The idea of dog parks is quite fantastic, wouldn’t you say? I, personally, have mixed feelings about dog parks though. I’ll give you some examples as we discuss some Dos and Do Nots of Dog Park Etiquette!

1. DON’T Forget to exercise your dog before going to the dog park.

Sounds counterproductive, doesn’t it? Wrong. It’s best to drain your dog of pent-up energy before going to the park, that way they are calm and balanced before you let him/her off leash to run around with the other pooches. We have noticed a huge difference with Gunner getting some energy out before entering the dog park and he is way more manageable!

2. DO Come prepared for your dog’s needs.

Abbie doesn’t care to play with other dogs but we like her to be around other dogs to keep her socialization skills up to par. Because of this, we bring the ChuckIt! most days. On other days, we just want her to sniff around and explore (she is way too ball obsessed). If your dog is possessive over toys, do not bring toys into the dog park. Duh.

3. DON’T Leave your dog’s leash on when you enter the off-leash area.

It may seem harmless, but you don’t want dogs or people to trip over a leash. Something like this would freak your dog out and potentially hurt someone. They have on-leash and off-leash areas for a reason.

4. DO Make sure your dog knows how to greet others.

Abbie used to be a terrible greeter! I mean the worst. She used to greet face to face instead of nose to hiney and this would freak her out to the point she would lash out at dogs! (Like I said, terrible.) When we realized what was happening, we began standing over her as dogs came to greet her and we’d help move her to the correct position (this is not a training tip as I don’t know a THING about training). After doing this for a while, she got the hang of it and is now a pro at greeting! Also, don’t let your dog charge the gate as other dogs are entering. This can be very scary for new dogs!

5. DON’T Be stationary.

I see most people sit at picnic tables or stand around in groups — I’m guilty of this at times. But doing this can create “territory issues” between dogs. It’s best for your pup if you’re constantly moving around the park, so strap on that Apple Watch and get your steps in!

6. DO Pick up after your dog.

Common sense, right? It’s an easy concept but some people try to pretend they don’t see their dog poop… Which is annoying and unsanitary! If you see someone else’s dog poop, let them know! It’s not rude to tell somebody, “Hey, just letting you know that your dog just pooped right there!” because we all get distracted at times. And no one wants their dog to come back covered in a smelly, brown substance. No one.

7. DON’T Be a great distance from your dog.

It doesn’t take long for a fight to happen so you want to make sure you can protect your pup from potentially dangerous and negative situations. It is the responsibility of the pet owner to maintain peace and order at the park. Staying near your dog will help make this possible.

8. DO Keep an eye on your dog at all times.

No conversation, Snapchat story, Instagram post, or Facebook update is more important than the safety of your dog. Don’t allow yourself to be distracted. Being a mom, I’m kind of taken aback when people bring young children to the dog park and let them run amuck. I’m even more taken aback when dog parents are oblivious to what’s going on in the dog park around them.

9. DON’T Allow your dog to be a bully.

I don’t care how big or small your dog is, if your dog is a bully, don’t allow him/her in the dog park. I’ve seen dog owners just stand by and watch their little dogs be aggressive to other dogs… As if it’s okay due to their small size… NO!!! ABSOLUTELY NOT!  Please be a responsible pet owner.

10. DO Make sure your dog knows who’s boss.

You want to make sure your dog has good recall and listens to you. The dog park is not a place for your pup to go bat-ish crazy where rules don’t apply. You are the pack leader and they need to listen to you no matter what distractions there are.

There are many, many more Dos and Don’ts for dog park etiquette. We love hearing your feedback so if you’d like to discuss the dos and don’ts listed above, or add some of your own, comment below!

Formerly written and published for Gal’s Best Friend.