Socializing Dogs at Off-Leash Dog Parks

Our beagle Ruby is an exuberant little pup, to put it mildly. She seems to have a happiness about her that is apparent in every waking moment. Ruby is full of joy and has an uncanny ability to bring a ton of joy into our home.

So, it never occurred to me that others may not feel the same way about our sweet little beagle. Look at her; how could anyone resist such an adorable, innocent, floppy-eared face? As it turns out, quite a few people walking their dogs in the neighborhood can.

Sure, her howl may put a few people off, but it's always accompanied with the biggest, happiest tail-wagging. She simply is excited to see one of her own kind and would give anything to make a new canine friend. When allowed to greet, the sniffing exchange is always calm and both dogs seem to be happy. But, when not allowed to greet a would-be canine friend, Ruby seems to whimper in complete sadness as the other dog is walked away.

Finally, sick of what I think of as "dog walking snobs," I decided that I needed to find like-minded dog owners who wanted their dogs to meet other dogs and have fun being together; who didn't panic at our beagle's howls of anticipation; and who didn't flinch or walk away at the sight of an oncoming dog. The solution was obvious -- Ruby needed to be taken to an off-leash dog park.

Americans own over 73 million dogs and 60% of U.S. households have at least one dog. Dog parks are not only beneficial to the dogs, but also to the dog owners.

Dog parks benefit dog owners by:

• Allowing dog owners to meet and socialize with other dog owners
• Providing a place to get exercise by walking on trails with their dog(s)

Off-Leash dog parks benefit dogs by providing a place where dogs:

• Interact and play with other dogs
• Freely follow their pack instincts
• Explore unfettered, sniffing their way through trails (This is really important for our dog since a beagle's sense of smell and ability to track a scent is second nature.)
• Develop friendships and the companionship of other dogs
• Exercise by running at top-speed in open spaces and wrestling with each other
• Don't have territory and territorial issues, reducing any aggression
• Have fun, tire themselves out, and are more well-behaved at home

There are definite rules at dog parks and they should be followed for the safety of the dogs, as well as dog owners.

• Do not take a puppy under 4 months to a dog park. Puppies need to have all their rabies vaccines before interacting with other dogs.
• Even though dogs are running in open areas meant for dogs, owners are still responsible for cleaning up after their dog. Many dog parks provide plastic bags to encourage clean-up.
• If your dog is being aggressive, then remove him from the park.
• Many dog parks have double-fenced entries. Be sure to close and lock all gates.
• Only bring dogs that can follow verbal commands.
• Keep a watchful eye on your dog, monitoring both his safety and behavior.

There are over 600 dog parks in the U.S. and an estimated 1100 parks in both the U.S. and Canada combined.

Doggeek.com Dog Park Directory - Seems to be a very comprehensive list of dog parks in the U.S.

The Original Dog Parks Directory - Contains lists and links to dog parks in the U.S. and Canada

Leash - Dogs should be leashed in parking lot areas and may need to be leashed within the dog park if problems arise.

Treats - Dog parks are wonderful places to train a dog and of course treats aid in that process. It is also a good idea to bring treats in case an uncooperative dog needs to be enticed.

Plastic Bags - Dog parks are enjoyable places for both dogs and owners to exercise so dog poop should always be picked up.

Bowl & Water - Many dog parks have drinking fountains for the dogs but they seem rather germy. I prefer to bring my own bowl and water, also because on hot summer days sometimes a drink is needed when far away from a fountain.

Towel - Depending on the dog park and whether or not there is water or it has recently rained, having a towel is handy for cleaning up before getting in the car to go home.