Dog Park Etiquette

Dog Park Etiquette Tips

The purpose of the dog park is to provide a safe place for dogs to exercise and socialize. Dogs do not wear leashes at the dog park.

1. Entering the dog park - Most dog parks are double gated, so the dogs do not get out. Open the first gate and close it behind you. Remove the leash. Open the second gate and enter the park. Remember to close the gate behind you.

2. Avoid fights - Do not bring food. If the dogs start to fight, distract them with a ball or a toy. Remove aggressive dogs from the dog park. Occasionally, a dog owner may refuse to remove an aggressive dog. If you feel that your dog is at risk from another dog at the park, you should remove your dog. You can return at another time. The safety of your dog is your priority.

3. Do not bring a bitch in heat to the dog park.

4. Watch your dog at all times.

5. Do not bring more dogs than you can handle.

6. If you bring your children, educate them about canine behavior and the proper way to behave around dogs. Remove your children if they are acting inappropriately or if you feel they are at risk from any of the people or dogs in the park. Watch your children at all times.

7. Clean up after your dog everywhere. Dogs are banned from beaches and parks when owners do not pick up the poop. Be a responsible dog owner. No one likes flies or stepping in poop.

8. If your dog injuries a person or another dog, apologize and be prepared to compensate the victim. Some dog beaches and dog parks have insurance to cover mishaps. Others do not.

Dog parks are a great place to meet people and get exercise. Dogs run and play until they are exhausted.

The most important thing to remember when you are at the dog park is to treat the other park users the way you would like to be treated.