The Rules

NOTE: These rules are (somewhat loosely) based on the "American Birding Association Code of Ethics" (because birdwatching, or "Birding" as the pros call it, has been doing this a lot longer than I have been looking at dogs.), my own feelings about responsible pet care... and a little I gleaned from watching that bird movie, The Big Year and read in a book about a boy in the city who wanted to be a bird watcher but only saw pigeons. I don't remember the name.

1. Only seeing the dog in person counts. No sightings are made by watching the Westminster Dog Show (but still totally watch it to hone your skills!)... unless you are there in PERSON. Then, of course, GO FOR IT.
2. Even if you can identify the dog by sight, if at all possible, confirm the breed with the owner. It may just be a mix with a really dominant breed to it. (Mixes are AWESOME dogs. They can still be counted, but only on the "off-list" list. Those are just the rules.)  [As an added benefit having to ask people about their dog will force me to not be so shy!] 
3. When there is a discrepancy (Owner says Fluffy is a purebred toy poodle, but she's 100 lbs and looks like a chow), go with your best info. An experienced Dog Watcher will probably know more about a dog than many owners. On the other hand, you are not infallible.
4. A photograph is not needed to count, but PREFERRED! Even a crappy cell phone shot is better than nothing.
5. Promote the welfare of dogs and responsible pet keeping! Spread the word about homeless dogs, foster when possible, stay informed so you can educate!
6. Never put a dog in danger by calling it away from it's human to get a better look or a better picture. Keep yourself and the dog safe by never approaching a dog without permission from the dog's owner. Learn to read the body language of dogs and act accordingly.
7. Respect the law, and the rights of others. Do not enter private property without the owner's explicit permission. Follow all laws, rules, and regulations governing use of roads and public areas, both at home and abroad. Practice common courtesy in contacts with other people. In other words, *ahem* Wheaton's Law.
8. If you are ever a witness to ANY kind of animal cruelty, REPORT IT. This includes animals left in hot cars, pet stores selling underage puppies, etc.

Next up is THE LIST.