It never fails to amaze me how some people think taking their dog to run and play at a dog park, or just an
open field, means they are on a break. It's not a lot of work, but I'd like to see a few certain behaviors from the fellow humans I am sharing dog play space with.
* Watch your dog(s). Duh, this seems like common sense, but I have been to dog parks where owners are chatting or reading and barely glancing up at their dogs. Not every dog plays nicely with every other dog all the time. You have to be watching and stepping in when necessary.
* Eliminate possible fighting over toys by bringing several for sharing or none at all. The dog parks I have been to always had many toys around, but when we go to our local field, we bring a toy that we pick up if other dogs show up.
*Control your dog(s). Make sure your dog has good recall and overall manners. A good "sit" and "stay" is very handy in times of need. "Drop it" is great if your dog picks up something potentially harmful.
* Keep big dogs with big dogs and small dogs with small dogs. Obviously big dogs can easily overpower and hurt a small dog, even unintentionally, during play.
*Play with your dog(s). Walk around, throw a ball, run...get engaged with your dog during play. That's what this time is for!
*Ask your dog to "come" several times during play. I reward with a small food treat each time my dogs do this. It makes those times when you NEED your dog to come to you that much more likely to be successful...so practice it often when it's not a need.
* HAVE FUN!
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| Dog Park Fun |
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