Public Dog Etiquette
Dog owners are responsible for their dog's public manners.
My life has gone to the dogs. I also include cats and other fury critters. Your life is impacted and is traveling under the influence of dogs when out in public. This is true, even if you don't have a dog. There are life lessons to be learned beyond obedience class. Pet owners are responsible for good manners in their dogs. They should be adequately reeducated if their dog lacks social graces.
As warm weather approaches look around, you may notice canines strutting down sidewalks, romping at a park, or catching some zz's while their owners rest at a bench. I am grateful for places that welcome well behaved dogs. Being able to take my dog out and about is a privilege. I do take things when walking as body functions being what they are and unpredictable they need attending to on the spot. Plastic bags or in Tinkerbelle's case almost a garbage bag can be needed. You really do look forward to a nice firm stool.
Here are some things that need to be pointed out:
Inconsiderate people whose dogs leave deposits on the sidewalk or your lawn?
People who insist their dog loves every dog. They force a nose to nose with your dog. Obviously your dog is smarter, but does not want to share close personal space.
People that ignore their dogs while in parks and other open spaces. They are oblivious to the bullying of other dogs and people.
A dog's manners are dependant on their owners. You should not blame the dogs for being rude, unruly exuberant or a walking drool strand. It is so refreshing to have your butt sniffed and your crotch explored.
Karen Pryor, a behavioral biologist in Waltham, Mass. , founder of the Clicker Training Center and author of "Don't Shoot the Dog!" states: "Many dog owners invest the time to enroll their pets in a six-week obedience class to learn the basics like sit, down and come, and that's all well and good," Pryor said. "But equally important is to teach good manners and how to act in public. Unfortunately, some owners don't seem to have any real understanding and let their dogs do things that irritate others. "
To paraphrase her, they went to class but did not learn the lesson. There are people who get it and those that are clueless and unfortunately always will be. I recommend and send owners and their dog to obedience classes because I understand the glory of a well mannered dog. I hope the instructor is able to impart and or reinforce the need for learning. Some people are able to understand there are lessons on both ends of the leash.
We, the dog owning public have a responsibility over our public privileges. Dogs either gain or lose the privilege to be with their owners in public depending how well pet social graces are practiced.
Here are my top pet peeves.
1. Not practicing proper poop patrol. It is poor manners to let your dog defecate on private property and fail to scoop the poop. Be friendly. My Grandmother told me you will catch more flies with honey than vinegar. If you see a person not picking up after their dog, say, "Need a bag? I have extra if you need it. "
2. Insisting on dog-to-dog introductions. Dogs, like people, vary in their willingness to meet and greet. Not every dog likes every other dog it sees. Dogs have a huge ability with nonverbal communication. They have a social structure which evolved and allows a dog from a different "pack" to asses if a dog is an "alpha" with equal or higher status. They judge the comfort distance needed. People try to force this and it will end in a dog fight. Ask permission for your dog to greet another person's dog. If the person says no please respect their choice. They may have noticed one of the dogs is swearing or flipped the other one off.
When a leashed dog invades your dog's space, move your dog off to a quiet spot and practice the "sit" command. If you think a fight is impending you may with caution place your hand to block access to your dog's face or body.
3. Chaos at dog parks. Consider these places as canine versions of a children's playground, play structures at McDonald's, or even Toys R Us. These areas were designed to give dogs a chance to exercise and socialize.
Accidents or fights occur because distracted owners are yakking on cell phones and not reading their dog's behavior. I am perplexed by people who don't step in and stop their dogs from slobbering on or pestering people. I consider the most dangerous situation is people bringing toddlers to a dog park. This is a recipe for a disaster. A big dog can run by and knock over a child. Some dogs consider children prey, will chase, or snap at them. Some dogs like children, some with salt and pepper and some without. There needs to be a responsible functioning adult around capable of heading off a disaster.
Never discipline another person's dog. People do not like you to tell them how to "train" their dogs. You can not tell if a dog is capable of turning on you and biting you.
Good manners are always in style, both for people and dogs.
For more information about a specific case, consult your veterinarian.