My Pet World: When your neighbor’s dog thinks your yard is a rest stop

Cathy M. Rosenthal, Tribune Content Agency on Dec 10, 2025

Dear Cathy,

I am beginning to believe that most dog owners either do not have the time or the inclination to train their dog. I used to help with a guide dog organization. The dogs were trained to poop with a certain command. And, in many instances to do their business in the same spot to make it easier for the person with sight problems to clean up after the dog.

I do not understand why people cannot train their dogs to go in their own yard. Yes, most people clean up after their dog, but I am so tired of them using my yard. And the people who do not pay attention (with their face in their phone) to the dog. I have had to yell out to get their dog away from the garden that they are digging in. Why are people so inconsiderate? Is there anything I can sprinkle on the lawn to make dogs avoid it?

— Liz, Newington, Connecticut

Dear Liz,

You’re not alone in feeling frustrated. Even responsible dog owners sometimes forget that not everyone is cool with pets peeing and pooping in their yard. It’s especially disheartening when people allow their dogs to wander into your yard or garden while they check their phones instead of paying attention.

Dogs can be trained to eliminate in certain areas, and guide dogs are proof of that. But most pet owners don’t train to that level of precision.

So what can you do? A small polite sign can go a long way toward changing behavior. Something like, “Please Be Kind. Keep Dogs Off the Grass. Thank you.”

If the problem persists, you can use a pet-safe outdoor deterrent spray. Look for natural formulas made with bitter apple, citrus, or essential oils (mixed with a carrier oil) like lemongrass or eucalyptus, which are safe for pets and plants but unpleasant to dogs’ sensitive noses. Spray near the sidewalk or curb weekly. Reapply after rain or watering.

You might also create a natural boundary, such as a low decorative fence, rock border, or a small garden edge with plants like rosemary, lavender, or marigolds, which many dogs tend to avoid. I see dogs walk past these barriers all the time. These small steps can help protect your space and encourage your neighbors to be a little more mindful of it.

Dear Cathy,

I just read your response to Robin about her allergy to cats, and it lacked one suggestion: allergy shots. My two cats were 10 years old when I found out that I was allergic to them. My allergist thought that I should get rid of them. I asked about shots and got them for several years. With the shots, everything was relieved. I still have cats and haven't had shots for over 30 years.

— Nancy, Woodbury, New York

Dear Nancy,

Allergy shots can be a wonderful option for people who want to keep their pets but struggle with allergies. My own son took allergy shots for several years, and like you, his tolerance gradually built up through those tiny microdoses. Over time, his symptoms improved dramatically. I’m so glad you shared your story. It’s good to let others know that with help from an allergist, it is possible to keep our beloved cats and breathe easier, too.

Dear Cathy,

In a recent column, you suggested using a shower curtain to cover a bed and keep cats from urinating on it. Please correct your statement by saying a plastic shower curtain.

Shower curtains are made from many things these days.

— Fran, Montana

Dear Fran,

Shower curtains do come in all kinds of materials these days, and only a plastic one would protect a bed from urine. I should have made it clearer that a plastic shower curtain was what the letter writer meant. I appreciate you catching that so I could clarify it for everyone.

Dear Cathy,

Our 17-year-old terrier had an issue with being restless at night. I found that leaving her an old slipper of mine comforted her. A friend who lost his wife had the same problem with his dog missing her human mom. He left his wife’s well-worn sweater in the dog’s bed and it calmed her.

— Karen, Aquebogue, New York

Dear Karen,

When grief, loneliness, or separation anxiety is the cause of nighttime restlessness, your idea is a simple and loving way to help calm them. Of course, restlessness in older dogs can sometimes have other causes, such as changes in vision, hearing, or cognitive function, so it’s always wise to mention any sudden behavior changes to a veterinarian.

_____

========

(Cathy M. Rosenthal is a longtime animal advocate, author, columnist and pet expert who has more than 25 years in the animal welfare field. Send your pet questions, stories and tips to cathy@petpundit.com. Please include your name, city, and state. You can follow her @cathymrosenthal.)