Just like humans, dogs need socialization. There are lots of reasons your dog will benefit from learning how to be around other animals, but the main one includes going to the dog park. The dog park is the perfect place for your dog because they get the chance to be around other dogs, run in an enclosed environment and play with toys and architecture that works for them. Plus, it gives you the chance to meet other dog owners and maybe make some new friends too.
Once you’ve visited the dog park a few times with your dog, you might start to schedule days and times to be there with other dog owners. Here are some essentials you’ll want to bring for your next playdate, and every one following!
- Safety gear. Keeping your dog safe is the most essential part of visiting the dog park. Many dog parks have special rules for your dog’s visit. Typically, dogs are required to wear a collar and have an ID tag. A silicone pet tag is a great option for your dog to wear because it’s quiet, easy to clean and doesn’t always require you to keep track of whether it’s getting caught on other dogs’ nails or teeth. Other safety gear for your pet can include a muzzle for when they’re more aggressive than usual or even a harness you can attach their leash to.
- Treats, snacks and water. Most of the time, you won’t be spending 20 minutes at the dog park. Typically, time at the dog park, even on a weekend morning, can be for hours at a time. You’ll want to make sure you have lots of treats, snacks and water available for your pup, especially if they’re meeting up with lots of other dogs to play around. They’ll need to get reenergized during their time at the dog park, and having their favorite treats and snacks is essential. Plus, if you have their favorite treats on hand, they’ll be more likely to listen to you and do what you ask of them.
- Doggie first aid kit. Let’s face it. Accidents can happen at the dog park. And if your dog happens to get hurt, having a first aid kit on hand to help them before you can get them to an emergency vet if needed is always a plus. Antibiotic ointment, gauze and wrap bandages are all pieces of a doggie first aid kit you’ll want to put together. If you’re unsure what else to include, you can always consult with your dog’s vet to find the right items. They’ll be able to tell you what’s safe for your dog and what isn’t, plus they can teach you how to administer first aid to your dog properly.
- Gear to restrain them if needed. Most of the time, your dog is only allowed off-leash when they’re inside certain parts of the dog park. Many dog parks are part of a larger park with trails and kid-friendly areas. You’ll want to be sure you have gear to restrain your dog on the walk from the car to the dog park or on any of the hiking trails. A quality dog collar and leash set is essential to ensuring your dog stays safe, as well as all the other people who are at the park. If this is your dog’s first time at the park, it might be a wise decision to keep them leashed until you can ensure they feel comfortable and won’t get overly excited in the new environment.
- Waste bags. Your dog might relieve themselves while you’re at the dog park, especially if they’re excited. Make sure you have plenty of waste bags on hand to clean up after them. While many dog parks provide this nowadays, it’s still a good show of pet owner responsibility for you to bring your own waste bags. Plus, this way you can use the waste bags you know work best for you and your dog instead of the standard ones provided. If you’re conscious about what type of waste bag you use, this is a no-brainer for you as a dog owner.
- A quality tote bag. Carrying around all your dog’s essentials for the dog park can seem like a lot, so it’s important to have a quality tote bag or backpack to carry everything in. Make sure it’s got enough pockets for what you need and includes space for your personal items too. Consider this your day bag when you’re taking your dog to the park. Having a bag that’s big enough to fit everything can really go a long way in making your trip to the dog park easier and much more fun for you and your pup.
- Portable supplies. No matter what items you get, it’s important that you choose items that are portable, collapsible and mobile for your dog. This will make things much easier on both you and your pup. Plus, it means you don’t need as big of a bag to carry everything around in. Do yourself and your dog a favor and get items that travel well from your home to the dog park!
- Only bring toys you don’t mind losing. While it might be tempting to bring your dog’s favorite toys with you to the dog park, this could be a bad idea. If your dog is around other dogs, they might steal the toy from your dog, or your dog might get their toy really muddy and dirty. Overall, it’s important you only bring todays you don’t mind getting lost, dirty or torn up to the dog park for your pup to enjoy.
Going to the dog park is usually a great activity for you and your pup. It’s important you bring all the essentials with you so that your dog can enjoy their time at the dog park safely and happily.