Pet Etiquette

Here are some thoughts we had about pets, more specifically, dogs, around the holidays.

Be strict that dogs should not eat food that humans eat. If your dog is on a particular regimen, make certain that you keep the dog on that diet.

Only the dog’s owner needs to feed the dog. Consider putting the dog in another room where the dog will not have the temptation to eat the scraps that fall on the floor, or that someone who wants to be kind to the dog will give them a slab of ham or a piece of roast beef. The person is not being kind, but actually is disrespecting your boundaries. The best solution is to keep the dog away from people who are going to discreetly feed the dog.

It is always kind to ask the owner, “May I pet the dog?” or “May I feed the dog?” If the owner says, “no,” don’t do it otherwise.

Some dogs will be persistent in begging for food. You are free to ask your host if they can clear the dog away, so you can attend to the meal and conversation at hand. The dog can be a distraction. Ask your host to take care of your needs.

Try to send a standard of having no dogs or cats at the table when you are eating.

If a person is bringing a pet to the house, suggest that they should ask you for permission. Someone might be allergic to dog hair, or you simply might not want to clean dog hair from your house afterwards. You do not have to solve the dilemma for them about what they should do with their pet if they can’t bring it to your house. It is something that person has to consider.

Likewise, if you are bringing a dog to someone’s house, have a conversation about pet etiquette. Discuss the rules and expectations and be clear to mention those areas that might seem problematic to the host or to other guests. Sometimes it is helpful to bring a pet cage where the pet feels safe. Dogs are highly sensate animals and the many distractions may confuse them.