The Dos and Don’ts of Dog Park Etiquette

The Dos and Don’ts of Dog Park Etiquette

Do: Bring a well-behaved dog

Before taking your pup to the park, make sure they are well socialized and accustomed to being around other dogs. It’s important to remember that not all dogs are friendly, and a dog that is aggressive or doesn’t play well with others could cause a dangerous situation. Additionally, be sure your dog is up to date on all vaccinations and is properly trained to come when called.

Don’t: Bring a dog in heat

If your female dog is in heat, it’s best to keep them at home. Not only could they attract unwanted attention from male dogs, but they may also become overly aggressive or territorial during this time.

Do: Pick up after your dog

No one likes stepping in dog poop, so be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog. Most dog parks provide poop bags and trash cans for easy disposal. Not picking up after your dog could result in fines from the park or even expulsion from the park.

Don’t: Bring food or treats into the park

While it may be tempting to bring treats or snacks for your dog to enjoy while playing at the park, it could cause conflicts with other dogs. Some dogs may become aggressive or territorial when it comes to food, so it’s best to leave it at home.

Do: Supervise your dog at all times

Even if your dog is well-behaved and plays well with others, accidents can still happen. It’s important to never leave your dog unsupervised at the park, as you may miss signs of aggression or potential danger. Always stay alert and keep an eye on your pup.

Don’t: Allow your dog to bully other dogs

If your dog is being overly aggressive or playing too rough with other dogs, it’s important to intervene and redirect their behavior. Allowing your dog to bully others could result in fights or injuries.

Do: Consider the comfort of others

Remember that the dog park is a shared space, so be considerate of others’ comfort. If your dog is excessively barking or playing too rough, it’s best to remove them from the situation. Additionally, keep in mind that some people may not feel comfortable around dogs, so always ask before approaching others with your pup.