Four tips for the dog park

A trip to your neighborhood dog park may be a good time for your dog to kick back and let loose, but it shouldn't be for you, the pack leader! It is important not to "punch out" on your leadership at the park and to maintain your calm-assertive energy. Here are five tips on how to make a trip to the dog park a productive one for both you and your pet.

Bring only healthy pack members. Your dog should spayed or neutered and up-to-date on her shots. Never bring a sick dog to the dog park.

Don't forget the walk. The park is not a substitute for the daily walk. In fact, I recommend parking a few blocks away and talking your dog on a vigorous thirty-five minute walk before entering the park. That way, your dog is likely to be more relaxed and mellow when she meets her canine friends. Never bring an over-excited dog to the park. 

Be aware of your dog at all times. You are responsible for her behavior! Remember, an excited, weak, timid, or aggressive dog can become a fight magnet.

Know your dog! If your dog has poor social skills or fear issues, or if you have not yet established 100% pack leadership with your pet, find a more controlled way to socialize her. I often suggest to clients that they arrange "play dates" with a friend's balanced dog. The dog park is not the correct place to begin rehabilitating an anti-social dog.