Tips to Keep in Mind When You’re at the Dog Park
Taking your dog to the dog park can be a very rewarding experience. It allows your pup much more freedom than running through the dog door into the yard and gives them the opportunity to get out into the world in a way that’s safe from danger like traffic, too. Your dog gets to run and play with other dogs, but they also learn good behaviors and socialization as well.
Do you know how to be a good dog park attendant? Keep your pooch and you safe from disaster with these tips and tricks.
Why Visit the Dog Park?
There are plenty of reasons to take your furry friend to a dog park. If your dog is an only child, the park is a great place for them to meet friends and learn good doggy etiquette. All that pent-up energy needs to go somewhere—it’s better to let it out in a nice open space than in your living room. Even if you have more than one dog, giving them the chance to run and play is a great way to spend the day.
Playing Well with Others
To keep the park a fun and positive experience, you should make sure that your dog plays well with others. If your pooch gets stressed or fearful of other dogs, the park may be a bad idea. If your fluff ball loves other dogs, grab the leash and get going! Either way, you should always be cautious and proactive when meeting new dogs.
Off-Leash Skills
Having good off-leash skills is a must. Many dogs are easily distracted, and that can make them difficult to round up when it comes time to leave. Work on this at home, first, then out on walks, and then, finally, at the dog park when it’s quiet.
Make sure you don’t take toys or any treats over which your dog may become possessive when other dogs are around. It’s generally better to bring an extra or just allow your pup to socialize instead.
Never leave a prong collar or harness on your dog when they are playing; it’s far too easy for them or another dog to become injured. If your dog requires one for behavioral reasons, the park isn’t the right choice for you just yet. Work with a behavioral specialist to resolve the issues, and then try again.
Always be aware of where your dog is and with whom they are playing. Never assume other dog owners are as responsible as you are; it’s simply not the case. Not all owners keep track of their dogs while in the park.
If you notice that another dog is harassing yours, call your dog back and move to another area of the park. You can always call it a day and take a nice, long walk if your dog still has any energy to burn.
Dog parks are a great way for your dog to use up energy and socialize at the same time. Whether you go all the time or are a park newbie, these tips should help you and your pooch to have a great time. Need to extend your dog’s freedom at home? Contact Australia Pet Doors about a custom-installed access door for your pooch.