As we wind down after a busy summer season, we’re very pleased to announce a new partnership with Coast and Country Canines (C&CC), a project that aims to build a community of like-minded, nature-loving dog owners and walkers who want to help protect our natural world. We know that for many, dogs are a big part of any Norfolk adventure, and we want them to enjoy our coast as much as you do. That’s why we’ve partnered with Coast & Country Canines to promote responsible dog walking, helping to safeguard the wildlife and landscapes that make the Norfolk Coast such a special place to explore.
Through the partnership, we will have a dedicated presence on the Coast and Country Canines website, collaborate on wildlife-aware walking routes, advertise dog-friendly events, and promote our shared messaging across both social channels. Lots to look out for!
Meet the C&CC team
Coast and Country Canines was first established by Bird Aware Solent with a simple aim: to build a community of dog owners who choose to walk in a safer, more enjoyable and wildlife-aware way. Made up of dog lovers from across the south coast of England, the team brings a wealth of expertise and experience that, through our partnership, is now helping us inspire and support responsible dog walking across our coast.
“We are delighted to welcome Norfolk Coast Protected Landscapes onboard as an official Coast and Country Canines affiliate. We’re excited to be working alongside an organisation that shares our passion for helping dog walkers enjoy natural spaces and have fun, enriching walks while also looking after nature and giving wildlife the space it needs to thrive.”
Alice Ashcroft-Dalley, Coast and Country Canines Project Lead
Why Responsible Dog Walking Matters
From vast saltmarshes and mudflats threaded with winding creeks to sand dunes, shingle beaches and heathland – our coast provides a vital refuge for internationally important breeding, wintering and migrating birds, alongside a wealth of rare plants, insects, mammals, reptiles and marine life.
Now we know your dog’s instinct is to explore, but for some of the Norfolk Coast’s most sensitive wildlife, including beach-nesting birds and seals, even a friendly dog can appear as a potential predator. The good news is that with a few simple steps, you and your four-legged friends can continue to enjoy everything our coast has to offer while helping to protect the wildlife that makes it so unique.
Following the Canine Code
Together with Coast and Country Canines, we’ve put together a few simple tips for visiting the coast with your dog:
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Follow requests on signs
Our landscape is alive and evolving, and we regularly adapt our guidance to ensure the ongoing safety of both wildlife and visitors. If in doubt, our friendly on-site volunteers and wardens will be very happy to explain any restrictions and answer your questions.
Paws on paths and dogs alongside
To give our sensitive species such as beach-nesting birds and seals the best chance of surviving and thriving, keep your dog close by and stick to paths where possible. If you spot wildlife, maintain a distance of at least 100 metres and put your dog on a short lead.
Give wildlife space
We know your dog’s instinct is to explore, but for some of the Norfolk Coast’s most sensitive wildlife, including beach-nesting birds and seals, even a friendly dog can appear as a potential predator. By giving wildlife plenty of space, we can be part of the solution for nature and help vulnerable species thrive.
Keep everyone safe
Being mindful of your surroundings and understanding your dog’s behaviour will help you keep you, your dog, and those around you safe.
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By working together, we can ensure the Norfolk Coast remains a welcoming place for people, dogs and wildlife alike.
For more information about Coast and Country Canines and advice on responsible dog walking, visit the Coast and Country Canines website or follow Norfolk Coast Protected Landscape on Instagram for updates and featured walking routes.
