Here’s the duality of dog parks: they can be a wonderful place for your furry friend to burn off energy, but beneath the fun lies serious dangers. We don’t want to scare you away from these communal spaces but knowing these 10 dog park dangers can help keep your pup safe during visits.
10. Dog Fights
Aggressive encounters between dogs are among the most obvious dangers at any dog park. This is most especially true in crowded spaces, as even the friendliest pups can get territorial when exposed to unfamiliar dogs. You’ll know that tensions are present when dogs show stiff body language or there’s prolonged staring and resource guarding over toys or water bowls.
9. Unvaccinated Dogs
Unfortunately, dog parks are the perfect breeding grounds for various health risks, and that’s because many dogs at these parks are unvaccinated. Reputable dog parks, however, require proof of vaccination, but sometimes they can be inconsistent with enforcement.
8. Parasites
And speaking of health risks, you have to keep in mind that parasites can spread from one dog to another. Your dog may pick up diseases and parasites (like whipworms and roundworms) from the water, soil, or other dogs at the park. When visiting any dog park, you may consider additional vaccinations for your dog or routine check-ups with your veterinarian.
7. Injuries from Play Equipment
Dog parks are known for having agility equipment and play structures that add to the fun of being at the communal space. However, if not well-maintained, they may have hidden dangers like sharp objects, debris, or broken glass that could injure your pup. Before letting them loose, always do a quick scan of the area and pay attention to areas where they might jump or climb.
6. Kennel Cough
Kennel cough can spread rapidly in spaces where dogs gather together. An example? Dog park. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that dogs spending time in dog parks should be vaccinated for bordetella. This infection is usually not life-threatening but it can cause a honking cough for weeks. It also spreads via airborne droplets when infected dogs bark, cough, or even breathe near other dogs.
5. Overstimulation
Dogs can get overwhelmed in busy and chaotic environments like dog parks, and this could lead to stress-related behaviors. These parks can be particularly overwhelming for puppies not ready for such environments. They may pant, drool, pace, or try to hide. If you notice these signs, it might be time to call it a day.
4. Overheating
Bringing your pet to the dog park, especially during hot summer months, can be dangerous due to the risk of heatstroke and other temperature-related emergencies. Similar to us, dogs can experience dehydration or hypothermia. Dogs can’t also sweat through their skin and this makes it harder for them to regulate their body temperature.
3. Dog Gangs
Remember “pack mentality?” Well, this can emerge when a group of dogs gang up on a single dog, which can be traumatic for the latter. If you notice your pup being singled out or you see a group of dogs bothering another dog, intervene immediately. Playful chasing can escalate quickly to genuine aggression.
2. Parvovirus
Parvovirus is perhaps that most serious disease risk, particularly for puppies and unvaccinated dogs roaming around dog parks. The virus can cause life-threatening vomiting, dehydration, and diarrhea. The virus can also survive in the contaminated areas for months, even long after the infected dogs have left.
1. Negative Learning
This is the most overlooked danger at the dog park. Your pet could develop bad habits or fears that lead to lasting behavioral issues. This is possible if they get exposed to a traumatic incident like being bullied by other dogs or simply being overwhelmed. For young pups, negative experiences can be damaging and may require extensive training to overcome.