Wherever dogs and their owners encounter other people and even animals, considerate behaviour is called for. Of course, a dog's conduct is inextricably linked with the attitude of its master or mistress. So some people are completely unaware of what disturbs their fellow humans at the appearance of their animal. That's why the experts from the Fressnapf specialist retail chain have put together a few situations where good behaviour is advisable.

Two things are enormously important with day to day "walkies" and often provoke strong criticism from non-dog owners: when in doubt, you should always keep your dog on the lead when strangers approach or are present around you. And you should always dispose of the dog's "business" immediately – above all, around town. Even on areas outside town which are often managed by farmers or private owners, you should always clear up your animal's legacy. Many dog owners enjoy having their four-legged friend as a constant companion. Wherever you want to take your pet, it's best to first go for an extensive walk so you have a chilled-out dog by your side!

In the restaurant
Ascertain first whether your dog is allowed in the restaurant! Find a quiet seat and instruct your pet to settle down under a table, a chair or in the corner. It's sometimes advisable to bring your own dog blanket with you so that the animal lies down willingly. Your dog should neither wander around, sniff other guests, beg, nor be fed from the table. If you want to give it something to nibble, have a knotted hide "bone" at the ready. These have virtually no smell and are relatively quiet when chewed. And if this is all new territory for you, get your dog accustomed to going out slowly. Ten minutes is long enough to begin with then gradually increase the length of your stay.

In the shop or department store
Where it's not expressly forbidden at the entrance, you may take your dog into the store or shop with you. The exception here is the area around the fresh food counters which you must to steer clear of for reasons of hygiene. Sometimes it can be difficult in the confectionery departments of big stores where dogs can easily get at one or other of the assortment of nibbles. Either you avoid these aisles or pay particular attention to your companion here as no one likes to buy sweets which a dog has been sniffing or even licking at beforehand... The general rule when shopping is: Keep your dog away from the goods and it should neither sniff around other customers nor jump up at them. Very important in a department store: Never go on an escalator with your four-legged friend – it can get caught in the steps and become seriously injured! Take a lift instead.

On public transport
Whether and under which constraints you're allowed to take your animal on the bus or tram is often regulated differently in various counties and communities. So clarify this in advance. When the dog is on board, make sure it's not lying in the middle of the gangway or bothering other passengers.

And always: make sure your dog is as clean and dry as possible. It's best to have a hand towel or a special absorbent dog towel and maybe an odour absorbent spray with you at all times when you and your four-legged companion are en route.

You can get tips on training your four-legged friend to be well-behaved at: www.fressnapf.de/tierratgeber

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Pictures from this article:

Manners make the dog! Any well-mannered and obedient dog is a welcome visitor to shops and restaurants. Photo: Fressnapf /Ulrike Schanz (Photos may only be reproduced with permission and in connection with editorial text. High-resolution photos can be requested from the Fressnapf press office.)