Etiquette for Fido?

One definition of “etiquette” is:  “The customs or rules governing behavior regarded as correct or acceptable in social or official life.” Whether “etiquette” applies to business or one’s personal affairs, it can range in meaning between a concrete set of guidelines to the spirit of common courtesy.

I had to chuckle when I saw this sign, which was posted several places on the grounds of an outdoor mall. P-Etiquette: A list of rules governing the behavior of pets and their human companions. Of course, we’ve all heard of “etiquette,” and technology has also brought us “netiquette,” a set of standards for our comportment online. I even devoted an entire chapter to it in my book, “The Art and Science of the Hotel Concierge.”

Well, we now have “Petiquette.” As I read through the list of Ps and Qs for dog-loving shoppers, I couldn’t help but come up with a human interpretation for them. As human beings, we are all prone to shortcomings, and a few reminders never hurt!

1. Please keep your temper tethered. Anger can overcome us from time to time, but our tempers can be controlled before we say, write or do anything that will hurt another or strain a relationship. Think of keeping your temper on a short leash and be ready to rein it in the moment it attempts to escape.
2. Never leave your responsibilities unattended. You may think you can walk away from them for a while, but you never know what havoc inattention can wreak. Do the next right thing when it presents itself and keep your conscience clean.
3. Please refrain from making a mess in the middle of things—or anywhere for that matter. In other words, keep a cool head and avoid becoming defensive, critical, accusatory, or using any other negative approach to resolve a difficult situation.
4. OK, we’re human, and the reality is that sometimes we do “mess up.” Should it happen, “clean them up” immediately by practicing the “Art of Apology” and setting matters straight immediately.
5. Don’t take for granted that everyone has the same likes, dislikes, desires and needs. While some people might really enjoy your dry, “wicked” wit or effulgent affection, not everyone will and might even take offense. Be sensitive to the inclinations of the person or group with which you are interacting.
6. Avoid assuming that everyone abides by the same set of rules. Pets may be welcomed with open arms and dog treats by the Geniuses at the Mac store, but frowned upon in “The House of Glass” and downright against the law at the Cheesecake Factory. Use discernment to choose the appropriate tact, and when in doubt, always ask. This is especially important in today’s “small world, where we often find ourselves interacting with people from other countries, whom may have different sensitivities and mores.

Although “etiquette” is an old-fashioned word (think Emily Post), the concept is just as relevant today as it’s ever been. Think about it. Without the spirit and guidelines of etiquette, the world might just go to the dogs.