If you are like me, you try to be a good neighbor and, in a perfect world, your neighbors would all do the same. Unfortunately, it is not a perfect world and sometimes our neighbors do not appreciate our efforts to be responsible pet owners or do not understand what is normal behavior for dogs and how they might be contributing to what they perceive to be a problem.
While we cannot change our neighbors or compel them to accept our dogs, we can do our best to try to maintain good relationships. In this article you will find some great tips on how you can keep the peace with your neighbors, even if they do not necessarily like your dogs (or you)!
So here's Lucy with a few tips to guide you.
It takes more than just love and affection to care for a dog. You are the sole person responsible for your pup, and that means how they act around others, including your neighbors. You want to make sure that your dog is friendly and approachable, and that you keep your neighbor’s needs in mind. There are certain tips you can follow that will ensure you’re being a conscientious neighbor and dog owner.
Install a fence in your backyard
Part of being a good neighbor is to make sure your dog doesn’t go into your neighbor’s yard. Installing a fence in your yard will help prevent your dog from bothering your neighbors. A fence will also keep your dog safe while they enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise. How much will this run you? According to HomeAdvisor, it costs around $1,643 - $3,857 to install a fence.
Clean up after your pup
This is probably the #1 golden rule about being a dog owner. Whether it’s in your backyard or on a sidewalk in the neighborhood, it’s important to pick up your dog’s waste. When dog waste is left out, it can harbor disease that can affect other pets. Picking up after your dog is the courteous thing to do, and it makes sure that no one else steps in your pet’s waste. It also prevents any foul smells wafting around the neighborhood. This will ensure your neighbors don’t get angry with you and your pup.
Provide identification
Your dog should always have a collar on with current identification. Their tag should include their name, as well as your address and phone number. Proper I.D. can help you find your dog in case he gets out of your home and becomes lost. All it takes is a friend to come over and leave your front door open, and there goes your dog. If your dog is found wandering the streets, someone will easily be able to visit your home or call your phone and bring your dog home.
Prevent excessive barking
One of the worst things you can do as a neighbor is to let your dog bark all night and keep your neighbors up. There are things you can do that will prevent your dog from nuisance barking, including proper training and dedication. Find out what’s causing your dog’s barking and see if you can control it. Your dog needs a lot of energy to bark all night, so try taking him on long walks to wear him out so he sleeps soundly at night.
Go on walks
Dogs are a lot of work. One of the biggest things a dog requires is frequent walks to stay healthy and fit. Dogs have so much energy and they need to be outdoors to socialize with other dogs. If you work long hours and don’t have the time to take your dog out on walks multiple times a day, you can hire a professional dog walker. You can usually find someone to take your dog out for a reasonable fee, make sure they are trained to handle any kind of breed. This will put your mind at ease while you’re away from home.
When you choose to become a dog owner, you’re committing for the long haul. You want to make sure you’re the best possible pup parent, as well as neighbor. Keep these tips in mind when you’re raising your pup, and you will be known for being responsible and caring.
Photo: Unsplash
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Once again thank you Lucy for your insight and be sure to visit Lucy's site doggonow.com where you will find a wealth of information to help pets and their owners.