To dog owners, nothing is quite so alluring, or intimidating, as “The Leash-Free” or “The Dog Park”. It sounds so innocent and care-free, and you head there with the thought of a fun outing for your dog. Maybe even with the bonus of meeting other families who share your love of dogs! Your hope for a safe place to take your dog for some time off leash, and time to be social with the other canines, seems reasonable. So why does this not always play out? And why the nagging doubt?
Not so long ago, there seemed to be more options for some open space without needing to leave the city. In my youth I used to take my bike along Ford Drive to a riding stable where now there is constant heavy traffic and an ever-expanding strip mall (because we can’t have too many of those). It was so great, but now long gone. Large fenced in spaces are needed now more than ever to allow some dogs freedom beyond the confines of the backyard.
Consider how these spaces could work better for you and your canine companion:
- Don’t consider allowing your dog off-leash unless you have full confidence in their ability to respond to recall commands.
- If your dog is aggressive, it is your responsibility to keep them out of off-leash areas. Not every dog is suited for those spaces, and aggressive dogs do not belong there.
- A fearful dog will not gain confidence by being left in a group of boisterous, confident dogs. Not all personalities can thrive in such environments.
- Dogs cannot simply “work things out” among themselves. If your dog has always been closely controlled, don’t assume they’ll make the right decisions in a pack setting.
- Never allow a small dog to join a group of large dogs. It’s safer to return when the area is less crowded.
- Ensure your dog is vaccinated and dewormed. It’s unfair to expose others to parasites or illnesses like Kennel Cough.
- Stay attentive to your dog at all times. Don’t be the owner who lets their dog cause problems while ignoring the situation.
- Help maintain and protect the shared area. If you see a hazard, remove it to keep the space safe for everyone.
Every year at our pet hospital we have dog bites that need suturing from a traumatic event at the dog park. Un-neutered young male dogs are often the victims of aggression. Young dogs who are attacked are often left with a life-long fear and a changed personality because of an encounter with an aggressive dog. The families involved are often traumatized as well, it is shocking and upsetting. Injuries can also happen during rough play that is not necessarily aggressive, but the “big-dog-little-dog” scenario can have serious consequences for the little-dog.
Help keep the park a source of fun by investing in proper training (I have never met an over-trained dog), knowing when to give it a miss (listen to your little voice and know when not to take chances), and making sure your dog is in a safe situation (because no one needs more medical bills). Dogs can learn aggression from other dogs and avoiding it in the first place is so very important. Your dog(s) are relying on you and your common sense, and that can make the world of difference on how you enjoy your time at the park!