ORMA
You see the herd first
Leash and detour
Keep your dog close and go widely around the flock, never between animals. Turn back if there is no safe gap.
Understand the job
The dog is protecting the flock
Barking, approaching or placing itself between you and livestock are deterrent behaviours. They are not a reason to approach, test the dog or continue through the herd.
Use the moment
Three moves, in order
A guardian approaches
Stop and become uninteresting
Stay calm and still, or move very slowly. Avoid staring; keep poles down and let the dog assess you from a distance.
Actual dog-to-dog conflict
Release the lead
Leash is the default while distance is still possible. If conflict actually begins, French national guidance says to release the lead. Never pick your dog up; move away calmly and turn back.
Never escalate the guardian-dog encounter
Do not approach the flock, pet or feed the guardian, throw objects or place yourself closer for a photograph.
No runningNo shoutingNo staringNo raised polesNo petting
Before the trail
Make room to avoid the encounter
- Check local signs, current pastoral maps and recent trail reports.
- Avoid the pasture if dogs are prohibited or no wide detour exists.
- Leash at the first clue: bells, a cattle grid, livestock or a warning sign.
Cattle are different: give them, especially cows with calves, a wide berth. Keep your dog leashed, but release the lead if cattle chase you so you can reach safety separately.
Sources and medical referencesLast reviewed 25 August 2026
References checked 25 August 2026: French National Parks guardian-dog guidance and the official DREAL leaflet; Vallée d’Aulps current guidance; and UK Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs cattle advice. Local signs and restrictions override general guidance. Animal behaviour is never guaranteed.
This is general information, not a diagnosis or a substitute for veterinary care.