This can be a 'controversial' subject, but unfortunately, dogs and tortoises are really NOT a good mix. Sadly, we see (and hear of) the results on a depressingly regular basis. Even dogs that have previously appeared safe with tortoises CAN - for no apparent reason - change behaviour and can inflict devastatingly serious and often fatal injuries. Our advice is really clear: the risk is just too high. Don't do it. If you do have dogs, keep them separate and make certain that your security to ensure that they remain separate is adequate. This also applies if you live in an area with wild tortoises. Do not let dogs off a lead when tortoises are active. The tortoise shown here was the victim of such a incident. Please try to avoid more such horrific injuries and keep dogs and tortoises apart. It is worth adding that every time this subject comes up we hear from someone claiming that there is no risk and it does not happen... well, we have been involved with tortoises for almost 40 years now, and it certainly DOES happen. We have many photographs to prove it - some are too horrible to post in public. It is not a rare event, either. We see it every single year. Don't risk it.
