Dog Parks

Today I am going to say a few words about dog parks. I know that there are many people who like to take their dogs to the dog park. However, there can be a number of problems associated with them. They are a tool just like any other, and when used properly, they can be a useful tool. Too many people use the dog park to exercise their dogs instead of taking them for a walk. Remember that the proper structure is exercise, discipline, and affection. Dog parks should be thought of as affection, not exercise. The reason is simple. When your dog is at the dog park they are running around off leash, and you have very little control over them unless they are really well trained. Exercise in the form of a good walk, is the best way to bond with your dog, because of the structure, and that is what they do in the wild. They walk together.
So, if you would like to take your dog to the dog park, try this the next time you go. Take your dog for a thirty minute walk, then take them to the gate of the park, and have them do a down stay. When they are calm and submissive, enter the first gate. Make sure they are calm and submissive, and then enter the park. Now you have had a great walk where the dog received exercise, and discipline, and the dog park can become the affection in the form of a reward. Use caution in dog parks, if you are training your dog, and then put them in a pack of unstable dogs, you can experience setbacks in your own training.