" page: https://cf.forestry.oregonstate.edu/recreation/trail-etiquette
Thank you!