Significant responsibilities come with a puppy. As new dog owners, we try to take care of our puppy in every way possible. We will start taking veterinary care, consulting with trainers, following food recommendations, and everything that needs to be done perfectly. When it comes to socializing a puppy, we always think about dog parks or dog playgrounds, which also fulfill our puppy’s exercise requirements. But you should know that It’s completely risky to take your puppy to a dog park. This is one of the 5 things that puppy owners should never do.
Puppies and dog parks don’t mix at all. There are some reasons behind this, and you should know these. In this article, we will explore the reasons why puppies and dog parks don’t mix.
Larger dogs, such as Golden Mountain Doodles and Shiloh Shepherds, are always curious about puppies. They sniff and lick the puppy with love and affection. However, more extensive and Adult dogs can unknowingly hurt your beloved puppy.
Your puppy can get hurt by falling under the legs or body of other large dogs while playing in the park. It can cause serious injuries, such as broken bones.
It will be a traumatic and frightening situation for your puppy, which can affect his mental health. When you try to socialize with other dogs, your puppy will not be able to mix with them because of its past experiences.
For instance, Years back, my six-month-old Long-haired Chihuahua visited a park. The park was crowded with large breeds, and some of them were very aggressive. But they were very soft-hearted with my pup. They were licking my pup and trying to play with him. Unfortunately, a dog ran over my pup and caused a minor injury. That is why I never recommend going to the park with a puppy.
Reason 2: Rude Dog Owners in Dog Parks
No matter which park you go to, you will see some owners arguing with each other for their dogs. They even hurt dogs if the situation gets dire.
Puppies are so innocent that they don’t know the difference between right and wrong. They may eat food from other Senior dogs’ food bowls, leading to fights with the dog or the dog’s owner. Even dog owners can hurt your puppy. Some people then start demeaning. That is very disrespectful.
Such a rude dog owner can ruin a good day for you and your puppy and be emotionally damaging.
Tips for Owners, before visiting the park, research about it. Only go to the parks that maintain the reputations of the visitors and always welcome puppies.
Reason 3: Vulnerable to Disease in Dog Parks
Puppies have an immature immune system before six months of age, making them vulnerable to various diseases. Dog parks are crowded, and tons of dogs are getting in touch with each other’s bodily fluids, saliva, and feces.
Many dogs carry various types of diseases in their body, such as Parvovirus, Distemper, and Kennel cough. So when your puppy gets in touch with these dogs, there is a high risk that your puppy will also be affected by these diseases very quickly as their immune system is weaker than that of adult dogs.
So, it’s not that healthy to visit dog parks with a little puppy if you don’t want to harm your puppy’s health.
Reason 4: Forming of Aggressive Behavior
When you visit dog parks, you will get in touch with different dogs. Some of the dogs are very energetic, some of them are aggressive, and some of them are laid back.
Puppies are inquisitive about everything. However, if they face negative experiences such as yelling at or barking at them, they may get mentally frustrated. As a result, they can show hyperactivity.
Reason 5: Unpredictable Environment
No one can predict a dog park. Anything and every unwanted thing can happen within a second. From playing to fighting, anything can happen. Environmental factors always shape puppies’ behaviors.
Numerous risks in dog parks can be harmful to your inexperienced puppy’s growth.
Alternative to Dog Parks
Alternative 1: Puppy Socialization Classes
You can admit your puppy to a puppy socialization class where he will be with other puppies under the consultation of a professional puppy trainer.
These classes can help your puppy to grow friendliness and gentle behavior towards other dogs and strangers.
Alternative 2: Arrange a Meeting with Known Dogs
You can arrange meetings with friends and family members who have well-behaved and vaccinated dogs.
In this way, your goal of socialization will be fulfilled without any potential risk to your beloved puppy.
Alternative 3: Long Walks
Long walks can be an alternative if you are willing to exercise your dog properly and also want to monitor his behavior towards strangers.
Alternative 4: Least Crowded Parks
Parks with the least amount of strangers are always the best option for walking and playing with your puppy.
Your puppy will feel comfortable, and there will be no problem at all in those parks. The best time is in the early morning and late night.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this is the harsh truth that Puppies and Dog Parks don’t mix.
We have described every scenario that can happen in the park. Stay away from parks or judge the park’s reputation before visiting with your beloved puppy. And follow the alternatives.
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