Forest regulations
In France, state forests (managed by ONF) and municipal forests have specific rules for dogs. The basic rule: your dog must be kept on a leash in state forests, except in areas explicitly authorized.
- Article R163-6: dogs must be kept on a leash in state forests
- April 15 to June 30: leash mandatory everywhere (nesting and birthing period)
- During hunting season (Sept-Feb): prohibition on approaching hunting areas
- Fine: 135 € for wandering dog in forest (4th class misdemeanor)
| Forest type | Leash mandatory | Restriction period | Main risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| State forest (ONF) | Yes | April 15-June 30 (nesting) | Fine 135 € |
| Municipal forest | Variable (order) | By municipality | Variable |
| Private forest | By owner | Hunting (Sept-Feb) | Owner can refuse |
| National park (core) | Yes (or forbidden) | All year | Les Calanques, Pyrénées: forbidden |
| Regional park | Recommended | Variable | More flexible |
Hunting: when and how to avoid it
Hunting season (generally from September to February) is the most dangerous period for walking your dog in the forest. On hunting days, the risks are real.
Dangers in the forest
Inspect your dog after each walk (ears, neck, armpits, between toes). Remove ticks with a tick remover. Preventive antiparasitic essential. Risk: Lyme disease, piroplasmosis.
Deadly if licked or touched. Stinging hairs cause tongue necrosis. Keep your dog away from nests (cottony balls in pines) and ground processions.
Present in undergrowth, stone piles, and sunny areas. Keep your dog on the trail. In case of bite: immobilize, don't suck, emergency vet.
Some dogs eat mushrooms on the ground. Monitor and prevent. In case of suspected ingestion, consult a vet immediately with a sample.
For longer hikes, consult our complete hiking guide. In case of emergency (viper bite, tick, caterpillar), our first aid guide is essential. For athletes, discover our outdoor dog sports. Find dog-friendly forests on our natural sites directory.
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog be off-leash in the forest?
In state forests, no — leash is mandatory (Forest Code). In practice, in municipal and private forests outside hunting season, tolerance exists if your dog has perfect recall. But the risk of a 135 € fine and encounters with wildlife is real. Our recommendation: leash or 5 m long line.
How to protect my dog from ticks?
Three levels of protection: preventive antiparasitic (Seresto collar, pipette, Bravecto tablet) + systematic inspection after each walk + quick removal with a tick remover (within 24h to limit transmission). Piroplasmosis vaccine also exists — talk to your vet.
Which forests are forbidden to dogs?
The cores of national parks often forbid dogs: Vanoise, Écrins, Mercantour, Calanques (protected areas), part of the Pyrénées. Nature reserves too. Check the park or reserve website before leaving. Regional parks are generally accessible on leash.
Fontainebleau forest in autumn with my dog is magical. We do 10 km on the blue trails, he sniffs everything, I breathe. Simple happiness.
— Braque owner, Île-de-France
