As a newlywed couple, delighted with our move to the Big Apple with our pup in tow, life was good. We had an apartment in Hell’s Kitchen, which was close to Central Park; but even more importantly, close to our local dog park! Dog parks in general were a new concept to us (moving from the UK), and we were very excited to join in on the fun after watching some very happy pups strut around the park at the end of our block.
Little did we know that we were about to experience a steep learning curve when it came to New York City dog park culture and politics! Woof.
Before I get started, this story (and these tips) shouldn’t put you off. The dog park has always been a place where we can meet lovely friends and their adorable dogs; it’s a wonderful resource and the only local outlet for many dogs to exercise properly. Not to mention, Molly, our cockapoo, drags us there every opportunity she can get.
I hope that the following tips will help you learn to navigate the ins-and-outs of your own dog park. After all, what better way to learn than from the mistakes of others!
Befriend the leader
First, the most important tip: find the Big Kahuna of the dog park. This is key to your acceptance as a dog park “regular.” These people are usually long-term neighborhood residents who’ve seen it all. New buildings go up, people move away, but these people are a mainstay; a stalwart if you will. They know every dog type (personality more than breed!) and have seen every encounter and fight scenario imaginable! They also usually clean and donate their time (and often money) to show their pride in the space. They remind people to pick up poop, tell dogs off for acting inappropriately, and are never scared to tell off other pet parents either! Get on their good side and you’ll have an ally forever. Get on their bad side, you might want to find a new dog park 😅
Toys at the park are every pup’s now
If you love a certain toy, leave it at home! Dogs don’t care if your furry friend can’t bear to be without their pink ball or blue rope. If they want it, they will take it. You need to be okay with that, so keep the favorites at home and embrace the ‘give a penny, leave a penny’ mentality! Sharing is caring, after all.
Don’t bring food
Do not, under any circumstances, bring your own lunch to the dog park. I think it’s pretty obvious why, but we’ve seen it happen! And speaking of food, don’t bring your dog’s UnKibble either. Again…common sense – it’ll become the entire park’s food within moments of opening the bag. If you are training with treats, keep them somewhere sealed and only use a few at a time. Don’t forget that a dog’s nose is hypersensitive to delicious snacks!
Keep the harness on
A simple one – keep your harness on your dog. This will make your life a lot easier. If a fight breaks out, having the harness on will make it easier to pull your dog out of any scraps they might get into. You won’t need to struggle to re-harness your pup in the midst of all the commotion. Think of it as an ejector strap – one tug and they’re out of trouble!
Scoop the poop
Pick up after your dog. This is a must, and if you don’t, you WILL get called out by other dog owners (and end up on the bad side of the Big Kahuna). Save yourself the embarrassment, watch your dog, and bring ample poop bags! Don’t be afraid to ask a fellow pup parent if you run out – we’ve all been there… Just remember this is a communal space.
Let ‘em bark
It can be a bit embarrassing initially if your dog is the loud one, but it’s their space to be dogs! Usually it’s not down to aggression (though watch carefully for this) but rather excitement. Remember, this is the place for them to bark. If they are doing no harm, then people can surely endure a bit of barking for a few minutes – don’t feel like you need to shush them constantly. Other pet parents are used to it. And soon you will be, too!
Only dogs at the dog park
We didn’t think this would need to be said, but don’t bring a cat to the dog park! We recently encountered a fellow pup parent who brought their cat (on a leash). Who knows why they thought their poor cat would enjoy being surrounded by excited pooches? Even if your cat likes walks on the leash, dog parks will likely overwhelm them, so it’s best to only bring your pup.
Make friends!
Finally, this one is for us humans. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation if the opportunity arises. Dog parks attract a big cross-section of the community and you automatically have something in common with them! We’ve met actors, singers, bankers, bakers…you name it! And everyone is there because they love their pup. Win-win!
Best of luck with your dog park adventures in New York City and beyond! While there’s a learning curve to nailing the dog park routine, it’s just an amazing place to go with your pup, and to build into your routine. Not only will your dog love it, but you will definitely get something out of it too.
