Tatra Mountains dog restrictions violated on Rysy peak

Tourists are increasingly violating regulations by bringing dogs onto restricted high-altitude trails in the Tatra Mountains, including the peak of Rysy. While dogs are permitted in specific areas like Chochołowska Valley and the Droga pod Reglami, most trails are closed to them to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of hikers.

Video footage shared by mountain guide Marcin Kijowski shows a dog visibly distressed and whimpering on Rysy. Animal behaviorists, including Piotr Wojtków and Oksi Maciaszek, have criticized the practice, noting that dogs show signs of extreme stress, fear, and tension. They warned that bringing dogs into these environments poses risks to the animals, the owners, and other tourists, as a sudden movement by a dog could cause falls on rocky terrain.

Tatra National Park emphasizes that these bans exist to prevent the disruption of wild animal habitats and to maintain safety. Despite regular appeals and fines issued by park rangers, some owners continue to bypass rules, sometimes even attempting to carry pets in backpacks or carriers.