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Taking your fur ball to an off-leash dog is a great way to let them run around, burn off access energy, play and socialize with other canines and their humans.
Off-leash parks are public areas and these areas are not supervised by anyone. So, it’s up to the dog owners to be responsible and make sure they follow a good dog park etiquette to ensure everyone’s safety.
Check with your local council for Off-Leash parks.
Assuming your dog is registered with your local council, they will provide you with a list of off leash parks in your area and the times available to let your dogs roam free.
Off-Leash dog parks is not for everyone.
If your dog fears other dogs, or is known to have issues with strangers, then an off-leash park is not the best idea for your fur ball.
What about you?
If you are not comfortable with other dogs jumping on you, trying to play with you, then again you might need to reconsider going to an off-leash dog park, because there is always an adorable Great Dane who wants to give you lots of kisses and hugs.
How well do you know your pup?
When we first adopted our fur baby, Luca at 7 months, we had no idea what he was like with other dogs and humans. So before taking him to the off-leash dog park, we made sure he was comfortable meeting dogs, playing with dogs, he was ok with humans, and knew to come to us when called.
If your dog still struggles with basic commands, then make sure you take time to work on that before you put them in a situation where you could have less control.
Vaccinations up to date
Please make sure your dog is fully vaccinated, wormed and treated for external parasites before bringing them to the park to socialize with other dogs.
First time at the dog park
Always have your dog on a leash when you enter the park, let the other dogs come and sniff, say hello. If your pup looks confident and not scared or aggressive towards the puppy welcome committee then you can let go.
If your dog is scared and he seems to be the target of other dogs, please remove your dog from the situation.
If your dog is aggressive towards other dogs, put him back on the leash and make sure you give him a time out.
Pick up after your Dog
If your dog poops but nobody is watching, you still need to pick up. There are always plastic bags at off leash parks.
Supervise your dog
Dog parks are a great place to meet like-minded people, and you will have a great audience to show 100 million pics of your fur child. While you are chatting away, your dog could well be running around bullying other dogs, stealing toys and getting into fights.
You need to make sure you always keep an eye on your dog. It only takes a second for an incident to occur.
