Dog attacks are one of the biggest threats to koalas. They can cause serious harm and stress, and 75% of dog attacks on koalas are fatal.
To help protect koalas, never allow your dog to interact with them. Always keep your dog on a leash unless you’re in a designated off-leash area.
It’s a Dog’s Breakfast
In September 2025, Koala Conservation Australia and Port Macquarie Hastings Council hosted a community event, as part of the It's a Dog's Breakfast campaign, to raise awareness of responsible dog ownership and koala conservation.
Funded by the NSW Koala Strategy, attendees learned about local koala corridors and the importance of keeping dogs leashed and contained at night. More than 70 community members took part, enjoying free food, dog treats and plenty of fun while supporting koala conservation.
The Bow wow, leash me now! campaign was funded under the previous 2018–2021 NSW Koala Strategy. Find out more by downloading the Bow wow, leash me now! dog owner behaviour change campaign fact sheet (PDF 143 KB).
Managing dogs around koalas
- Keep dogs leashed in koala areas.
- Follow wildlife signs that require dogs to be on a leash.
- Share local koala sightings with neighbours and other dog walkers.
Be aware that koalas are on the ground more between July and February, which is mating season.
Keep your backyard safe for koalas
- Make sure your yard is fenced properly so your dog can’t get out.
- Check for koalas before leaving your dog alone or to roam off lead in your yard.
- If a koala comes into your yard, bring your dog inside until it leaves.
- Secure your dog at night, when koalas might enter your yard.
- Ensure there are escape routes for koalas and other wildlife so they don’t become trapped.
Contact your local council
Speak to your local council if you see stray or roaming dogs. Use the Office of Local Government’s Find Your Local Council tool.
Let your local council know if you notice someone walking their dog off-leash or acting irresponsibly in designated wildlife areas
Under the NSW Koala Strategy, we’re working with local councils to prevent dog attacks on koalas.
Check if your local council has a program to prevent dog attacks on koalas. They can provide more information or signs to display.