Leash and muzzle in public

In the street a dog goes on a leash or muzzled; on transport and in certain places the rules tighten. What the law asks and what is common sense.

What to do, step by step

1. 1On public roads the dog must be on a leash or muzzled (both, with a short leash, if it belongs to a potentially dangerous breed).
2. 2Always carry bags and pick up the droppings: municipalities issue fines and it is a public-health matter.
3. 3Public transport: each operator has rules (carrier for small animals, muzzle and leash for big dogs, time slots); check beforehand.
4. 4Leisure spaces: dog parks allow off-leash; on beaches the bathing season bans animals from the sand, except where signposted.
5. 5Attacks or incidents: identify yourself, exchange contacts and report to the municipality; a dog that bit may be placed under health observation.

Useful contacts

• Câmara Municipal / Centro de Recolha Oficial (CRO)

  Municipal veterinary service of your municipality: stray animals, removal of dead animals from public roads.
• PSP — Polícia de Segurança Pública

  Your local station (in cities the PSP takes the complaints).
  Open

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General information, with no legal or veterinary value. In an emergency call 112 or a vet right away; always confirm procedures with the official bodies.