How to Behave at the Dog Park for Humans

Off-Leash dog parks are one of the great conveniences of this modern, dog-friendly age, however it’s more than a matter of opening up the gate and letting your baby roam free. Mom and Dad also need to "play well with others"—so here are some rules for the two-legged to observe.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A collar with ID tags (for your dog)
• A leash for arriving and departing
• Extra plastic bags for clean up
• Your least favorite pair of tennis shoes

1. Make sure your dog is current on shots, over five months old, and if a female, not in heat.
2. Bring dogs that aren't aggressive with people and/or other dogs. Nobody likes a pooch with a big mouth and a black belt.
3. Check if there is a separate area for small or timid dogs if your dog is young, smaller or somewhat frightened of other dogs. If your dog tends to be on the shy side and it's your first time at the park, it may be best to try out that area first.
4. Bring only as many dogs as you can keep an eye on. Many parks have a maximum number (usually three) that you are permitted to bring at once.
5. Open the gate carefully so that other dogs can't get out when you go in. Some hang around the vicinity specifically with that plan in mind.
6. Supervise your dog(s) closely. For instance, Romeo might be a habitual humper. You might think it's cute, but other pet owners may not be free thinkers like you! And remember the gate...yours could be the one planning the "great escape."
7. Clean up after your dog. The parks usually provide plastic bags and scoopers, but keep some spare bags in your pocket just in case they run out or the scooper disappears (it happens!). And if you want to be an extra good citizen and team player...clean up what others miss!
8. Remain at the park with your dog(s) at all times. And if you leave, take them with you!

Tips & Warnings

• It might be best to scope out the time of day when there are fewer dog "cliques" at the park. Sometimes the dog cliques (just like their snobby human counterparts) may not be in the mood to make new friends. With humans, however, the worst you'll leave with is a bruised ego...but with canines, it can sometimes turn bloody.
• The dog park isn't for every dog. If your dog doesn't seem to enjoy the experience, don't force it.
• Don't run...leave that to the dogs. Sure we all like to power walk (as cool as it looks), but stick to the jogging trails...that is if you want to keep both pant legs in tact.
• Don't walk around with bacon in your pocket (but that's a given).
• Don’t feed your dog at the park. Some dogs might want to share, even if your dog doesn't.

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