Are you planning to visit a local dog park so your canine companion can blow off some steam? Dog parks are perfect for exercising, socializing, and bonding with your pet. It's not all fun and games, though. Every dog park has rules and regulations to keep all visitors — canine and human — safe. Being a responsible pet parent means following those rules and practicing proper dog park etiquette.
As your dog's veterinarian, we'd hate to see them get hurt or inadvertently injure another pet or human. It's up to you to mind your manners and ensure your canine companion does the same. In this blog post, we're sharing some dog park etiquette tips to make your next trip to the dog park fun and safe for everyone. In honor of National Dog Day on August 26, we want to make sure a long-anticipated outing with your dog doesn't go awry. Let's go!
Put Your Phone Away
Do you pull out your phone as soon as you release your dog for some off-leash play? If so, it's time to break that habit. Texting friends or scrolling through social media might not seem like a big deal, but doing so puts your pet at risk. It only takes seconds for something to go horribly wrong, and you may not have time to intervene if you're busy staring at your phone. Put it away so you can watch your dog and other pups in the park.
Watch for Signs of Impending Trouble
Even the best, most well-behaved dogs can have bad days or be provoked by unfamiliar pets and people. Pay attention, and make sure your dog minds their manners with others. Rude behaviors like chasing, humping, body slamming, etc., indicate that it's time to take a break or head home for the day. Be mindful of excessive barking, too. In addition to annoying other pet parents, your canine companion's constant barking could trigger aggression in other dogs.
Clean Up After Your Dog
Be prepared to pick up your dog's waste and dispose of it properly. While many dog parks have stations with bags, we recommend bringing your own to be on the safe side. No one wants to step in a disgusting mess while trying to have fun with their dog. Plus, leaving messes behind is unsanitary and could make other dogs (or even people) sick.
Leave Your Dog Home if She's in Heat
Unspayed females don't belong in dog parks when they're in heat. Doing so risks pregnancy, and a female dog in heat can distract other dogs and cause fights. It's just not worth the risk. If you want to be able to take your dog to the park whenever you please, we strongly recommend having her spayed as soon as possible.
Keep a Leash With You at All Times
Don't shove your dog's leash in a bag or leave it sitting somewhere while you are in the park. Keep it close at hand in case you need to quickly remove your pet from a situation involving an aggressive or otherwise unpleasant dog. Having the leash handy allows you to control your dog better if they exhibit bad manners.
Don't Bring Food Into the Dog Park
Dog food, treats, and people food don't belong in dog parks. While some dogs have excellent manners during meal and snack times, others don't. Some may behave aggressively if they know you or your dog has food. If your canine companion usually receives a treat after doing their business or following a command, give them pets and verbal praise instead. Food and treats aren't the only ways to reward your furry friend!
Leave Young Kids at Home
Bringing a young child — especially an infant or toddler — to a dog park is a serious safety risk. Dogs can easily knock small children over while playing. Plus, those who aren't used to kids or have strong prey drives could become aggressive and cause serious injuries. If that happens, your child could develop a life-long fear of dogs or experience lasting problems due to their injuries. And the offending dog may lose their life. For everyone's safety, leave the kiddos at home when going to the dog park.
Make Sure Your Dog Has a Well-Fitting Collar and Identification
Off-leash dog parks have fences, but that doesn't mean that escape is 100 percent impossible. It only takes seconds for a dog to dart out of an open gate. Protect your four-legged best friend by ensuring they have a well-fitting collar with identification tags every time they visit a dog park. Having your dog microchipped is a good idea, too, and can help you reunite with your dog if they ever get lost
Keep Them Up-to-Date on Vaccinations
If your dog isn't current on vaccinations, don't take them to a dog park. It's that simple. Unvaccinated dogs are susceptible to disease and could make other pets sick.
Before visiting a dog park, vaccinate your dog against several common illnesses, including:
- Rabies
- Parvovirus
- Distemper
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
- Canine Influenza
We also recommend keeping your pup on an effective flea, tick, and heartworm preventive medication year-round. You should also have your dog's stool checked annually for intestinal parasites.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
It's never a bad idea to consult your dog's veterinarian before taking them to a dog park for the first time to have them ensure they're up-to-date on vaccinations and free from health problems, along with determining whether your canine companion's temperament suits that type of setting. Contact your veterinarian today to schedule an appointment! Don't have one in your area yet? We can help you find a local veterinarian.