Owner Resources

Practical, no-nonsense guides to help you be the best dog owner you can be — starting with the basics that keep communities clean and safe.

Sanitation Walking Etiquette Health & Safety Training Basics Local Rules

Sanitation While Walking

The Golden Rule

If your dog leaves it, you take it. No exceptions — not in the woods, not at night, not when “no one is watching.” Dog waste is a public health and environmental issue.

Why It Matters

  • Health risk: Dog feces can contain parasites (roundworm, giardia), bacteria (E. coli, salmonella), and viruses that affect people, especially children, and other animals.
  • Water pollution: Rain washes waste into storm drains and waterways, contributing to algae blooms and harming aquatic life.
  • Shared spaces: Parks, trails, and sidewalks become unpleasant and unsafe when littered with waste. It reflects poorly on all dog owners.
  • Legal: Most cities have ordinances requiring cleanup. Fines can be significant, and repeated offenses may lead to further restrictions on dogs.

Best Practices Checklist

Always Carry Bags

Keep 2–3 biodegradable bags in your pocket, leash pouch, or bag. Never leave home without them.

Pick Up Immediately

Don’t wait. Scoop right away so it doesn’t get stepped on or washed away.

Dispose Properly

Use dedicated dog-waste bins when available. Otherwise take it home and put it in your household trash.

Choose Eco Bags

Prefer compostable or biodegradable bags. Avoid single-use plastic when possible.

Night Walks Count

Carry a small flashlight or use your phone light so you can see and clean up in the dark.

Teach the Next Generation

Involve kids in the cleanup process so the habit becomes second nature.

Pro Tip

Keep a small roll of bags clipped to your leash or keychain. Many owners forget bags at home — a permanent attachment solves that forever.

What About “Natural” Areas?

Even in forests or large parks, pick it up. Dog waste is not the same as wildlife droppings and can introduce non-native pathogens into ecosystems.

Never Flush or Compost

Most municipal systems and home composts are not designed for dog waste. Bag it and put it in the trash (or use approved dog-waste composting systems if available).

Walking Etiquette

On the Leash

  • Keep your dog under control at all times — short leash in busy areas.
  • Yield to pedestrians, cyclists, and other dogs when space is tight.
  • Ask before allowing your dog to approach another dog or person.
  • Prevent your dog from jumping on people or lunging at other animals.
  • Be especially careful around children and people who appear uncomfortable.

In Parks & Off-Leash Areas

  • Only use designated off-leash zones and follow posted rules.
  • Ensure your dog is well socialized and recalls reliably before going off-leash.
  • Watch for signs of stress or aggression and intervene early.
  • Share the space — don’t let one dog dominate the entire area.
  • Leave if your dog is overstimulated or if conflicts arise.

Health & Safety

Hot Weather

  • • Walk early morning or late evening
  • • Test pavement with the back of your hand
  • • Carry water for both of you
  • • Watch for excessive panting or lethargy
  • • Never leave a dog in a parked car

Cold & Wet

  • • Shorten walks in extreme cold
  • • Consider booties for ice and salt
  • • Dry paws and belly after wet walks
  • • Watch for ice balls between toes
  • • Provide a warm, dry place to rest

General Safety

  • • Keep vaccinations and parasite prevention up to date
  • • Use a sturdy, well-fitted harness or collar
  • • Microchip + ID tag with current phone number
  • • Avoid toxic plants, antifreeze, and garbage
  • • Know the location of the nearest emergency vet

Training Basics

A well-trained dog is safer, happier, and more welcome in public spaces. Focus on positive reinforcement and consistency.

Essential Cues

  • • Sit / Stay / Down
  • • Come (reliable recall)
  • • Leave it / Drop it
  • • Loose-leash walking
  • • Place / Go to bed

Tips for Success

  • • Short, frequent sessions (5–10 min)
  • • High-value rewards for hard tasks
  • • Practice in gradually harder environments
  • • Never punish fear or confusion
  • • Consider a qualified positive trainer for help

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