Dog Park Etiquette Tips from The Anti-Cruelty Society

(Chicago, IL – March 18, 2011) -- As the chill of winter fades to memory, people and pets are finally able to shake their cabin fever and get out to enjoy the lovely weather. Chicagoans are fortunate to have access to many great dog friendly outdoor areas. Dog parks can be great places for your dog if everyone knows how to behave! 

“A nice day at the park is the perfect opportunity to meet and play with other dogs and run in large areas off leash while safe from traffic hazards,”  said Dr. Robyn Barbiers, President of The Anti-Cruelty Society. “By knowing proper dog park etiquette, you can ensure that your pet is safe and happy in these public areas.”

Dog Park Guidelines and Rules of Etiquette

• Know Your Dog’s Behavior
  Know how your dog interacts with other dogs and people due to the large amount of socialization your pup will encounter. Check your ego at the gate and be realistic rather than idealistic when it comes to your dog’s temperament. Is Fido bully and pushy with other dogs? Is Rover shy and timid? Is your dog older and might he feel vulnerable in this environment? 

“Dog parks are great for most dogs but you must watch your dog very carefully to ensure they want to be there, said Dr. Robyn. “If your dog hasn’t been introduced to many strange dogs on a regular basis, he  may need time to adjust to the many different personalities encountered at a dog park. Be ready to accept that your dog may not be an appropriate one to be in the dog park or may not enjoy the company of many other dogs. While dog parks are great fun for some dogs they can be stressful for others. And of course, if your dog is acting aggressively in the park, please leave.”

• Know and Follow Park Rules
  Most dog parks require dogs to be current on certain vaccinations (usually distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus and Bordetella) and prohibit “aggressive” dogs and female dogs in heat. Chicago Park District Dog Friendly Areas require a tag which is available from most veterinarians and costs $5. Dogs without these tags are subject to a $500 fine.

• Keep Your Dog Hydrated
  Make sure that when you head to the park your dog has plenty of water—your pet is more than likely to get riled up while playing and it’s important for them to be able to cool down.

• Clean Up After Your Dog
  Picking up after your dog is very important—always be a responsible pet owner! Bring at least on bag or use a leaf to discard pet waste
• Know Your Pet and Your Pet’s Social Behavior. Dog parks are best for socializing, not socialization! The difference is that a well-socialized dog can enjoy socializing at the dog park, whereas a dog that needs socialization may find the experience in the dog park overwhelming. Socialization is the process of carefully exposing a dog to new environments and individuals in a way that the dog has a positive experience, creating a good association. If you dog is not socialized, try enrolling in a dog training class.

By following the posted rules and using common sense, Chicago’s many dog friendly parks are a great place for you and your pooch to enjoy the great weather and get to know other people and their dogs. While your dog is socializing, you can do the same! Follow their example and strike up a conversation with another dog lover—getting to know fellow pet owners helps build a stronger community and promotes even better experiences at the dog park. 

To view a comprehensive list of dog Chicago dog parks and to get more behavior tips, visit our website at www.anticruelty.org/dogparks.