Tips on dog park etiquette

Whether you’re a dog owner in the city or the suburbs, chances are you are familiar with your local dog park. They are a great way to give your pup the daily mental and physical stimulation they need. Just like any other playground or social activity, it is important to know and follow basic etiquette to ensure the safety of your pup and others.

To ensure that your next trip to the dog park is a safe and enjoyable one, the American Kennel Club offers the following tips:

Use your judgment: Depending on your dog’s age, consider whether the dog park is the best place for your furry friend to hang out. Puppies that are four months or less are susceptible to illness and/or disease and should avoid dog parks. Also, should your dog show signs of illness or a contagious disease do not bring them to the park; you will not want to infect any other dogs.

Keep your eyes peeled: Always watch your dog closely to ensure there is no aggressive play between them and other dogs. Do not hesitate to intervene if things start to escalate.

Don’t bring snacks: It is best not to bring food for you or your dog.

This can be a tease to other dogs and possibly cause aggressive behavior.

Stay in designated areas: Dog parks sometimes have designated areas for small and large dogs. Be sure to keep your dog in the appropriate area for its size. Even if you feel your dog behaves well with all sizes of dogs, you don’t want anyone else to feel uncomfortable.

Bring a toy: If your dog is an avid fetcher, feel free to bring a ball or other toy. Be prepared to lose it, you may not want to bring your dog’s favorite toy if they are possessive of it.

Keep your dog hydrated: Be sure to bring water in a portable bowl for your dog. It is important to continually offer your dog water and by bringing your own bowl, you can help prevent illness in your dog.

Be courteous: Always pick up after your dog, even if others are not doing the same.

Intact dogs: If you bring your intact dog to the dog park, you run the risk of triggering aggressive behaviors in some dogs. In this case it is best to avoid the dog parks. Instead try taking your dog for a long walk, playing with their favorite toy or teaching them a new trick for added mental stimulation.

For more information on responsible dog ownership, visit the AKC website at www.akc.org.