A Reflection on Canine Manners

Since the world reopened post-pandemic, many establishments have embraced the “Dog Friendly" label. Dogs are now common in malls, resorts, and hotels. Upscale restaurants also feature special dining areas for guests to enjoy meals with their dogs.

At its core, "Dog Friendly" means inclusivity, and seeks to integrate dogs into more aspects of everyday life. However, as this trend grows, so do restrictions. Breed and size limits, diaper requirements, and even full bans at previously dog-friendly places are popping up. Some restrictions were introduced gracefully, while others caused confusion and frustration. In each case the restrictions were introduced because something happened to “prove” that having dogs in the establishment was more than management, staff, and other patrons could handle, and cost more than it was worth.

This calls for reflection. As pet owners, we want more spaces to welcome us with our dogs. However, it is not just about allowing dogs into establishments. It is about integrating into the environment without much fuss, mess, and drama. Each of us and our dog must be the reason establishments feel confident in welcoming all dogs. The manners we practice in each situation reflect on all pet owners. And the truism is that bad manners reflect more strongly than good manners. Any negative fallout from our choice to be ill-mannered becomes a heavy burden that all other pet owners have to carry. If our conduct before, during, or after an interaction results in an establishment imposing restrictions, or shutting its doors to dogs, we make it harder or impossible for others to enjoy these spaces. It also cues other establishments to follow suit.

It is this condition that gets very little attention: Everyone needs to practice good manners. This is the core principle of “responsible dog ownership.” It is rooted in respect for others and respect for ourselves. To that end, here are essential rules of Canine Manners that both host establishments and pet owners would do well to follow:

For Host Establishments:

1. Clear policies: Publish these on social media. Avoid last minute and unpublished changes. More important that rules on species, breed, or size is the policy on what is accepted, tolerated, or unwelcome pet and owner behavior.
2. Train staff: All staff need to know the establishment’s policies by heart. They also need to understand when and how to push a matter up the decision ladder. Most importantly, they need actual training on how to handle dog-related situations with calmness, grace, and professionalism. You may want to consider having a trained pet handler on staff, in case of any untoward incidents.
3. Provide basic amenities: Set out a potty area that is sanitary, safe, and easily accessible. Provide proper waste disposal and wash stations. If you require diapers, it would help to have some, in different sizes, ready for purchase at your entrance. For lobbies and restaurants, arrange tables and seating with safety and accessibility in mind.
4. Ensure cleanliness: Pet areas need to be kept clean and odor-free. You may need to have someone on staff dedicated to ensuring this standard is maintained; someone who does not handle food preparation or service.

All these will need additional investment. If passing on the cost is necessary, you should do so. It is not unreasonable to have a special charge for dogs if these provisions are available.

For Pet Owners:

1. Confirm establishment’s policy: Make sure the establishment remains dog friendly and that you understand the rules. Even if you think you already know the rules, check again and call ahead to make sure you know of any recent changes.
2. Respect the policies: You may not agree with them, but the establishment is entitled to adopt them. If you feel there is room to broaden or improve on the policies, convince them to do so with honey rather than the vinegar of public shaming. The latter often only ends in yet another establishment completely closing its doors to dogs.
3. Prepare and Manage Your Pet While Out and About: This is probably the most important piece of the puzzle. Make sure your pet is ready to go to a place like the establishment, and behave well there for the duration of your stay. Socialize your pet so it can remain comfortable in new spaces. Teach it how to take guidance from you. Guide your dog appropriately so it does not engage in any nuisance or dangerous behavior. Above all, do not let your dog disturb others. Attend a training class with your dog where you both learn canine manners. Life with your dog is now more than just obedience.
4. Groom your dog. Just as you want to present yourself well to the world, you need to make sure your dog looks, smells, and is clean. Neatness is also important as is being tick, flea, and worm free. Let your dog rest at home if it is suffering a communicable illness.
5. Before entering. As soon as you arrive, and preferably before entering the establishment, potty your dog. This helps to maintain cleanliness and general calm. If you are wondering, the answer is yes and yes. Yes, you can train a dog to potty on cue; and yes, even if your dog pottied before going on the trip, it needs to potty again when it arrives at the destination. Before entering, make sure you and your dog are paying attention to each other. That is the only way you can safely guide your dog and manage its behavior.
6. Keep your dog out of the way: Whether you are walking, seated, or standing in line, always keep your dog close to you (or in an enclosed pram or pet carrier). Ideally, this would be no more than a foot and a half away from your feet. Do not let your dog wander, approach people, or jump on or nudge them. At a restaurant, ask to be seated in a less crowded area, especially if your pet needs space. Take the seat that affords you the best view of the area so you can be proactive about guiding your dog. Keep your dog away from walkways and other guests. Have your dog’s mat on hand so your dog has a clearly outlined space to settle down and stay on.
7. Clean up after your dog: If your dog makes any mess (food, fur, or otherwise), clean it up immediately and be unobtrusive about it. Avoid drama.
8. Respect other patrons: Not everyone is comfortable around animals. Some may have allergic reactions, and others may be severely phobic. Respect their personal space and ensure your dog does too. Do not let your pet interact with others, even if others ask to interact with your dog. Unless it is an event specifically set up for dogs to meet and interact with each other, this is your time with your dog and there ought to be no intrusions.

Being "Dog Friendly" goes beyond opening doors to dogs. Being a “Responsible Dog Owner” goes beyond cleaning up after your dog. It is about joining hands to foster an environment where everyone feels respected and welcome. By practicing Canine Manners both pet owners and businesses can ensure these spaces remain open and enjoyable for all.