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 CommentThat is so interesting, thank you for sharing your experience!
I have a teacup yorkie and a poodle/ Pom and I take them to a private dog park. You have to have all their shots up to date and that has to be signed by vet within 30 days as well as being spayed/neutered. Must have their liscence as well. You are not allowed on your phone while in the dog park. Because dog parents have to follow a lot of rules to have their dogs go to this park, I have had no problems with my babies to play there. All the dogs that go are obedience trained. The park is divided by Weight and size of the dogs. So I’m not happy to hear that the professionals are against dog parks! Yes you do want to keep an eye on them as they play with other dogs, but to deny a dog the fun of off leash play is sad. My little yorkie finally got to go to dog park at the age of Seven. She has the time of her life. So check out the private parks with all the hoops to jump thru, those are the ones that have a higher caliber of dog parents! Let them have some joy of running!
This is so incredible! I’d love to find a place where no phone usage while your pup is in there is enforced! I walk my pup to the park and when we walk around the dog park enclosure, I see almost always, everyone in there on their phones; and that’s why I never felt comfortable taking my pup in. Can you tell me where I could look for a place like the one you take your pup?
My pup is only under 4 months but loves the dog park. She’s not afraid to meet any dog, but once in awhile I do encounter a slightly aggressive dog thay plays rough. My pup doesn’t back down. If it gets to rough, it’s time to leave.
Took my girl to a beautiful dog park and at first she was shy and good but the more comfortable she got. The more confidence she got and I could see her trying to be dominant by baring her teeth and I took her out of that situation. We havnt been back.