I needed to further assess some of Shadow’s behaviors and test her recall in a safe, unfamiliar area. After a couple days to settle in, we took (renamed) Shady to a local dog park. Having multiple dogs, I do not do dog parks. However, they do provide a leash-free zone, great exercise, and socialization for some dogs and some people.
Shady had zero interest in the dogs and most people there. All she wanted to do was take in the scents and sights. I witnessed a lot going right and a lot, not! I spoke with my longtime friend and trainer Brian Sugerman of ClickRTrainR.com, and dad to rescued morkie Dooby. We compiled some helpful tips, if you do visit a dog park:
• Observe the park before you enter. Is there a bully? A lot of barking? Do you feel safe and in control? Confident that your dog will listen and respond to your cues?
• Bring dog pick-up bags and your own dog’s bowl and water. Don’t risk your dog’s health with the community water bowl or assume there will be bags at the park.
• Your dog should have good recall (comes when called). If you keep calling your dog, and they don’t respond, you dilute the cue to come. Ask once, and withdraw the offer.
• As soon as you enter the main area, UNLEASH your dog. A leashed dog is at a disadvantage, with less choices.
• Don’t bring food or treats (human or dog). Dogs can be on special diets or have allergies. Some dogs can get aggressive over resources. If you are working on training with treats, stay OUTSIDE the dog park fence.
• If a friendly dog approaches you and jumps up (front feet off ground) say nothing, back up or turn away. Do not affirm bad behavior. Jumping up can knock a child or someone unsteady on their feet to the ground. Teach your dog: four on the floor, always!
• PAY ATTENTION. Watch your dog at all times. Every time I have visited a dog park, I see either people talking in large groups, or a person with their face glued to their phone screen – oblivious to their dog’s behavior, whether pooping or instigating trouble.
• If your dog is distressed, overstimulated or aggressive, then quietly, IMMEDIATELY leash them and remove them from the dog park. Take a break. That could be 15 minutes, days or weeks.
• Be attentive to dogs’ body language. You can intervene before things escalate. If there is a fight, DO NOT grab any dog (even your own) by the collar. You can be seriously injured.
• Not all dogs are dog park fans.
If they aren’t interacting with other dogs/people or don’t seem to enjoy the experience, don’t go. Maybe your dog just wants a nice daily walk with you, paying attention to them. All people don’t like noisy parties. That is all right.
• Respect your dog, their individual needs and desires. Then, you will have a happy, healthy, welladjusted dog.
Shady found a home… she didn’t go far ;-) Wishing you and yours happy, healthy and dog-safe holidays!
