Having a dog is life-changing! But it’s not just your life that changes. Your neighbors will also be seeing and hearing your four-legged baby, and they may not be thrilled about the addition. While it really does not matter how they feel, it sure can ruin a neighborhood if your dog isn’t enjoyed by all.  There truly is no faster way to ruin a friendship than by being a rude dog neighbor.

Barking, digging, entering a neighbor’s yard, and possibly even leaving the neighbors a pile of poop are all highly frowned upon in the dog community. Your dog is your responsibility.

How to be a Good Dog Neighbor

Before Bringing Home a Dog, Let Your Neighbors Know.

Don’t surprise the street with the furry addition and expect a standing ovation. Take the time to inform neighbors what your plans are: Will there be an electric fence installed? Will there be professional training? Will the dog be inside or outside throughout the day? The more you share upfront, the happier everyone will be.

Create a Boundary

Keep your dog out of your neighbors’ yards. This sounds easier than it is! Invest in an actual boundary by installing an electric fence or wood fence. Again, converse with your neighbor, as they may have an opinion on which they would prefer; some neighbors are against installing visible barriers. You can do what you wish on your property, but make sure you go through the proper procedures before installation.

A boundary will keep your dog on your property. Make sure you are still watching your pup in the yard, though, because a fence line may not be enough to keep annoying habits centralized to your property.

Invest in Training

Professional dog training may come at a higher expense than DIY training, but a well-behaved dog is a must. Simple command words can help keep your pup quiet and obedient. You want him to come when called and stop a behavior when told. Your neighbors will be much happier if your dog doesn’t frequently escape and run to their yard, jump on them, or dig. They will also be more inclined to help you with your dog if he is well trained.

Be a Polite Walker

Always scoop your dog’s poop. Even more polite is to work with your dog on using the bathroom in your yard only and then treating the walk as exercise. There will randomly be times that your dog will need to relieve himself on long walks, but for the most part, you can train him to do his business at home first.

Do not allow your dog to approach other walkers or pets on walks. Work with him on sitting and waiting for others to pass.

Exercise Your Dog

An exercised dog is a more well-behaved and happy dog. It is important to spend time every day running your furbaby. This can be a long game of fetch, a few laps around the block, or a game of soccer together.

Enjoy your dog, but remember that you want to enjoy your neighbors, too!