URBAN DOG ETIQUETTE AND STREET SENSE

How to properly promenade your pooch in public City-dwelling dogkeepers are faced with greater challenges than their suburban and rural counterparts. Without a large, fenced yard for exercise, the city dweller must take to the streets three or more times a day with Fido or Fifi in tow. Crowded sidewalks replete with joggers, construction scaffolding and double-wide strollers turn each outing into an obstacle course. The following tips will make walks safer and more enjoyable for you, your dog and your neighbors.


IT'S THE LAW

Most cities and counties have some form of leash, license and pick-up-after-your-dog laws. These ordinances are designed to protect both the dog and the community at large. When leashed, a dog is safe from traffic and unable to follow his instincts to chase children, investigate garbage cans or dig up landscaping. Whether a dog is aggressive or friendly, a leash keeps him in check and allows the public to pass undisturbed. Some communities have leash-length restrictions. Whether it's the law or not, keep leashes to six feet or less on public sidewalks. Retractable leashes should not be used in areas frequented by joggers, skaters or cyclists. The thin line blends into the background and, all too often, athlete and dog collide.

Licensing a dog enables an animal control agency to return a pet to his rightful owner. Licensing fees also often support local animal control efforts. The number of licenses issued gives government officials an idea of how many dogs are in the community, statistics that are very helpful when planning dog runs, shelter expansions and the like.

Pooper-scooper laws are essential for both the health and beautification of the community. Canine diseases and parasites are often shed in feces, which puts other dogs and children at risk. And no one enjoys maneuvering through unsightly piles of dog waste when out for a stroll. Pick up feces using a plastic bag and knot the top to control odor and flies before disposing of it in a waste receptacle. Train your dog to urinate in gutters or on nonliving vertical surfaces, such as lampposts or hydrants. Avoid trees and flower beds.


ETIQUETTE LESSONS AND SAFETY TIPS

The well-trained city dog needs to respond to a minimum of four basic commands: sit-stay, heel, leave it and come. When you're waiting at a traffic light, a dog in a sit-stay is out of harm's way. While walking nicely on a loose leash is enough for most forays, there are times when you will need your dog to be at heel position, which keeps the dog under control at your side.

The command "Leave It" is employed when it is necessary for Fido to avert his gaze. Whether being tantalized by chicken bones or a jogger, getting your dog to break eye contact with the "forbidden fruit" before he acts enables you to draw his attention to safer rewards or pursuits. Should the dog slip his collar or break his leash, a recall ("come") could save his life. Most, if not all, of these commands are taught in basic obedience/manners classes.

Remember that dogs can be frightened by sudden loud noises, such as children running by, motorcycles, skateboarders and rollerbladers, to name a few. Be aware that such situations may demand quick and complete control on your part to prevent your dog from lunging or biting.

Before leaving home to run errands with your dog by your side, take a moment to consider which places permit dogs and which do not. For your pet's safety, leave him at home when he is not allowed to go into an establishment with you. A dog left tied to a post or parking meter is an easy target for teasing or theft.


THE GOOD NEIGHBOR POLICY

Remember, not everyone loves dogs, so it's up to the urban dogkeeper to present a dog that is well-socialized and always under control. When riding in an elevator, sit your dog in a far corner to avoid door-dashing each time the elevator makes a stop. Do not allow Fido to jump up on other riders, even when the greeting is friendly. Hurry through lobbies or take freight elevators and back exits if the building rules mandate it. Never allow your dog to soil in front of the building's entrance. If you have a young pup who cannot control himself, make sure to carry paper towels and odor neutralizer.

Many dogs enjoy the company of other canines, but always ask before allowing your animal to launch himself at another dog, for both their sakes. The same is true regarding interactions between dogs and children. First ask the child or her parent, "may my dog say hello to you?" before allowing physical contact. The greeting should not include jumping up, bouncing off or grabbing at the child, even if it is done in the spirit of friendliness. If your dog is physically challenging for you to control, consider using a head halter.

When we choose to keep dogs in crowded urban areas, we take on additional responsibilities. Unfortunately, when there is little consideration for the neighbors, more doors close to dogkeepers. With a little training and thoughtfulness, more businesses and public areas will begin to put out the welcome mat for both you and your dog.
© 2001 ASPCA