From Malamute to Maltese, Shepherds to ShihTzu, every city has these dog breeds living somewhere. What do you need to consider when keeping a "Dog in the City"?

First off, let's discuss some basic "Dog in the City" etiquette...

--Always walk your dog on a leash. Some municipalities have regulations that the leash must be no longer than 6 feet. Be aware of and follow local regulations!

--Make sure the dog's collar has tags with current telephone numbers on them so you can be notified if someone finds your pet. Consider microchipping or tattooing your dog to help him find his way home if the two of you should get separated.

--Keep all local licenses current. In the event of a dog bite situation, your dog may be taken away and confined under the local government's protection if the license is expired or absent. Dog licenses are usually less annually than the price of a bag of kibble.

--Keep the dog under control. Never let him walk out of your sight, especially if using a retractable leash. Basic obedience training can help here!

--Always carry something to pick up after your dog. Take all of your dogs droppings to YOUR trash can at YOUR home.

--When approaching another dog walker, hold your dog close to you. If you wish the dogs to meet, make sure the other person knows what is happening and consents to the meeting. This will avoid dog fights and people fights.

--Do not allow your dog to approach strange people without the person's permission. This is especially true if your dog is a jumper.

Hopefully most of you have read the following etiquette points and said, "DUH!" Unfortunately, not everyone believes that this is all necessary. How many times have you driven through the city and seen someone standing at a street corner tugging on their dog's choke collar and telling them to "Sit!". Of course, there is no leash attached to that collar. The dog probably will sit but how long will he stay if a squirrel runs up a tree on the other side of the street? Not long! Unfortunately, that poor dog will eventually end up getting hit by a car, not by it's own fault, but the fault of the person that is charged with his safety.

The biggest drawback for a "Dog in the City" is a lack of space. Dogs love to have lots of territory to roam, investigate and mark as their own. This precious commodity can be found away from your home by simply taking your dog for long walks or even to a Dog Park on a weekend or weekday evening. This will also help in his social interaction with other animals and people. In lieu of a Dog Park, an enclosed area such as a baseball or soccer field may serve as well. Again, make sure to pick up after your dog so that you are welcomed back on your next visit.

Having a "Dog in the City" usually means that you are in close proximity to other people. Many of these people will have no reason to talk to you except for the fact that you have a dog. Now think about that! That may not be a positive statement if your beloved friend is barking all day while you are at work, disturbing the neighbors or baying and crying in the evenings while you take a trip to the grocery store. You need to teach your dog that you will always come home to them and try to keep them from getting lonely in your absence. The answer to this problem may be as simple as a radio or television that is left on or as complicated as getting another pet or seek the counsel of a canine behaviorist.

If you have a "Dog in the City," try to join or form play groups for your pets. Both of you will meet new friends as well as you can share ideas with other dog owners on how to survive with a "Dog in the City"!