How to Be a Good Dog-Owner in San Francisco

Step 2 YOUR DOG AT HOME

Now that you have found a suitable dog, TRAIN IT. There's not a neighbor out there who enjoys a dog that barks day and night (putting it in the back yard where you can't hear it but the rest of us can does NOT count as quieting it down), jumps all over people, and leaves certain treasures in the flowers. There are TONS of How-To tools out there to help you out.

If your dog is a barker or howler, your neighbors will probably soon feel like they've gotten to know too much about your little cutie. The best way to avoid creating drama with your neighbors is to a) train your dog to have an indoor voice and b) to get to know your neighbors so that you can all talk civilly about any noise problems. This means saying hi to your neighbors, holding doors open for them on occasion, etc.

Similarly, though you may know that your dog is kinder than Mother Theresa and less violent than Ghandi, don't assume that your neighbors want her/him in their face. Keep your dog leashed and out of the way of neighbors until they get to know her/him better. They'll probably begin approaching your dog on their own soon enough. But some neighbors may never want to touch your dog, and it will make your life easier if you respect their boundaries. Don't take it personally; but do be respectful.