advocacy
Advocating for dogs through leash use, good manners, and thoughtful care — because being a good dog citizen matters.
Q: WHY SHOULD YOU LEASH YOUR DOG?
ANSWER: Because no dog is 100% reliable.
Think about it. As a human, are YOU 100% reliable? No. So the expectation that your dog will be is unfair and unrealistic. As a matter of fact, an 80% response rate is considered to be reliable. Which means that 20% of the time, your dog will not respond appropriately [insert sound of head exploding].
six benefits of leashing in public
protects wildlife
Off-leash dogs can disrupt ecosystems by chasing wildlife, damaging vegetation, or disturbing nesting sites. Leashing ensures the long-term conservation of wildlife for future generations to enjoy.
prevents accidents
In the past year alone, I've seen five stories about unleashed dogs being hit by trains. FIVE! Keeping your dog on a leash in public helps to reduce the chances of things like this from happening.
respects shared spaces
Cyclists and joggers have every right to be on public streets and sidewalks. An unleashed dog could chase someone, causing them to fall and get hurt, which means a lawsuit for you.
ensures legal compliance
Following the leash laws established by your community is not only a matter of responsible pet ownership but a legal obligation. Violations can result in fines, citations, or other legal consequences.
literally saves lives
Dogs are curious and inquisitive. When off-leash, they can come into contact with all sorts of things they shouldn't ingest, exposing them to parasites and sometimes toxic enough to lead to their death.
promotes positive interactions
Not everyone loves dogs. But when they're on leashes, owners can facilitate introductions and socialization in a safe and controlled manner, leading to mutual respect among pets and the community at large.
share your #leashlove
Help us spread the word across social media about the importance of leash use in public spaces by sharing a photo of your dog on a leash and telling us why you choose to leash up. Whether it’s for safety, courtesy, or simply peace of mind, your story can help inspire others to lead by example. Use the hashtag #leashlove and tag @mybarkinglife so we can share and amplify the message!
Ready to get out there and lead the way? Let’s do this!
manners matter
here's why
Good manners help dogs live fuller, safer lives. A dog who can calmly greet people, walk politely on leash, and respond reliably to their handler is more welcome in homes, neighborhoods, public spaces, and social settings. These skills reduce stress for both the dog and the owner, prevent common behavior problems, and make everyday activities — vet visits, travel, introductions to new people or pets — smoother and safer. When dogs learn clear, consistent manners, they gain more freedom, more opportunities, and stronger relationships with the people who care for them.
find your perfect match
Growing up, we got dogs based on their appearance. My mom would see a picture of a specific breed and decide that was what we were bringing home. And let me tell you, this is NOT the way to add a dog to your family. The Old English Sheepdog was a grooming nightmare. The Bearded Collie's tail regularly knocked things off the coffee table. The terriers were ... well, terriers. And this is one of the reasons so many dogs end up in shelters and rescues.
Before you bring home a cute doodle that will make you want to pull your hair out, take a quiz and see what breed you should actually be considering.
