A Barking Good Time, LLC

Written By: Aurora James, dogetiquette.info

You want your dog to live his best life. So, it can be hard to make sure he’s obedient when you just want him to roam free. As a dog owner, you’re the sole person responsible for your dog and making sure he’s on his best behavior, especially around your neighbors.

Below, we’ve listed some simple etiquette tips you should follow as a dog owner to make sure you’re a respectful and respected neighbor.

Install a fence in your backyard

If you own a dog and a home with a backyard, installing a fence will ensure your dog doesn’t go into your neighbor’s yard. A backyard fence will give you and your neighbors some privacy and give your dog some boundaries when it comes to exploring outside. Before you start building, check your neighborhood’s building codes to ensure you aren’t in violation. If you’d prefer something more discreet and a little less pricey, consider tie outs. Keep in mind that your dog needs to be supervised at all times to ensure his safety.

Use a leash on walks

Did you know that it’s required by law in most states to keep your dog on a leash when taking him out for a walk? Not only will keeping him on a leash prevent you from potentially breaking the law, but it will ensure that you have control over your dog if you happen to run into any neighbors. Just because you’ve trained your dog and you think he is well behaved doesn’t mean he won’t get excited when seeing other people. Also, remember that not everyone is a dog person (some people even have phobias of dogs), and a leash can help prevent your furry friend from jumping up and greeting people who don’t ask for it. Keep in mind that all leashes aren’t created equal, so take the time to find the right leash for your dog. In general, it is best not to use a retractable leash, as it gives your dog too much control, especially if he spots a neighboring dog or human. Walks should be pleasant, and the leash you choose will make a difference.

Get their barking under control

Dogs bark for all kinds of reasons when you’re home or away, whether it’s from boredom or sensing something outside that startles them. Being aware of how your dog’s barking is affecting your neighbors is important. Nobody likes to hear a dog barking all day or night, especially if they live right next door to your home or apartment. You can get their barking under control by figuring out what’s causing it and then fixing the problem using various training methods such as teaching them the “quiet” command or helping to desensitize him to whatever is causing the barking. However, be sure to remain consistent so as not to confuse your dog. If you can’t get them to stop barking, consult with your vet or a dog trainer.

Keep your yard tidy

When your dog poops in your backyard, you may not think twice about picking it up. After all, it’s your property, and it can be used as fertilizer, right? Not quite. Letting dog waste sit in your backyard not only makes your yard smell, but it can waft into neighbor’s yards as well and lead to complaints. Dog waste isn’t a natural fertilizer, so it should be picked up and disposed of properly in your trash can. Plus, keeping a tidy lawn will not only make your neighbors happy, but your dog happy as well.

Supervise your dog around kids

The last thing you want to happen is an accident between your dog and a neighbor’s child. While you may think your dog is the friendliest, most well-behaved dog in the neighborhood, you don’t know if a child is going to do something or act in a way that could come off as threatening to your pup. In fact, children below the age of 15 account for approximately 60 percent of dog bites, with the most vulnerable group being kids around five to nine years of age, according to Psychology Today. This is why it’s important to make sure you’re around when your dog is interacting with children.

In order to be the best possible neighbor, you have to make sure your dog stays well behaved. Following these simple dog etiquette techniques will not only bring you peace of mind, but also make your neighbors feel more comfortable around you and your pup.

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