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Dog owners across the UK are being warned about a law change coming into effect from May 1.

Though taking man's best friend for a walk along the beach is a popular pastime across much of the UK's beautiful coastline, from May 1, the law changes the restrictions for dog walking in many seaside areas.

From May 1, many beaches will resume dog bans, stopping owners from letting their dogs onto the beach at all.

Fines of £1,000 could be meted out to any dog owner who falls foul of the law from May, under powers from local councils.

Sean McCormack, head vet at dog food subscription company, Tails.com, explains what these rules mean in practice, and how owners can still enjoy the coast responsibly with their dogs.

He said: "From May onwards, many local councils introduce restrictions under Public Spaces Protection Orders, which can either ban dogs entirely or limit them to specific areas of the beach.

"These rules aren't always the same everywhere, so it's important for owners to check signage and local guidance before visiting. Assuming all beaches are dog-friendly can easily lead to fines.

"During the summer months, beaches become significantly busier, and these rules help manage how the space is shared. They reduce the risk of incidents in crowded areas and help ensure beaches remain clean and comfortable for everyone.

"At the same time, this is a critical period for wildlife. Many seabirds nest along the coast, and marine animals use beaches to rest and breed. Dogs can unintentionally disturb these habitats, even if they're well-behaved.

"Fines for not following these rules can vary by location, but in many areas, owners can face penalties of up to £1,000 for breaching restrictions. For example, councils such as Wyre Borough Council enforce seasonal bans from 1st May to 30th September, with fixed penalty issues for anyone breaking the rules. That's why awareness is so important before heading out."