Originally posted by K9soul
I gather the park is totally a place to let the dogs do what dogs do, to play and just be dogs. It sounds like a very nice socialization tool. If I had a young pup I would take him or her purely for that aspect, and gradually work up to better manners and obedience while there.

Just my thoughts.
Exactly right. Which is why I think that dogs should be allowed to be dogs at dog parks. It's a place where a pet owner shouldn't have to worry about children and other distractions. I have no problem with children coming there, but if a parent wants to bring their child, they need to keep in mind that it's a dog park, not a playground for kids. My son has fun there, but he also knows the rules and I know that I'm totally at fault if something happens to him.