As August approaches, the forest changes character. The clearing looks different, the air begins to smell of autumn — and for dog owners, it's also the time to be extra vigilant. The hunting season actually starts in August, and this directly affects how you and your dog should behave in the forest. Knowing the rules for the hunting season with dogs in the forest is not just good practice — it can mean the difference between a safe walk and a dangerous situation.
When Does the Hunting Season Start — and What Does It Mean for Your Walk in the Forest?
The hunting season in Denmark is not a single period but a series of overlapping seasons depending on the game and type of hunting. As early as 1st August, hunting opens for species like pigeons and foxes in certain areas, and from September onwards, activity intensifies significantly with roe deer, pheasants, and much more.
For you as a dog owner, this means that from August, forests can be active hunting areas — especially in the early morning hours and at dusk. Hunting primarily takes place in private forests and on areas with hunting permits, but the boundary between public forest and private hunting terrain is not always visible from a distance.
It is not prohibited to walk in the forest during the hunting season, and you still have access to public forests under the Nature Protection Act. However, you should adjust your routes and timings, keep your dog close to you in open forests, and always respect barriers and signs.
Which Areas Are Affected: How to Find Safe Dog Parks and Off-Leash Areas During the Hunting Season
The good news is that proper dog parks — that is, fenced, dedicated off-leash areas — are typically separate from hunting terrain. They are specifically established as safe zones for dogs, and the hunting season does not apply within the fence.
This is precisely where it makes sense to specifically look for fenced dog parks instead of just heading to the nearest forest. With the Hundeskoven app, you can quickly see which dog parks in your area are fenced — a feature that is particularly valuable during the hunting season when you might want to avoid open natural areas with hunting.
If you live in an area with a lot of hunting, it may be worth exploring dog parks a little further away. On the website, you can browse by region — for example, dog parks in Central Jutland, where you will find a wide selection of both fenced and open dog parks with facilities such as parking, water points, and waste stations.
Signs, Fences, and Closed Paths: What to Look Out for When You Arrive
When you arrive at a natural area during the hunting season, there are some things you should always check:
Red signs and warnings: Red flags or
