Dogs love open areas where they can run free, play, and socialize, and dog parks provide that space. Yet this comes with responsibilities on everyone’s part to keep the park fun and safe. Whether you’re taking your pup to
the dog park at your apartment community or to the one down the road from your rental, here are some of the basic rules and guidelines regarding dog park etiquette.
Before You Unclip the Leash: What You Should Sort Out First
Before going to the dog park, always read up on the rules and guidelines of the specific park as well as your city’s regulations. These will tell you all of the requirements your dog has to meet, as well as how to respectfully use the space. Some common requirements include:
- Above a certain age: only dogs above a certain age are often allowed at a dog park for safety reasons.
- Required vaccinations: both cities and dog parks often require basic vaccinations.
- Neutered/spayed: fixed dogs help keep the park calmer and safer.
Even if your dog meets those requirements, the most important thing to consider is if your pup will enjoy going to the park and will be a good fit there. That means they should enjoy socializing with other dogs, know basic obedience commands (like sit, come, and stay), aren’t reactive or aggressive, or don’t have any other problematic behaviors. The dog park is supposed to be a fun and safe space for all dogs.
Follow the Rules of the Dog Park
The next most important task for you and your dog is following the rules of the dog park. That commonly means picking up after your dog, leashing your dog until you’re in the dog park, not bringing a sick dog, etc. Some dog parks have different areas for the separate sizes so ensure you and your dog stick to the appropriate place.
The Unspoken Rules of the Dog Park
While these behaviors may or may not be outlined in the rules of the dog park, there is proper etiquette to follow when taking your dog to the dog park.
Don’t leave your dog or be distracted
You are responsible for your dog and that means being there to keep an eye on them. Avoid being on your phone so you can keep an eye on your dog. It’s fine to chat but be sure to keep a watchful eye out while doing so.
Limit the number of toys
You want your dog to have a good time, so bringing a ball or a favorite toy is a great way to keep them entertained. However, keep it to one or two toys as too many can cause problems with other dogs.
Keep your leash handy
While dog parks are a space for pups to run freely, it’s important to be prepared for anything. Part of that is having the leash in an easily accessible spot in case you need to quickly put it on your dog.
Keep it to a few dog treats
Food can create issues between dogs. That’s why it’s important to just bring enough dog treats to get you through the trip and avoid bringing any human food. Don’t feed dog treats to other pups without getting their owner’s permission first. Bringing water is also a must as it helps
keep your pet cool and hydrated.
Safely intervene or intercept if necessary
If your dog is showing signs they are uncomfortable, then safely intervene through distraction or other methods. When your dog shows signs of tiring or seems done with the dog park, it’s time to start packing up. Don’t be afraid to talk to other dog owners if their pets are displaying problematic behaviors, but remember to be polite.
Be polite and respectful
Many people and pups come to enjoy the dog park, and being polite is how you keep it fun for everyone and foster a sense of community. You may see familiar faces and snouts if you frequent the same spot, so feel free to say hi and chat while you watch your dogs.
Looking for a Home with the Perfect Space for Your Pup to Play?
Whether your dog needs a backyard to burn off energy or you’re hoping to find an apartment community with its own on-site dog park,
ForRent.com makes it easy to search for pet-friendly rentals in your area. Filter your search by pet policies and amenities so you can find a home that fits your dog’s lifestyle just as well as your own. Start your search at ForRent.com and find a place where both you and your best friend can thrive.
This article was originally published on October 2, 2014 by Jason Potts.
FAQs
Can you take kids to a dog park?
Whether you can bring children to the dog park depends on the park’s rules. Even if it is allowed, closely supervise them and keep them nearby. The dog park is a place for dogs to play, not children. Lots of dogs are running around, and children can get knocked over easily or other accidents can happen. If you think the kids aren’t ready for the dog park yet, then it’s best to leave them at home with someone to watch them.
Is it okay to take a puppy to a dog park?
Many dog parks have age restrictions as puppies often cannot get all their vaccinations until they are a certain age, and vaccinations are a must for a visit to the park. Puppies are also quite young and may be easily overwhelmed or still learning how to behave socially, meaning they may not be ready for the dog park just yet
