Dog Park Safety Tips for Pet Parents - Dog Walking, Pet Sitting, and Puppy Visitations For Etobicoke

What’s better than a day in the park with your dog? A day in the dog park with lots of dogs!

Most dogs require 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity every day, which is why so many pet parents have been seeking out dog parks. Dog parks are enclosed areas where pups of all shapes and sizes can roam and play with one another.

While the idea of a dog park sounds amazing, it’s essential to practise proper safety precautions. Continue reading to learn how to prepare your pup for a safe trip thanks to our top-notch dog park safety tips.

1. Pick the Right Park

Before heading out on your tail-wagging adventure, select a dog park that best suits you and your pup.

An ideal dog park has secure fencing with a strict code of conduct. This allows both large and small dogs to play safely with one another.

If it’s your first trip to the dog park, conduct a thorough inspection before letting your pup run free. Look for openings, holes, and weak fencing that could create an escape route for your dog. If you don’t feel comfortable with the fencing, trust your gut, and choose a different dog park.

For your first dog park adventure, swing by during a non-peak time. Introduce your pup to the area when there aren’t a lot of other dogs around so he or she can get comfortable. Off-peak times include early morning or meal times.

2. Prep for Your Pooch

Your dog is relying on you to properly prepare for their adventure. Before leaving the house, gather all the supplies you need to ensure a safe day at the dog park.

First things first, your dog should never leave the house without a collar. Your dog’s collar should list their name, your name, and your contact information.

Pet parents should always carry a dog leash with them. A dog park is where your pooch can be free but have a leash ready in case of an incident.

Don’t forget to bring along the essentials like a water bowl, water, and poop bags. Have an air-horn or spray bottle handy in case you must break up a dog fight.

If your pup is territorial, bringing his or her favorite toy can create conflicts with other dogs. If you do bring a toy, bring one that your dog isn’t particularly close with or else bring spares for other dogs to play with as well.

3. Train Your Pup

Don’t head to the dog park until you know your dog will not put itself or other dogs in danger. You need to feel confident your pup will obey your commands in this busy and distracting environment.

If your dog easily tunes you out when other things are going on, then he or she isn’t ready for the dog park. Your dog should obey simple commands, including “sit,” “come,” and “down.” If not, consider talking with a professional who can help.

4. Stay Alert

As a pet parent, don’t zone out. It’s essential for you to keep a careful eye on the time, your dog, and other dogs to ensure a safe day.

Don’t let your pup become overtired. Stay at the park for 30 to 60 minutes. Exhausted dogs play too rough with others or become sensitive to their surroundings.

Observe dog language during your visit to the park. If your dog starts acting abnormally, clip on the leash and call it a day.

The same goes for other dogs. Watch out for staring, tense body language, and other warning signs that dogs aren’t playing nice. If you notice any of these behaviours, call your dog to your side.

Learn More Dog Park Safety Tips

Always be in the know before you go to the dog park. Following proper dog park safety tips ensures your pup’s adventure is a tail-wagging good time.

Pet parents need their dogs in safe and capable hands. That’s why Waggin’ Tails is here to help. Whether you’re looking to learn more about dog park safety or need a reliable dog-lover to take your pooch on walks, we can help.