Dog Park Etiquette

[Odin-Genie]

I go to the dog park quite frequently, which is a fenced dog park. However, I do agree that dog parks can be unsafe if not managed properly. Here are some tips:

• If your dog is not used to the dog park and doesn't know any dogs there, it would be best to go at a time when there is no one around and do a bit of training so that he gets used to the place.
  
• When you go to the dog park, don't just walk in if there are other dogs around. Watch each dog and its interaction with other dogs. If any seems dominating, aggressive or overly boistrous, don't go in, even if their owners say their dogs are friendly.
  
• It's best not to go in when there are too many dogs.
  
• When you are inside the park, stay close to your dog and watch him at all times. Even if you are talking to other dog owners, your focus should be on the dog at all times.
  
• Don't feed your dog when there are other dogs around. If you need to give him a treat, move away from other dogs.
  
• Don't let your dog hump other dogs (or be humped).
  
• Watch the gates/entry areas to see what kind of dogs are coming in. Don't let your dog run to the gates to greet another dog.
  
• Don't let your dog run up to a dog that's on lead.
  
• Don't leave your dog inside the dog park while you go for a walk. You need to be with the dog at all times.
  
• If another dog seems to get hassled by your dog, put him on lead and leave. Even a puppy can annoy other dogs.
  
• If your dog seems uncomfortable with another dog, leave. Don't let another owner convince you to stay by saying "they are just playing".
  
• If you feel unsure about a dog, leave.
  

I usually go to the dog park a bit late (around 7 pm) when there are only a few dogs around that know my dog well. If a strange dog comes in, I leave and go for a walk. I've learnt most of these tips from DOL and my own experience. I wish I had this list before I started taking my dogs to the dog park.