A day on the beach can be heaven for a dog. Whether chasing the waves or running along the shoreline, it's a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. However, dog beaches are a rare thing and can be turned into "dog free" zones if pet owners aren't careful. Here are a few etiquette tips to help make sure our precious dog beaches are preserved:

Pick up after your dog immediately.

No one wants to see dog waste, let alone step on it! Immediately clean up after your dog and dispose of it in a garbage bin. Please don't leave the waste bags lying about.

Obey leash laws.

Some dog-friendly beaches are "on-leash" only. This may be because leash-free dogs have scared people in the past, especially on beaches where there are also lots of people in addition to dogs.

Have your dog under control at all times - even in leash-free zones.

Your dog must respond reliably to your voice commands even if the dog beach is off-leash. Do not allow your dog to approach other people or pets unless invited to do so.

Treasured toys should stay home.

A favorite toy that your dog clearly considers "his" may cause possession issues. There is plenty to do at the beach for your dog, so go out there and have fun with him!