Dog Park Etiquette Tips to Help You Avoid a Faux Pas

Like us humans, dogs are born to lead active lives. They love to go outside to play just as much as we do. Fortunately for those that live at Harbor Club, both residents and their canine “kids” have a brand new dog park to do just that.

At our brand new amenity center, The Grove, you’ll find our recently unveiled dog park. The park is actually made up of two fenced-in sections—one designated for large breeds and the other for smaller pups. It’s a fantastic place for both the dogs and their owners to socialize, get to know one another and make new friends. 

To get the most out of your dog park experience, however, it’s important to be considerate of others. Here are some great etiquette tips to help you (and Fido) avoid any potential improprieties:

• No matter what, always pick up after your dog. It’s just good manners and will keep the park clean and tidy so everyone can enjoy it.
• Think twice about bringing your pooch to the dog park if he or she:
  • is sick
  • has not been properly vaccinated
  • is under 12 weeks of age
  • is female dog in heat
  • has aggressive tendencies or is very anxious around other dogs
• Keep small dogs in the small breed pen and large breeds in the large breed pen.
• As fun as it is to chat with other people at the dog park, don’t let that stop you from supervising your pet.
• The same goes for using smartphones. Avoid staring at the screen more than you are watching your dog.
• If there are kids at the dog park, pay particular attention to them and their interaction with the dogs. Be vigilant to make sure everyone gets along nicely with one another.
• Avoid bringing any other items into the park, other than your dog. Even if it is just a lawn chair or a backpack, it will likely get chewed up or urinated on quicker than you can say “No!”
• Refrain from giving human food and treats to any dogs at the park. Some may be on special diets or have allergic reactions to certain ingredients.
• If your dog doesn’t want to play at the dog park, don’t force the situation. It’s supposed to be fun! Leave and try again another day. Over time, the park and its attendees will become more familiar, which can make it a more comfortable place for your dog to play.

We are so excited to have this new dog park at Harbor Club, and we know the community is, too! If you’re at the park with your pup, we’d love it if you’d snap a photo and share it with us on our Facebook Page!