Dog Policy and Animal Bylaw Review

Consultation has concluded

Thank you to everyone who gave their feedback in our pre-engagement period. We are now in the formal consultation phase and would love to hear your thoughts on the draft proposals. You can do this via the hub: https://www.letstalk.wellington.govt.nz/hub-page/animal-review.



Why do we have a Dog Policy?

We recognise that dogs can play a positive role in society and provide enjoyment and health benefits for individuals and families. The main purpose of the Dog Policy is to:

  • make sure dog owners meet their obligations under the Dog Control Act 1996
  • make sure dogs are well cared for and Wellingtonians are able to enjoy owning dogs
  • prevent dogs from causing any danger to the public, wildlife and natural habitats
  • actively promote responsible ownership of dogs
  • provide for the reasonable exercise and recreational needs of dogs and their owners.



Why are we reviewing the policy?

The Dog Policy was last reviewed in 2016. There has been an increase in dog ownership over the past few years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. This growth means we need to assess whether our dog exercise areas meet current and future demand. It is also an opportunity to check the policy is still relevant and effective for our city.

Thank you to everyone who gave their feedback in our pre-engagement period. We are now in the formal consultation phase and would love to hear your thoughts on the draft proposals. You can do this via the hub: https://www.letstalk.wellington.govt.nz/hub-page/animal-review.



Why do we have a Dog Policy?

We recognise that dogs can play a positive role in society and provide enjoyment and health benefits for individuals and families. The main purpose of the Dog Policy is to:

  • make sure dog owners meet their obligations under the Dog Control Act 1996
  • make sure dogs are well cared for and Wellingtonians are able to enjoy owning dogs
  • prevent dogs from causing any danger to the public, wildlife and natural habitats
  • actively promote responsible ownership of dogs
  • provide for the reasonable exercise and recreational needs of dogs and their owners.



Why are we reviewing the policy?

The Dog Policy was last reviewed in 2016. There has been an increase in dog ownership over the past few years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic. This growth means we need to assess whether our dog exercise areas meet current and future demand. It is also an opportunity to check the policy is still relevant and effective for our city.

  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    Have your say on what you think of Wellington's Dog Exercise Areas. (You can rate up to three parks).

    Consultation has concluded
  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    We have identified six focus areas which we think are important to this policy review. Let us know whether we have "hit the mark" by using the emoji ranking system.  

    Consultation has concluded
  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    We would love to gather some information about the public's knowledge of the Responsible Dog Owner (RDO) status. 

    Consultation has concluded
  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    Take this short survey to tell us how you feel about dogs and their presence in Wellington.

    Consultation has concluded
  • CLOSED: This survey has concluded.

    Take this short survey to tell us what you think about Wellington being known as a "dog friendly" city.

    Consultation has concluded