9 pet problems and how to fix them

5. A friend asks you to keep your pet in another room when she comes over.

Some devoted pet owners feel that this is like asking someone to lock their kids in the basement during a tea party. You're well within your rights to flat-out refuse this request – nicely, of course. Then book a table at a local restaurant and catch up there instead.

You can also offer to help your friend face her fears, says O'Sullivan. Invite your friend to come over for as much time as she likes – 10 minutes is fine to start. Have her get settled, then invite your well-trained pooch into the room and sit a ways away. Gradually decrease the distance over time, and you may make a big difference in your friend's comfort level around pets. (Cats, while trainable, aren't usually willing to sit on command.)

Out and About
1. Your friend opens the door and her huge chocolate Lab lunges for you. "Don't worry, he's a real sweetie," she says, as he tackles you.

This is never acceptable, say all our experts. If you're the jumpee, ask the dog to sit and don't acknowledge him until he does. Completely ignore this dominant, attention-seeking behaviour, says Frank, and don't look at, touch or talk to him until he stops. He'll quickly learn that sitting politely, not bowling you over, will get him the affection he craves. You might also want to diplomatically tell the owner that this behaviour needs some work. Remind him or her of the dangers of an uncontrolled dog – he shouldn't be mowing down children or the elderly, who can be seriously hurt by a fall or scratchy claws.

2. You got the all-clear to bring your dog to your coworker's house for a visit, but the minute you get there, he lifts his leg against the couch.

Artie did this once, to my utter mortification. After I finished dying of embarrassment, I asked for some paper towels and furniture cleaner and got to work. That's the least you can do, say our experts.

Why is your dog doing this when he's house-trained at home? He's marking his territory, says Fulker. It's a natural tendency, especially for male dogs – and especially in a new place where other animals live. Say a sharp no and ask your dog to sit or stay, says Frank. Don't allow him to wander freely, in case he tries to mark again. Always be sure to clean up the mess your dog made or offer to pay.

Page 3 of 4 - read page four to learn how do deal with your neighbor's pets.