Dog parks can be a great place for your dog to socialise, exercise, and have fun however not all dogs are suitable for dog parks. It’s important to ensure your dog is ready for social interaction before attending a dog park so everyone at the park has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Although socialisation for puppies is important, ensure your puppy has had all its vaccinations before considering attending a dog park. Dog parks can be overwhelming for puppies, so only socialise your puppy when your vet recommends it is safe to do so.
Here are our top tips on dog park etiquette:
Keep your dog under control: Always keep your dog under control by keeping your dog on a leash until you enter the designated off-leash area, and then supervising your dog closely to ensure that they don’t cause any problems with other dogs. You are ultimately responsible for your dog.
Follow the rules: Make sure you are familiar with the rules of the dog park before you go. Some parks may have restrictions on the size or breed of dogs allowed or may require certain vaccinations or health certificates. Follow these rules to ensure the safety of all dogs and their owners.
Pick up after your dog: Always bring a bag or two to pick up after your dog. Leaving your dog’s waste in the park is not only unsanitary, but it can also spread diseases and parasites that can harm other dogs and their owners.
Avoid bringing toys or food: While it may be tempting to bring toys or food to the dog park, it’s generally not a good idea. Toys can cause fights between dogs, while food can lead to resource guarding and aggression. It’s best to let dogs play and socialise without any distractions.
Pay attention to your dog’s behaviour: Always keep an eye on your dog’s behaviour to ensure that they are not getting too rough with other dogs or causing any problems. If your dog seems stressed or overwhelmed, it’s time to take a break or leave the park.
Be respectful of others: Be respectful of other dog owners and their dogs. Don’t allow your dog to jump on or harass other dogs, and be sure to ask for permission before approaching other dogs. Additionally, don’t allow your dog to bother other park visitors or children.
Leave the park if necessary: If your dog is causing problems or seems to be overwhelmed or stressed, it’s time to leave the park. Don’t let your dog continue to cause problems or put other dogs in danger.