Here are some tips we've learned over the years visiting dog parks throughout the eastern US with our labrador retreivers:
- Don't bring dog treats, rawhide or chews with you into the park. It will distract the other dogs from the commands of their owners. - Upon entering the park, make sure to bring the leash with you. - Initial entry into the park is a critical time as the pack will rush up to check out the newcomer. Be sure to judge your dog's demeanor and be aware of the other dogs as the hierarchy of the pack is reestablished. - If your dog does not seem friendly to another dog, separate them and move to another area. If the behavior continues, leave the park. - If you know your dog is combative, don't bring it to the park. The worst experience I've ever had was when a German Shepard attacked a Labrador retriever. The lab was rushed to an animal hospital, seen by a veterinarian and had to be put down. - Be careful with your kids at the park. When large canines engage in high speed play, the likelihood of being trampled is high. - If you bring a dog toy, disc or fetch ball, be prepared to share it with the other dogs and owners. - Bring extra poop bags to pick up after your dog in case the park runs out. - Wear sandals or flip flops at your own risk! - Keep a collar with identification tags on your dog at all times in case your dog accidentally escapes the park. - Always close the gate after entering or leaving the park. - Don't wear nice clothes and expect to keep them clean from paw prints or slobber from an over exuberant puppy. - Support your local pet store and buy a water bottle, bowl and biscuits to replenish your best friend after leaving the park.
And finally, have the dog bed ready and waiting as he's sure to be tired when you get home!
The dog pictured above is my lab, Buck. He's a lot of fun and pretty smart. Check out the dog trick page for some of his best tricks.