Assessing the situation before entering the dog park, I consider the following factors: What is the layout like, and does the entrance cause my dog more stress that could lead to negative behavior? Are there any stressors that could lead to negative behavior, such as an adjacent bicycle path, or is the small dog side directly connected to the large dog side? Taking a dog with high energy into the dog park can also lead to confrontations as they enter, so I try to release some of that energy by walking around beforehand or utilizing controlling commands at the gate. One helpful hint is to practice desirable behaviors and commands at the dog park when others are not there to ensure the distraction and excitement don’t get the better of them. However, treats and food at the dog park can cause other issues, so training is done with no others present for safety. I also like to watch the dogs in the dog park to be sure that we are entering a situation that will set my dog up for optimum success. Using the right equipment for your dog and on a leash while entering the dog park, as well as being a proficient handler in commands, will help ensure that your dog is successful from the moment they enter. My goal is to be an advocate for the animal in every situation I put them in and try to lead them into a positive interaction. Survey the area, another important factor to consider before entering the dog park is the size and number of dogs in the area. One study showed that 3-4 dogs do well together on about an acre of land, but many of our parks are smaller than that. Many don’t realize the impact of a high population in a small amount of space has on a dog’s stress levels.
This kind of stress will turn a positive social experience into the opposite for some. Dog parks are ideal for socialized dogs, not dogs that are learning to be social. It is also imperative that handlers watch their canine friends while at the park and not use it as a social hour for themselves. While we can meet pretty amazing dog people at the park, I constantly hear that a client was talking to another handler and they didn’t realize that their dog was getting into trouble. Safety is vital, as bad situations at the dog park can lead to injury and psychological damage. Prepare and train your dog before going to the dog park, rather than later having to “fix” what happened at the park. As handlers, we need to be vigilant in socializing and meeting the needs of our canine friends to help avoid and handle unpredictable situations. Take into consideration the canine’s needs and understand what is best for your dog at each stage of their life. Behavior can change and if your dog is not ready for the dog park at their current stage, they may be ready later on in life. I want all of my dogs to be as social as possible, but the wrong situation could lead to a negative situation even with the best of dogs. Not all dogs are dog park dogs and this is not a bad thing. Due to controlled breeding and mixed breeding, the levels and types of play that some dogs exhibit could stress out other dogs. Dog parks are not bad places, but for their safety, we need to consider what the dog’s needs and wants truly are!
Things to Consider About Your Canine at the Dog Park:
- Would dogs rushing the gate as they enter or barking dogs cause negative behavior?
- How well does the canine listen when distractions are high?
- Is this a safe place to help reach social goals?
- Who wants to be at the dog park more, the dog or the human?
- What type of play does my dog exhibit and is this safe in the dog park?
- How well can you read your dog and other dog’s behavior?
For more information and training contact The Complete Canine completecaninetucson@gmail.com
