For many dogs, going to the park is the most exciting part of their day. It’s an opportunity to socialize, play fetch, and run around with their furry friends. Nevertheless, not all dog-to-dog encounters go smoothly, and there are specific guidelines to follow when playing in a dog park. If you’re unsure about the rules, it’s time to read our list of dos and don’ts for dog park play.
It is crucial to make courteous introductions between both dogs and humans for safety reasons when visiting a dog park. When observing familiar dogs greeting each other, they usually exchange a quick sniff around the face and rear before naturally giving each other some distance.
It is advisable not to allow your dog to quickly approach an unfamiliar canine or a group of dogs. The introduction of dogs must be done with caution, and this type of rushing in can lead to negative outcomes in their social interaction.
Make sure to keep your dog on a leash that is not too tight and maintain a reasonable distance from other dogs to allow them to check each other out from afar. It is possible that every dog may have a conflicting perception of another dog joining them, so it’s crucial to avoid any potential dog fights by preventing any reactions from other dogs that may view your dog as a threat rather than just a potential playmate.
Take a leisurely walk around the park’s edge towards the group of people. Initiate an introduction in a warm and friendly manner and inquire about their dogs’ various details such as breed, age, names, and sociability, as you allow your own furry companion to observe.
DO start with brief dog-to-dog introductions of around three seconds to allow for some investigative sniffing, before casually backing away. Spend some time just letting your dog and the other canines get used to each other’s presence.
Ensure that the sniffs during introductions are not excessively prolonged, as this could cause difficulties for your dog. Keep in mind that customary dog greetings are brief and simple, not prolonged events.
It is important to note that when your dog is on a leash, the safest method of meeting other dogs, they may feel uneasy and have limited options. Dogs typically respond to stress with fight or flight. However, when leashed, their only option is fight, which is why a dog might growl or snap as a warning if they feel their personal space is being invaded by another dog.
If your dog growls at other dogs, do not scold them as this is a natural response that indicates fear or discomfort. Instead, gently remove them from the situation and offer comforting reassurance that everything is fine. Allow your dog to calm down and trust that you have the situation handled, alleviating any anxiety they may feel.
It’s advisable not to anticipate immediate participation from your dog in other dogs’ activities. Although puppies and young dogs usually enjoy running and play-wrestling, older dogs are usually more cautious and selective about who they socialize with. You should repeat the observation and sniffing process a few times before moving on to the next step and determining whether your dog wants to get involved.
It is important to evaluate the circumstances and consider your dog’s nature and preferences. A small assembly consisting of calm, convivial canines and hospitable owners may allow your sociable dog to integrate smoothly, provided they do not behave assertively.
If a dog in the group displays reactivity or your dog feels insecure, this particular group may not be suitable for you.
It’s important to acknowledge that some dogs may find group play overwhelming and prefer spending time with one or two close friends. As a responsible owner, it’s important to observe your dog and tailor their social activities accordingly. Dogs who are anxious or uncomfortable may be more prone to feeling intimidated in a park setting, which could result in altercations or a fear of other dogs.
It is important to display respect and responsibility. Although your dog may desire to socialize with other dogs, certain dogs do not appreciate it.
It is important to distinguish between play behavior and aggression in dogs. Certain dogs may engage in rough play, growling or barking, and although some dogs may enjoy it, particularly with a familiar canine companion, it may be too overwhelming for others.
It’s essential to bear in mind that although certain dogs enjoy pursuing each other in circles around the park, it’s crucial not to stimulate gatherings of dogs to travel in a group as this could rapidly become unmanageable.
It is important to take note of the varying sizes of dogs as larger ones may exhibit predatory behavior towards smaller ones, resulting in confrontations and harm. When introducing a young or small dog to bigger dogs, ensure that they are introduced slowly and that the owners have confirmed the gentle nature of their dogs towards smaller pets.
DO keep a close eye on things and resist the temptation to scroll through your phone or just focus on other pet parents. Even close doggy friends have the occasional tiff and it’s your job as a dog guardian to keep watch on what’s going on.
Be alert for inconspicuous cues that indicate your dog’s unease, such as licking its lips, yawning, or panting when it’s not hot, having a tense body and raised tail. Paying attention to these alterations in your furry friend’s conduct, as well as that of other dogs, can empower you to act on their behalf before a confrontation with another canine turns violent.
It is important to develop an ability to identify aggressive conduct in dogs, including indications like raised hackles, bared teeth, and growling. In case you observe any signs of aggressive behavior in your dog or other dogs, bring your pet to you, attach its leash, and keep it away from the group.
If your dog appears anxious, fearful, or starts to act aggressively, avoid ignoring them. Bring them back on their leash and allow them some time and space away from the crowd.
BONUS: How to Train Dogs Who Are Not Food Motivated
Training a dog is made easy by the fact that for most dogs, a treat is a rewarding incentive that motivates them to do anything you ask. However, what approach do you take to train a dog that shows no interest in food rewards?
Training a dog can seem insurmountable when the furry friend lacks enthusiasm. It is essential to have a stimulus that appeals to their senses and persuades them to heed your commands. If the reward system does not work for your pet, it is expedient to adopt a different approach. The silver lining is, there are diverse instruments available that can expedite the process of teaching your dog.
In order to consider other forms of training incentives, it is crucial to comprehend the reason behind a dog’s initial lack of interest in food.
At times, a health problem could be causing the issue. Alternatively, your dog may not like the kind or brand of treats presented to them. Additionally, the reason behind a dog’s lack of interest in food could be due to its owner’s lack of interest in using food as a training tool. The primary initial step is to reveal the root issue.
Although it is infrequent, a few dogs have a preference for high-energy games, toys or social praise instead of food, but typically, these dogs are in the minority.
The Impact of Free-Feeding Dogs
Dogs that have constant access to food, or are free-fed, may lose their appetite and become choosy. In contrast, feeding dogs at specific times of the day may keep them more motivated to eat. Dogs who are free-fed may not show interest in food as they have access to it all the time.
Frequently, free-fed dogs will prefer high-value treats as they are more enjoyable than their standard food. Alternatively, establishing a set feeding schedule is another solution. The most appropriate timing and amount for meals will vary depending on various factors like age, breed, size, activity level, and health concerns. Consulting your veterinarian can aid in deciding the ideal frequency and portion sizes per meal for your dog.
The Problem of Misusing Treats
Dog owners may unintentionally decrease their dog’s food motivation at times by misusing treats. Such incidents occur frequently when treats are used to compel actions that the dog despises. For instance, some dog owners may utilize treats as a trick to get their furry friend inside the crate despite the canine’s reluctance to be confined. Alternatively, they might use treats to entice their dog into a bath by luring it with a treat and then forcing it into the tub. When treats are employed to control the dog, it will link treats with uncomfortable or frightening experiences and, as a result, shun them.
To prevent the misuse of treats, explore techniques for making activities that your dog doesn’t enjoy (such as being put in a crate or having a bath) more enjoyable. Desensitization and counter conditioning are frequently utilized by dog trainers to accomplish this. Ensure that the treats remain pleasant and enjoyable for the dog.
Dogs Being Too Distracted, Anxious or Overexcited
If your dog displays disinterest in food during training sessions or walks, it could be due to being overly thrilled or anxious, as indicated by dog trainers who refer to it as being “over the threshold”. At such times, your dog’s emotional state becomes too intense, causing a loss of appetite and hindering their capacity to engage in higher-level thinking, such as learning.
This is normal in humans and animals. When your dog’s body is in fight or flight mode, the blood flows away from the digestive system to the dog’s limbs and sensory organs so the dog is ready to spring into action.
It is important to keep hyperactive dogs away from things that provoke them because they become uneasy and require training on how to relax. Several techniques can be employed to help dogs reduce their apprehension and susceptivity to stimuli in their surroundings.
Owners Not Wanting to Use Food
There could be several reasons why individuals feel uneasy about utilizing food as a training incentive.
- Some owners are concerned about the extra calories in treats or don’t want to spend money on treats. This can be addressed by using low-calorie treats or mixing the dog’s kibble with low-sodium hot dog pieces for added aroma and flavor.
- There are some people who believe a dog should “obey” every command their owner gives them. This comes from the antiquated belief dogs are born to please their masters. It’s important for dog owners to understand dogs need an incentive to be motivated to learn and perform.
- Sometimes people claim their dog isn’t food motivated when the issue is the dog doesn’t like the treats. Try a variety of treats to find ones your dog prefers so they are ready and willing to participate in training sessions.
Your Dog Might Be Thirsty
It is possible that dogs who abruptly stop eating may just be in need of some water. Hence, it is crucial to ensure your dog always has access to water, particularly when training. Providing water to your dog during breaks may revive their interest in resuming the training session.
Your Dog Might be Tired or Confused
Occasionally, a dog may struggle to grasp training techniques as they may not fully comprehend the instructions given to them or simply feel fatigued. This could lead to the dog rejecting food and showing signs of displacement behavior like scratching, yawning or sneezing. In such cases, the dog may require training that is more gradual, a pause, or a shorter training session.
Your Dog May Be Afraid of Punishment
Dogs that exhibit submissive behavior or have been reprimanded for food consumption may avert their gaze when offered treats. These dogs require training to develop a sense of security in accepting food.
Final Thoughts
In the case that your dog does not seem motivated by food, it is recommended to investigate the root cause. Meanwhile, utilize items or actions that your dog enjoys as positive reinforcement for good behavior, such as a favored toy, playing fetch, physical affection, or words of praise. It may be necessary to experiment to ensure that the rewards being offered are truly appealing to your pet. Generally, if your dog improves in performing the desired behavior, the chosen rewards are likely effective. However, if the behavior begins to deteriorate, either the rewards may not be enticing enough or there may be too many competing reinforcers in your dog’s surroundings.
