Dog Park Etiquette

Now that warmer weather is here, you may want to take your dog to the local puppy park for some playtime. Puppy parks are a great way to keep your dog healthy, social, and active. For most dogs visit the dog park is an exciting adventure and play time. Because not all dogs are the same and react the same way to other dogs and stimuli it is important to follow some simple rules when you are sharing the dog park with other dogs.

For those with dogs that are reactive to other dogs or reactive to people you need to be even more mindful about the dog park. it will not automatically make things better. Last Friday I posted about how Davinia My Dog is Dog Aggressive so when we go to the park we try to make it happen when other people might not be there. This way it gives her time to run around and get out all of the negative energy out before other dogs come around and want to play. I am still cautious about what other dogs might come to play and if I think the situation is not going to be a good one I will leave the park and go back another day. Davinia and Indiana love running around and having the dog park all to themselves. Not all dog owners are as aware of their dog’s limits and things can occur when you aren’t careful and keeping an eye out for your dog which is why it is important to always follow dog park etiquette.

1. Bring your own waste bags.
Bring a few plastic grocery bags so you can quickly pick up any waste your dog leaves behind. Parks don’t want dog waste all over the place, so have bags ready to quickly take care of anything your dog decides to leave behind.

2. Be mindful of your dog.
You may want to socialize while you are there too, but don’t take your eyes off your dog. Be sure to still maintain a close distance to them and watch their interactions. Do not rely on your dogs to take care of themselves you need to be watching out for their best interest.

3. Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccination.
You want to be sure your dog is vaccinated and does not pose any health risks to the other dogs. Make sure all shots are current before playing. This is as much to protect other dogs in the park as it is to have the peace of mind that if another dog is sick your dog will not come home with it. Keep these records in your car just in case you should need them or at least have the name and number of your vet on hand in case it is needed.

4. Leave the treats at home.
Save treats for when you return home or to the car. Other dogs (just like children) can get jealous and squabbles can happen. Your dogs may sit pretty waiting for a treat but at the dog park the dogs are getting over stimulated compared to being at home so an overly boisterous Labrador or Golden could come running over and knock you down by accident because they smell your treats.

You also don’t know if other dogs have any specific allergies. Leave the treats at home and avoid taking any with you.

5. Know when to go.
If your dog is playing too rough, know when it is time to go. No one wants to feel like their pet is being threatened, so when your pup seems to be a bit too rough or the other dogs in the park are playing too rough for your dog, call it a day.