Responsible pet ownership: Why It matters for you, your dog, and the community

Respect your community: Responsible pet ownership starts with you

Being a responsible pet owner goes far beyond feeding your dog and taking it for walks. It’s about respecting your community, protecting public health, and doing your part to keep neighborhoods clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. At The Moors, we believe that responsible pet ownership is key to maintaining a harmonious environment for all residents.

Overview of pet laws in Miami-Dade County »

Scoop the poop: Top 10 reasons to always pick up after your dog

Every responsible dog owner agrees—picking up after your dog is non-negotiable. Whether it happens on a sidewalk, in a neighbor’s yard, or even in your own backyard, failing to clean up after your pet is never acceptable. Here’s why:

1. It’s the law
   Not picking up after your dog is considered littering and is punishable by fines.
2. It’s common courtesy
   Leaving dog waste behind is disrespectful to your neighbors and your community.
3. Dog poop is a health hazard
   Pet waste can carry diseases and parasites harmful to both humans and other pets, especially children.
4. It decomposes slowly
   Dog feces break down very slowly and can pile up quickly in high-traffic areas.
5. It’s not fertilizer
   Unlike manure from herbivores, dog waste damages grass and soil, contributing to “nitrogen burn.”
6. It pollutes waterways
   Dog poop contains high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus, which pollute lakes and streams and encourage algae overgrowth.
7. It’s unsightly and gross
   No one wants to step in or look at dog poop. It ruins the appearance of our beautiful community.
8. It’s a top complaint about dog owners
   Right up there with barking and roaming dogs, not cleaning up after pets leads the list of neighbor complaints.
9. It hurts all dog owners
   Irresponsible behavior gives all dog owners a bad name and fosters negative attitudes toward pets.
10. It sets an example
    Your actions influence others. Picking up shows others what responsible dog ownership looks like.

TIP: Always carry waste bags—and bring extras to share with others. Set the example and help educate your fellow dog lovers.

Read Top ten reasons to pick up after your dog »

Being a responsible pet owner goes far beyond feeding your dog and taking it for walks. It’s about respecting your community, protecting public health, and doing your part to keep neighborhoods clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone.

Leash up: Follow the law and protect your pet

Keeping your dog on a leash isn’t just about control—it’s about safety and responsible pet ownership. According to local law:

• Dogs must always be leashed or under direct control in public, shared areas, or on someone else’s property without permission.
• The only exceptions are:
  • Designated off-leash parks, or
  • Authorized hunting areas under supervision

Letting your dog roam off-leash illegally can result in fines—especially higher for unneutered/unspayed dogs. If cited multiple times, the law requires that the dog be sterilized. Responsible pet ownership means always keeping your pets leashed and safe.

Keep It down: Addressing loud and nuisance barking

Dogs bark—it’s natural. But excessive noise becomes a problem when it:

• Continues for more than 30 minutes, or
• Occurs three times for 15+ minutes each within three days, and
• Is clearly heard from 100 feet away.

If you feed a dog or keep it on your property, you’re responsible for its noise. Prolonged barking is more than just annoying—it’s a neighborhood disturbance. Be mindful of your dog’s behavior and take steps to prevent excessive barking.

Be part of the solution: Set the standard for responsible pet ownership

Responsible pet ownership strengthens our community, reduces conflict, and helps keep The Moors clean, safe, and pet-friendly.

• Always pick up after your dog—every single time.
• Keep your pet on a leash unless in a designated off-leash area.
• Monitor barking and take steps to address nuisance noise.
• Educate others and lead by example.

Let’s work together to protect our pets, our reputation, and our shared spaces.

Because being a good neighbor starts with being a responsible pet owner.