How to Keep Your Dog Safe at the Dog Run

By Elaine Furst

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Leash
Poop bags

Step 1:
Before you take Fido to the park, be sure he is up to date on all his shots. This is for your dog's protection and his canine playmates protection as well. The usual vaccines include Distemper, Parvovirus, Coronavirus, Hepatitis and Parainfluenza. Depending on your area, risk or exposure, Lyme disease and Bordatella may also be recommended.
Step 2:
Leave the treats and toys at home. There's too much potential for dogs to engage in guarding and stealing behavior and it can also lead to aggressive behavior.
Step 3:
If this is the first time you will be bringing Fido to the dog run, leave the leash on him and let him sniff around and slowly meet the crowd. Consider this the test run (maybe even the first of many).

Watch how your dog is reacting to the other dogs around him. Is his tail wagging? Does he seem to be having fun or is he agitated and nervous? If he doesn't seem happy to be there, leave and come back another day. And if he still doesn't seem happy there the next time you bring him, then the dog park just maybe not the place he wants to be.
Step 4:
If your dog enjoyed his test runs on leash, then it's time to let him try it off leash. But don't just let him off leash and then go off to socialize with your friends. Stay nearby and watch how he's interacting and how the other dogs are interacting with him. It might also be a good idea to call him over to you from time to time just to let him know that you're there and it's also a good way to practice the "come command."
Step 5:
Always pick up after your dog and if you see someone else's dog poop and they don't notice it, be a good dog park attendee and let the person know. There's also nothing wrong with occasionally picking up the occasional extra pile of poop.
Step 6:
Stay at the park for as long as your dog is having fun. If you see your dog is getting upset or if the other dogs are getting out of control, then consider leaving. You can try to resolve the situation if you think it's doable but if not, it is your dog's safety and well being that is most important, so know when it's time to leave.

Tips & Warnings

Make sure Fido's dog license is current.
Read the posted rules before entering the park.
Stay alert. Don't get lost reading a book or socializing.
If your dog is overly aggressive toward other dogs, intervene and consider keeping him muzzled.
If your dog is constantly being bothered by another dog, talk to the owner. If necessary, call park management and ask that the owner and his dog be removed.
Do not bring your dog to the run if he/she isn't spayed or neutered or if she's in season.
If you are attacked by a dog, cover your face with your arms and turn your back to the dog. If the dog has you on the ground, get into a fetal position.

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