Dog Parks -Good or Bad?

Dog parks have become very popular with many people in the last few years. They’re a place where both dogs and their owners can go to socialize. But are they good or bad? They have both supporters and detractors.

On the plus side, dog parks provide an outlet for many dogs to burn off energy that might otherwise be spent in destructive behavior at home. When we advise people to make sure their dogs get plenty of exercise very often one of the places dogs get that exercise is at a dog park. They can run and play with other dogs. Dogs are usually separated to some extent by size. Some parks may only allow spayed and neutered dogs to play which reduces any problems with fighting for reproductive reasons. And dog parks allow dog owners to meet each other and discuss concerns about their dogs and other things. Dog parks have many positive aspects.

On the other side, there can be fights among dogs at dog parks, despite efforts to ensure only dogs with good manners come to parks. Any dog can play too rough or get into a fight under the right (or wrong) conditions. There can be injuries. Although many parks require dogs to show some proof of vaccination before allowing dogs to enter, dogs can still pass on illnesses to each other. Some people feel that dog parks are discriminatory, such as those that summarily exclude dogs of specific breeds when dogs have shown no sign of aggression. Other people feel that it’s unfair to deny park privileges to intact dogs, especially when female dogs are not in season.

Many people feel that there is too little supervision at dog parks which increases the likelihood of dogs getting hurt, either through rough play or by becoming involved in fights. Some owners do not watch their dogs very carefully or they allow small dogs to pick fights with large dogs, or large dogs to run over small dogs.

For these reasons it’s hard to say whether dog parks are good or bad. It is, however, important to consider all of these things when you are thinking of taking your own dog to a dog park. Is your dog friendly with other dogs? Is your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations? Does he have any kind of lingering virus that he might pass on to other dogs? Is he very small or very large or likely to be injured during play? Will he come to you when you call if there is any kind of trouble in the dog park? Will you be able to watch your dog carefully if you take him to the dog park?

Consider all of these questions before deciding if you want to take your dog to the dog park. Dog parks can be lots of fun for dogs but it’s up to you to look out for your dog and keep him safe wherever you take him, even when it’s supposed to be someplace fun.

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