The Ultimate Guide to Dog Walking Etiquette: Guidelines For Parks, Paths, and Paws

Written by: Clarence

They call it a special assignment. I get it, the new cat around here gets the dog poop story. Well, I take what I can get, so I started by doing some research, gathering great tips and investigative reporting. In this article I will share the latest in dog walking etiquette, unique pet walking laws and my Golden Rules of Dog Walking Etiquette.

While not all dogs and most cats are not walkers, it is a way of life for others. Walking a dog should be one of the most enjoyable parts of the day, but for new pet parents, it can come with a surprising number of unspoken rules. Whether strolling through the neighborhood, exploring a local park, or heading to an off-leash dog park, it is important to following proper walking and potty clean up etiquette. This helps keep the experience safe and pleasant for everyone no matter how many legs!

For seasoned pet parents, you know one poop bag is never enough, yes we do have to smell every spot, and we don’t get out much so stopping to catch up with the neighborhood gossip cannot be helped. Sometimes we think, ‘Ah, we forgot the poop bags, but it’s okay—no one is watching.’ That is true, but when someone steps it, you will change someone’s day and not for the better!

Now is a good time to bring up, that more cats than ever are going along for walks with their people to many of these places. While most of us are not trained to ‘go’ on command, we might need a portable litter box for all day events, I will share some great options below.

Did you know that in Alabama that some counties require dogs on leash the moment they leave their property, no exceptions. San Francisco has a law that leashes can be no longer than 8 feet in many public places. It can cost you over $250 in New York City if you fail to pick up your dog waste. No hot pavement walking in Phoenix, it is actually illegal to walk a dog in public when pavement exceeds 100°F. And finally Chicago not only requires you to carry proof that pups have had their rabies vaccination, but a leash is required in all public areas unless marked as an off-leash zone. Check your local laws, laws of destinations, or local guidelines to be sure.

We all can all agree picking up poop isn’t the most glamorous part of a dog owner’s life, but it is one of the most important aspects. I decided to talk to some professional dog walkers, long-time dog owners, and our Wild Love Tails team to gather some tips, tricks and good advice. I compiled their best tips, guidelines and rules, and created The Golden Rules of Dog Walking.

Bring It! Bag It! Trash It!

The Golden Rules of Dog Walking:

• Celebrate the walk – Bond! Explore! Enjoy!
• Leash it! – Unless you’re in an official off-leash zone, dog leashes are not negotiable.
• Clean It! – Bring. Bag. Trash. This is how we roll!
• Back It Up! – We have all run out, bring backup bags.
• Share The Sniff Spots! – Nobody likes a sidewalk hog, let pups smell the vibe and move on.
• Keep It Short! – Leave the retractable leashes at home and stick to a classic 4–6 foot leash for the better of all!
• No Drama Kings or Queens! – Not all dogs are friendly, want to be bothered, or need to say “Hi!”
• Respect No Pee Zones! – Excessive pet urine is harmful to grass, plants and shrubs, take ‘wee’ care.
• No Dark Night Walks! Be seen. Be safe.
• No Phone Zone! – Phones down! It’s Dog Time! Not Screen Time!
• Mind Your Space! – Don’t hog the space! Don’t leave a trace!
• Don’t Be Your Parents. – No helpful advice needed! No comments requested!
• H₂O Please! Always carry water of course!
• Share Your Social Style! – Party animal? Wallflower? Grumpy old man in a puppy’s body?
• No Hot Paws! – If you can’t keep your hand on it, your dog shouldn’t walk on it.
• Say ‘Hi’! – It goes a long way when you walk the dog!
• Dress Appropriately! – Fanny Pack! Hoodie! Tote Bags! Raincoats! Boots!
• Share The Road. – Step aside for joggers, bikes and other dogs.
• Be Prepared For ”Squirrel”! – Always expect the unexpected.

Keep scrolling for some trendy dog walking gear, our shops that will help you prepare for your next dog walking adventures, and tips for creating the perfect paw cleaning station.

Clarence is a passionate pet training writer with a fresh, tech-savvy approach and a love for all animals. He explores modern methods, expert advice, and the latest pet communication tools to make training fun and effective. With a chill 70s vibe and an eye on innovation, Clarence brings playful energy to every piece.