Owning and caring for a dog is great fun and immensely rewarding. However, it is also a big responsibility. Dogs have complex needs. You can find further advice from your local vet on, care, environment, behaviour and diet.
The law
- A collar and tag must be worn when in a public area and must contain name and address and if possible a telephone number
- Your dog must be microchipped and the owner details must be kept up to date
- You must pick up your dog's fouling immediately and dispose of it responsibly. It is also an offence to leave bagged fouling
- Your dog must be kept under control effectively and consistently
- If your dog causes alarm or apprehension to an individual it may be deemed out of control
Reporting dog fouling
We know that the majority of dog owners already pick up after their dogs; we want to deter the minority that do not. You can help by reporting any offences.
To report a private garden affected by dog fouling, please contact:
Out of control dogs
Any dog, regardless of its breed, can cause fear and alarm, or even serious injury, if its behaviour is 'out of control'. This does not necessarily mean that the dog has acted in an aggressive manner. However, the legislation relates to when a dog's behaviour gives rise to alarm, or apprehensiveness, which are reasonable in the circumstances.
All incidents involving dog bites on people, serious injury to another animal, or dangerous dogs must be reported to the Police for initial investigation. Other types of dog control concerns can be reported directly to our service.
You can report an out of control dog via MyFalkirk:
Stray dogs
To report a lost dog or if you find a dog, please call
For out of hours, please call
Our responsibilities
Falkirk Council operates a zero tolerance approach to dog fouling and can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice if fouling is not picked up immediately. The Fixed Penalty Notice is £80, rising to £100 if not paid within 28 days.
If a dog is deemed to be out of control, a Dog Control Notice outlining measures the owner must take, may be issued .
If you are a responsible dog owner and wish others were as responsible as you, please check out our Green Dog Walkers scheme.
To find out more about the Control of Dogs, please contact:
If you suspect a dog is being abused or neglected, you should contact the SSPCA:
Dog bags
We provide dog bags to assist dog owners to meet their legal responsibilities to clear up after their dog under the terms of the Dog Fouling (Scotland) Act 2003.
Bags are available from a number of locations across the Falkirk Council area.