Dogging, or the act of engaging in (or watching others have) sex in public, is often seen as a lewd, dirty and disgraceful thing in the UK.
Although not illegal – you can be charged under the Sexual Offences Act 2003 for public lewdness and indecent exposure.
During research (yes work related research) for another story earlier this year, I came across one of the UK’s most popular dogging websites which lists in detail the country’s top dogging spots.
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For example, the description of one area, which is actually surrounding a Grade II listed Victorian home, reads: “Some good action to be found here, some couples and single males.
(Image: Shutterstock / Mineevph)
“Sometimes around 5pm in evening. Tuesday around lunchtime, 12pm ish seems popular too. Has a good car park with wooded area next to it. Plenty of trees and places to have some fun. See you there!”
And another, near a London car park, states: “Drive down to the mini-roundabout and turn right and a little further is a small car park on the right in front of the lake with space for 8/9 cars Fridays and Saturdays after 7pm is good. Couples in cars that don’t mind you watching from a little distance. Seen a woman in her white car topless and a couple in a silver car at it last week so it’s seems to be known location to locals.”
The website is regularly updated, and has around 1,400 members. So why is the act seemingly so popular?
The Daily Star asked top sex and relationship expert, and Director of VavaViolet Public Relations, Sophie Blackman this very question – and she didn’t hold back.
(Image: sophblackman/Instagram)
She told us said: “Dogging, the sexual activity involving getting down and dirty in semi-secluded locations such as the back of a car (while half hanging out of it, bottom naked, think ‘stuck’ smut), or slamming it in a field while listening to Animals by Nickelback, is thrilling for exactly why I just listed; it is adventurous, and there is always an exciting new element to it. Dogging is never the same twice!
“Therefore, the creative aspect keeps it intense and, most importantly, enjoyable. You are not restricted by walls or even privacy. You can hump wildly and free, whether into the primal kink or not; most people like to get a tad animalistic and ‘natural’ with their sexual antics now and again – even if too shy/private to confess.”
As to why it is lewd, she added that people “judge everything” these days, regardless of what it is. She also had a top tip for anyone thinking about taking part in it – not that we as a responsible news outlet would encourage that.
(Image: Getty Images)
She said: To make your dogging experience more fun, I suggest doing it while travelling. It has the added perk of meaning you won’t bump into someone you do not want to witness playing dog, and you get to see new places!”
Agreeing with Sophie – on the overall point, not the tips – is Integrative Therapist and Counsellor at North London Therapy, Danny Zane. He explained that the excitement levels coupled with being in a strange environment, “maybe with someone new is a reason why it is actually so popular.
(Image: Getty Images)
He said: “This can create higher levels of stimulation for the doggers than just having sex. The voyeurism can create a sense of excitement and not being safe; perhaps enhancing the sex act. The thrill-seeking element can bring the doggers a real high from an adrenaline rush.
“Others may enjoy dogging due to exhibitionist desires and the enjoyment of being watched. For those that watch doggers, their voyeuristic behaviours will result in pleasure and stimulation.
“Some people find it exciting to breaking social norms and taboos around sex and sexuality; perhaps attached to feelings of liberation and or rebellion.”
So there we go . . . maybe Brits need to loosen up and live a little (just ask Sophie for advice before you do).
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