7 Dog Park Etiquettes To Follow

Dog parks offers dogs the opportunity for excellent training, social interactions with other dogs and most of all, fun! But nothing  ruins the fun more than an unconsidered park attendee who ignores dog park etiquettes.

Aside from the regular rules that you may see posted via signs at the park, acquainting yourself with these important rules can make your dog’s trip to the park a fun and safe one!

1. Prepare a checklist for the essential things that you need for the dog park.

Your checklist should consist of the following items:

• Waste bags– this may be available to your dog park but much better if you bring on your own just in case of emergency purposes.
• Treats– this is the best way to get your pet dog on his/her best behaviour.
• Collar and Lead– you may need a secure collar and lead to ensure your dog’s and other dogs’ safety if any behavioural issues arise while out at the dog park.

2. Make sure that your pet is vaccinated.

Your pet should be fully vaccinated and free from any signs of illnesses before being allowed to socialise with other dogs.

3. Solidify your pet’s basic training.

It is important for your pet to get familiar with a simple commands such as ‘come’, ‘sit’, ‘leave it’ and ‘look here’ even if distractions are present around you before heading out to the dog park. This will allow you to control your pet and keep your fur-baby safe.

4. Keep an eye on your pet at all times.

Remember that you are there to strengthen the social interaction of your dog. Instead of spending your time reading a book on a bench or looking at your phone, your time will be much better spent if you take the opportunity to play and train with him.

5. Watch your dog’s body language attentively.

Don’t think that once your furry friend has entered the dog park that it will always be smooth sailing while socialising with other dogs. Watch your dog’s and other dog’s body language. If any dog is getting too aggressive, the dog is likely to hold his head high, lean forward with his ears pointed up or forward and snarling with curled back lips. If you see any early signs of this, redirect your dog’s energy with treats or remove your dog the situation to avoid any unwanted incidents.

6. Clean up after your dog.

And this is where the waste bags comes in. No one wants to clean up more dog waste then they have to! The only dog waste any owner should have to clean up is their own dog’s.  Dog waste contains a lot of parasites, illnesses, and diseases. Cleaning up and dispose of your dog’s waste properly to ensure a good time for all!

7. Enjoy your time together!

There’s nothing better than seeing your dog’s tailing wagging from side to side as they run towards you with a goofy smile and their tongues sticking out. Treasure your time together and strengthen your bond as pet and owner.