TTR Dog Policy

 While we do see our four-legged companions as part of the overall TTR community, the safety and comfort of our runners comes first. That is why we need to be vigilant with the following expectations and responsibilities:

Dog handlers must: 

• Be sure to always be close to your dog during the runs
• Be sure your dog is not creating a hazard for runners and other trail users (examples: stopping in the middle of the trail in front of runners, running too close to runners, cutting in front of runners, not moving out of the way of bikes)
• Be sure to always have a leash with you. You may be asked to run with your dog on a leash
• Be sure to give other dogs and runners space on the trails
• Be sure to gauge the overall group and if your dog is new to the trails, we recommend running with them on a leash
• Remember that we sometimes cross trafficked roads and railroads. Please ensure your dog has good recall and be mindful to leash when necessary
• Always bring poop bags with you so you can clean up after your dog. Even though we’re in the woods, leaving poops behind on the trail is poor etiquette! 

As individual runners, we ask:

• If you witness a dog feeling anxious or lost on the trails, if you feel comfortable, please speak up and ask for the owner to be closer to their pup
• If you witness a dog bumping into a runner in a way that may cause injury or is unsafe, if you feel comfortable, please speak up and ask for the owner to leash their dog
• If you don’t know who the dog owner is or you’re uncomfortable bringing this up, please speak to or text one of the TTR leads or email us at info@torontotrailrunners.ca

We believe that dogs should enjoy the trails as much as we do and that’s why we would like to hold dog handlers to the same etiquette & standards that we uphold as a community – responsibility, respect, and inclusivity. 

We do hope that you understand the necessity of this message and value the integrity of this great community.

This policy was revised in Summer 2024. Please share your feedback and suggestions with your TTR leads by emailing info@torontotrailrunners.ca