Tips for a Successful Trip to the Dog Park
Dog parks can be a great opportunity for your dog to get exercise, as well as socialize with other dogs. It’s also a good time for some quality interaction and playtime between you and your dogs. However, dog parks have risks as well, so it’s important to know some of the common rules and etiquette before you visit.
Above everything else, know your dog. Dog parks are not for every dog. Some may not like the crowds, others may be easily aggressive, and some may not have enough training, which may lead to obedience or behavior problems in the park.
Don’t bring a puppy that is less than 6 months old, dogs that are not up-to-date on their vaccines or dogs that haven’t been spayed or neutered.
Before you go, familiarize yourself with the rules of the dog park. Bring a pooper scooper to clean up after your dog when he makes a mess, but you should only bring toys and treats if absolutely necessary – they tend to spark competition between dogs. Leave small children at home, since they can easily be knocked down by a rambunctious dog.
While you’re at the park, supervise all of your dog’s playtime, and be ready to interrupt if there are any signs of aggression, dogs teaming up against each other, or unequal dog sizes. You shouldn’t discipline another person’s dog; instead, be considerate and politely bring attention to the situation, realizing that your dog may be a problem as well. If the experience isn’t going well, it’s better to leave and come back at another time than to try and fix the situation.
However, even with some risks, dog parks can still be a positive experience. Many dogs love interacting with other dogs (in fact, some may prefer it over playing with you!) Be sure to include yourself in your dog’s activities, occasionally stopping to pet and praise them before letting them play again. This will help your dog understand that you’re there to be part of his fun, not to interrupt it.
With a little preparation, your trip to the dog park can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your dogs!

Above everything else, know your dog. Dog parks are not for every dog. Some may not like the crowds, others may be easily aggressive, and some may not have enough training, which may lead to obedience or behavior problems in the park.
Don’t bring a puppy that is less than 6 months old, dogs that are not up-to-date on their vaccines or dogs that haven’t been spayed or neutered.
Before you go, familiarize yourself with the rules of the dog park. Bring a pooper scooper to clean up after your dog when he makes a mess, but you should only bring toys and treats if absolutely necessary – they tend to spark competition between dogs. Leave small children at home, since they can easily be knocked down by a rambunctious dog.
While you’re at the park, supervise all of your dog’s playtime, and be ready to interrupt if there are any signs of aggression, dogs teaming up against each other, or unequal dog sizes. You shouldn’t discipline another person’s dog; instead, be considerate and politely bring attention to the situation, realizing that your dog may be a problem as well. If the experience isn’t going well, it’s better to leave and come back at another time than to try and fix the situation.
However, even with some risks, dog parks can still be a positive experience. Many dogs love interacting with other dogs (in fact, some may prefer it over playing with you!) Be sure to include yourself in your dog’s activities, occasionally stopping to pet and praise them before letting them play again. This will help your dog understand that you’re there to be part of his fun, not to interrupt it.
With a little preparation, your trip to the dog park can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your dogs!