Responsible Dog Ownership

First things first…

Buying a puppy is exciting. They are cute and a bundle of energy. However, other than their obvious needs, there are a few legal requirements:

  • By 12 weeks, puppies must be microchipped.
  • After six months, they must be registered with Council. The one-off registration fee ranges from $15 to $150 depending on whether it’s desexed or concessions. For a registration form – click here.
  • Dogs must wear a collar with its owner’s contact details when out.

Remember, making your dog easily identifiable increases the chances of it being returned to you if it’s lost. So please keep your details up-to-date.

Old tricks for new dogs

Dogs need to know who is boss—and that should be you! It’s important to be the ‘pack leader’; if you do, you will have an easier time with your dog.

  • Teach basic commands such as sit, stay, come, down and heel. Training your dog will also fulfill its desire to please you. Pet treats are a good way to aid learning.
  • Socialise your dog from a young age. Expose your dog to different people and settings. Take it to the park, local shops or a walk along the road. Praise it for accepting a pat from friendly strangers and for behaving calmly around other dogs.

    Many vets run preschools for puppies as young as eight weeks. It’s a safe way to socialise puppies that are still only partly vaccinated.
  • Praise your dog Use positive, rather than negative, reinforcement to help your dog enjoy learning. Remember dogs have acute hearing, and yelling loudly at your pooch can be counterproductive.

Neighbourly manners

Barking, in addition to whining, howling and growling, is a dog's way to communicate. Occasional barking is a normal way to get your attention.

However, dogs shouldn’t bark excessively and disturb neighbours. Constant barking can be a sign of boredom, loneliness or pent-up energy. There’s no easy solution to problem barking. Please don’t yell or hit your dog, as this may cause other behaviour problems. Instead:

  • Make sure your dog gets at least an hour of daily playtime and exercise, early morning is often best.
  • Determine the cause of behaviour i.e. does it have enough shelter, toys, is it bored, or is it near a busy pedestrian thoroughfare. Then try different tactics to help fix the cause
  • Consult your local vet or a recognised animal behaviourist for advice. Some dogs have behavioural problems such as separation anxiety, which might need specific treatment and training.

Excessive barking can be serious and cause strained relations with surrounding neighbours. So please try to find a solution. Councils can issue a Nuisance Order if your dog continues to be a barker, damages other people property or chases people, animals or vehicles. More information on barking dogs.

Walkies…

Dogs need regular exercise. When walking your dog in a public place it must be leashed. Don’t let your dog roam free as the consequences can be severe, ranging from a fine to the dog becoming lost or even injured by a passing car.

Off leash areas in Waverley

We have many off leash areas in or near Waverley where dogs can exercise and play. They are:

  • Centennial Park (outer limits)
  • Diamond Bay Reserve
  • Queens Park (northern slopes)
  • Rodney Reserve, Dover Heights (southern end)
  • Varna Park, Clovelly (eastern half)
  • Waverley Park (near tennis courts, south west corner)

You can also take your dog along Waverley’s magnificent Coastal Walk - just make sure it’s on a leash..

More information on dogs off the leash.

Uh, oh … no go zones for Fido!

There are certain places where dogs are not allowed. These places are:

  • beaches and pools
  • children’s playgrounds
  • within 10 metres of any food preparation area or near change rooms
  • public place set aside for organised games
  • school grounds and shopping complexes
  • Waverley Cemetery.

Please respect these restrictions—they are in place for the safety and enjoyment of the whole community.

… ain’t nothing like a ‘pound’ dog

Make sure you know the whereabouts of your dog. Council is legally obliged to pick up any dog roaming free on a street or public area. If your pooch is missing, call Council’s Rangers or the Sydney Dog and Cats Home.

Remember, if you want a dog, there are plenty at the pound who would love a new family. For a small adoption fee, you can give a dog a new lease of life.

Doggy doo

Sydney dogs produce more than 1000 tonnes of waste every day. Owners must pick up and appropriately dispose of dog droppings. We have dog tidy stations installed throughout Waverley.

Keep your pal healthy

Find food best suited for your dog's age, size and activity level and keep the diet consistent. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water. It’s good to take your dog for regular checks at your local vet.

Unfortunately, accidents and serious illnesses can strike at anytime. Over half of vet visits each year are listed as a sudden illness. Your dog deserves medical attention when needed, however vet bills are often very expensive.

Most vets recommend pet insurance so your dog is covered in its time of need and you have peace of mind. Ask your vet for advice. A small fee now can save a lot of heartache later.

Going on holidays?

If you’re going away for a few days, a friend, neighbour or dog care service might be a convenient, safe and cost-effective option.

However, if you’re going away for a while, a house sitter or boarding kennel might be better. Your local vet can advise you of a reputable kennel. If you are going to board your dog, make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date as reputable boarding kennels request a certificate.