Travelling to Tirol’s Mountains with Your Dog

Locals and visitors alike enjoy exploring Tirol's beautiful mountains. However, it is important to remember that they are not just a recreation area for humans but also a natural habitat for many animals. Hikers and walkers should take this into account, especially if they are out and about in the mountains with dogs.

The following generally applies:

• Dogs must be kept on a lead, except in designated off-leash areas.
• Disposing of dog faeces - There are free dog waste bag dispensers and containers provided for this purpose.
• Dogs must be muzzled - Dogs must wear a muzzle on cable cars and public transport.

If it's not absolutely necessary, avoid leaving marked hiking trails and keep a safe distance (20-50 meters) from grazing animals. Do not scare the animals, avoid direct eye contact, and do not pet or feed calves. Such actions can irritate the animals and make them feel threatened by following hikers. If you pass an agitated herd, make sure to keep a safe distance and consider taking a detour.

Always keep your dog under control and on a short leash. Dogs resemble potential predators, especially to young animals, and are therefore often attacked by mother animals. If an attack by livestock is imminent, immediately release your dog from the leash! If livestock block the path, bypass them with as much distance as possible!

For cattle herds, there are different categories to be aware of:

• Mother cow herd: Special caution is required with mother cows and their calves. Mother cows, as well as bulls, will defend their calves due to their natural protective instincts.
• Young animal herd: Younger animals tend to be exuberant and curious. This can lead to sudden, unpredictable movements.
• Cow herd: These are cows that are regularly milked and are accustomed to close contact with humans. However, they should not be underestimated.

"If cattle feel threatened, they stop and focus on their target. They raise and lower their heads, bend their knees slightly, and start snorting. Before charging, they often take slow steps toward their target."

Proper behavior:

• When animals approach: stay calm, don’t turn your back, and slowly leave the pasture!
• If an attack is likely, release the dog. Dogs are quick enough to avoid cattle, which can distract the animal, giving you a chance to get to safety.
• Don’t wave sticks or similar objects. In an emergency, you can defend yourself with a targeted blow to the cow's nose!

Generally, you know your dog’s reactions when encountering a herd, but always exercise caution, as you never know how the livestock will react or if they’re already aggressive. It’s safer to keep even the calmest dog on a leash and guide them quietly past the animals.