Want to keep your dog active? Looking for a good spot to take your dog out to get some exercise? Dog parks are great open spaces for pet dogs to run around and meet new friends.
When picking the right dog park, a few things to consider are: the location, whether it is has a fence, whether it separates big and small dogs, and whether it has posted rules and regulations. These factors will ensure that your dog can have fun in a safe and secure environment.
We hope that this post answers some of the questions you might have about dog parks and preps you for the next time you venture out to one with your dog.
Why were dog parks created?
Dog parks came into existence with the sole aim of providing safe outdoor premises for dogs. These parks are perfect for dogs to run, exercise, and walk around without wearing a leash. Some other reasons why dog parks were created:
• The parks also prompted interactions between dog owners, making it easier for dogs and owners to socialize.
• Parks are also a great place for dog owners to share information and recommendations with each other such as local veterinarians, pet stores, pet spas, etc.
• These also provide dog owners the perfect venue to start local organizations like dog owners groups. It helps them create an entire ecosystem for dogs.
When was the first dog park created and where?
Berkeley, CA was home to the first dog park in the United States in 1979. It got formal recognition in 1986. After the official recognition of this park, dog owners from various other cities started requesting their local authorities to set up such parks.
What breeds of dogs should go to dog parks and why?
Many dog owners might have questions like, are such parks conducive for my dog breed? Should I take my dog to the dog park? Is it safe?
In general, you should be able to take any dog to a dog park, but here are some things you should keep in mind. Some dog parks might have specific rules that ban certain dog breeds, such as rottweilers or pitbulls, for fear that they might be too aggressive with the other dogs.
Before you take your dog to the dog park, you should: ensure that he or she has received all necessary vaccinations, is well-trained and listens to your commands, is used to be off their leash in public, and has had exposure to and interaction with other dogs
How old should dogs be before they go to dog parks?
Ideally, your dog should be at least six months old before you take him/her to the dog parks. It will ensure that they can socialize better and are not scared of other dogs. By this time, they will have had all their required vaccinations and should be well-trained as well, which will help you keep your dog under control at the park.
Is there an age when dogs are too old for dog parks?
While there is no set age for dogs to avoid parks, there are a few medical conditions that warrant such avoidance. These medical conditions can include:
• Inflammation of bone joints
• Joint pain
• Osteoporosis
If the dog is suffering from any of these conditions, you should avoid trips to the dog park.
How long should your dog hang out at the dog park in one visit?
If you’re taking the dog to the park during the daytime in the summer, it is a good idea to limit the session to just 15-30 minutes, if it is particularly hot. If you’re taking your dog to the park in the evening, you can spend 45 minutes to 1 hour. A lot depends on the weather outside. A few other factors which determine the duration of the trip include:
• The distance of the park from your home: If the distance is greater than 2 miles and you are walking over there, then reaching the dog park and coming back home in itself is an exercise for your dog. In that case, you can limit the session to 15 to 30 minutes.
• Breed of your dog: Some dogs are just more active than others, while others get tired easily. While you’re at the dog park, you shoudl always monitor your dog and give him or her water as needed. And when they begin to pant excessively, it might be a sign that they are ready to be taken home.
What shots does your dog need before going to the dog park?
Socializing with other dogs is not always harmless, and if your dog is not vaccinated properly, it could be in danger of succumbing to infections when interacting with other dogs
The way to avoid such a situation is to opt for proper vaccinations for your dog. You need to protect your dog against diseases like:
• Parvo
• Distemper
• Adenovirus
• Rabies
• Lyme disease
• Parainfluenza
• Canine influenza
• Leptospirosis
• Bordetella
These are the bare minimum shots that you dog needs before heading over to the park. As always, it’s best to consult with your vet to determine what shots your dog needs before he or she can socialize with other pups.
Are dog parks safe for your dog?
In general, most dog parks are pretty safe for your dog, but it is good to take some precautions and be attentive when you’re out there.
- Fencing: It is important that dog parks are completely enclosed properly, with double gates, to ensure that no dog can accidentally run off outside.
- Aggression from other dogs: During your trip to the dog park, you have to pay attention to your dog. At times, your dog or other dogs can be aggressive. If that is the case, you have to separate your dog and ensure that your dog remains unharmed.
- Infections: Even with the proper vaccinations, it is still possible that your dog can become sick from other dogs while visiting the dog park.
What is the proper dog park etiquette for dogs and owners?
The dog park can be pleasant for yourself as well as your dog only when you follow the proper etiquette.
What to do:
- You should pick after your dog.
- You should bring a water bowl and some treats for your dog.
- You should always carry a few toys to play with your dog.
- You should intervene and calm down your dog if he/she gets very aggressive.
What not to do:
- Don’t bring your dog to the park if he/she is ill.
- Don’t bring your dog to the park if she is in heat
- Don’t bring your dog to the park if he/she is younger than six months
What to do if your dog gets in a fight at the dog park?
It’s normal for dogs to get into fights while at the dog park. Sometimes this will just be play fighting, but if it does get aggressive, you might have to intervene. The best way to intervene is to get your dog’s attention, maybe with a toy or a treat, and by calling his or her name. If that doesn’t stop it right away, you might have to go and physically remove your dog from the altercation. When doing so, make sure you are gentle, so as not to hurt your dog or the other dogs involved.
How to find a dog park near you?
These days, there are numerous sources that can help you find a good dog park near you. These include:
• Search engines (Google)
• Social media groups
• Pet apps (Dog Goes, Dog Park Finder Plus, Bark Happy)
• Local pet WhatsApp groups
What should you bring to the dog park?
Now that you have located the nearest park and are ready to head over, it is time to pack the essential stuff. It can include:
• Your dog’s leash: While many such parks allow the dogs to be off-leash, it’s important to have your dog’s leash handy, esoecially when taking him to and from the park.
• Collar: Your dog should always wear a collar that can not only display the identity information of the dog but also preferably have a GPS tracker as well.
• Cleanup bags: As we stated above in dog park etiquette section, it is essential to pick up after your dogs. And while most dog parks generally have pooper scoopers and trash cans, it’s always best to be prepared with your own bags.
• Bowl and water: It’s always best to bring your own water and dog bowl, in case the dog park doesn’t have a water fountain or bowls available.
• Treats: Treats can be the best way to attract the attention of your dog. It can also make your dog happy and allow you to train them as well. That is why you should have them with you wherever you go.
• Toys: A ball or frisbee are great to take with you to the dog park, so that your dog can be entertained.
So, planning a trip to the dog park with your best friend? We hope that the above guide gives you answers to all the questions you might have about visiting dog parks with your best bud. Now get out there and have some fun!
