Duncan Turner is incorrect in stating that 'dogs should be on leads as per the law' (Letters, May 21, 'Please keep dogs on a lead').

According to www.gov.uk/control-dog-public/overview: “It’s against the law to let a dog be dangerously out of control anywhere”. There is no mention at all about the use of leads.

If use of a lead was compulsory, then working sheep dogs and search dogs would not be allowed.

I would agree that for many dogs a lead is required, but this is because these dogs have not been taught how to behave. It seems that most owners either don't bother or do not understand how to teach their dogs to behave - that is, it is the owners who are the problem, rather than the dogs.

I have taken a lot of time and care to familiarise my dogs with all kinds of livestock, and to teach them to leave well alone. This time of year we are likely to pass very close to horses, cattle, and sheep during our twice-daily walks.

My present 18-month-old springer spaniel already understands very well that she must leave livestock alone. I no longer need to remind her – and because she is so relaxed about it, horses and sheep don't seem to be bothered. Cattle just don't like dogs and should always be avoided.

Provided that we are walking where we are known, I do not use a lead.

My previous dog (now sadly gone) learned that while flushing the odd pheasant might be allowed, she had to leave chickens alone. This dog once found a sick lamb that was lying in undergrowth. I found her gently pushing her head underneath the lamb to try to make it stand up.

Dogs are more intelligent than most folks appreciate, but like children, if they are to give their best, they need to be taught what is expected of them. Otherwise they are likely to grow up as delinquents.

I wish that a new dog licensing system would be introduced and that all dog owners be required to carry third party insurance (which I do). Perhaps this would deter some of the less responsible owners who presently give the rest of us a bad reputation.

Ken Hough

Endmoor