Living in a city can present a unique challenge when exercising your dog. People, cars, multiple street crossings; your dog will encounter more of these in one walk than any suburban dog would in a week. You need to make sure you are exercising your dog enough too. Herding, hunting, terriers, hound breeds will require much more exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit than others. Again this is just a short list. You need to base your exercise regime on your dog's personal energy level. Older dogs or dogs with medical problems will require less outdoor exercise and might be more stimulated by a treat dispensing ball.
In any urban environment it is tempting to use the church yard, ball park or other open field to let your dog run off leash. Unfortunately most cities have laws and ordinances requiring dogs to remain on leash. This is done for everyone's safety. If your dog rushes into a group of children on the playground, not only have you made all dog owners look bad, you probably have scarred most of those children for a good long time. Use common sense. Don't use school yards when school is in session or there are children around.
Tip for the Day:
Train your dog to sit when you stop at every curb. In an urban environment there is no shortage of opportunities to practice this behavior. Not only could it save your dog's life in a pinch, but you dog's good manners will be noticed and appreciated by the entire neighborhood.
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