Because our dogs don’t come with an instruction manual, we thought it would be good idea to talk about dog walking etiquette.
Not everyone seems to know the ‘right’ way to go about things whilst out on walks so here’s a few ‘Do’s and Don’ts so you don’t get in a pickle when you’re out with your best friend.
Do’s’ of Dog Walking Etiquette
- Know your dogs
Firstly, its super important to really KNOW your dog. That means understanding how they might react when meeting other dog/dogs whilst out on their daily walks. If you know that they will simply play and sniff and walk on by then it is ok to keep them off-lead*. However, if you know your dog can sometimes be a bit yappy or snappy then put them on-lead as soon as you see the approaching dog or if in a public place where an encounter is likely.
- Ask the Question
Don’t be afraid to ask the other dog walker if their dog is ok with other dogs, or indeed specify that your dog can be a bit reactive/nervous around other dog’s. That way there is no confusion as to whether its ok to approach.
- Back on The Lead*!
If you encounter another dog walker and their dog is on lead, know that it is on-lead for a reason. That reason may simply be that they have a runner on their hands that likes to chase little critters, therefore needs to be controlled, or it could be that they are reactive or nervous around other dogs! So, its always best to put your dog on a lead if you see others on-lead. You can always ‘ask the question’ as you get closer.
- Recall
Ensure your dog has good recall if you are going to be letting him off-lead, so that in the event of hazards, other dogs, people etc, he can be recalled without any fuss.
Don’ts of Dog Walking Etiquette
- Assume
You know what they say about assumption, so its best not to assume that your dog will not react to their triggers whilst out on walks. In times of doubt, pop them back on the lead until the threat/temptation has passed.
- Jumping Up
Whilst out and about, don’t allow your dog to go bounding up to strangers and jump up them whilst shrieking, “It’s ok, he won’t hurt you!”. Not everyone likes dogs (strange, I know) and they won’t appreciate muddy paws or slobbery tongues.
- Pooper Scooping
Don’t leave home without plenty of poo bags. Not only is it gross to allow your dog to empty his bowel in a public place and not pick it up, but its also illegal and could result in a hefty fine… And it’s really gross!
- No Trespassing!
Don’t enter clearly signed ‘Private Property’. You might end up coming across a very disgruntled land owner and nobody wants that. Equally, don’t allow your dog to run up other peoples’ driveways and gardens when out walking. They will not appreciate Frodo cocking his leg on their favourite shrubs. Even less so than finding a humongous Frodo poo in the pansies!
All of this said, lakes are to be jumped into and sticks are to be fetched. Dog walking should not be a chore, for you or your furry friend. If he comes home covered in mud, happy and worn out then it’s been a successful stroll!
We hope you enjoyed this article on Dog Walking Etiquette, if so click here for more interesting dog care articles or here for what the Kennel Club have to say.
My Best Friend Dog Care Services
At My Best Friend we offer a range of dog care services including Dog Walking, Doggy Day Care, Home Boarding, Pet Sitting and Puppy Care. We work hard to provide a caring, convenient and professional service to your best friend and we take pride in treating your dog as if they were our own.