Am I In The Wrong?

[Yonjuro]

I guess it depends on the size of the park? Most fenced dog parks are not large enough IMO to allow dogs to have their own space and just do their own things. In fact the very size and set up of most dog parks in my area encourage free for alls and don't allow for much else, which is why I generally avoid them. My dog is disinterested in unfamiliar dogs and would rather play with me so I see small fenced dog parks as completely useless for us.

The few times I have been to fenced dog parks in my area I have been quite disturbed by some dogs and owners behaviour.

In your case I'm not sure what the owner of the other dog expected his dog to get out of it?

I think he needs to be more realistic about the fact that most people that use these sort of dog parks, do so to let their dog play with other dogs.

Personally I prefer off leash open areas as there is usually enough space for dogs to do their own thing and you generally dogs with a better level of control.

Yes you are quite right, it is not a large park, and what is worse is that many owners congregate together paying little to no attention to their dogs. It also means the dogs congregate is a particular 20% of the park near the cluster of owners. It is a catch 22 in that I want to move to a less used area but all the fun in Ronin's mind is around the pack and I want to be near incase anything gets out of hand

In my mind at the time which was possibly selfish, was wondering why this guy wanted to walk his dog in there and on lead while there is massive parks around much more suitable to his requirement - or so I would have thought?

Unfortunately for me a trip to this park becomes a bit of an event as Ronin doesn't like car travel and there is no where else for a husky to run off lead. I am not saying that I have a reasonable excuse for being put out but that was my mind at the time

[Tibbie_tabbie]

If I didn't know the dog park you were talking about I may have thought differently, but as I do I have no idea what the man was thinking taking an injured dog in there?!

It's really a doggy play area, it's too small for wandering around and not having dogs by you, not sure why he didn't go to the oval where there is a lot more space.

My JRT prefers her space so she goes to the oval for an off lead leg stretch/sniff/dog greet if appropriate, whilst Chewy is a social boy so he'll go into the play area (obviously depending on play style going on).

I take it case by case, many times we've turned up and both walked the oval with the dogs due to rough playing going on in the fenced area.

In other fenced areas you can walk around the edge and avoid, but that park is tinyyyyyy!

Were you with Ronin at the school the other evening?

[hankdog]

I've been on both sides if this. When Hank was young he wanted to hoon with the other dogs, he would go belting up to potential friends, ears flat back ignoring me in hot pursuit. As an old man he wanted to go out still but couldn't cover much distance so we would go to the park and he could potter around and also loved watching the hoon hounds. There was one dog who would try jump on him, he was a real bully to most other dogs and completely out of control. I would leave if I saw him but would get angry if the owner didn't give us space to leave.

I suppose like most resources there isn't enough to go round. He looks like a great dog. I can understand letting a big boy go for a gallop.

[Yonjuro]

If I didn't know the dog park you were talking about I may have thought differently, but as I do I have no idea what the man was thinking taking an injured dog in there?!

It's really a doggy play area, it's too small for wandering around and not having dogs by you, not sure why he didn't go to the oval where there is a lot more space.

My JRT prefers her space so she goes to the oval for an off lead leg stretch/sniff/dog greet if appropriate, whilst Chewy is a social boy so he'll go into the play area (obviously depending on play style going on).

I take it case by case, many times we've turned up and both walked the oval with the dogs due to rough playing going on in the fenced area.

In other fenced areas you can walk around the edge and avoid, but that park is tinyyyyyy!

Were you with Ronin at the school the other evening?

Hi TT thanks for your comments :) I haven't been there of an evening for a while now, what school were you referring to? I walk Ronin on lead mainly around the suburbs but do get around a bit, I haven't taken him to any schools, our trainer comes to my house :)

[Yonjuro]

I've been on both sides if this. When Hank was young he wanted to hoon with the other dogs, he would go belting up to potential friends, ears flat back ignoring me in hot pursuit. As an old man he wanted to go out still but couldn't cover much distance so we would go to the park and he could potter around and also loved watching the hoon hounds. There was one dog who would try jump on him, he was a real bully to most other dogs and completely out of control. I would leave if I saw him but would get angry if the owner didn't give us space to leave.

I suppose like most resources there isn't enough to go round. He looks like a great dog. I can understand letting a big boy go for a gallop.

Thanks Hankdog :)

I am realising both sides now and I thank you for your comments.

[Kajirin]

I used to let my huskies run around on harness and 20 metre leads [this was before fenced dog parks were the norm]. Always had control and they got a run around safely on large open ovals/parks.

I tried out fenced dog parks later on when one was built where I was living. People used to pick on my younger male husky and kick him if he came within cooee of their dogs. He wasn't dog aggressive, never had any posturing [never rose hackles, growled, bared teeth or acted in any way that was obnoxious], but people used to mistake him for a white GSD and lay into him if he went near smaller dogs than him

When I got my first Boxer, I tried out fenced dog parks, but again witnessed too many bad experiences which turned me off.

Now I just refuse to use fenced dog parks.

[Yonjuro]

I used to let my huskies run around on harness and 20 metre leads [this was before fenced dog parks were the norm]. Always had control and they got a run around safely on large open ovals/parks.

I tried out fenced dog parks later on when one was built where I was living. People used to pick on my younger male husky and kick him if he came within cooee of their dogs. He wasn't dog aggressive, never had any posturing [never rose hackles, growled, bared teeth or acted in any way that was obnoxious], but people used to mistake him for a white GSD and lay into him if he went near smaller dogs than him

When I got my first Boxer, I tried out fenced dog parks, but again witnessed too many bad experiences which turned me off.

Now I just refuse to use fenced dog parks.

Wow, that is horrible, I don't blame you for staying away from such parks ! It makes my little argument seem very inconsequential. I am sorry you and your huskies were on the receiving end of such bad behaviour

I do have a long line and harness so I may try it out, I have been hesitant as I was worried that other dogs might get tripped up. I'll think more about it and try and work out some way to make it work. Thanks for your comments :)

[*kirty*]

I run mine at a fenced oval or the power line easment rather than a dog park. I only let them off when there are no other dogs. Its too risky to let them play with random dogs, too many idiots. I want my dogs to have fun running around, I'm not looking to socialise them.

I'd find a quiet spot and organise play dates with dogs that you know are social.

[Kajirin]

Using a long line I'd only use it when totally alone - the long line was to give them a good run

[Her Majesty Dogmad]

I think you need to have very well behaved and socialised dogs within dog parks.

I must admit that I'm one of those people who thinks you should be able to go to a dog park without being harassed by other dogs (this is why I don't go because it isn't the reality) - that goes for my dogs AND me.

My last experiences in 3 different parks were when 3 Labradors were bolting around the park and they nearly knocked me over, my body took several days to recover from the encounter, especially my knees which already have issue - owners not anywhere to be see.

Then in a smaller park where 2 undesexed German Shorthaired Pointers accosted my small dog and I as soon as we entered - owners nowhere in sight, I just couldn't get them off him and ended up dragging him and me out the gate. The next day they actually attacked another dog in that same park.

The third park I was just leaving with my dogs when someone came in with an enormous Mastiff type that saw us from one side of the park and raced towards us and didn't look friendly - I raced out the gate and only just made it. Could have been harmless but I didn't know that. Owner made no attempt to call the dog off.

If dogs want to play with each other they will initiate play, no one should have other dogs jumping on them or their dogs.

However, I also agree that with a sick dog that it probably isn't the best place to go. I can see both sides, accidents can happen and I wouldn't risk it.

Edited September 28, 2014 by Her Majesty Dogmad

[Dory the Doted One]

Perhaps the owner of the injured dog has a tiny yard that doesn't allow him to stretch out much. Perhaps the dog isn't up to lead walking ie. too slow. And maybe the owner felt a fenced park would give the dog a chance to walk and stretch at the dogs own pace.

For myself, I try to use the parks when they are empty or nearly so. And clear out if they get crowded, an idiot dog enters or mine start getting pesty. No hard feelings, because it's a shared space, not an exclusive one. And just because I might be a regular doesn't give me a special privilege or power of veto. Others that feel the opposite and get snippy about others using 'their park' in a way they don't approve of, annoy me, but don't anger me. Not worth the angst really. Means that much, have the stinky poo ridden space, then. :laugh:

Plus I like just walking the dogs, it's better for me too.

[Dave-o]

I'm kind of on your side Yonjuro, dogs can be boisterous at times and this is something I'd reasonably expect at a dog park with a number of dogs off a leash. The main thing is your dog isn't violent and he/she is under control. The park is for everyone to enjoy.

Perhaps the older guy with the injured dog lives near by and his options are limited. It may not be easy for him to take the dog to other more secluded parks? Still, I think politeness goes a long way and he could've spoken to you in a more productive manner.

Makes me think of a situation I've had at work recently (not dog related). I ride a motorbike and we have two designated car bays for motorcycle parking, 4 to a bay. Some guy with a huge moped was parking at the entrance of the bay preventing others from parking at the back of the bay. It really annoyed me for a while until I realised the moped owner was an older guy who would struggle maneuvering his weighty moped amongst other bikes. It's still annoying, but adds a different perspective.

Edited October 1, 2014 by Dave-o

[Yonjuro]

Thanks Davo-o

It is a difficult one and with hindsight I probably wouldn't have argued or been upset. I remember the first time he asked a couple of people there that we were playing with for all of us to put our dogs on lead. It didn't really make sense to me as there are three large parks right next to the fenced in area. And his dog is an elderly slow walking old lab that could easily have used these other areas which are probably a lot cleaner and nicer. It kind of got my back up as he was very much like 'it was his right' and everyone else has to modify to accommodate him.

My dog isn't aggressive or violent but he is a boisterous puppy, albeit a big one. He will try and initiate play but if it doesn't happen he will stop. Yes he will gently put his paw on a dog to see if he can initiate play and I suppose that could be considered rude? I dunno, I don't consider it rude when other dogs do it to Ronin but I guess that it is different as I know he is young and fit and not a problem in my mind.

I think for my own blood-pressure and sanity I will just be more aware in future. I received a text from a greyhound lady who I gave my number to last week, wanting to meet up with Ronin for a play so he will have good opportunities to play run full pelt. Incidentally this lady's sweet greyhound (pictured above) was mauled by two beagles a couple of weeks ago at this park and required stitches to the stomach muscles my dog can't be too bad if she wants to have more playtime with him :)

[Dogsfevr]

It isn't about whether your dog is friendly its about the fact the dog park isn't about your dog & what you expect from it.

Every person has the right to use it & not have to worry about other peoples dogs.

I think the issue here is you have set idea's of what you think should happen in the park which i don't agree with & a reason why i don't use these places.

I have no issues with this guy using the park he has every right too ,the issue is from your post is this

Surely when you enter a fenced in off-lead park like this you would expect some robust play ?

This is so not true but the problem is most people see it as a free for all playground for there dogs to go crazy for 30 mins run up to dogs & the owners always yell "its friendly: whilst there to far away to have control or even now what the other dog is like plus as mentioned the fact that some of these dogs wipe out the other owners whilst they play & create havoc

Dave -o this dog isn't under control if it was it wouldn't run over to other dogs to try & play BUT many owners allow this & it becomes an intimidating confrontation with the owner to far away to have control ie place lead on straightaway .

I would never be so naive to think your dog couldn't react ,dogs are just like humans & not all get along you are lucky & have a friendly young dog BUT that doesn't mean things can't happen in a flash or a moment

[Yonjuro]

It isn't about whether your dog is friendly its about the fact the dog park isn't about your dog & what you expect from it.

Every person has the right to use it & not have to worry about other peoples dogs.

I think the issue here is you have set idea's of what you think should happen in the park which i don't agree with & a reason why i don't use these places.

I have no issues with this guy using the park he has every right too ,the issue is from your post is this

Surely when you enter a fenced in off-lead park like this you would expect some robust play ?

This is so not true but the problem is most people see it as a free for all playground for there dogs to go crazy for 30 mins run up to dogs & the owners always yell "its friendly: whilst there to far away to have control or even now what the other dog is like plus as mentioned the fact that some of these dogs wipe out the other owners whilst they play & create havoc

Dave -o this dog isn't under control if it was it wouldn't run over to other dogs to try & play BUT many owners allow this & it becomes an intimidating confrontation with the owner to far away to have control ie place lead on straightaway .

I would never be so naive to think your dog couldn't react ,dogs are just like humans & not all get along you are lucky & have a friendly young dog BUT that doesn't mean things can't happen in a flash or a moment

I hear you... you have quoted what I said at the very beginning of the thread. I am not sure if you have read the entire thread but I have taken onboard all of the comments throughout this thread and my attitude to the whole situation has changed.

[megan_]

Davo - So people with small dogs can't use dog parks because larger dogs will be boisterous? That is why I avoid dog parks. Boisterous, uncontrolled large dogs are just as dangerous as aggressive ones

Edited October 1, 2014 by megan_

[Yonjuro]

... all I know is that Ronin is very gentle with small dogs at the park. I think that as the Italian Greyhound club posted pics and vids on their Facebook page of Ronin with their dogs is a good example of it, they said how lovely and well behaved he is :) . Ronin has also been very gentle with a couple of elderly ladies with very small fluffy dogs. I receive heaps of comments and compliments from such people including a couple of trainers who have been at the park. One taking a puppy class and another teaching in her own words "naughty dogs"

I realise there are shortcomings in training but we do not shy away from it, we have a trainer and the less than perfect things are works-in-progress :)

Edited October 1, 2014 by Yonjuro

[Dave-o]

Davo - So people with small dogs can't use dog parks because larger dogs will be boisterous? That is why I avoid dog parks. Boisterous, uncontrolled large dogs are just as dangerous as aggressive ones

That's why I said dogs that are under control.

I don't think you can stipulate a dog has to conform to "clearly definied personality boundaries" before entering the park? Or that larger dogs don't have the right to be there if there are smaller dogs? Common sense is the key, and if you have concerns about your dog in the park then surely the best thing to do is go elsewhere. If I had issues with taking my dog to the park then I wouldn't, seems simple to me.

I live near a dog park and a dog beach. I regularly see owners complaining to each other in the park, but never at the beach. Why is that?

[OSoSwift]

Plenty of issues with dogs at the beach here.

[Steph M]

Plenty of issues with dogs at the beach here.

Ooooh yeah. Beach is much worse than park here, but also some parks are worse than others. I can guarantee you it's not to do with the setting, but who frequents these areas.

I actually love our off lead park. combined with a lot of work, I attribute a large chunk of Gus's happy go lucky friendliness to people and dogs and his decreasing value for other dogs to our frequent park trips.

Every visit is an opportunity to learn something, for both of us!

We have had the lows, we've had nasty dogs come at us and we have had idiot owners, and my own idiocy. I've had Gus get out of the creek sopping wet and sit next to a woman on the seat and attempt to sit on her lap, which was horrifying. No matter how nice she was about it.

I've had times when he flat out ignored me (so we left) and times when he got in another dogs space and deserved a snap and a growl.

We've also had huge wins though. Last night we took him out and he met a little boy with Cystic Fibrosis who was there with his dad and his dog and his motorised chair. I was sure Gus was going to either be afraid of the chair or soak the kid but he sat down next to him and gave him a gentle lick on the arm and let the kid pat him and talk to him. Anyone who has met this dog knows that's nothing short of a miracle. He is enthusiasm central. If you so much as sneeze he's up in your space for a hug.

We've got to a point where he has a fabulous recall, doesn't stray more than a few metres away and isn't all that interested in the other dogs.

A lot of situations we've come across we might not have had a chance to otherwise, so yes there are some negatives but some huge wins too.

With regard to the original situation we had a similar negative. Before our English Setter was PTS mum took him for one last jaunt around the park he loved, as much for her as for him, and so help me had any other dog had a go at him on that day I might have punted them across the creek.

You don't know why someone is there, what they expect from the park or what they're there for.

I just assume not everyone wants Gus slobber or to be whipped with the happy tail of doom, so we stay clear until invited (99% of the time...haha)