Question on dogpark Etiquette...

[Tonya]

Well, I've been at the dog park everyday the past few days, and I already got to meet THE drama queen.

Yesterday, when I was there. This guy had two dobies. The male was aggressive, so his daddy was trying to socialize him. He had him muzzled, leashed, and away from others. I have no problem with that. I understand, because I went through that with my RB Rosco. Well, he told me a story...the day before...he'd been off in a corner with his dog muzzled and leashed minding his own business, and this lady's dog came out of the blue and attacked his dog. In the process, her dog ripped his dobie's muzzle off, and the dobie naturally started fighting back before he was able to get him out of there. I know he wasn't sugar coating the story because he showed me the muzzle with teeth marks. I have common sense, if a dog is muzzled and/or leashed...I know that he is for a reason. I give them their space.

Then, I hear from two other people that the lady's dog has started two other fights with dogs that so far have given me the impression as not dog aggressive.

So, today, I show up with Dusty and Roxy...no one is there but this one particular woman with her chow mix. The first thing she says to me is "This park isn't going to last long...it's a liability." Then she goes on to tell me that this man's dobie viciously attacked her dog...the dog was so vicious that he got his muzzle off", etc..."....the guy didn't even apologize!" I didn't say much, I pretended that I hadn't already heard the true story. I empathized with her fairytale and then pretty much said "Well, you know your dog andher personality...Mine have never been in a fight, but let me know if she seems like she's getting irritated."

Knowing that was the unpredictable dog that I'd heard about, I pretty much said "Well, it was good meeting you...I'm going to go off over here and let your dog get comfortable."

I went on the opposite end of the park. I was playing fetch with the dogs...(Roxy fetches, Dusty chases...) Out of the blue, her dog came running up and the lady was yelling "She's ok!" Then, totally unprovoked, she attacked Dusty. Of course (and I don't blame him) Dusty started fighting back. I've (just over the past few months) really gotten Dusty under control. All I had to do was yell his name and he stopped and ran to me.

Well, the lady was visibly mad...but I refused to apologize nor discipline Dusty. He simply defended himself and stopped as soon as I called him and came to me. I can't ask for a better dog. Most dogs wouldn't even hear anything once the dog had started. He'll come to me under any circumstance.

Soon after that, a Boxer came. Her dog scaled the fence and attacked him before he even got in the park. Then, a tiny pug came, her dog snapped at him.

So, then...She goes "Well, since none of you know how to control your dogs, I guess I'll leave."

WTF?!

Well, as you all know, I'm on thin ice lately...I don't put up with much. So I said..."Excuse me, I don't know you or your dog. But from what I witnessed today, I think that it is your dog that needs work. My dog has met over 20 dogs in the past few days and your dog was the first confrontation he's been in."

Well, then she goes "Well, it isn't like your dogs are perfect...they play way to aggressively (which BTW, they never even played with her dog...her dog attacked Dusty before hand.) and they bark and growl...."

So, it got me thinking...I'm sure some of you have dogs that are loud and sound mean when they play...Mine growl, bark, snarl, but all in good fun...Like one dog owner told me at the park "I don't think my dog is used to it, but if he didn't like it, he wouldn't be following them around..." I admit my dogs play more aggressively then most of the dogs there. For instance, Dusty loves to throw his paws on the dog's chests and knock them down. But I haven't seen a dog get mad over it. My dogs totally wrestle and tackle. I admit. -But it that necessarily bad?

So, the question of the day...

I don't know the etiquette...should I call Dusty off and retrain him not to play rough? Or let him be him? Am I being rude? I am courteous enough where if I know it's a touchy/aggressive/old dog, I keep my dogs away...but if the other dog seems like he's having fun, I let them play as rough as they want.

*edit* BTW, this guy who brings his agressive, muzzled, leashed Dobie...he warns and asks permission to everyone before he enters the park. He explains that he's trying to work through his dog's issues, so it isn't like it's a surprise.

[Tonya]

Bump! I'm going to harrass you all until I get MANY answers...I'm stressing about being a "rude dog owner". :)

[wolf_Q]

The last time I went to the dog park these two men came with two german shepherds. The female was nice, but the male was not..AT ALL. He muzzled him. My first reaction was "If you have a dog mean enough he needs to be muzzled, don't bring them to a dog park!!"

Of course, these guys just let the dog run loose too. He kept trying to get the muzzle off (which I know is not that hard, dogs get them off at my work all the time) and wouldn't stop chasing and lunging at Nebo. I knew if he got that muzzle off he'd rip my dog to shreds...so I just ended up leaving.

But it sounds like this guy with the dobie is being a lot more responsible than the guys here with the GSD. If they would have kept him on a leash at a distance from the other dogs, I wouldn't have had a problem.

The lady with the chow mix sounds like a bit of a moron to me. Nebo plays rough too...he sounds a lot worse than he is...I think sometimes it's a husky thing. He likes to run and he makes growling sounds. He does the same thing chasing his ball at home, it's not vicious.

However, if he's chasing a person's dog or wrestling with them and the owner or dog acts uncomfortable about it, I'll take him away and try to get him to play with other dogs. Usually I'll say something about him just being rather mouthy, and that he's not being mean...but not everyone understands that dogs can be like that. Most times I've gone he's found a buddy that likes to wrestle too and has had a great time.

Normally I follow him around the park and keep a pretty close watch. If he acts aggitated from being chased or something, I'll grab him and just walk him around or sit down...give him a time out.

[Tonya]

-That's what I do..."Don't mind Dusty and Roxy...they're very verbal and rough, but they don't ever get into fights...They're much more vicious then they sound." But still, am I being rude since I don't stop them from playing rough?

[wolf_Q]

I think if they are playing rough and the dog doesn't act comfortable or the owner seems upset about it the best thing to do is call them away to play in another area.

So, I guess to directly answer your question...if the above is the situation, then yes (IMO) it's rude to not call them off.

However, if the dogs they are playing rough with are playing rough back and appear to be having a good time, I don't see any reason to call them off.

[DogLover9501]

I know what you mean by the growling, snarling...etc, it's all playfull sounds, thats not being agressive(sp?) at all!

It sounds like that lady's dog was not socialized well, and I dont see why she brings her dog there if it wont get along with other dogs, isnt that the point...? Maybe she does it for kicks, I mean the way she's lied about how her dog seems to pick fights, and attack for no reason, maybe thats why she brings it there, some people are like that, like the guy around here that makes his rotties vicious and then lets them loose...

She is probably going to get in trouble, her dog will probably end up biting someone or seriously hurting another dog....

[DogLover9501]

But still, am I being rude since I don't stop them from playing rough?

I don't think its rude at all unless the dog/owner doesnt seem to like it, or seems nervous about the roughness. Dogs like to rough house and wrestle, it's all for fun. Kind of like the way two boxers will stand on their hine legs and box each other, they arent being rough, theyre playing...

[Twisterdog]

Well, honestly ... since you asked ... I think dog parks are a bad, bad idea.

Sure, sure, some dogs have fun, some play well, etc. etc. I'm sure dozens of people are going to respond with stories to refute what I said.

However ... the people and dogs you met and the stories you told are so very common. The sad fact of the matter is that there is always at least one rotten apple in the barrel at any time.

Do you really think that every person in a dog park knows how to train a dog? Knows how to control a dog? Do you really think that every person in the dog park has kept their dogs vaccinations up to date? Has had a fecal sample checked for worms?

Every time you go in a dog park, you are trusting the health, safety and very life of your beloved pets to a bunch of strangers. What if her chow mix had killed the pug, while she was still running to catch up?

I have small dogs, so I take these points very seriously. I will NOT trust my dogs' lives to people I don't know. A large portion of the general public are morons, I'm sorry to say.

My son's friend's chocolate lab was killed by two pit bulls at a park, right in front of him. Nothing anyone could do. One of my customers shih tzus was killed by a malamute ... a malamute with extensive obedience training, BTW. It happens.

Not worth it to me. I'll take my dogs somewhere else any day. I will never use a dog park. I can exercise, entertain and socialize my dogs without them being in danger.



am I being rude since I don't stop them from playing rough?

Well, I suppose that depends on the situation. If the owner or the dog isn't liking the fact that your dogs are playing rough, then yes ... I would say it would be rude not to stop them. Rough play is likely to make someone angry and start a fight, even if it isn't your dog that starts it. I suppose if there is another dog there that also wants to play rough, and the owner is ok with it, then you could let it go. But, still ... especially with dogs that don't know each other well, rough play is a fight waiting to happen.

[micki76]

Originally posted by Twisterdog
Well, honestly ... since you asked ... I think dog parks are a bad, bad idea.

Sure, sure, some dogs have fun, some play well, etc. etc. I'm sure dozens of people are going to respond with stories to refute what I said.

However ... the people and dogs you met and the stories you told are so very common. The sad fact of the matter is that there is always at least one rotten apple in the barrel at any time.

Do you really think that every person in a dog park knows how to train a dog? Knows how to control a dog? Do you really think that every person in the dog park has kept their dogs vaccinations up to date? Has had a fecal sample checked for worms?

Every time you go in a dog park, you are trusting the health, safety and very life of your beloved pets to a bunch of strangers. What if her chow mix had killed the pug, while she was still running to catch up?

I have small dogs, so I take these points very seriously. I will NOT trust my dogs' lives to people I don't know. A large portion of the general public are morons, I'm sorry to say.

My son's friend's chocolate lab was killed by two pit bulls at a park, right in front of him. Nothing anyone could do. One of my customers shih tzus was killed by a malamute ... a malamute with extensive obedience training, BTW. It happens.

Not worth it to me. I'll take my dogs somewhere else any day. I will never use a dog park. I can exercise, entertain and socialize my dogs without them being in danger.

You took the words right out of my mouth. I have to say though, that I really enjoyed the park we went to for the TX PT meeting. Dogs were allowed, but had to be on a leash. I was much more comfortable with that, and I'm grateful to Aly for finding a lovely park to accommodate my needs. :D

[shais_mom]

Our Dog park requires a yearly fee and records of the vaccinations of the dogs on file.
Keegan loves to go to the dog park. Yes there have been issues of bigger dogs picking on the little ones but usually the owners act quickly.
I know when Keegan gets to playing rough with other dogs big or small I try to keep her under control and reprimand her. Several times I have been told by the owners "Its ok they (their dog/s) needs to learn." But I don't want to be accused of bringing an uncontrollable dog into the park. Nor do I want Keegan to get hurt or hurt another dog.
I think the lady you have encountered is an idiot and I think by all means she needs to be told it is her fault. Kudos to you.
Once when I was going into our dog park there was a lady coming out with 3 dogs she asked me to stand back b/c 2 of her dogs were dog aggressive. I obliged, and she was very very nice about it. At least she knew not to put my dog in danger. And when I got there she was the only one in the park with her significant other and dogs and then I was the only one left after she left.
I wish you the best of luck dealing with this moronic lady, you are going to need it!! She would try my patience to the point of madness!!! :)

[catnapper]

I feel dog parks are great places. Its a lot like kindergarden... you have parents that realize all kids are different and allow them to figure out play on their own. You have parents who think their kids are angels when they're devils who provoke... then when they're in fights, they claim "its your kid that's the bad one."

Keep going, as this other dog owner is probably new like you are and hasn't quite figured out that if her dog gets into a fight every day, then the park is not meant for her dog. These doggy owners typically go away after a few tries... usually saying how terrible the dogs and their owenr were!:rolleyes:

As for the risks of worms, you run that risk walking the dog in your neighborhood. Yes, not everyone's going to have their pet up to date on immunization... but neither are the squirrels and rabbits, etc. that live in the park (and your neighborhood.) We run risks everywhere we go and its up to you to measure whether or not its worth it to you. I personally love the dog park. Yes, people are idiots at times. Yes, there's flees and ticks and just about anything one animal can pass onto another. But as I said, you can get that in your own neighborhood. Nicki used to meet at least two dozen dogs along our walks on a daily basis - can I account for their health? Their whereabouts? No.

[KYS]

For me this is a hard one.
I agree with everyone. :)
I have mixed feelings about dog parks.

I think if everybody's dog is friendly,
poop is picked up right away, shots up to date,
it's a great way to socialize your dog and meet people too.
I think it is important not to have any aggressive
dogs at the park "period".

When dogs play, and the play gets rough, make
sure that all the dogs are having fun.
Dogs tend to pack up, and pick on a weaker dog.
Sometimes fun play turns into a argument seconds later.

I think the lady has some screws loose.
Her dog is going to seriously hurt another dog, or
somebody elses dog will seriously hurt hers.
Her dog should "NOT" be at the park.

Don't you enter dog parks at your own risk?
I think a registration is a great idea.

[shais_mom]

Oh yea and our park provides bags for the picking up of the poop also and a waste container to throw it in.

[Cincy'sMom]

In all the times we have gone to variuos dog parks we have never had a problem involving our dogs...course when there has been 30+ dog they were mostly PT dogs!

I know they way mine play scares some people becuase they are rough with each other. They growl and snarl, but would not hurt each other for anything. I just watch them close and if they try ato play too rough with a dog who desn not seem to apprecaite it, I call them off and they listen.

Our also go tot dayschool a few tiomes a month and are used to dealing with up to 50 of all sizes and personalities often.

[GoldenRetrLuver]

The dog park I go to does NOT allow aggressive dogs. Period. One of the "regulars" that I talk to often, has a little Westie who was brutally attacked by 5 dogs. :( The poor thing survived, but the owner of the 5 dogs was an @$$hole about it.

I would never stop going there, just because of a few irresponsible people. My dogs love it way too much, and I enjoy going. Mine haven't really been "bothered" by any other dogs, but if they were Molly would quickly end it. ;) She stays very close to Daisy, and since Daisy is submissive when another dog comes up to her, she rolls on her back and Molly comes over and makes sure she's okay.

Our dog park also provides pooper scoopers for picking up after your dog, and a bunch of water bowls. They also require your dog to be current on all shots, be at least 4 months of age, but they don't require them to be spayed/neutered. (which I hate. :mad: )

Anyway, as to your question, if you thought it was aggressive, call it off. If it seems more like playing, let them be. :)

[Twisterdog]

Its a lot like kindergarden... you have parents that realize all kids are different and allow them to figure out play on their own. You have parents who think their kids are angels when they're devils who provoke... then when they're in fights, they claim "its your kid that's the bad one."


True ... except in kindegarten, one child does not weigh 150 pounds, and another child weigh 10 pounds. And in kindegarten, one child does not kill his or her classmate, by ripping out their juglar vein, either. Dogs aren't kids. Dogs are dogs.




Dogs were allowed, but had to be on a leash.

I used to take my dogs to the city park all the time, but all dogs were leashed. I agree that it was much better.

[Shelteez2]

Originally posted by GoldenRetrLuver
They also require your dog to be current on all shots,

Do you know how they define "current on all shots"? What about people who don't believe in yearly vaccinations?


Originally posted by GoldenRetrLuver
but they don't require them to be spayed/neutered. (which I hate. :mad: )


Why do you hate it? Should people with intact dogs not be allowed to use dog parks? What about those with show dogs? Or what about those whose dogs have health problems and cannot be spayed/neutered? Or what about those who don't believe in early spaying and neutering? Should they not be allowed to bring their dogs until they're full grown?

[trayi52]

Funny I had never even heard of a dogpark at all until I came to Pet Talk! That was completely new to me.

To me the man with the Doberman was being very nice and honest, the woman was being a jerk. She must wear blinders if she couldn't see her dog was causing all the problems!

As far as whether I approve of dogparks, I can't say. I have never had any dealings with a dogpark!

I think you kept your cool with the woman. She should have been diciplined herself right along with her dog!

Willie

[wolf_Q]

I'm sorry but I have to say some of these posts kind of offended me and made me feel like I'm a "bad dog owner" for using dog parks.

I don't feel that I'm trusting my dogs life in the hands of strangers when I visit the park. If there's aggressive dogs or idiot owners there, I'll leave. I don't just stand there and let him do what he wants, I follow him around and watch everything he does.

I could just as easily have my dog bitten or exposed to unvaccinated dogs, infected feces, etc. while walking him around the block with a leash on. I rarely even take him for walks because I run into so many dogs just running lose. I've had more dogs charge up to us while on a leashed walk than at the dog park.

Yes, things happen that can't always be prevented, and no dog is 100% predictable. And there's a whole world full of stupid dog owners. But the stupid dog owners are not just at the dog park.

[Brie]

Personally, I wouldn't take the passive-agressive approach with a woman like that.

I would tell her straight to her face her dog does not belong at a dog park if it's agressive to other dogs. I would also do my best to get contact info for her. If her dog was to hurt any other dog, she is liable and that should be made very clear to her. Thabeing said, I would never enter the park if it's just you, her and two dogs. ALWAYS make sure others are there to witness any acts of agression from her dog in case their are any injuries and someone has a phone to call police in case of injuries and confrontation.

Also, I would try to figure out if she has a pattern of when she goes to the park (eg: everyday at 5pm or saturday mornings at 11am) Also find out if the city has someone regulating the parks (eg: park rangers, police, etc...) and let them know you and others are having problems with this one dog.

I do have to say that I'm proud of that dobie owner. He's willing to work on the problem and is doing it appropriately! I hope he's also working with a trainer to assist with the aggression issues.

I do give my dogs time outs in the dog park. If they start playing a little too rough, I do take them out of the situation move them to an area of the park where there are no other dogs and have them focus on me with some basic sit, down, stay, come, lay down commands and favorite treats! After a few minutes of the time out I re-introduce them to play. I will leave the park if it becomes to rough and a couple timeouts haven't corrected the behavior.

[Cincy'sMom]

Originally posted by wolf_Q
I'm sorry but I have to say some of these posts kind of offended me and made me feel like I'm a "bad dog owner" for using dog parks.

I don't feel that I'm trusting my dogs life in the hands of strangers when I visit the park. If there's aggressive dogs or idiot owners there, I'll leave. I don't just stand there and let him do what he wants, I follow him around and watch everything he does.

I could just as easily have my dog bitten or exposed to unvaccinated dogs, infected feces, etc. while walking him around the block with a leash on. I rarely even take him for walks because I run into so many dogs just running lose. I've had more dogs charge up to us while on a leashed walk than at the dog park.

Yes, things happen that can't always be prevented, and no dog is 100% predictable. And there's a whole world full of stupid dog owners. But the stupid dog owners are not just at the dog park.

Well said Amy! I toally agree.

[anna_66]

Well, needless to say we've had our share of going to dog parks and the girls love it!
Now I think if I had small dogs like Chester or Millie I probably wouldn't take them. There is a good chance of smaller dogs getting hurt easily.
I know when we went to the Michigan dog park there was a small dog (can't remember what kind) and a lady is yelling "Who does this chow belong to?" Well of course, it was me:p She said Huney "attacked" her dog. Now I know this is not true, it's just Huney's way of playing. She has a low growl and grabs their legs. To her it's all in good fun. But then again I understand the lady's feelings. Her dog was much smaller than mine (that's why I wouldn't take small dogs to a park with much larger dogs).

But in answer to your question, I think you are being a very responsible dog owner. Your dog listens and does what you tell him to.
I agree, this lady is a moron & someone should tell her how stupid she's being.

[Kfamr]

I totally agree with both Amy's 100%. :p

Nala is VERY vocal when she plays. Normally the owners here have no problem with it either.


Our dog park here has a side for small dogs and a side for big dogs. So there's no 150 lb dog attacking a 10 lb dog, unless the owner is stupid enough to bring a 10 lb dog into the big dogs section, vice versa.

They also require current tags, which you can't get tags unless you dog has vaccinations. The park ranger comes by often to check for them.


Yeah, it's a bit risky even with dogs of the same size. But it's also risky not to socialize them as much as you can. It may be better for someone like Twisterdog, since she has 10 or so dogs (right?) because i'm sure they are more than occupied with each other.

It's a bit different for someone like me, who has two complete different opposite personality-wise dogs.

[Lixx]

I personally like dog parks. Granted you do have to be careful. I have met a few irresponsible owners that just piss me off. But most are there, the same as you, and just want their dogs to have a good time. Dante loves it and I would hate for him not to have the oppertunity to go.

[catnapper]

Um, can I add one more thing? Nicki is a 100 pound mutt. Very sweet, very passive. The only time she was attacked - seriously attacked was by a small 15 pound Terrier that truly tried to tear out her jugular... even managed to cut her on the throat and deep slashes across her eye that needed stiches! Nicki was shocked and backed up and tried to get away. She never even tried to retaliate. This Terrier was a typical Terrier. She was sweet and loving and she belonged to ----- my Grandmom!

No attacks in the park, no attacks on our walks. I never saw any attacks as the pet owners were very responsible and "policed" the park to ensure the saftey for their dog and all others. I am not a bad mom for bringing her to the park or taking her on walks. The fear and guilt others instill make a pet owner feel that the only safety for their pet is in their own locked backyard with other pets that have been screened.

Please - nothing in this world is perfectly safe or going to make everyone happy. Otherwise, I would never have put her in the car and made the 35 minute drive.

I still believe its like kindergarten, which is a metaphore!!! I know there is a wide breadth of size and temperments. Its been my experience that the smaller dogs often were the more aggressive of the park. When we had a small Maltese, she would provoke Rotties and Dobies on our walks. Size doesn't always equal timidity or agrression. Sure, the larger dogs could potentially cause more harm faster, but the small ones do too. I'm sorry this is causing such a debate... its supposed to be something we do for ourselves and our pets. Its a personal decision and you take from it what you want. Like it = go. Disagree with the concepts = stay home.

[cali]

I know we dont really have a problem with "bad apples" because we dont have a dog park, a bunch of dog lovers get together at certain times at chosen parks to play, basicly that lady with a chow mix would not know the "play groups" existed. there is a huge park that lots of people go to at an arranged time, I love it, there is plenty of room etc.. there is another that meets between 4-6 PM in a school yard, and there is a several hundred acre farmer feild at the end of 1st avenue its so big, that many people run there dogs there, its the main place we take the dogs to run. they can disapear after a rabbit warren for several minuts we dont think anything of it, because they may disapear from sight but they have no where to go, its enclosed in 3 sides by a large creek and a high fence. so once they loose the rabbits they come runnin back, I say let your dogs play how they like, its this chow mix lady thats the stupid one. ;)

[Twisterdog]

Hey, I never said any of you had to agree with me. I never said any of you were "bad dog owners." I never said anything about any of you; I specifically said, several times in fact, that I was talking about my dogs, my personal experience and preferences.

I also said, specifically, that I own small dogs, and therefore I have to take these issues more seriously than someone who owns a large dog. Simple physics - if a dog weighs ten pounds it is going to be in much more danger, even from simple "rough play" than a dog that weighs 100 pounds.

I gave my reasons for not taking my dogs to a dog park, and I listed two dogs that I personally knew that were killed at dog parks, one of them who weighed 80 pounds, and one who weighed 15 pounds.

What you choose to do with you own dogs is certainly your own business. And what I choose to do with my own dogs is certainly my business.

Just because someone states an opinion that doesn't necesarily match your opinion, doesn't mean that they are attacking you. It simply means you have differing opinons. Pretty simple.



I know we dont really have a problem with "bad apples" because we dont have a dog park, a bunch of dog lovers get together at certain times at chosen parks to play, basicly that lady with a chow mix would not know the "play groups" existed.

That's exactly what we do. A group of us that are friends, know each other, and know each others' dogs get together and let them all play. We all trust each other and each other's dogs.

I never said or implied that I never let my dogs around other people's dogs. I simply pick and choose who I let me dogs around. There is no way I am taking one of my fifteen pound dogs to a public dog park and letting her off leash with twenty or so dogs that are five times her size, without knowing anything about the people or the dogs. It's the equivelant of putting a three year old in a professional football game. To me, this is basic common sense. No one need be offended by it, or read more into it than was said.

[wolf_Q]

Originally posted by Twisterdog


Every time you go in a dog park, you are trusting the health, safety and very life of your beloved pets to a bunch of strangers.

This, I took as applying to me and anyone else who visits a dog park.

[clara4457]

I have mixed reactions to dog parks, mainly because of the owners not really understanding dog behavior very well. Before I owned my own home, it was great for Leo because it allowed him to run and play and socialize when I didn't really have space for him to do that. I did, however, always take him during non peak times so that I could control his environment better.

I do think that you need to be just as aware of how people are feeling as well as reading the dogs body language. If a dog owner is uncomfortable with how the two dogs are playing together, it is your job to remove your dog to another part of the park. If a dog owner understands the two dogs are playing, then leave them be. That being said though - there are a great many times that rough play escalates into fighting. Dogs are very subtle creatures - and some breeds are more subtle than others.

Penny Lane will do a low throaty growl when she is trying to communicate that she is anxious and then she will try to attack. Leo will just try to turn and walk away from the other dog several times and then will turn suddenly and attack if they continue to annoy him. To someone who is not aware of dog behavior might say that Leo attacked for no reason - but he actually gave signal after signal after signal.

Now that I have my own home, I much prefer play dates to keep him socialized. My sister brings her GSD Hutch over all the time and him and Leo play pretty rough and growly. We are both very aware of when we need to call the dogs away from each other and stop rough housing.

I have to agree with Twisterdog, that unless you have a dog park that maintains policies of vaccinations, seperate areas for small and large dogs, and will regulate the area when there are dogs that are aggressive (i.e. dobie under control - Okay; chow mix running loose and attacking - banned), you are better off with playdates and doggie day care with experienced dog people.

JMHO

[Twisterdog]

Originally posted by wolf_Q
This, I took as applying to me and anyone else who visits a dog park.

Well, sure. It DOES apply to you and me and everyone else who visits a dog park. Do you disagree? You are trusting the other people in the dog park, are you not? You walk in, you take off your dogs leash, and you trust that everyone else in the dog park has a fairly well-trained, friendly dog, right? You are trusting that if someone has an extremely dog-aggressive, violent, uncontrollable beast, that they left him at home. Right? Of course you are trusting those strangers, there is no other way to do it, unless you know everyone there - which is highly unlikely.

Everyone is different, and everyone is comfortable with different levels of risk. I'm not comfortable taking my small dogs to a dog park. If you are comfortable taking your larger dog to a dog park, more power to you. To each his own. I'm not criticising people who use dog parks at all. I'm just stating why I won't. People should hear both sides of the story, right?

If you take your dogs to a dog park, you (hopefully!) realize that there are certain inherent dangers and risks. If you don't realize this and are thinking there is no possible risk or danger at all, you are probably not going to be watching as closely as you should, and setting yourself and your dog up for a potential issue. Seeing dog parks, or anything else for that matter, only through rose-colored glasses is setting yourself up for a fall, to be sure.

And of course, dog parks are not the only place where risks exist. I never said that, either. Taking your dog on a walk around the block, they may meet an aggressive dog running loose. (Of course ... that's why I carry Mace on walks, too.) I simply choose not to take part in what I perceive as a risky activity for MY dogs.

And, when I use "you" in a post, I don't mean YOU personally, or anyone else personally. The proper pronoun to use would be "one" instead of "you", but I find that the majority of people are not used to seeing the pronoun "one" used a lot, and it tends to sound pretentious.



Our dog park here has a side for small dogs and a side for big dogs. So there's no 150 lb dog attacking a 10 lb dog, unless the owner is stupid enough to bring a 10 lb dog into the big dogs section, vice versa.

Well, that would make a tremendous amount of difference! It's a great idea. Unfortunately, none of the dog parks I've seen around here are divided like that. :(

[wolf_Q]

You walk in, you take off your dogs leash, and you trust that everyone else in the dog park has a fairly well-trained, friendly dog, right? You are trusting that if someone has an extremely dog-aggressive, violent, uncontrollable beast, that they left him at home. Right?

As I said earlier, if there's aggressive dogs or idiot owners, I'm not just going to sit there and let things happen, I'll leave.


If you take your dogs to a dog park, you (hopefully!) realize that there are certain inherent dangers and risks. If you don't realize this and are thinking there is no possible risk or danger at all, you are probably not going to be watching as closely as you should, and setting yourself and your dog up for a potential issue. Seeing dog parks, or anything else for that matter, only through rose-colored glasses is setting yourself up for a fall, to be sure.

OF COURSE I realize that there are risks. And as I've said in my posts several times, I follow my dog around and watch him very closely. If the dogs start to play too rough I'll take him away for a time out.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I don't care AT ALL if you choose to not take your dogs to a dog park. I was just stating my opinion on dog parks and my opinion on how your post made me feel.

[Twisterdog]

Originally posted by wolf_Q
OF COURSE I realize that there are risks.

I was just stating my opinion on dog parks and my opinion on how your post made me feel.

And, once again, Wolf-Q, I am not addressing YOU in particular when I spoke about realizing there are risks.

As I said, "And, when I use "you" in a post, I don't mean YOU personally, or anyone else personally. The proper pronoun to use would be "one" instead of "you", but I find that the majority of people are not used to seeing the pronoun "one" used a lot, and it tends to sound pretentious."

I'm sorry if my post made you feel bad, it was never directed at YOU, but just at people in general. I guess I'm not making myself clear here, but I don't know any other way to explain it.

[wolf_Q]

"And, when I use "you" in a post, I don't mean YOU personally, or anyone else personally. The proper pronoun to use would be "one" instead of "you", but I find that the majority of people are not used to seeing the pronoun "one" used a lot, and it tends to sound pretentious."

I read this the first time.


Originally posted by Twisterdog
This, I took as applying to me and anyone else who visits a dog park.

Well, sure. It DOES apply to you and me and everyone else who visits a dog park. Do you disagree? You are trusting the other people in the dog park, are you not?


This still certainly sounds like the you is referring to me. ;)

I don't want to argue, so let's just agree to disagree Twisterdog. :)

[sabies]

Originally posted by Brie
Personally, I wouldn't take the passive-agressive approach with a woman like that.

I would tell her straight to her face her dog does not belong at a dog park if it's agressive to other dogs.

I agree with Brie. Sounds like too much has already happened and you've been too nice to this woman. I'm a bit of a wimp so I don't know if I could do it but she NEEDS to know that her dog should not be there til he/she is under control. Someone maintains the park, inform them if you do not want to approach her or at least make a formal complaint about her so when she does try to sue someone or the park it's on record that this woman is the real problem.

My dog is only 35 lbs and is very submissive but when she is playing with other dogs she growls loudly. Other dogs growl along with her and it's obviously playful though to someone unfamiliar with dogs it may sound scary.

It sounds like you are sensitive to the reactions of other dogs and owners and that's the best kind of person to have in a dog park.

So far for Sadie dog park benefits have outweighed the risks. Unfortunately we recently moved and the closest park is PAVED! We don't go there since her joints are too old to run on pavement.

[Twisterdog]

I don't want to argue, so let's just agree to disagree Twisterdog.

Ah, come on! It's below zero outside, and everyone is still asleep. Don't call it "arguing" ... call it "debate", passing the time on a boring Sunday morning. ;)

[Dog1,Cats2]

I'm very cautious when I take my dog to a dog park, because of all the reasons listed above. She's about 25 lbs, so on the smaller side.

But I've found that it's been wonderful taking my adopted/rescue American Eskimo dog to a dog park for interaction with other dogs (and I originally took her when there were only a few other dogs there). It has helped her become a lot more comfortable and more social - she started out being scared and quite aggressive toward other dogs.

Before we go in, I size up who is already there and what the level of dog activity is. If it doesn't seem controlled and safe, then we got elsewhere. I've heard of people like the moron woman with the dog who attacked everyone else, but luckily I haven't come across it.

It does seem a lot like parents and children at a playground - and if there's anything that might be unfomfortable or out of line, talk to the other dog moms or dads & ask if they're OK with it. I certainly appreciate it when somebody asks me if it's OK for their dog to whatever with or around mine!

I think, just because you're asking, that you probably rate a few notches above most the other folks out there!!

[Tonya]

I agree that dog parks are a risk. But we've had so much fun out there, that I feel it's a risk worth taking. One of the guys there carries this stick thing-a-majig that is for breaking up dog fights. I think I might invest in one.

On the same line, when that girl brought that pug the other day, I was kind of surprised. I don't think that I would have brought Teddy around a bunch of big dogs like that. You never know if a dog has a high prey drive or something...I don't put that far off on the scale of bringing my cat to a dog park.

I can't and don't want to complain...this park is more of a charity from a church. It is totally unmanned, not really any rules. They just have some clean up bags and a sign with a few rules.

I've actually been looking for a home church. And any church that thinks of dogs has my heart. lol. I'm considering getting involved with this church and offering to help with the dog park. -Getting a little more structure there so there isn't liabilities. Also, since I work for the phone company, I can get telephone poles set there with lighting on them for free. That'd be awesome for the summer nights.

Everyone else says little jokingly comments like "Haha, look how Dusty paws at all the dogs, he's trying to body slam them...." I've came right out and asked them if they want me to call him back. And everytime the owner laughs and says "Oh, no, they are just having fun...my dog will get used to it, he needs some real play...." Everytime, I've called my dogs back, the people will be "No, no, let them be! They're fine."

I don't know if these people are just trying to be polite or if it truly doesn't bother them.

[Shelteez2]

Originally posted by Tonya
On the same line, when that girl brought that pug the other day, I was kind of surprised. I don't think that I would have brought Teddy around a bunch of big dogs like that. You never know if a dog has a high prey drive or something...I don't put that far off on the scale of bringing my cat to a dog park.

High prey drive should be looked at and dealt with just like aggression is. If one has a high prey drive dog, then one should make sure it has a darn good call off command. Small dog owners have a right to use dog parks too. :)

[Tonya]

True. I'd just be nervous to trust dog owners that I don't know with Teddy.

[Miss Meow]

I think of every experience with dogs as risk management. There are two labs on our evening walk who I trust with the sausages and they've learned to interact well; there is a German shepherd on our street that I don't trust because I don't think the owner has enough control over the dog. We do the same at dog-friendly parks and talk to the owners about their dogs before we ask for introductions and let ours off leash. I think we have to: we've met dogs that could break B&S's necks in a single snap and that's something I'm not prepared to risk. Having said that, they need socialising so we make the effort to meet other dogs as often as we can.

I've never had success with telling people that their dogs are a risk to society, they should train their dogs etc; they tend to get defensive and ignore the feedback anyway. So we take it upon ourselves to take appropriate action with our dogs - can't change others but we can manage the situation.

[Brie]

twisterdog... the difference between you and me when we go to dog parks is....

I go and talk to all the other owners in the park. By the time I leave not only have my dog interacted with every dog there. I have interacted with ALL the dogs AND the people.

If you automatically crawl up into a little hole and put up a wall, how's ANYONE going to ever get in? you'll never get a chance to know if anyone is ever trust worthy if you don't take that risk and extend your hand for that first shake.

Nothing in this world is guaranteed to be safe. Have you ever heard of harm reduction? It's a term most commonly used in drug education. Basically applying it to this situation... by taking my dogs to the dog park I am teaching them how to behave with other dogs of a variety of sizes and personalities in a variety of different situations, therefore reducing the risk of future problems.

I have a a 17lb Boston terrier, so I too am a small dog owner. Yes he goes to the dog park and he loves it! Yes he does go over into the big dog area and into parks that don't have that seperation between big and small dogs.
I think you're putting you're dogs at a greater risk by not socializing them with dogs of ALL sizes. Cause now, they don't know how to play with big dogs.

And I think it's sad that to protect you and yours you're not open to new experiences that require a little bit of risk.

I have to ask... do you enjoy roller coasters? How about cooking? Do you take asprin or any medication.... have you read the warning labels on these? Do you operate a motor vehicle? -- All of these things are a risk every time you do them.

[Cincy'sMom]

Originally posted by Miss Meow
I've never had success with telling people that their dogs are a risk to society, they should train their dogs etc; they tend to get defensive and ignore the feedback anyway. So we take it upon ourselves to take appropriate action with our dogs - can't change others but we can manage the situation.

Excellent points Nicole! I think they only thing you really can do is know as best you can how your dog will react in any situation and be ready to step in if they surprise you.

We are lucky in that even though are dogs are big and play rough, they seem to understand about smaller dogs too. Our next door neighbor had an elderly long hair doxie ( now at the bridge) that Sadie would just lay down and snuggle with in the front yard, even when she was just a puppy herself. At the same time, I know if a dog is jumping and barking at a fence while we are walking, Sadie is going to be protective and try to go at that dog. I start telling her to leave it before we get the yard, keep tallking her to as we go by and keep all 3 focused on moving ahead.

[Miss Meow]

Originally posted by Cincy'sMom
Excellent points Nicole! I think they only thing you really can do is know as best you can how your dog will react in any situation and be ready to step in if they surprise you.

We are lucky in that even though are dogs are big and play rough, they seem to understand about smaller dogs too. Our next door neighbor had an elderly long hair doxie ( now at the bridge) that Sadie would just lay down and snuggle with in the front yard, even when she was just a puppy herself. At the same time, I know if a dog is jumping and barking at a fence while we are walking, Sadie is going to be protective and try to go at that dog. I start telling her to leave it before we get the yard, keep tallking her to as we go by and keep all 3 focused on moving ahead.

I forgot to mention something about small dogs too. Schnaggles, all 10 pounds of him, went for a small fluffball pup at puppy class a few weeks ago. It was a complete surprise for all of us considering that he's normally shy when first meeting dogs. Fortunately both animals were on leads. At the park last week he also growled and barked aggressively at a blue heeler that was 10 times his size - thank god she was deaf because it was quite embarrassing! ;) Our lesson from that was to check out every dog we meet, regardless of size or preconception of how our dogs might react.

[micki76]

Originally posted by Brie
twisterdog... the difference between you and me when we go to dog parks is....

I go and talk to all the other owners in the park. By the time I leave not only have my dog interacted with every dog there. I have interacted with ALL the dogs AND the people.

If you automatically crawl up into a little hole and put up a wall, how's ANYONE going to ever get in? you'll never get a chance to know if anyone is ever trust worthy if you don't take that risk and extend your hand for that first shake.

Nothing in this world is guaranteed to be safe. Have you ever heard of harm reduction? It's a term most commonly used in drug education. Basically applying it to this situation... by taking my dogs to the dog park I am teaching them how to behave with other dogs of a variety of sizes and personalities in a variety of different situations, therefore reducing the risk of future problems.

I have a a 17lb Boston terrier, so I too am a small dog owner. Yes he goes to the dog park and he loves it! Yes he does go over into the big dog area and into parks that don't have that seperation between big and small dogs.
I think you're putting you're dogs at a greater risk by not socializing them with dogs of ALL sizes. Cause now, they don't know how to play with big dogs.

And I think it's sad that to protect you and yours you're not open to new experiences that require a little bit of risk.

I have to ask... do you enjoy roller coasters? How about cooking? Do you take asprin or any medication.... have you read the warning labels on these? Do you operate a motor vehicle? -- All of these things are a risk every time you do them.

Ohm, Brie, you don't know Twister at all. LOL

[robinh]

A friend of mine and I have talked about joining and taking the kids to a dog park, but I've not made up my mind yet. Mine have a great big back yard to run in, but I wonder if they need interaction with other dogs - some socialization. They play together every day, but don't get to meet other people and dogs. I'm not sure how they will react so I guess I've hesitated. In the spring, I'm going to go check out the park to see what the arrangements are before I make up my mind.

Everyone ere knows their own dog(s), so I can't say one opinion is right or wrong. I think everyone has to make that decision based on their own experience.

[ParNone]

Okay I've gotta ask. Why do dogs need to play with other dogs to be socialized? I consider Oz to be quite friendly towards other dogs, but he does not get to play with them. He's exposed to them weekly with agility training, but through that controlled environment, he learns to more or less ignore them and focus on me. I actually prefer that. We can walk through the neighborhood and he's not barking, lunging or pulling on the leash to get to other dogs. And he gets plenty of play with me and Murph, so he's not lacking for play at all.

As to Murph, he's very similar to Oz in that he ignores other dogs, when he's on leash. I can take him to places with other dogs, without worry as long as he's on leash, and being a terrier he's on leash 24/7, when he's outside our backyard or house. So no worries there. Now if I took him to a dog park, I'd have major worries. Who he might take a dislike to and attack in the small dog area and hurt, and who in the big dog area would hurt him, because he's not going to back down. I just don't see the benefit. He also gets enough play with me and Oz, and he's not sequestered away at home. So it's not like he's deprived.

Anyway I'm not suggesting what's right for anybody else, I'm just curious why they need to actually play with other dogs to be well socialized vs just being around other dogs. I also worry that one really bad encounter with another dog could actually ruin my dog's attitude towards other dogs.

Par...

[cali]

I dont know about others but happy cannot be socialized on a leash, or if someone has physical control over her, she flips, she will bark and lung, and start a fight however if she is off leash and controled ONLY by my verbal commands she is very friendly. she just does not feel safe when she is controled, it makes her feel trapped, and and frightend like if something should happen she wont be able to get away. on leash she has gone crazy one week when it mom was handling her(I was not there) she grabbed happys collar instead of letteing happy meet the dog on her own terms, big mistake. happy will be very calm as long as she is not physicly controlled in any way.

[wolf_Q]

Originally posted by Twisterdog
Ah, come on! It's below zero outside, and everyone is still asleep. Don't call it "arguing" ... call it "debate", passing the time on a boring Sunday morning. ;)

Yes, see but I was passing the time for entirely too long...I needed to go take a shower and actually accomplish something! Ok, so I didn't really accomplish anything. ;)

[shais_mom]

Originally posted by Tonya

Everyone else says little jokingly comments like "Haha, look how Dusty paws at all the dogs, he's trying to body slam them...." I've came right out and asked them if they want me to call him back. And everytime the owner laughs and says "Oh, no, they are just having fun...my dog will get used to it, he needs some real play...." Everytime, I've called my dogs back, the people will be "No, no, let them be! They're fine."

I don't know if these people are just trying to be polite or if it truly doesn't bother them.
This is exactly what happens to me.
Our dog park has also
1) a rule if a female is in heat she isn't permitted in the park
2) a time out cage so if the dogs get a little overzealous you can sock them in there. Keegan has been in there a time or 2
:rolleyes:

[Twisterdog]

Brie ... Micki is absolutely right. You DON'T know me at all. And I find it incredibly rude and presumptious of you to act as if you do. But, I'll attempt to let you get to know me a little better in this post. Be careful what you wish for ...



Originally posted by Brie
twisterdog... the difference between you and me when we go to dog parks is....

False assumption number one: Where did I ever say I went to dog parks? I said specifically that I do NOT go to dog parks. So, you have no idea what I do when I go to a dog park ... since I don't even go, and you've certainly never personally seen me at one, have you?



I go and talk to all the other owners in the park. By the time I leave not only have my dog interacted with every dog there. I have interacted with ALL the dogs AND the people.

You claim to have interacted with ALL the dogs and ALL the people at your dog park. Small dog park? Or do you stay there for twelve hours? Because some of the large dog parks cover miles and miles of trails, and hundreds of people and dogs may be using them at the same time. Don't assume every dog park is like your dog park.


If you automatically crawl up into a little hole and put up a wall, how's ANYONE going to ever get in? you'll never get a chance to know if anyone is ever trust worthy if you don't take that risk and extend your hand for that first shake.

False assumption number two: You obviously haven't read too many of my posts, have you? If you had, you would see that my personality is ANYthing but a hole-crawling, wall-building, risk-avoiding wall-flower. I take PLENTY of risks, dear. You have no idea what my life is like. The fact that you would even attempt to analyze me, and be sooooo far off the mark to boot, is very amusing to me. I said I won't go to dog parks. That hardly means that I am a sniveling basket case of terror, now does it?



Nothing in this world is guaranteed to be safe. Have you ever heard of harm reduction? It's a term most commonly used in drug education. Basically applying it to this situation... by taking my dogs to the dog park I am teaching them how to behave with other dogs of a variety of sizes and personalities in a variety of different situations, therefore reducing the risk of future problems..

False assumption number three ... that my dogs do not know how to behave with other dogs of a variety of sizes. If you would have read my posts more carefully, you would have seen that I mentioned that instead of going to dog parks, a group of people have organized, and private, sessions with our dogs. My dogs are VERY well socialized, and have never been the cause of a fight. They are used to dogs from 5 pounds to 200 pounds. One of their best friends is a mastiff. Since you've never met me or my dogs, and apparently you don't read too carefully, you should not assume anything.



I have a a 17lb Boston terrier, so I too am a small dog owner. Yes he goes to the dog park and he loves it! Yes he does go over into the big dog area and into parks that don't have that seperation between big and small dogs....


False assumption number four ... that everyone has access to a dog park that has a "big dog" and a "small dog" area. You said yourself that you don't take your dog "into parks that don't have that seperation between big and small dogs." You are assuming everyone lives somewhere where they have that luxury. To the best of my knowledge, which is fairly extensive since I own a grooming shop, boarding kennel, do breed rescue and direct a no-kill shelter, there is no "seperated" dog park for over 200 miles from here. That'd be a bit of a drive. I also mentioned this fact in one of my posts.


I think you're putting you're dogs at a greater risk by not socializing them with dogs of ALL sizes. Cause now, they don't know how to play with big dogs...


How incredibly rude - and false - to say that I've put my dogs at risk by not socializing them, and assuming they don't know how to play with big dogs. Where, pray tell, did you EVER see me say or imply anything of the sort? I normally have between two and four foster dogs at all times, for one thing. (Although I've taken a bit of a break lately.) That is in addition to all the other dogs they meet between my work, my volunteering, my friends, my family, and the groups of us that get together with our dogs. You, frankly, have no clue what you are talking about. You think just because I don't go to public dog parks that my dogs get no socialization at all? My, what a giant leap of logic that is.



And I think it's sad that to protect you and yours you're not open to new experiences that require a little bit of risk.

I have to ask... do you enjoy roller coasters? How about cooking? Do you take asprin or any medication.... have you read the warning labels on these? Do you operate a motor vehicle? -- All of these things are a risk every time you do them.

I can't decide if this is funny or just pathetic. You have NO idea about me, or my life. What a lot of melodramatic hogwash.


And Ms. Wolf_Q .....


I needed to go take a shower and actually accomplish something!

Where are your priorities?? ;)


Edit: I just realized that you said you DO take your dog into the "big dog" side. When I first read it, I thought you said you did NOT. Sorry, my mistake.

[micki76]

Originally posted by Twisterdog
That hardly means that I am a sniveling basket case of terror, now does it?

ROTFLMAO

[wolf_Q]

Originally posted by Twisterdog

And Ms. Wolf_Q .....

Where are your priorities?? ;) [/B]

Not where they should be, I can guarantee that...but showers are important! ;)

I did wrestle an almost 18 year old poodle and give him a haircut (and surprisingly, all of my fingers are still fully functioning...no bite marks!) so I guess I can count that as an accomplishment!

[RobiLee]

Wow! This thread has really started something.

I think you are doing just fine at the dog park, Tonya. If that one lady's dog continues to be a problem and she talks to you about it than you should just be honest and tell her that you think her dog is the one with the problem. Maybe even some other dog owners could try to talk to her.

As for dog parks, I love dog parks! I wish we had one close by. We are checking in to one that is about an hour away. It is acutally filled up right now and we have to be on a waiting list. Sounds like they have very strict rules, which I like. I don't know if dog parks are good or bad. All I know is that I absolutely love to watch Katie run free and to see her interact with other dogs. She seems to truly love it and I love it because I get to see lots of dogs! Yes, anything can happen at any time. I have learned that I have to watch Katie at all times and make sure that I am ready to step in if something does happen. I have only been to a dog park twice and that was the Findlay Pet Talk get togethers and of course everyone there is great and helpful.

Robin :)

[trayi52]

Like I was saying, dog parks are so new to me! I don't even know if there are any in Tennessee! I had never even heard of one! I really feel like a hick now for sure!!!!!

I had never heard of one at all until I came to Pet Talk. Then I heard about how everybody was talking about Dog Parks, and for a while I thought they were just talking about a regular park. Then I hear about the rules and waiting list to get into a dog park! I do need to be more informed. Don't I??

Willie

[RobiLee]

Originally posted by trayi52
Like I was saying, dog parks are so new to me! I don't even know if there are any in Tennessee! I had never even heard of one! I really feel like a hick now for sure!!!!!

I had never heard of one at all until I came to Pet Talk. Then I heard about how everybody was talking about Dog Parks, and for a while I thought they were just talking about a regular park. Then I hear about the rules and waiting list to get into a dog park! I do need to be more informed. Don't I??

Willie

Don't feel bad, Willie. I was the same way until I came here. Staci is the one that gave me a great website to see if there is a dog park close to you. I think it is www.dogpark.com. See if that works. I'll look it up again to make sure that is it.

Robin :)

[RobiLee]

I was wrong, Willie. It was Amy who gave me the website and it is www.thedogpark.com. Check it out to see if there is one near you.

Robin :)

[pitc9]

The first time I was ever at a dog park was at the Pet Talk meeting this past fall.
I know Sierra and Buddy play VERY rough with each other, so I was careful when entering. Sierra was a little Angel playing with everyone from the Great Danes to the tiny 12 week old puppy. She LOVED Anna's Roxey... might I add! :D

Buddy, on the other hand
:o

(as you that were with us noticed)

that I had to keep him on a leash the entire day because he wouldn't let dogs get near me:rolleyes:. He would give a BIG deep bark to any four legger that came to close.
He had NO problem with people comming near me, or people petting him. But I learned that Buddy sees all other dogs as a threat to me. (ahhhh my own body guard :rolleyes: )
So I learned!

He is a big brut and loves to play rough, Sierra can handle it and give it right back to him!! (you go girl!)

So, I really didn't know what to expect when I got there, and now I do! Now I know that more then likley I will never take Buddy to a dog park again!

[trayi52]

Can you believe it? It only shows four and the nearest one is a little over a hundred miles from me, in Nashville. I think I'll check Alabama, I live very close to the Alabama State line.

These were the ones that showed up in Tennessee:

Steele Creek Park
City: Bristol
Address:
Directions:
Hours:
Comments: It is an excellent park to take your dog.

BARK 'N' PARK
City: COOKEVILLE
Address: 3626 EATON ROAD
Directions:
Hours: M-F 8-5 s&s call
Comments: A fenced in place for pets to run and enjoy. 1.5+ acres. Newly opened, we will be adding agility equipment and other fumn doggy stuff. Included (to open spring 2003) will be 85 acres on Nature Trails to enjoy onleash.

Shelby Farms
City: Memphis
Address: Gate 12 off Raliegh-La Grange Rd.
Directions:
Hours:
Comments: This is an area that is leash free within a larger park. Access to this area is through Gate 12. Before 12pm, another area, Patriot Lake, allows dogs off leash as well.

Maggie's Bark Park
City: Nashville
Address: 138 Claude Yates Drive
Directions: We are located 15 miles south of Nashville, Tennessee.
Hours:
Comments: Park has a quarter of a mile on leash trail, and a very large fenced area filled with agility equipment for off leash fun. The park is located on the property of Williamson County Animal Control, and the money was donated to start the park by two of our very special volunteers to honor their Bearded Collie Maggie, they lost last year at the age of 14 years. The purpose of the park is for all animal lovers to enjoy their pets in a safe enviroment, and to promote adoptions from Williamson County Animal Control.

[trayi52]

Funny it only showed one in Alabama, there has to be more than that!!

We are just so far behind, I think we are still living in the dark ages!

Willie

[Cincy'sMom]

Unfortunatly, not every dog park that exsists is listed on the web. Someone has to infor the site host and then they are listed. Both links Robin posted list dog parks, but www.dogpark.com is "Under Construction" right now. It used to be the one I used all the time.

[cali]

um ok now I am confused just HOW do these dog parks work? rules? waiting lists? huh? our city was planning on starting a dog park but all they were planning on doing to taking away a no dogs allowed sign from a people park. :p

[Cincy'sMom]

Every dog park has it's own rules. Some parks allow dogs, on leash. What we are talking about mostly, is fenced in "areas" that allow dogs to run off-leash. Rules vary, some have serparate ares for large and small dogs, some have ponds or lakes for the dogs to swim in, some have agility equipment. Some are free, some require either daily usage fee or a yearly membership fee. Most require proof of vaccinations, and that you pick up after your dog.