The (Scary) Truth About Dog Parks + Alternatives & Pros & Cons | Pupford
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The 'dog park debate' is truly one of the most divisive aspects of being a pup parent. While dog parks can be a powerful tool for giving your pup physical exercise, they can also quickly turn into a dangerous trap.
In this episode, we break down some of the pros and cons of dog parks and how they can benefit your pup. We also explore the dangers, negatives, and scary parts of taking your pup to a dog park.
Plus, we look at some alternatives to dog parks! Let's get right into it. 👇
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OVERVIEW OF THE TRUTH ABOUT DOG PARKS
Dog parks can be a divisive topic.
Some people say dog parks are bad.
Others absolutely love dog parks.
So, which is it?
Let's look at some pros and cons of dog parks so you can determine for yourself!
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POSITIVES & PROS OF DOG PARKS
Dog parks can be a powerful tool for getting your dog's energy out and helping them socialize with other pups!
Here are some main benefits of dog parks:
- Interaction with new dogs and dogs of different sizes
- Ability to run freely off leash
- Typically more space than your yard or another exercise area (at least off leash)
- Fenced in so you don’t have to worry about your dog running off
- Get their exercise out
The main reason dog parents go to the dog park is for their dogs to have the freedom to run and play in a fenced-in area!
But there can be drawbacks... ⤵️
NEGATIVES & CONS OF DOG PARKS
To be frank, many of the worst experiences I've had with my dogs have happened at dog parks. Yikes!
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Here are some common drawbacks and cons of dog parks:
- Pup parents who don’t pay attention to their dog and the subsequent cues and body language their dog is giving off
- Too many dogs with ‘pent-up’ energy in one confined space
- The potential for very bad dog-dog interactions (dog fights, attacks, etc.)
- You do not know the other dogs' and humans' backgrounds, training methods, beliefs about training, etc.
- You can create negative experiences for your dog if they have bad interactions with other dogs
The number of times I've seen dogs attack other dog parks AND THEN the dog stays in the park is too high to count. It's terrifying and can be a serious problem.
If you're gonna go to a dog park, express caution!
Related Reading: Puppy Fear Periods
ALTERNATIVES TO DOG PARKS
So if you're not wanting to go to a dog park, what can you do?!
Here are some common dog park alternatives:
- Parks that have off-leash hours or just normal parks on a leash
- Longer walks, jogging or running, hikes
- Simple pup play dates where you know the dogs and have more control of the situation
- Never forget the importance of mental exercise with tools like:
- Flirt pole
- Snuffle mat
- Lick mat
- Foraging boxes, etc
Here are some more resources for dog park alternatives:
Learn how to exercise your dog indoors here.
Learn all about the power and benefits of mental stimulation for dogs here.
Struggling with a high-energy dog? Learn how to calm down a hyper dog here.
WHAT DO PROFESSIONAL DOG TRAINERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT DOG PARKS?
Erika Gonzalez: "I have a lot I can say about dog parks, but I’ll just say this, you probably won’t see me at any."
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Amber Aquart: "When going to a dog park, sit outside for a while and observe the dogs inside, their body language, and how their owners handle situations to best determine if it’s a good idea or not for you and your dog to enter."
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Britt Erickson: "Dog parks are a great exercise outlet but not a place you take your puppy to be socialized."
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Richard Gonzalez: "I believe that dog parks are unpredictable and I feel that there are better options to get our dogs the physical activity they need. There’s just too many unpredictable variables that could cause physical, emotional, or mental harm to my dog, and it’s not worth it to me."
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DOG PARK PROS & CONS + ALTERNATIVES RECAP
Multiple dog trainers are apprehensive about dog parks. Figure out for yourself what is best for you and your dog.
Everyone’s situation is different, and it can seem like your only option at times. Weigh the pros and cons, and look at what you are getting yourself into.
If you feel uncomfortable and you can sense your dog’s discomfort, leave. It is much harder to overcome mental and emotional challenges your dog can experience if being attacked/had other poor experiences, than cutting their playtime a little short.
What has been your experience with dog parks? Tell me in the comments!
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62 comments
Leave a CommentLuckily we’ve only had good experiences at dog parks. Lucy is an 11 pound chihuahua/Jack Russell mix. I adopted her at 4 years old and took her to a local dog park ( big and small divided). She just ran off, barking happily with other dogs and even made friends with some people. Another time we went to a huge open dog park ( no fences), lots of big dogs. I was surprised and kept her leashed, planning to pick her up and leave if any trouble. Normally she goes a bit nuts around big dogs. However she wound up happily playing with 3 big dogs ( lab size) , climbing on them, rolling on the dirt with them, tons of butt sniffing. I do realize we were pretty lucky and these are not the most usual experiences.
Dog parcs?
Many dog owners goes to socializing drink their coffee don’t paid any attention to their dogs
My dog got kennel cough twice
Sometimes dirty ground with all the urine
My dog got bite by a Chihuahua on his paw
Required stiches + a very expensive bet bill now my dog is Agt add if of small dogs !
We know many of the people at the dog park. The dogs have some freedom and a wonderful time playing. If an aggressive dog comes in, people ask the owner to leave. As a last resort, you can also call the parkkranger who will actually come out.
Dogs can pick up behaviors from others, and dog parks can be risky at times. First, you can try to figure out what your dog’s growling may mean, be sure to monitor them to keep them and others safe. https://pupford.com/dog-growling/
With Sooki, we went twice, bad experience both times. She hid under the bench on the first time, almost got in a dog fight the 2nd time-NOT her instigation. The dog was growling at her before they even came in the big dog section. We left fairly quickly after both incidents.
With Daisy, it’s been totally different, but I KNOW the first person and her training methods, and have met a couple of others who have great dogs. It’s been great for Daisy to get her energy out and for her socialization.
It’s got to be comfortable for all involved, or don’t stay. Know your dog first, be alert. It CAN be a great place.