Opinion: Why Springfield’s dog issues are really about neighboring

David Burton

Springfield’s proposed updates to the city’s animal control ordinance have sparked passionate discussion, especially around the growing concern of dogs running loose in neighborhoods. Some residents who spoke at the May 18 City Council meeting described frightening encounters with aggressive or uncontrolled dogs. Others may worry about overregulation. But beneath the debate lies a deeper question that goes far beyond dogs or ordinances: What does it mean to be a good neighbor? 

That question has been at the center of my work for years through Missouri Good Neighbor Week and the State of Neighboring in Missouri study. One of the strongest findings is that Missourians increasingly define a “good neighbor” not by close friendship, but by everyday behaviors that show consideration and respect. That is exactly where responsible pet ownership belongs. 

In the 2024 State of Neighboring survey, 71% of Missourians said respecting privacy is one of the most important traits of a good neighbor. Quietness, property maintenance, safety and practical consideration also ranked high. More than 54% specifically identified good pet etiquette as an important part of being a good neighbor. 

That statistic tells us people increasingly see responsible animal ownership as part of the social contract of living together in a city. Neighboring is about managing the parts of our lives that affect those around us. 

Dogs are deeply loved members of many families. In many neighborhoods, dogs create opportunities for connection. Walk a dog regularly and you will likely meet neighbors you otherwise would never know.  

But when animals are not properly controlled, the opposite can happen. 

Fear can replace trust. Parents stop letting children play outside. Elderly residents become nervous walking in their own neighborhoods. The sense of safety and belonging that makes neighborhoods healthy begins to weaken. 

That is why Springfield’s proposed ordinance changes deserve thoughtful consideration. According to the city, the proposed updates are largely aimed at addressing dogs running loose and improving accountability for dangerous situations. The goal is not to punish responsible pet owners but to reduce preventable problems. At its core, this conversation is really about stewardship. 

Living in a city means balancing personal freedom with shared responsibility. Most people already accept this principle. Keeping excessive noise down late at night is considerate. Maintaining property helps preserve neighborhood pride. Driving safely protects pedestrians and children. Responsible dog ownership operates under the same principle. 

Keeping pets secured is not simply about following rules. It is about recognizing that neighbors deserve to feel safe walking down their own street. Picking up after pets is a visible act of respect. Preventing excessive barking acknowledges that nearby residents deserve peace and rest. 

These are examples of civic behavior. They communicate to everyone nearby: I care how my choices affect you. That mindset is the foundation of neighboring. 

Unfortunately, modern society often pushes us toward isolation rather than connection. My research has documented that Americans increasingly define good neighbors as people who “keep to themselves.” But healthy neighborhoods require mutual consideration. 

Cities have a responsibility to protect public safety while recognizing the positive role pets play in community life. Responsible pet owners have a responsibility to understand that animal ownership carries obligations beyond their households. Neighbors also have a responsibility to approach these conversations with fairness and civility. 

If Springfield can do that well, this debate may actually become an opportunity to ask larger questions about what kind of neighborhoods we want to create. 

Do we want neighborhoods where people feel anxious and disconnected? Or neighborhoods where people trust one another enough to walk, gather and interact comfortably outdoors? 

Do we want neighborhoods where conflicts escalate into resentment? Or neighborhoods where shared expectations create greater harmony? 

Laws can establish boundaries, but culture determines whether neighborhoods thrive. Ultimately, becoming a good neighbor is not about perfection. It is about recognizing that our choices shape the experience of those living around us. That includes how we care for our pets. 

In a time of growing isolation and mistrust, neighboring sometimes begins with simple acts of consideration. 

Sometimes that starts with a leash.  

David Burton is a community development specialist with University of Missouri Extension and founder of Missouri Good Neighbor Week. He is the owner of an 11-year old  Shih Tzu, Otis, who gets walked daily on a leash. He can be reached at burtond@missouri.edu.