With more people in Temecula and Murrieta hosting backyard playdates instead of going to public dog parks, we've been getting questions about etiquette.
Rule 1: Pick up before they arrive, not after they leave
If you're hosting, do a full sweep the morning of, including the side yard. If you have a yard service, schedule them for the day before — not the morning of, because dew-wet grass shows fresh missed spots.
Rule 2: Have a designated pickup spot for guest dogs
A small station near the back gate with a bag dispenser and a covered trash can. Costs maybe $30 to set up.
Rule 3: Verify vaccinations and recent vet visits
If you're hosting, it's reasonable to ask:
Rule 4: Know your dog's threshold
Dog parks have an escape valve — leave when things get tense. Backyards don't.
Rule 5: Offer something if you stay more than an hour
Reciprocity is what makes these gatherings keep happening.
If you host frequently, most of our clients in Wine Country and the gated communities around Murrieta who host regularly bump up to three visits per week during their busy hosting season.