Are you doing your best to be a respectful dog owner? In an Instagram post, trainer and behaviorist Nikki Mather revealed the four rules of good dog-walking etiquette. Check them out!
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1. Manage your dog
If your dog is walking off-leash, you should pay extra attention to interactions with other animals during the walk. “If you see a dog approaching on a lead, it’s your responsibility to call him back or put him on a leash,” explained Mather in the post.
According to the expert, a leashed dog may be scared, reactive, in training, or recovering from an injury. With that in mind, never allow your dog to approach a leashed dog without the owner’s permission.
2. Be respectful
“Most people won’t appreciate your dog running up to them and jumping on them. Don’t allow your dog to interact with people without an invitation. If your dog tends to run off, and you don’t have 100% reliable recall training, keep him on a leash,” said Mather.
3. Pick up poop
We know this is one of the worst parts of being a dog owner, but it’s also good manners to clean up after your pup. “This shouldn’t need to be said, always pick up your dog’s poop!” warned Mather.
Picking up your dog’s poop is a non-negotiable rule. Dog feces can spread diseases and parasites to people and other dogs. According to the expert, failing to clean up after your dog is dangerous and gives dog owners a bad reputation.
4. Pay attention
You are responsible for your dog’s actions, and your priority should be to keep them and others safe. Being on your phone while walking your dog divides your attention and compromises your ability to react quickly if something goes wrong.
“Walking the dog is a chance to bond and de-stress, so stay away from the phone and enjoy it,” added the trainer.
