Trouble at the Dog Park: What to Do

Good play is loose and reciprocal. Dogs take turns chasing and being chased, change roles, pause, and then resume. Their bodies are bouncy and relaxed, with open mouths and wagging tails. They may use exaggerated movements, such as play bows. Dogs who play well often take short breaks, and recover quickly from a bump.

The noise can sound dramatic, with growling and barking, but context matters. Look for relaxed bodies and mutual enjoyment. If both dogs return for more after a break, it is probably play.

Trouble often begins with subtle signals. Spot them early, and step in before things escalate.

• Stiff body, hard stare, or a frozen posture.
• One dog constantly chasing, pinning, or mounting another, who tries to escape.
• A dog who hides behind you, or cowers.
• Raised hackles, curled lips, or deep growling.
• Dogs who ignore signals to stop, and do not take breaks.
• Several dogs ganging up on one.

If you see a problem, calmly call your dog away, or walk toward them and break the interaction. Do not wait for a fight. Use a cheerful voice and a treat, and move away from the group. A short break can reset the mood. If your dog is being bothered, put yourself between them and the other dog, and lead them away. Speak calmly, and avoid yelling, which can add to tension.

1. Call your dog away, and reward them for coming.
2. Take a short break, on a leash, away from the play area.
3. Reassess: is your dog relaxed, or is the situation still tense?
4. Return to play only if both dogs are calm.
5. If the problem continues, leave the park.

Fights are frightening, and the instinct is to grab your dog. Do not. You can be bitten, even by your own dog. Instead, make a loud noise, throw water, or use a barrier such as a jacket or a board. If safe, two people can each take a dog's back legs and pull them apart, but only as a last resort. Once the dogs are separated, leash them and leave.

Check your dog for injuries, and see your vet if there are puncture wounds, bleeding, or signs of pain. Exchange contact details with the other owner. Do not return to the park until you have thought about what happened, and how to prevent a repeat.

Note: If you have a dog who has been in fights, or who shows signs of aggression, speak to a veterinarian or a qualified trainer before returning to a dog park.

Not everyone watches their dog, or acts when there is a problem. Stay calm, and politely ask the owner to call their dog away. If they do not, leave. You cannot control other people, but you can protect your own dog. Avoid arguments in front of the dogs, which add stress. If a dog is a repeat problem, tell the park staff or the local authority.

Be a good dog park citizen yourself: pick up after your dog, watch them constantly, keep treats and toys in your pocket, and leave if your dog is stressed or too rough.

Many dogs love the dog park, but it is not for everyone. Puppies, shy or fearful dogs, dogs with a history of aggression, and dogs who guard toys or people may be better off elsewhere. Small dogs can be at risk around larger, boisterous dogs. If your dog is stressed, bullied, or too rough, consider alternatives: playdates with known dogs, structured walks with friends, fenced private areas, or classes and sports.

Make the decision based on your dog's behavior, not on the idea that dogs should socialize. A dog who is happier at home, with a good walk and plenty of enrichment, is not missing out.