Dog park etiquette

Please do:

• Have your dog leashed before entering an off-leash area.
• Clean up after your dog and always carry a waste bag – bins are provided.
• Ensure your dog is fully vaccinated when using all parks.
• Train your dog to have a reliable recall before using an off-leash park.
• Keep an eye on your dog to prevent any unruly behaviour towards other dogs or people.
• Consider leaving the park if your dog’s play interaction is not compatible (such as rough play).
• Teach your dog manners such as sit when greeting humans to avoid jumping up behaviour.
• Consider desexing your dog to decrease the likelihood of antisocial behaviour at the park.
• Be aware of canine body language (see below) that indicates your dog is not comfortable and consider leaving the park.
• Help stop your dog from barking at night. 

Please be aware not all dogs enjoy off-leash parks and may display the following signs to indicate they’re not comfortable interacting with other dogs:

1. tail between the legs
2. rolling onto the back
3. head down – cowering.

Signs that indicate your dog might feel threatened by another dog:

1. growling and or teeth baring
2. stiff body language
3. tail up and standing tall.

An overcrowded off-leash dog park can be overwhelming for some dogs. It’s ok if your dog does not enjoy the off-leash dog park – walk your dog on-leash instead.

Going out for long walks with your dog will not only provide physical and mental stimulation for your dog, but also exercise for yourself.