- Know each dog park’s rules, and follow them.
- Keep your dog leashed until you’re inside the park’s fenced area.
- Keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date. Other dogs may not be and your dog could be exposed to disease.
- Never leave your dog unattended, even in an off-leash dog park.
- Maintain voice control over your dog at all times.
- If your dog starts to play rough, correct him and leash him immediately.
- Don’t bring toys unless you want other dogs to play too.
- Socialize your dog before going to dog parks.
- Never bring a female dog in heat to a dog park.
- Always clean up after your dog.
- Bring water because water stations at the park have been used by other dogs and wildlife and could be a source of disease.
- If you bring children, watch them closely.
“It’s important for dog owners to take precautions at dog parks,” says California Veterinary Medical Association President Dean Henricks, D.V.M. The dog park isn’t right for everyone, but if your pet loves them just take these precautions.