Dog owners, just like their pets, come in all shapes and sizes. And, just like their pets, some owners are better behaved. Wouldn't the world be an even better place if all dog owners practised politically correct behaviour? With this in mind, here's a short tip list that you can share with fellow dog lovers that need just a little heeling, uh, coaching.

Practise Proper Leash Etiquette. Leave the flexi-leash at home. Don't be that person who meanders 10 feet behind their dog, one hand clasped around the plastic handle of a flexi-leash. No, your dog does not need the illusion of freedom. Master the art of heel position and not only will your dog love you, but your neighbours will absolutely adore you.

Pay Attention to Your Dog. Put your cell phone away. Even better, if you can't leave it at home, turn it off and put it in your pocket. Don't be that person who walks, head down as you concentrate on talking to whoever with no idea what your dog is up to.

Pay attention to Other Dog Owners. If someone tells you that their dog is not good with other dogs, keep your own dog in heel position. If you're dog isn't good with other dogs, even more reason to keep your dog in heel position.

Scoop Your Poop. No, it's not okay to pretend you don't see what your dog is leaving on someone else's lawn. Tuck a plastic bag or two in your pocket and practise what savvy wilderness hikers do: carry in, carry out.

Police Your Yard. Don't assume that because your yard is fenced, it's okay to leave your dogs outside without you. Especially if you live in a well-trafficked neighbourhood. If you've got a dog that likes to bark furiously at people walking by your house, you can't correct the behaviour from inside. You have to be out with your dog when the barking is happening so that you can simultaneously disrupt that behaviour with something more positive.

Public Events. Make sure you keep up on the proper dog law regarding where you can take your dog. Some events are dog-friendly and others are not. When in doubt, leave your dog at home. If you know that your dog will be welcome, make sure you exhibit best owner practises and keep your dog in heel position.

Teach Your Children Proper Greeting Etiquette. Not all dogs are people-friendly with strangers. This is not necessarily a bad thing. Some dogs come by this naturally. For example, German Shepherds, while keenly attuned to their owners, tend to be aloof with people they don't know.

Regardless of the breed, your child needs to know that before petting anyone's dog, the accepted behaviour is to ask first.

Ask before any part of his or her body comes close to the dog. And, if the answer is, "No, my dog isn't good with strangers," your child needs to listen and not try to pet the dog. If your child isn't old enough to act responsibly, your job, as the parent, is to heel your child.