You are walking through the forest with your dog and meet a dog without human company. The dog is wearing a light-coloured waistcoat and a collar with a transmitter. It seems to be looking for something. What you see here is a search dog. Now you have to act, because the situation is not without danger for you, even if the danger does not come from the dog.
Could it be that you have overlooked a sign? Or a barrier? When there are sniffer dogs on the move, there is hunting in the area. The dogs are part of what is called a driven hunt.
Driven hunt with dogs
Driven hunts are hunts for big game (cloven-hoofed game). This means that the game is "pushed" out of cover with so-called flushing dogs. Unlike in a driven hunt, the hunters do not stand at the edge of the forest or fields, they sit on the high seat. Stalking dogs always wear a waistcoat or collar in a conspicuous signal colour. Incidentally, all participants in the hunt are dressed in orange so that they can be assigned to the hunt and, of course, seen in time. The dogs are state-certified hunting dogs. They wear a transmitter with an antenna and a battery on their collar. The transmitter sends a signal to the handler at short intervals so that the handler knows where the dog is. Some collars even have a microphone. If there is an unusual movement pattern, the handler can switch it on and check whether the dog is making a "standing noise". This happens when he has tracked down injured game.
I can go into the forest if I want to, can't I?
Of course! In principle, the state constitutions include a free right to enter the forest for recreational purposes. However, restrictions are possible, even if hunting is taking place in the forest. This is for the safety of all.
What does this mean for me?
When there is hunting and shooting in the forest, it is dangerous for you and your dog. Therefore, it is really better to avoid the forest on those days. If you are already in the forest, leave it again and stay on the paths. Under no circumstances should you take a shortcut through the thicket.
How can I tell if there is hunting in the forest?
Signs indicate hunting from the very early hours of the morning. Barriers with flutter tape are also possible. Usually the closure is lifted the next day. But this does not have to be the case. The closure remains in place as long as the signs are there. In addition to the local press, municipal bulletins usually provide information. If you are not sure, you can call the regional gamekeeper's association or ask the public order office.
I encounter a stalking dog - what now?
Stalking dogs are usually well socialised and well trained. Normally, the stalking dog will not be particularly interested in walkers. It is possible, of course, that it will approach with curiosity.
But! Even a stalking dog can get into trouble. That is why the dogs wear the handler's telephone number on their waistcoat or collar. It is a fine move to help a dog in distress and contact the number given. Within the area marked for hunting, the dog is rightly on duty and must not be disturbed, caught or detained while doing its job. This applies even if you fundamentally disagree with the hunt.
Photos Kauer-Mross/DJV