Forget the suburban white picket fences and marking the same old shrub daily. The city has much to offer dogs, young and old alike. Here are some hot tips on living in the city—doggie style.

Marking Your Territory

• Pee on wheels. Car tires, motorcycle tires, bicycle tires, and even paid-for scooter wheels all make prime spots. Just think, more surface area means more coverage with less work. Let the humans help spread your work. It’s entrepreneurship at its finest—you’ll leave your calling card everywhere.
• Buildings often wash away “hot spots” with boiling water, bleach, or vinegar, but think of it as a fresh canvas. Be the first to pee, and you’ll be the most popular dog in town.
• In the local parks, mark your spot and kick up the grass all around you three hundred and sixty degrees with all four legs to scatter your scent even further. It’s the ultimate territorial local broadcast.
• For a more adventurous touch, try marking a fellow dog. They’ll carry your scent with them, spreading your “brand” to new buildings, dogs, and even new neighborhoods.
• The #2 – Do not poop on the sidewalk. It’s rude. You ever see how cars parallel park? Well, that’s how city dogs manage the numero two doo-doo. It’s discreet, and shelters you from the big dogs and any other unwanted attention. Your human owner(s) and those passing by also appreciate the courtesy once they realize you are not trying to run into the traffic.

Restaurants

• Channel your inner Tramp from the film, ‘Lady and the Tramp’. When passing by a restaurant, stop at the doorway and look around; you might score a bone from a waiter. Even if there’s no treat, you’ll get a peek at those dinner tables and get in some new scents.
• Outdoor seating is full of trail treats. If you’re quick, you can grab a taste before your owner spots you. Pro tip: If caught, resist, and swallow whatever you’ve got as fast as possible.
• Watch out—trail treats can be risky. Some cookies may contain strange green plants that make you feel terrible or even require a vet visit. Eat at your own risk!

Storefronts 

• Stop into neighborhood stores. They will probably give you treats and massages and pets. 

Bars

• Good for human and dog watching. Stick near your owner though. Some humans get too many treats and can get a little weird. Like NO social boundaries. 

Socializing

• Small Dogs—beware of the big dogs. They can be intimidating, but if you feel nervous, act as big and crazy as you can. The crazier you look, the higher the likelihood of them probably leaving you alone. Better yet, ask your owner to pick you up. If you roll over submissively, you risk getting trampled and/or chased.
• Big Dogs—remember, little dogs may act tough and even a little crazy. Just avoid eye contact and give them space if they seem edgy. Sometimes big and small dogs can be friends, but it’s always a gamble.
• Humans—to make new friends, stop and lock the human in your gaze. It’s like hypnosis. Some can be taken out. If they’re dog-savvy, they’ll stop and give you a pet. Not all humans speak dog, though. If someone looks scared, tilt your head in confusion. If they’re talking to themselves and your owner’s walking away from them, best to follow your owner.
• Birds—Birds are for chasing. If you see one, go for it! They’ll fly away in cool patterns. FYI – Pigeons are stiff competition for trail treats. 
• Squirrels—also for chasing, if you’re lucky enough to spot one. Not seen as much in the city. More of a suburban presence. City squirrels are excellent at taunting you, so play at your own risk! 
  • Good luck on your life in the big city. 
  • May your pee tank never run dry, and may you get treats and pets by the plenty!

-Max