What happens at a dog park?
Danyka Jaskolski
2025-10-15 15:34:18
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: 17
Dog parks attended by well informed, responsible dog owners can certainly be a fun place for all. Many dogs, once they have reached social maturity lose interest in interacting with other dogs. Not all dogs behave well at the park. Some dogs are modelling appropriate behaviour, but some dogs are most definitely not. From overly aroused, impolite and uninhibited dogs, to resource guarders, the dog park has seen them all. Dog parks are a great place for some dogs. It certainly can be a wonderful way to allow your dog to get exercise. That young adolescent dog with a surplus of energy can benefit from a good run at the park! Dog parks can also be a wonderful place for people. Many folks meet up there for a regular dose of socialization. Things can change quickly in the dog park. Behaviour exists on a continuum.
Rubie Paucek
2025-10-15 15:19:59
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: 21
At a dog park, people bring social dogs to play, and rescue dogs learning to be social.
When a dog park works best, it has people walking their dogs, not just standing around in one section having a chat for the entire time they are there.
The owners recognise what is acceptable play and they show tolerance to all dogs.
They protect dogs as needed and they move on with their own dogs if necessary.
They don't use negative reinforcement on owners or dogs.
Being in a dog park should be a pleasant experience.
If a dog starts wandering off from another owner and wants to join your pack I usually recommend turning around and helping the dog back to its guardian.
I always recommend owners be off the phone and have their ear pieces out while walking around the park, because it takes away the bond with their dog and their ability to spot potential trouble.
Social dogs work things out with other social dogs, and if not walking away without blaming others is the ideal solution.