A new study from the University of Surrey suggests that distracted dog walkers may be unintentionally harming wildlife and livestock. Researchers found that many environmental issues related to dog walking are often due to divided attention and poor infrastructure, rather than deliberate negligence. The study, published in Society & Natural Resources, involved 40 hours of observation at several locations, including Puttenham Common, the Chantries, St. Martha's Hill, Norbury Park, and Denbies Wine Estate. The team also held a workshop with 15 farmers, land managers, rural business owners, and conservation professionals to gather insights on the issue. During their observations, researchers recorded 11 instances where dog walkers failed to notice their dogs defecating. The waste was most commonly found within 50 to 100 meters of parking lots and along busy paths, as dogs tend to relieve themselves at the start of a walk. Walkers using phones or headphones sometimes missed their dogs’ behavior, leaving waste on paths or entering sensitive habitats. Social walkers could become absorbed in conversation, and professional dog walkers had to split their attention among multiple dogs. Researchers also saw off-leash dogs entering undergrowth, which disturbed birds and approached livestock. Despite these issues, the majority of dog walkers consistently picked up after their dogs. Some even collected waste left by other animals, showing a strong sense of responsibility. Dr. Tom Roberts, a senior lecturer in environmental sociology at the University of Surrey, explained, "Dog walkers are often seen as either responsible or irresponsible, but our research shows the situation is more complex. Most people care about their dogs and the countryside. Problems usually arise when their attention is divided or when facilities don’t match how dog walking actually happens." Workshop participants suggested practical solutions, such as placing trash cans where dogs commonly relieve themselves rather than only at entrances. They also supported creating off-leash areas away from sensitive habitats and using community-led initiatives to manage dog walking. Researchers noted that seasonal signs explaining the vulnerability of ground-nesting birds attracted more attention than generic leash rules. However, engagement with these signs decreased over time as they became familiar. Haeyoung Eun, innovation lead at the University of Surrey, said, "Simply giving people more rules won’t solve these problems. Land managers need to work with the routines, relationships, and practical realities of dog walking. Well-placed trash cans, timely messages, and suitable spaces for off-leash exercise could make responsible choices much easier." The researchers argue that dog walking should be recognized for its benefits, including exercise, well-being, and a connection to nature, while also addressing the environmental pressures it can create.