Dog Park Etiquette: A Trainer's Point of View

Over the years at Happy-Go-Lucky we’ve seen countless dogs at play in our daycare (1999-2007) and classes. Our Certified Pet Dog Trainers have spent years observing dog behavior and interactions. From this experience we have put together some tips on determining if an off-leash dog park is right for your dog – and what you may want to work on to help them be polite, safe and comfortable at the dog park.

What we like about dog parks

• give dogs a chance to socialize in safe environment

• provide dogs with needed exercise

• BUT…success of dog park depends on courteous and conscientious participants

What makes a good dog park dog?

• a dog that has history of appropriate play with other dogs

• a dog that is friendly toward all types of people

• over age 5 months and spayed/neutered

• strong bond with owner

• some basic obedience skills, including solid recall

• ability to share toys and food (no guarding)

• some impulse control (no Tarzan behavior)

• good physical health

• demonstrated bite inhibition (gentle with teeth)

What makes a good dog park person?

• strong bond with their dog

• uses positive reinforcement to give their dog information and feedback

• knowledge of appropriate play behavior

• willingness to interrupt and interact with their dog while at the dog park

• tolerance for different dogs’ play styles

• comes prepared with water and poop bags to share

• gives their dog other outlets for exercise and socialization besides the dog park

• understands that 10 minutes of fun and/or one positive experience is better than 30 minutes of rude behavior and bullying (or getting bullied)

Some words of caution:

• A dog park is not the place to see if your dog can “work out issues” (dog aggression, people aggression, etc.).

• A dog park should be for the mental and physical health of the dog.

• A dog park should not be the dog’s sole opportunity to exercise and socialize.