Dog Park (or Beach) Fun- Keep it safe and happy!
 
The most basic rule: Every day is a new day to your dog!

By nature, dogs tend to create hierarchies in social situations  which change with every new dog and every new day. You may discover that certain dogs do not get along with other dogs. This is common and normal. Do not blame the other dog or owner; just recognize that today may be the day that you leave the park early!

Below we list common dog park behaviors that you may experience with your dog. If you are concerned about how another dog is interacting with yours, Speak Up! You need to tell the other owner, "This isn't working for us. Please call your dog away."

When owners learn dog body language, including the common triggers for conflicts, managing our dogs (and our own reactions) becomes much easier.

Bullying: Occurs when one dog tries to submit to or escape from a domineering dog, but the bully won't let it.

Mounting: This is a common and normal dog behavior, unrelated to sex or mating. "Humping" is generally unacceptable at the dog park because it often escalates into more combative interactions. "Humping" between doggie friends may be okay for the backyard, but in a dog park it may cause one dog to feel threatened or trapped when a third dog approaches, resulting in further conflict.

Charging/Ambushing: Always provocative and often threatening between unfamiliar dogs. "Greeting Party" behavior at the gated entrances is especially troublesome for dogs and humans.

Full speed body-slams: against an unfamiliar or unsuspecting dog can result in a negative reaction.

Predatory behavior : Defined as one dog treating another dog as prey by stalking, chasing, and trying to bring them down.

Territorial behavior: Barking, growling, or snapping in an attempt to prevent other dogs or people from approaching.

Some activities are OK at home or between dog friends. However, those same activities are often inadvisable in busy off-leash areas. Some activities that should be reconsidered, depending on the crowd:

Super-noisy play - May make other dogs and owners anxious and annoyed.

Fetch - Playing fetch with your dog can create competition for space and toys. Favorite toys brought from home can pose additional problems (this is MY toy!) Keep aware of the park and ensure your games are not creating an issue.

Non-stop barking - A dog that barks incessantly in the face of another dog is usually NOT being aggressive. But, as with any annoying behavior, it can escalate to a more serious encounter.

Pinning and holding - This can be easily interpreted as threatening behavior by some dogs.

Dogs love to play. In most cases, you will discover that your dog quickly learns the "rules of the road." The following common play behaviors are seen at the dog park:

Wrestling, chasing and pouncing - This includes wrestling on hind legs. Growling and mouthing are typical play behaviors.

Growling or snapping - Usually occurs when other dogs get too close or are too energetic and pushy. It is a normal reaction to a rude or persistent dog. Be prepared to move to another location.

Herding behaviors - By nature herding dogs are neck, heel, or butt "biters." This doesn't typically harm other dogs but should be stopped if it is bothersome.

Rambunctious Play - Fairly common between younger dogs, but not especially welcome with older dogs. Slight injuries, such as puncture wounds, can occur.