- Make your first visit without your dog to familiarize yourself with the site (parking, access gates, etc). Make your initial doggie visit at a time that is not as busy. Daytime hours during the week and late afternoons on the weekend are generally quiet times at the dog park.
- Remember that many dogs who visit the dog park are NOT socialized to children. Keep children close and allow NO running, screaming or food. Do not allow your children to approach a dog without permission from the dog’s handler.
- Know your dog! Not all dogs are good candidates for off-leash dog parks. If your dog has not had regular interaction with other dogs, it may lack the necessary social skills to make your visit safe and enjoyable. Check for training schools that offer remedial socialization classes for adult dogs or for trainers who will work with you at the off-leash dog park. Socialize young puppies (8-16 weeks of age) at a puppy kindergarten class, not at the dog park.
- Let your dog off-leash as soon as you arrive within the boundaries of the park. Mixing leashed and unleashed dogs commonly causes problems. Leashed dogs often feel threatened by the free dogs and will display provocative body language and defensive behavior. If you are uncomfortable about letting your dog off-leash, DO NOT visit the off-leash park.
- Keep walking! Walking, rather than sitting or standing will help minimize defensive and territorial behaviors. This means that your dog is more likely to pass another dog with a friendly sniff instead of a stare down.
- Be aware that dogs have different play styles, temperaments, and physical abilities. Many dogs love rambunctious play, but some dogs suffer from injuries and some are more timid and aloof. Always respect the wishes of the handler and be prepared to move to another area of the park if your dog is too rambunctious. Leash up and leave if your dog is acting in an aggressive manner.
- Pick up poop – always, everywhere! Hundreds of dogs visit the off-leash dog park every month, and we want to keep it clean. Nobody likes to look at or step in, dog poop – please use the mutt mitts!
- Keep the area safe and clean. Remove extra water jugs. Pick up trash, cigarette butts, and orphan poops. Don’t allow your dog to dig holes which can cause injuries to unsuspecting people and dogs. Leave the site in better condition than you found it. Small actions, multiplied by hundreds of visitors, are what keep our off-leash dog areas a success.
Source: Keene Creek Dog Park in Duluth, MN.
The dog park is wonderful! I took my two dogs there this evening and having the separate area for smaller dogs was a godsend. Super nice job to all of you who worked hard putting this together. I applaud you & thank you. Thank you City of Two Harbors for allowing this park to happen. It’s a great service & asset to Two Harbors.
Thank you!
I’m looking forward to the new season at the dog park. My Corgi had a blast running around and playing with the other dogs. Lol, he always slept well after a day at the park.