New to the Dog Park?

Here are some tips for a smooth and enjoyable time at the park.

The first visit to the park can be an overwhelming experience for a dog. We highly recommend taking the following steps to introduce your dog to the Dog Park.

 1.    For your first visit to the park, plan on just showing your dog the park.  Take a walk along the outside perimeter of the park and let your dog sniff the many scents it has to offer. These sights and smells will tell your dog allot about the park. Be patient and let your dog take its time!

2.  For the second visit to the park we recommend going at less crowded times of the day. Morning and evenings are peak (crowded) times at the park, so consider visiting in the late morning or afternoon when there will be fewer dogs at the park.

3.  Your dog may be cautious or apprehensive about entering the park gates. Remember patience, don’t force them and let them take their time!

4.  Any dog feels a bit intimidated on their first visit inside the park. So, to help, we recommend that once you are inside that you walk with your dog off-leash around the inside perimeter of the park. This way your dog can explore the park with minimal interaction with other dogs.  We recommend doing this for the first 5 visits. Don’t worry, when your dog is ready to jump in and join the fun you will know it! But remember, if you see your dog becoming stressed simply remove them from the situation and walk with them to the other end of the park.

5. Remember that if you are stressed then your dog will feel the stress too! Stay relaxed, and frequently reassure your dog in a calm tone of voice. Do not yell at them! This will only make the situation worse!

6. If you encounter a dog that you do not like, then simply move to the other end of the park. See also Rules .