You’d think pups and parks would go paw-in-paw, wouldn’t you?
Well it may surprise you to learn that not all dogs are barking mad when it comes to dog parks.
Big and busy open spaces can actually be an overwhelming environment for our four-legged friends.
It’s not uncommon for more sensitive souls to buckle in social scenarios, getting themselves into a tail-wagging tizz at the drop of a bone.
Boisterous interactions with conversational canines, brushings with aggressive types, frenetic free-for-alls; there can sometimes simply be too much going on for some dogs.
They can’t handle the intensity, and would rather get their exercise in a more intimate and less chaotic surrounding.
Parks can also be dangerous, for many different reasons, as we’ll explore throughout this blog. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to provide your puppy with the mental and physical stimulation they need in the great outdoors.
Can dog parks be dangerous?
A dog park might seem like the perfect place for your puppy to play, parade and perform.
They can float around like the social butterflies that they are, act the goat like nobody’s watching, and generally goof around until their precious little hearts are content.
However, while these environments project a façade of being clean and pristine, they’re actually filled with hidden dangers, unhygienic hazards and unsanitary substances.
Dogs are vulnerable and can be exposed to diseases, infections and parasites such as giardia, roundworms and hookworms, canine parvovirus and kennel cough, especially if they’re not fully vaccinated.
They share toys, roll around in the same dirt, paddle in the same water, drink from the same pools and puddles, lay in each other’s urine and faeces, and explore other toxins.
Some dogs simply don’t respond well to social settings, some may become overwhelmed and aggressive, and if one not-so-playful pup isn’t displaying proper dog park etiquette then, pandemonium can ensue.
Untrained terriers, unobservant owners, or an amalgamation of the two, can compromise a dog’s safety, as can treacherous paraphernalia that has been left lying around, or poisonous plants and shrubs that they might decide to dine on.
Why would a dog owner want to look for dog park alternatives?
A dog’s happiness, health and welfare is a pet parents’ most pressing concern.
Parks can be great outlets for our care-free canines to exercise, burn any excess energy, and satisfy their heart, body and soul.
But these grassy open spaces aren’t the only places where our four-legged friends can stretch their legs and grab some much-needed fresh air.
There are quieter, cleaner, more convenient alternatives, which can benefit fur babies and their human companions.
5 alternatives to dog parks that you need to know about
1. Hiking
Outdoor exploration and adventure is just what the doctor ordered for your dog. Being at one with nature, enjoying beautiful scenery, learning new sights, sounds and smells, running up and down hills, and being in their natural habitat can work wonders for your dog’s physical and mental health.
2. Doggy daycare
This option provides your beautiful barker with an opportunity to socialise with other dogs in a supervised and controlled setting. Your pet is able to engage in various activities, alongside other like-minded canines, in a clean and enriched arena. Puppy playtime with specially trained assistants is perfect for pet parents with particularly busy schedules.
3. Dog-friendly diners
A growing number of eateries within the hospitality industry are starting to cater for canines. It’s a perfect date for a pet parent and their furry companion; work up an appetite by heading out on a leisurely stroll before quenching your thirst with a nice, cold drink while eliminating those hunger pangs with something to nibble on. These kinds of establishments are also the ideal setting for your dog to sit, observe and put their socialisation skills into practice.
4. Obstacle course
Sometimes you just have to think outside the box and let your creative juices flow. If you have the outdoor space outside your home, why not design a ‘Crufts’ style obstacle course for your little tail-wagger to test their agility and work up a sweat? Our advice would be to start small to prevent the risk of injury before gradually increasing the difficulty and complexity level. It can be a lot of fun for everyone!
5. Swimming
If your puppy is a bit of a water worshipper, and they like to show off their doggy paddle, then a trip to the river, lake or ocean might be the answer. Swimming is a great form of exercise, they’ll splash around for hours if allowed, and it can be a fun trip for all the family if you take a collection of their toys along with you.
Sometimes the grass is greener
Green, green grass. Blue, blue sky.
Dog parks aren’t the only place to let them spread their wings and fly!
As long as there’s open space, fresh air, room to breathe and burn energy, then your canine can thrive.
Playtime provides a physical and mental stimulus for your pet, it’s an opportunity to exercise, burn off steam, and awaken their senses.
New sights, sounds and smells will spark their intrigue, encourage their sense of exploration and adventure, and will keep them moving.
That is all we want for our fur babies; the time and space to enhance their happiness, health and well-being.
Get out into the big, wide world and see what hidden gems you can find together!
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