Dog Park Behavior for You and Your Dog

Off-leash dog parks are gaining popularity around the world. A securely fenced area allows dogs and you, their owner, to run, play and relax. This delightful outing will help you transition and enjoy some company with your pet and other people. If you and your pet visit a dog park, it’s important to realize that you, like all dog owners, are responsible for ensuring that the experience is an enjoyable one for everyone. Consider these 10 quick tips on how you can ensure this great experience for everyone.

1) Follow all posted rules. This includes cleaning up your canine friend’s dog poop and disposing of it in the proper container. Instead of carrying the dog poop bag by hand, it can be helpful to have a dog poop bag holder.

2) Only bring a healthy pet. Don’t bring your canine friend if they suffer from kennel cough, fleas, mange or other health problems.

3) Only bring a vaccinated pet. Do not bring an unvaccinated puppy.

4) Don’t take a female dog in heat to a dog park. There will be many unneutered males on the loose.

5) Do not bring more dogs than you can handle, even if that number is less than the allowed limit. You must have full control over all dogs you bring to the park.

6) Do not bring children, but if necessary, supervise them closely. The chances of accidents with children are staggering, so think wisely about your need to bring a child.

7) Do not bring animals other than dogs. This is just good common sense, of course.

8) If you must eat, drink or smoke, dispose of all wrappers and cigarette butts in an appropriate container. Cigarette wrappers or butts left on the ground are tempting treats for dogs.

9) Never punish any pet other than your own while in the dog park. This could lead to arguments or worse.

10) Be responsible for your dog’s behavior. If he can’t play well, take him home.

Enjoy your visit and this wonderful recreational outing for you and your canine friend. Both can make very good friends on their visits to the park. Be a responsible pet owner and follow these simple and basic tips to ensure a good experience for you, your pet and others. This will help everyone enjoy your trip to the dog park.