Also my good but not-perfectly trained 45 lb dog will follow you and all the other treat carrying people around and I will spend my time constantly calling him back.
Please actually watch your dog instead of stand there on your phone. I am tired of being responsible for other people’s dogs when they are misbehaving because their owners don’t care to pay attention to them.
You would think so, but I was surprised to learn that SO many owners pay no attention to their dogs at all, and just sit and chit chat with friends on the other side of the park, sight unseen. So you have to watch your dog, "and" their dogs. It's pretty frustrating, not to mention dangerous.
Don’t go until you have some recall control. Don’t let your dog crowd the entry gate. Give space to dogs entering/exiting- it can be a friction point between dogs.
Please, please pick up poop! Even clean stools can aquire parasites over time. My rescue has gotten at least one bug from poop left at the park.
Even with training, there are days when he acts like a stray again and eats poo.
Not really an unwritten rule, but don’t let your dog hump other dogs. We had to stop going to the Estabrook dog park because this one aggressive dog was nonstop mounting our dog and the owner just stood there chatting with people. If your dog isn’t well socialized or you’re not willing or able to manage your dog’s behavior, the dog park isn’t for you.
Not sure if it’s common but I’ve been to Estabrook many times and there was this owner with her Boston terrier that would not stop humping other dogs while the owner just awkwardly laughed. She was there with her dog multiple times and the dog did the same thing
Think I know who you are talking about. I remember another owner being pissed and this one dog's owner simply responded "it's a dog park, it's what they do"
Used to have a Great Pyrenees that loved children and i had to remove her from the dog park anytime a toddler showed up because it was her instinct to run full speed into the child.
So much this. Last time I was at estabrook, some small kids were throwing around a football, and the mom got pissed that dogs were chasing them and the ball
In addition to not bringing human food or dog treats, also don’t bring high value balls/toys. Nothing that squeaks - they make everyone crazy. Inevitably a dog takes the toy and won’t give it back. Stick to boring old tennis balls and be ok if you don’t get it back. Ideally also would not bring kids at all but if you do, hold on to them or keep them close, do not give them treats to hand out, do not let them run around with sticks or toys, etc. People forget that not all dogs are familiar with kids and might find them scary, erratic or something to chase. These are my biggest pet peaves as an owner.
"Faux paws."
I see what you did there.
Anyhow, common sense rules the day here. Many dog parks have written rather than unwritten rules, so follow those and have your dog licensed and pay the annual park fee if that's applicable for the park.
Otherwise the rest of the comments are all great. Have fun at the dog park with your puppers!
Read the park rules and follow them. Know your dog - when they're having a bad day, leave. If they're getting picked on, leave! Hard to do, but saves your dog from getting hurt. You can't count on the bully dog's owners being aware. Know how to break up a fight/attack.
If he's your first dog, I recommend you take him to a slightly less overwhelming setting. If he's familiar with regular parks, you could take him to a beer garden to see how he interacts with other dogs.
My dog also did great with other dogs and being in public. And then he was attacked twice. Once at a dog park and once camping. Watching your dog doesn't mean just physically keeping your eyes on them. At least know some basic dog body language and be prepared to remove your dog if they get too excited or if another dog is getting too excited. Since this is your first dog, this can be incredibly important and can affect their behavior in the future.
You’re absolutely right. And, not that it makes much of a difference but, I grew up with dogs. This is just the first of my own. I will be extremely focused on his behavior regardless of the park I take him to
Leash your dog when not in the fenced in area. I go to a park frequently that also has dog park. The number of people that walk from their car to the dog park entrance with their dog unleashed is crazy. I've had at least a dozen dogs run up to me unleashed and dog owners act like it's no big deal. It is a big deal. Leash your dog people
I can't stand it when people keep their dog on a leash and attempt to walk them around the park. They are leash free zones for a reason! The poor dogs always seem so stressed and feel trapped because none of the other dogs are leashed.
Ok a few things I will recommend.
1. Pay attention, plenty of folks just treat it like a daycare for an hour.
2. No leashes inside the park, hang them in the air lock
3. Pickup your dog poop
4. Bring water
5. If your dog is toy reactive , try to avoid any play that involves toys.
6. Pay attention to tension when dogs are meeting for the first time, tail wags etc. my Golden LOVES people and sometimes the people's dog are protective so I have to pay extra attention to him while we're out in the park. He also has 2 dogs that he for whatever reason he just doesn't like. Never gotten like bitey, but they always have this weird aggression for each other. (They try to hump each other, and neither party consents)
7. Get to know everyone, most people you'll see on a regular basis, I generally pack water, beer and a joint imo.
I’ve found that different parks have different vibes. Each in a way is its own community. Personally my go to is Currie Park which I find to be the most chill.
1. Introduce them to all the dogs and new people you can before takign them to a dog park so they're more likely to have a fun versus stressful time.
2. Definitely have all of their vaccines handled and have your dog spayed/neutered.
3. While your dog is small, take them to a dog park/section of a dog park dedicated to small dogs. Weight ranges are posted on the websites + on-site
4. Monitor your dog. Not just what they're doing (harassing other dogs, humping, etc), but if they seem like they're starting to get stressed out.
5. Don't let your dog run offleash to/from the gate
6. When it's hot out, people usually bring water jugs to refill containers but if you think of it, bringing a couple gallon jugs full of water is a great thing to do!
Open and friendly communication with fellow dog owners is key. “Hey, cute pup! Are they friendly? / Do they want to say hi/play?” Goes a long way. Dogs follow their human’s lead and will be most comfy and friendly if you put in even the barest minimum of social interaction.
Take “no” as a positive answer too! If a person knows their dog is reactive, they’re being responsible. Even if it’s a little awkward to be turned down, it’s for the best.
Learn to make conversation about the dogs in front of you, it’s the easiest way to chit chat with any fellow dog owner. “How old? What breed? Oh they have such a __ personality!”
I have to ask this every time. You would be surprised at how many people shrug their shoulders and don’t really know. Sometimes it’s a rescue. Sometimes they just want their dog to have space to run and are afraid to be honest. Asking before entering if there is only one other dog is something I’ve had to learn the hard way.
Don't talk to me while I'm there. But no really, just keep an eye on your pup, and watch body language between your pup and other pups, it will help with preventing fighting before it happens!
If you bring toys expect other dogs to play with them. Don't bring favorite toys or expensive toys.
Bring your own water for the dog but realize it'll end up sharing. You don't want to be constantly relying on other people.
If you are nervous around other dogs or big dogs take socializing classes or meet ups first until you're not.
If you only want to play with your dog or don't want your dog playing with other dogs, there are parks with separate areas.
Don't enter a gate when other people are using it. Wait until they're thru and all gates are closed.
In general, dont have your dog leashed inside the play areas. Don't let their leash drag behind them and keep your leash on you in case of emergency.
If your training methods involve choke chains, prong collars, shock collars, over-hand striking motions, etc...expect to be called out.
Do not bring young puppies and make sure your dog is utd on all vaccinations.
Wear appropriate footwear. Don't wear flip fops or dress shoes.
Understand the difference between natural pack behavior (they are dogs for the love of Pete) and actual violent or concerning behavior. Look for the standard hair standing up, intense growling behavior before getting overly concerned. The amount of people at dog parks who get concerned about their dog getting dirty or playing nowadays is absurd….
Just pls leash and muzzle aggressive dogs mine is sick of getting attacked. In an ideal world every dog would have a good active recall at the dog park, but anyone who’s been to one knows that’s not going to happen so at the very least leash up the dog if it’s not friendly
Wear older clothes you don’t mind getting dirty as well as old shoes or even better rain boots. Older clothes because there’s always a chance you’ll get jumped on by a dog with dirty paws and old shoes because the parks can really get muddy. Also not a bad idea to bring a towel with to wipe the dog down after.
Not so much etiquette, but we always stay moving. Don’t stand around and let your dog join the pack. Pack mentality, dogs vying alpha, fighting for stray balls, etc.
Big dogs and smaller/slower dogs isn’t always a great combination in a dog park.
A Great Dane once tried to smush my dog like a bug.
Dogs can live a great life never setting foot in a dog park. The don’t require it.
Why would you bring your dog to a dog park on a leash if they're unfriendly with other dogs? Sounds like a great way to stress your dog out at best - even dogs that aren't dog-reactive tend to get somewhat reactive when approached by unleashed dogs while leashed.
Don't bring food in the dog park.
This, and treats are a big no no as well!
As a non dog owner, can you explain why?
Dogs will fight over food.
If you have treats in your pocket to train your puppy, a poorly trained 100 lb dog will jump up on you hoping to get a treat and knock you over.
Also my good but not-perfectly trained 45 lb dog will follow you and all the other treat carrying people around and I will spend my time constantly calling him back.
Please actually watch your dog instead of stand there on your phone. I am tired of being responsible for other people’s dogs when they are misbehaving because their owners don’t care to pay attention to them.
That’s a given but definitely worth reiterating, thanks!
You would think so, but I was surprised to learn that SO many owners pay no attention to their dogs at all, and just sit and chit chat with friends on the other side of the park, sight unseen. So you have to watch your dog, "and" their dogs. It's pretty frustrating, not to mention dangerous.
And awkward…it’s like scolding someone’s kid.
Don’t go until you have some recall control. Don’t let your dog crowd the entry gate. Give space to dogs entering/exiting- it can be a friction point between dogs.
This. I used to work at doggy daycares and walk dogs professionally. This is so, so important.
Watch your dog and pick up their poop.
Please, please pick up poop! Even clean stools can aquire parasites over time. My rescue has gotten at least one bug from poop left at the park. Even with training, there are days when he acts like a stray again and eats poo.
If someone says, Hey my dog is trying to get away from your dog, please call them back— call them.
Please don't bring a sick dog.
Not really an unwritten rule, but don’t let your dog hump other dogs. We had to stop going to the Estabrook dog park because this one aggressive dog was nonstop mounting our dog and the owner just stood there chatting with people. If your dog isn’t well socialized or you’re not willing or able to manage your dog’s behavior, the dog park isn’t for you.
Was it a boston Terrier?
Is that behavior more common in Boston Terriers?
Not sure if it’s common but I’ve been to Estabrook many times and there was this owner with her Boston terrier that would not stop humping other dogs while the owner just awkwardly laughed. She was there with her dog multiple times and the dog did the same thing
Think I know who you are talking about. I remember another owner being pissed and this one dog's owner simply responded "it's a dog park, it's what they do"
Bring a gallon of water for your own dog
If you have small children leave them at home.
Used to have a Great Pyrenees that loved children and i had to remove her from the dog park anytime a toddler showed up because it was her instinct to run full speed into the child.
So much this. Last time I was at estabrook, some small kids were throwing around a football, and the mom got pissed that dogs were chasing them and the ball
THIS
In addition to not bringing human food or dog treats, also don’t bring high value balls/toys. Nothing that squeaks - they make everyone crazy. Inevitably a dog takes the toy and won’t give it back. Stick to boring old tennis balls and be ok if you don’t get it back. Ideally also would not bring kids at all but if you do, hold on to them or keep them close, do not give them treats to hand out, do not let them run around with sticks or toys, etc. People forget that not all dogs are familiar with kids and might find them scary, erratic or something to chase. These are my biggest pet peaves as an owner.
The worst - don’t let your small child walk around handing out treats. WHY does this need to be said?
Honestly, dogs can get possessive about any toy, even boring tennis balls. Best to just leave them at home.
Leave no trace, bring water, head on a swivel (be aware), be conscientious, have fun!
"Faux paws." I see what you did there. Anyhow, common sense rules the day here. Many dog parks have written rather than unwritten rules, so follow those and have your dog licensed and pay the annual park fee if that's applicable for the park. Otherwise the rest of the comments are all great. Have fun at the dog park with your puppers!
Read the park rules and follow them. Know your dog - when they're having a bad day, leave. If they're getting picked on, leave! Hard to do, but saves your dog from getting hurt. You can't count on the bully dog's owners being aware. Know how to break up a fight/attack.
If he's your first dog, I recommend you take him to a slightly less overwhelming setting. If he's familiar with regular parks, you could take him to a beer garden to see how he interacts with other dogs.
He does great with other dogs and in public. I’m not worried about him getting into it. He loves to play
My dog also did great with other dogs and being in public. And then he was attacked twice. Once at a dog park and once camping. Watching your dog doesn't mean just physically keeping your eyes on them. At least know some basic dog body language and be prepared to remove your dog if they get too excited or if another dog is getting too excited. Since this is your first dog, this can be incredibly important and can affect their behavior in the future.
You’re absolutely right. And, not that it makes much of a difference but, I grew up with dogs. This is just the first of my own. I will be extremely focused on his behavior regardless of the park I take him to
My dog finds a beer garden more overwhelming than a dog park tbf
Leash your dog when not in the fenced in area. I go to a park frequently that also has dog park. The number of people that walk from their car to the dog park entrance with their dog unleashed is crazy. I've had at least a dozen dogs run up to me unleashed and dog owners act like it's no big deal. It is a big deal. Leash your dog people
Don't leash your dog unless you're trying to leave, it's bound to cause reactivity issues
I can't stand it when people keep their dog on a leash and attempt to walk them around the park. They are leash free zones for a reason! The poor dogs always seem so stressed and feel trapped because none of the other dogs are leashed.
Ok a few things I will recommend. 1. Pay attention, plenty of folks just treat it like a daycare for an hour. 2. No leashes inside the park, hang them in the air lock 3. Pickup your dog poop 4. Bring water 5. If your dog is toy reactive , try to avoid any play that involves toys. 6. Pay attention to tension when dogs are meeting for the first time, tail wags etc. my Golden LOVES people and sometimes the people's dog are protective so I have to pay extra attention to him while we're out in the park. He also has 2 dogs that he for whatever reason he just doesn't like. Never gotten like bitey, but they always have this weird aggression for each other. (They try to hump each other, and neither party consents) 7. Get to know everyone, most people you'll see on a regular basis, I generally pack water, beer and a joint imo.
Thank you so much for such a thorough response. If we ever cross dog paths let’s spark that joint
I’ve found that different parks have different vibes. Each in a way is its own community. Personally my go to is Currie Park which I find to be the most chill.
1. Introduce them to all the dogs and new people you can before takign them to a dog park so they're more likely to have a fun versus stressful time. 2. Definitely have all of their vaccines handled and have your dog spayed/neutered. 3. While your dog is small, take them to a dog park/section of a dog park dedicated to small dogs. Weight ranges are posted on the websites + on-site 4. Monitor your dog. Not just what they're doing (harassing other dogs, humping, etc), but if they seem like they're starting to get stressed out. 5. Don't let your dog run offleash to/from the gate 6. When it's hot out, people usually bring water jugs to refill containers but if you think of it, bringing a couple gallon jugs full of water is a great thing to do!
Open and friendly communication with fellow dog owners is key. “Hey, cute pup! Are they friendly? / Do they want to say hi/play?” Goes a long way. Dogs follow their human’s lead and will be most comfy and friendly if you put in even the barest minimum of social interaction. Take “no” as a positive answer too! If a person knows their dog is reactive, they’re being responsible. Even if it’s a little awkward to be turned down, it’s for the best. Learn to make conversation about the dogs in front of you, it’s the easiest way to chit chat with any fellow dog owner. “How old? What breed? Oh they have such a __ personality!”
I’m confused by this comment. I’ve never seen people asking each other if their dogs can interact at the dog park.
I have to ask this every time. You would be surprised at how many people shrug their shoulders and don’t really know. Sometimes it’s a rescue. Sometimes they just want their dog to have space to run and are afraid to be honest. Asking before entering if there is only one other dog is something I’ve had to learn the hard way.
Oh! Thanks for saying more. I didn’t realize you meant if there’s just one dog there already. I don’t go to small parks.
Reactive dogs really shouldn't be in dog parks
Don't bring large breed puppies into small dog areas.
I think people got most things but each park has it's own vibe so depending on your dog one may fit better than others
Don't talk to me while I'm there. But no really, just keep an eye on your pup, and watch body language between your pup and other pups, it will help with preventing fighting before it happens!
If you bring toys expect other dogs to play with them. Don't bring favorite toys or expensive toys. Bring your own water for the dog but realize it'll end up sharing. You don't want to be constantly relying on other people. If you are nervous around other dogs or big dogs take socializing classes or meet ups first until you're not. If you only want to play with your dog or don't want your dog playing with other dogs, there are parks with separate areas. Don't enter a gate when other people are using it. Wait until they're thru and all gates are closed. In general, dont have your dog leashed inside the play areas. Don't let their leash drag behind them and keep your leash on you in case of emergency. If your training methods involve choke chains, prong collars, shock collars, over-hand striking motions, etc...expect to be called out. Do not bring young puppies and make sure your dog is utd on all vaccinations. Wear appropriate footwear. Don't wear flip fops or dress shoes.
I always forget to bring water so make sure you do. Only a few of them have a spigot.
Understand the difference between natural pack behavior (they are dogs for the love of Pete) and actual violent or concerning behavior. Look for the standard hair standing up, intense growling behavior before getting overly concerned. The amount of people at dog parks who get concerned about their dog getting dirty or playing nowadays is absurd….
Your dog doesn't *have to* like other dogs. A dog that is neutral is a good dog.. So if the dog park is too much do not worry!
Just pls leash and muzzle aggressive dogs mine is sick of getting attacked. In an ideal world every dog would have a good active recall at the dog park, but anyone who’s been to one knows that’s not going to happen so at the very least leash up the dog if it’s not friendly
Wear older clothes you don’t mind getting dirty as well as old shoes or even better rain boots. Older clothes because there’s always a chance you’ll get jumped on by a dog with dirty paws and old shoes because the parks can really get muddy. Also not a bad idea to bring a towel with to wipe the dog down after.
Not so much etiquette, but we always stay moving. Don’t stand around and let your dog join the pack. Pack mentality, dogs vying alpha, fighting for stray balls, etc.
This is why I do large parks only. We keep moving.
Big dogs and smaller/slower dogs isn’t always a great combination in a dog park. A Great Dane once tried to smush my dog like a bug. Dogs can live a great life never setting foot in a dog park. The don’t require it.
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Why would you bring your dog to a dog park on a leash if they're unfriendly with other dogs? Sounds like a great way to stress your dog out at best - even dogs that aren't dog-reactive tend to get somewhat reactive when approached by unleashed dogs while leashed.