Dog Etiquette is No Different Than Human Etiquette

From Syndi Seid's Advanced Etiquette "Etiquette Tip of the Month"

Summer is a season when both humans and pets---especially dogs---enjoy being outdoors. Adults, children, and dogs may do as they please in the privacy of their own homes. But when in public, all are expected to behave in a civil and courteous manner. Here's my own list of pet peeves:

Owners who bring dogs as uninvited guests: Humans are taught never to bring an uninvited guest to a party, or to ask if an extra guest is welcome. Unless a dog is officially invited, owners should leave them at home and not even ask if they can bring the dog.

Dogs off leash: By law, dogs are to be on a leash when out in public. The only leniency might be when a dog is totally obedient to its owner. This is no different than parents of children. Children are often leashed when very young, until they learn to mind their parents in public and not run off in all directions.

Dogs who drool and slobber: Humans keep a towel nearby when a baby or person drools. They try not to let their baby slobber on them. Likewise, a dog's parents should keep a towel handy whenever their dog drools or slobbers, especially at someone else's home.

Dogs who bark too much or are overly playful: Children and adults who become too loud and rowdy in public places are typically invited to leave the area. Dog parenting requires similar disciplining. Dogs who bark too much and become too playful need owners who call a time out, just as good parents remove children from the play area to calm them down. Both owners and parents repeat the lesson until dogs and children learn how to behave appropriately.

Owners who don't keep dogs safe. Good parents would never let their children swim in a pool or pond that wasn't clean, or wander off into the woods or unknown territory. They would also never keep an infant or dog in the car with a window slightly open while they run into a store for a quick purchase. Humans and dogs should also always wear seatbelts while in a moving vehicle.

Inconsiderate travelers. Good parents and dog owners practice voice commands and instructions prior to leaving home. They don't let their children or dogs leave their sides, and they curb all yelling and barking. While more hotels are pet friendly today, some adults and children are terribly afraid of animals. Good parents and owners don't let their children and dogs get too close to other people, unless invited, and expect them to be well mannered when they do so.