Summertime Dog Etiquette

for the Beach and Main Street

In the summer, individuals of all ages can be seen outside, enjoying the warm weather and their summer breaks.  For dog owners, it’s especially important to make sure their pets don’t interfere with others’ enjoyment during their walks and necessary outings.

Here are guidelines for dog owners to be mindful of this summer and throughout the year: 

• Keep your dog on a leash while walking on a sidewalk to ensure their safety and the safety of others. It also helps prevent them from running into traffic or getting into conflicts with other dogs. 

• Maintain a short leash for better control of your dog and to prevent accidents with pedestrians, like tripping them with a longer leash.

• Mind the sidewalk etiquette rule of keeping to the right side of the sidewalk with your dog, just as you would if walking by yourself or another person.

• When available, always use crosswalks when crossing the street to ensure your and your pet’s safety.

• Dogs communicate with each other and the world through barking. However, excessively loud barking can be bothersome to people. If possible, try to minimize your dog’s barking. It may also be helpful to avoid crowded areas and peak times if your dog has a loud or frequent bark.

• Dogs typically go to the bathroom outdoors, and it is crucial for owners to adhere to certain rules for this activity. These include preventing their pets from doing their business on sidewalks, private properties, or near outdoor dining spaces and storefronts.

• Always carry a waste bag to pick up your dog’s waste and dispose of it properly in a waste can.

• Always ask for permission from a dog’s owner before approaching to pet the dog.

• When visiting businesses that offer treats for dogs, always remember to clean up any leftover crumbs, and remember to express gratitude on behalf of your dog.

• Be considerate of beachgoers who may not appreciate your dog walking on their towel or approaching them while they are sleeping. 

•  Be sure to keep a close eye on your dog and clean up after it if it goes to the bathroom on the beach—especially since most people will be walking barefoot on the sand.

I wish you and your canine friends a delightful, mannerly summer!

Patricia

Patricia Napier-Fitzpatrick

Source: “Manners on Main Street: Coco and Lucy’s Adventures in Southampton”

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