Heading to the beach to walk your dog is a must in the summer - especially when the sun is out.
While there are many beautiful beaches across Merseyside, some have dog restrictions in place.
The restrictions vary from beaches across the country but can apply to the time of day, certain zones, or require dogs to be kept on a lead.
In Merseyside, Southport Beach and Ainsdale Beach have dog exclusion zones in place from May 1 to September 30, every year.
Southport beach should be free of dogs from the Pier south towards Pleasureland (from 555m) and to the tide line.
Ainsdale beach should be free of dogs 200m either side of the main beach entrance and to the tide line.
Not following rules, including these restrictions, could see dog walkers be fined up to £1,000 if prosecuted.
The rules include keeping your dog under close control at all times, or on a lead, never letting dogs roam unattended, and cleaning up after your dogs.
Other Merseyside beaches such as Crosby, Formby, New Brighton and Meols do not have dog restrictions in place.
