Dog Park Etiquette
What dog doesn't love a dog parks!
Back in California, our community had a wonderful, large dog park. Our dog park had three areas: one large area for dogs to run and be off leash, another spot for puppies, small and toy dogs to enjoy, and a small area in the back of the larger area for big dogs to have alone time or dog who were not as social yet.
Water was available, as were pipes for the dogs to run through, and tree stumps to jump on. Plus, there were benches and tables available for the humans to enjoy
Maisie, our first dog, was great, gentle and friendly with all the dogs and made lots of friends.
When Rosie was old enough we took her to the park and she made lots of friends too. We kept Rosie in the little dog or puppy park, while Maisie ran around the big side. Maisie would check on Rosie once in awhile through the fence.
Our etiquette problems started when we introduced Rosie to the big side with Maisie.
Soon Maisie was at Rosie's side and playing the big sister or big nasty sister. Maisie would try to herd the other dogs away from Rosie, and bark at them too. It's her nature, as she is a working breed.
This did not sit well with us, and we scolded Maisie, put her in time out, and used treats to teach her not to herd or bark. But her instinct to herd got the best of her, so we relegated ourselves to the enclosed small area of the big park, where they could play with each other and not bother the other dogs.
When we moved to Ohio we made sure our dogs had their own yar, with lots of room for running and playing.
Since we moved, we have found the dog parks in Ohio that are like doggy day resorts. Pools to splash in, wade in and misters; fields and obstacle courses, and even training areas with teachers. A far cry from our community dog park back in California.
We found most of our experience to be all good, but on a few occasions we had some parents who just did not know how to handle their "kids".
I wish this poster was up for some of the parents at our dog park to read.
Dog Parks are play parks for all dog types, so be nice and folks will be nice to you.
Happy Play Time!
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