What you need to know about dog park etiquette

There are no trained staff or screening processes for dog parks; so, for the benefit and safety of everyone, it is up to dog owners to be responsible and follow good dog park etiquette.  

Ground rules    

• Dogs should be vaccinated (including boosters) and have up to date preventative care such as worming and flea control.  
• They should also be in good health. This is especially important as dogs could be interacting with each other and could spread infection or disease via contact or communal water bowls.
• If your dog is unwell or is being treated by any medication that suppresses their immune system, speak with your vet for advice before taking them to an off-lead park.  

Dogs should be well-socialised  

• Dog parks can be very stimulating environments, with lots of new sights, smells and friends to meet, so as an owner, you must be sure your dog will remain calm around other dogs.  
• If your dog is anxious or aggressive around other dogs, they may be better suited to a walk around the streets or on a lead in a quiet park without other dogs.  
• You can improve your dog’s socialisation by mixing with other dogs you know well, attending high-quality training classes, taking daily walks, or attending a doggy day care centre.  

Your dog should come to you when called  

If you can’t be sure or feel that you won’t be able to keep them under control, then they are not ready to be let off their lead at a dog park.  

Mutual respect

 The safety of a dog park relies on mutual respect and communication between dog owners. If someone has an anxious or reactive dog, they may ask for other dogs to be placed on lead until they have passed (don’t take this personally!).  

Warning signs  

Even if a dog has never showed any signs of aggression or fear around other dogs, it’s impossible to know how they might react in a range of different circumstances. Dog owners should look out for the warning signs so they can intervene early.    

• Signs of an anxiety or discomfort can include, lip-licking, yawning, pinned back ears, walking low to the ground, a tense body position and a low or tucked tail, among other things.  
• Signs of aggression are usually more obvious. They include growling, snapping, snarling, baring teeth or lunging.  

Pick up your dog’s waste!

This one is a no-brainer; unfortunately, it doesn’t always happen. It is crucial that owners pick up their dog’s waste and dispose of this in the appropriate bin.  

• Failure to clean up after your dog can result in being fined by a ranger.  
• Dog waste left on the ground can contaminate the environment and spread infectious diseases to other dogs.  
• In some cases, microorganisms in dog stools can infect humans, particularly children who may touch them and then put their fingers to their faces.
• Never allow your dog to come into contact with other dogs’ stools and ensure that any water they drink is fresh, to avoid contamination by parasites spread through urine or faeces.

‍