Don't Blame Dogs For Bad Behavior

Have you ever met a dog that jumps on you or heard the incessant barking of a neighbor's dog all night?

Some dog owners may not want to admit it, but a pet's behavior can be downright rude and annoying. But it is not all the dog's fault.

Charlotte Reed, the author of "Miss Fido Manners," said that people have to realize that they become a team with their dogs, and the dog's behavior is a reflection on the training and care it receives.

"Pet etiquette -- or petiquette -- has to be processed at both ends of the leash," Reed said.

Dogs In Public

Reed said pet-access policies are changing across the country as more business owners realize the bond that owners share with their dogs. Thus, dogs are welcomed at some restaurants, hotels and social gatherings, including weddings and Major League Baseball games.

Reed said that becoming a "doggie ambassador" starts with appearance.

"If your dog is clean and looks good, it says something about what you think of yourself and how you see the world," Reed said.

Appropriate dog behavior matters, too.

In her book, Reed suggests that "only the most well-mannered and best-groomed dogs should be taken out to eat at an outdoor cafe."

Other tips include carrying pet supplies, such as food and water bowls and dog treats; keeping your pooch in your lap while eating; and resisting the urge to feed your pooch from your plate.

Pointing Out Problems

In her book, Reed shares anecdotal stories that will help dog owners recognize the errors of their way.

The owner of three German shepherds received three visits from a company that cleans up dog poop. Each time, the owner would point out that she hadn't scheduled an appointment.

On the third visit, the Pooper Scooper employee told the owner, "I think your neighbors are trying to tell you something."

Reed said the neighbors were having difficulty enjoying their property because the owners of the dogs did not clean up frequently enough.

Since many dog owners are sensitive about others telling about problems, delivery is key.

For instance, if a neighbor's dog barks all night, a good way to tell your neighbor that the barking is annoying is to say, "I heard your dog barking last night. I started to call the police because I thought someone was breaking into your home, but then I noticed your car in the driveway."

With this delivery, it is likely that the owner will realize that the barking is becoming a problem.

If not, Reed suggested leaving or mailing her book anonymously to neighbors who are unaware of pet etiquette.

Teaching Behavior

Petco, provides an overview of canine misbehavior on its Web site to help dog owners understand what is appropriate.

The list of canine misbehavior includes:

• Jumping on furniture and people
• Barking and howling
• Begging for food
• Pulling on the leash
• Refusing commands

Animal behaviorist Diana Guerrero said it is important for humans to know that they are responsible for teaching their dogs proper behavior.

"Many pet owners are treating pets like kids instead of animals, and so there is an increase in poor behavior due to inaccurate views of what an animal is and what should be required from them," Guerrero said. "Without rules and boundaries, you get beastly behavior."

It is also important for dog owners to exhibit appropriate behavior. This includes keeping your dog on a leash and picking up your dog's poop, which usually is mandated by law.

"Being a responsible pet owner is necessary for anyone having any type of animal," Guerrero said. "Contrary to popular belief, pet ownership is a privilege we have been given and not a right that we have."

If there is a golden rule for pet etiquette, Guerrero said it would be to "be considerate of others and understand that not everyone will be a fan of your furry family members."