Tips for First Time Dog Parkers

Hey Everyone!

I saw this great article on Earthbath's blog the other day and I thought it was worthy of passing along.  If you'd like to read the article from it's original source, you can view it here:

If it’s your first time heading to the dog park,

• Go to the park for the first time at an off-peak time! This will help allow your dog to get acquainted with the territory without any pressure or anxiety brought on by other dogs, high excitement and activity.
• Transition your dog slowly to the off-leash area, using the gated entrance.
• Stay with your dog, and be alert! Take notice of the other dogs in the park, how they are playing and interacting with other dogs, and how your dog is reacting to them.
• Your dog should be confident, be well socialized to other dogs and people, and reliably come when you call him.
• Supervise your dog at all times and don’t talk on your cell phone or get too involved with talking with other people; this is your time to bond with your dog in a fun, dog-friendly social environment.
• If there are designated areas for small dogs and big dogs, use them. These areas are for the safety and comfort of both large and small dogs; whether or not your dog is a gentle giant or fierce teacup poodle; the other dogs may not appreciate the size differential and become intimidated or aggrieved.
• Be prepared to leave if your dog seems overwhelmed or isn’t having a good time.
• Remember that there are as many human personalities at the park as there are canine personalities, so prepare to be patient and polite.
• As always, clean up after your dog.
• Though it’s a good idea to start socializing your dog to other dogs at an early age, puppies under the age of 4 months should stay home.