A 28% increase in complaints being made about unacceptable and agressive dog behaviour over the last few years in south Somerset has sparked a call for better behaviour by owners.

South Somerset District Council (SSDC)says that in 2012/13 there were 68 complaints made. This rose to 87 in 2014/15.

Adding that the reason for the increase is not known but it is a "concerning trend", and that the 28% increase includes complaints regarding dogs being aggressive towards people and other animals.

A spokesman said; "Incidents often arise because people do not have dogs under proper control or are not always appreciative that some dogs require space. Not all dogs behave the same or have the same temperament.

"If someone has a dog on a lead there is probably a reason for that. Even if your dog is friendly others may not be, and if they are trying to take steps to keep their dog under control they may be unhappy if your dog approaches.

"If anyone asks you not to approach their dog, or asks for your own dog to be controlled, then please pay attention to the request. Usually they are not being rude but simply trying to avoid an incident occurring.

"Equally if you know your dog is less sociable with other dogs or people, you need to take steps to ensure you are in control of your dog. Perhaps look for less crowded locations and if you see other people or dogs that might upset your dog then take steps to move it away.

"Some people may use a yellow ribbon or other similar marker on the collar or lead of their dog. This is part of a project called Yellow Dog UK which was created to bring awareness to dogs that need space.

"Where people use such a marker they are normally indicating that their dog cannot be close to other dogs. There are many reasons why a dog may need space. It may have health issues, be a rescue dog being rehabilitated, have had a bad experience with another dog or be a bitch may be in heat, amongst other things. If you see a yellow marker on a dog we would therefore recommend you give it some space from yourself and your own dog.

Countryside Rangers from the District Council's Country Parks at Ham Hill and Yeovil have recently noticed an increase in the number of complaints about some dog owners when in confrontation with others about the behaviour of their pets.

They said: "Our countryside sites are as popular as ever with all sorts of people getting out and about in the fresh air, occasionally this makes for a busier than usual environment, and so it may cause a less sociable dog to come into contact with a wider range of other pets than usual.

"We are saddened that recently this has led to miss understandings between some owners, and harsh words and even threats, have on occasion been exchanged. This only happens in the heat of the moment, but it can really spoil someone's day, and we certainly don't want people associating their usually positive dog walk with an unpleasant experience.

"The ranger team will continue to liaise with both the Enforcement Officers and local PCSOs and Police to ensure that the countryside sites continue to be a positive place to visit".

Councillor Sylvia Seal, portfolio holder for leisure and culture added, "Seeing an increase in complaints being made about unacceptable dog behaviour is worrying, however by advising and educating the public, we aim to see a decrease in the next year.

"Our parks and open spaces are wonderful places and we know a lot of dog walkers use these areas, so we ask that other people are respectful of dogs and that also dog owners take the appropriate action if you are concerned about the behaviour of your dog".

The law It's against the law (Dogs Act 1871 and Dangerous Dogs Act 1991) to let a dog be dangerously out of control anywhere, such as: in a public place in a private place, e.g. a neighbour's house or garden in the owner's home The law applies to all dogs.

Your dog is considered dangerously out of control if it: injures someone makes someone worried that it might injure them A farmer is allowed to kill your dog if it's worrying their livestock.

You can get an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to 6 months (or both) if your dog is dangerously out of control. You may not be allowed to own a dog in the future and your dog may be destroyed. If your dog actually injures someone, the penalties are higher.