The Do's and Don'ts of Dog Parks

As the weather warms, we all want to get outside. We want to enjoy the fresh air and take in the great outdoors, especially after such a cold and icy winter. Naturally, you will want to do more with your family dog as well, and perhaps the local dog park is at the top of the list. Please take a look at our do’s and don’ts for dog park safety:

DO

• Find somewhere else to go.

DON’T

• Go to the dog park.

Okay, that might be a little confusing. Aren’t dog parks supposed to be great for your dog?  

In theory — yes. The intention is good. A dog park sounds like a great place for your dog to run, play, be social, and have fun. It’s an especially tempting option for those with small or non-existent backyards.  

However, there’s a not-so-great side to dog parks that is rarely discussed.  

• Dogs are pack animals and when they are allowed to play in a group, especially of three or more, their instincts kick in: they will try to establish a pecking order. This is what will sometimes lead to fights in a dog park, and in some cases — why a timid dog may feel threatened or bullied. Even if your dog is well-socialized, not all dogs get along. Certainly, you don’t get along with every human you meet. The same is true of dogs.  

• Some (but not all) dog parks have proactively addressed potential issues by having designated sections for small dogs versus large dogs. But no matter what your dog’s size — all dogs have different styles of play and different preferences. Dog size is one thing, but we can’t ignore breeds and personalities that come in all sizes.

• Not all dogs who visit a dog park have been trained…. Or they may have humans who have failed to enforce what training they have had. If a dog cannot be trusted off-leash to behave or respond to commands, they don’t need to be let loose in a dog park. It’s a safety issue for everyone.

• Many community pools have lifeguards to oversee the safety of the swimmers, but very few dog parks have dedicated staff or rules about supervision. While you may be diligent about supervising your dog, not all pet owners will be. You don’t want to be in a position where you have to intervene for your dog’s safety while another owner is distracted.

• While there’s no doubt that you are personally diligent about ensuring your pet’s vaccinations are up to date — there’s no guarantee other dog owners have done the same. Dog parks are hotspots for spreading parasites, respiratory diseases, and other illnesses. That free activity can result in expensive vet bills. It’s just not worth the risk.

• Some community dog parks are beautifully maintained, while others — not so much. The last thing you want is to assume the dog park is safe, but learn the hard way that a fence was broken…. Or a toxic plant has invaded the space (or been planted by someone who didn’t do their homework)…. Or a sharp object was thrown on the ground and wouldn’t you know it — your dog found it!  

While I don’t intend to promote fear or create issues — as a dog trainer, I think about these things with a different perspective. And at the end of the day, in my professional opinion, a dog park is simply not worth the risk.

Instead, consider the following:

• Arrange a play date with a trusted friend or family member’s dogs. Pre-meeting, you can discuss health history and play styles to be proactive. Introduce your dogs slowly and don’t force the friendship between them. 

• Go on a group walk; get some exercise with your friends while your dogs get exercise with theirs.

• Look into dog classes for agility or dock diving — both are great dog sports that will keep their minds and bodies active.

It’s my job to help you live your best life with your dog and there are far safer and even more fun ways to experience the outdoors with your dog. Skip the dog park and enjoy your time another way.