City Dog Basics

The Essentials

There are three major rules to live by if you have a city dog: leash him, license him, and clean up after him!

When out for a walk with your dog in the city, manners and leash control will help to keep your dog a welcome figure in our busy environment. Keeping your dog close to you is best on the city streets. Don't use a leash that is longer than 4-6 feet - you don't want to hinder other people's access to the sidewalk. A well-behaved canine will blend into the city scene, rather than creating chaos.

All city dogs should have a dog license along with proper identification. Both of these tags should be attached to a secure collar. If Fido gets lost, he can easily be reunited with his family if he is wearing these important means of identification.

The responsible dog guardian is always ready to clean up after her canine companion. She always has plenty of bags to pick up whatever her dog may leave behind (maybe even a spare one for that person in the park who forgot hers today!), and always deposits the waste in an appropriate garbage can.

Doggie Etiquette

As dog guardians, we take on additional responsibilities when we choose to have our dogs out and about in urban areas.

Some dogs enjoy meeting other dogs while out for a walk. It can also be fun for people to meet other pet guardians and their dogs. However, this must be done in a polite and controlled manner. Leash greeting etiquette requires that dog guardians ask their human counterparts if a dog to dog greeting is ok. Remember, even if your dog enjoys meeting new friends, not all dogs do, so don't assume that another dog will be thrilled to be Rover's new best buddy. Never allow your dog to greet another dog if the other guardian asks you to keep your dog at a distance.

Many dogs enjoy making new human friends, and many people may want to say hello to your adorable dog. Train your dog to sit or stand politely when greeting people. Never allow your dog to jump up on people or grab at clothes. If your dog doesn't enjoy meeting new people, never hesitate to say no if someone asks to meet or pet your dog. Simply indicate that your dog isn't comfortable with strangers and prefers to be admired at a distance - most people will appreciate your honesty and the responsible way in which you handle your dog.

Make your local dog park a safer, more enjoyable place for you and your dog! Only healthy, social dogs should visit the dog park. Lots of people enjoy chatting with their fellow dog guardians at the dog park, but make sure you don't get too distracted - always monitor your dog's behavior and interactions with other people and dogs. Don't forget that cleaning up after your dog is still essential at the park! Never bring a toy that your dog will guard from other dogs, and only bring a toy to the park if you don't mind that toy being shared, lost, or destroyed.

Getting There

The well-mannered city dog needs to know several basic commands. "Sit", "Stay", "Sit-Stay", "Down-Stay", "Heel", "Leave It", and "Come". When you are waiting at a traffic light, a dog sitting politely at your side keeps him safe and close by. A dog in a down stay while you eat at a cafe does not disturb other customers. Although there are times when it is fine for your dog to be on a loose leash sniffing the environment, be aware that there are often times when your dog will need to be in a heel position, which keeps him under control at your side. Take your dog to a basic training class to learn how to train these important commands so that you have a well-mannered city dog.

If your dog is physically strong or difficult to control, consider using a head collar or anti-pull harness. These items offer better control without causing pain to your dogs, and if Fido would like to make a fashion statement, they are available in many colors.

Plan Ahead

Many businesses and parks in the city allow well behaved canines to visit. Before you go out, plan ahead by checking with Fido Factor for the latest updates on dog-friendly stores and other businesses. If you cannot take your pet into a store with you, please leave him safely at home. Cars overheat and become dangerous for dogs very quickly, even when the windows are cracked. Never tie your dog out on the street, even if you are just going to be gone for a brief period of time. Dogs left tied out and vulnerable to both theft and teasing.

Ensure that you and Fido are responsible when shopping or visiting pet-friendly businesses. Only a house-broken dog should accompany you. Bring any necessary supplies that your dog might need with you. Take care that nothing is broken, destroyed, drooled on, or covered in fur while on your adventure.

Many dog guardians enjoy going to restaurants or cafes with their furry friends. Be considerate of others and only allow a well-mannered pup to accompany you. Don't bring your dog friend with you until you are sure that he will be under control and able to lie quietly by your side. Don't bring a dog who will bark, whine, beg, or become an annoyance to other customers.

Remember to keep your dog's comfort level in mind. While some dogs love getting out and seeing the sights, other dogs may prefer to be left in the comfort and safety of their own home. Even if you enjoy your dog's constant companionship, if he seems stressed or uncomfortable, leave him at home when you go out in the future.