Are off-leash dog parks safe? - YorkieTalk.com Forums

AIM · 09-02-2005, 12:16 PM

Lucky has so much energy and I would love to let her run around without a leash. We heard that there is an off-leash dog park in our area. Is it safe to take her there? She doesn't seem to be aggressive with other dogs, although she will approach them and she is very curious and nervous around them. She is 10 lbs, so she is a big yorkie but a small dog. Do you think she will be safe if there are big dogs there?

Bella Bear · 09-02-2005, 12:34 PM

I think she will be safe in the dog park, but I'd keep her in the small dog section. I don't know if your dog park has separate sections for small and big dogs or not. But the ones around my area has them separated. Its pretty standard for the small section to allow dogs up to 25 lbs. only and the big one is well, you know...big dogs! But I really wouldn't take her over to the big side. I've heard of yorkies and other small dogs being killed over in the big dog section before.

yorkieagility · 09-02-2005, 12:34 PM

I let my dogs run without a leash in the park sometimes. Here are the rules I follow.

1. Will not let a dog off leash until I know I can call it back no matter what is going on.

2. I usually make sure there isn't a lot of people around the area. If there is too much people I don't. It's too much trouble keeping an eye on your dog and the things around you.

3. Is there other people with dogs around. I don't let my dog loose. I can call my dog back to me no matter what happens but a loose big dog can quickly catch up with mine and possibly hurt it. Plus, just because a large dog is on leash does not mean it will be safe. I have seen large dogs pull loose from handler and run after rabbits and small dogs.

4. I'm alway aware of what is going on in the park. Never know who or what is coming in the park.

I hope the info helps

Joy · 09-02-2005, 12:35 PM

Tough question to answer. I trust my dog but I just have a hard time trusting other peoples around my babies. You just never know what they will do.

Bella Bear · 09-02-2005, 12:39 PM

Just to clarify, were you referring to just a park or specifically a "dog park"? Because if it's just a park, don't do it. Don't take the risk of her running away, or some dog attacking her. Also, I don't know if this applies everywhere, but in Los Angeles, if your dog is off lease at a public park, you will get a fine. They can only be off leash at a dog park. I take Bella to the dog park all the time. They are just like kids at a jungle gym. You have to watch them, but they do enjoy themselves.

Deegan's mom · 09-02-2005, 12:40 PM

I would be iffy to. I usually don't let Deegan just play with strange dogs. I like to get to know them and the owner. I've never brought him to a park, just puppy school, and friends houses. I would be too nervous. Especially since Deegan doesn't seem to be afraid of anything.

DomLee · 09-02-2005, 12:47 PM

My Yorkie LOVES the dog park. We go to the small dog section. And yes, the rule is that leashes must be removed. They require this because being on a leash can promote aggression.

With that said, the first day we introduced him to the dog park, we left his leash on because we were not sure how he would act. We let go of the leash and let him drag it behind him. I've seen an owner or two do the same thing as well.

Anyways, our Yorkie was fine w/ the other dogs. He is the most hyper one there, but he is able to socialize w/ the other dogs just fine.

So we removed the leash the next time we went.

As Yorkieagility said though, just make sure that you have command of your dog. I also somewhat trail and keep an eye on my dog (we ONLY go to the small dog area). And please do not allow complete strangers (like little kids) to pick up your dog...as they may not know how to properly pick up and hold dogs. God forbid if they accidentally drop your dog on the ground and break it's leg...

Bella Bear · 09-02-2005, 12:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DomLee

My Yorkie LOVES the dog park. We go to the small dog section. And yes, the rule is that leashes must be removed. They require this because being on a leash can promote aggression.

With that said, the first day we introduced him to the dog park, we left his leash on because we were not sure how he would act. We let go of the leash and let him drag it behind him. I've seen an owner or two do the same thing as well.

Anyways, our Yorkie was fine w/ the other dogs. He is the most hyper one there, but he is able to socialize w/ the other dogs just fine.

So we removed the leash the next time we went.

As Yorkieagility said though, just make sure that you have command of your dog. I also somewhat trail and keep an eye on my dog (we ONLY go to the small dog area). And please do not allow complete strangers (like little kids) to pick up your dog...as they may not know how to properly pick up and hold dogs. God forbid if they accidentally drop your dog on the ground and break it's leg...

Yup! That's another thing, don't allow total strangers to pick up your dog! You don't know how many people I had to tell not to pick up Bella. I don't really care if they think I'm being rude, I can't take the risk. Of course, I say it nicely. But I've gotten the evil eye before for it. DomLee, you're in Los Angeles too? Which park do you go to?

DomLee · 09-02-2005, 01:04 PM

Bella Bear

I go to the one in Redondo (even though I live in South Pasadena). By far the best one that I've been to so far. Reason being is because my parents live in Redondo...anyways...

The one in South Pasadena/Eagle Rock is not good. Feels like a kennel w/ only dirt on the ground and large cage fencing.

The one in Laurel Canyon, the one that celebrities supposed go to. Not good for small dogs at all. Small dog area is literally the size of a large living room and bedroom (not considering the incline/hill that the area is built on). While the large dog area is larger than 1.5 football fields. Whomever designed this arrangement should be shot. Not to mention the distinct smell of fecal mature and occasional bugs.

The one in Redondo is awesome! Cleaned every week early Wednesday morning. LARGE area for small dogs. Area consists of grass and small woodchips (to cover the areas where grass is dying until the grass grows back). Lots of local South Bay residents take their dogs here. Worth the drive as I usually plan my day somewhat around that area, such as going to the beach.

I heard about the one in Alhambra. Basically it sucks as it is just a big mud/dirt hole.

I know they are building a dog park in the Pasadena area, but it is not finished yet.

Bella Bear · 09-02-2005, 01:13 PM

Hi Domlee,

I haven't been down to the Redondo dog park but there are some great ones over on the westside as well. The one that is closes to me and the best one that I've been to so far is the Brentwood Dog Park http://www.fobdp.org/index2.html . If you guys are in the LA area a lot, you should join our Yorkie meetup! http://yorkie.meetup.com/135/ . Let me know if you guys ever want to meet up for a play date or something. Actually, this applies to anyone in So. Cal!

SoCalyorkiLvr · 09-02-2005, 03:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by yorkieagility

I let my dogs run without a leash in the park sometimes. Here are the rules I follow.

1. Will not let a dog off leash until I know I can call it back no matter what is going on.

2. I usually make sure there isn't a lot of people around the area. If there is too much people I don't. It's too much trouble keeping an eye on your dog and the things around you.

3. Is there other people with dogs around. I don't let my dog loose. I can call my dog back to me no matter what happens but a loose big dog can quickly catch up with mine and possibly hurt it. Plus, just because a large dog is on leash does not mean it will be safe. I have seen large dogs pull loose from handler and run after rabbits and small dogs.

4. I'm alway aware of what is going on in the park. Never know who or what is coming in the park.

I hope the info helps

Those are great tips!! Thanks

SoCalyorkiLvr · 09-02-2005, 03:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DomLee

My Yorkie LOVES the dog park. We go to the small dog section. And yes, the rule is that leashes must be removed. They require this because being on a leash can promote aggression.

With that said, the first day we introduced him to the dog park, we left his leash on because we were not sure how he would act. We let go of the leash and let him drag it behind him. I've seen an owner or two do the same thing as well.

Anyways, our Yorkie was fine w/ the other dogs. He is the most hyper one there, but he is able to socialize w/ the other dogs just fine.

So we removed the leash the next time we went.

As Yorkieagility said though, just make sure that you have command of your dog. I also somewhat trail and keep an eye on my dog (we ONLY go to the small dog area). And please do not allow complete strangers (like little kids) to pick up your dog...as they may not know how to properly pick up and hold dogs. God forbid if they accidentally drop your dog on the ground and break it's leg...

Wow... I really hope we are able to do a socal YT meetup soon cuz Hefner is the same way. He loves dog park and he is sooo hyper. I would love to meet your babies and you.

jenefor · 09-02-2005, 04:07 PM

Gidget loves the dog park....we usuallly go to one in Costa Mesa and they have a seperate park for big dogs and then one for small, old or injured dogs (i dont know why you would bring a injured dog to a park though) the small dog side usually isnt that busy...maybe 5 dogs at one time (I go in the AM and I guess it is busy in the PM) I know the first time we went we went on the big dog side since there were just 3 dogs and the man said they were fine with smaller dogs and they played welll then more people came and told me about the smalll dog that got maulled by a big dog

I guess it was a freak thing but it happened none the less so we have stayed in the small dog area from then on

I take her off the leash since there are two gates you have to go through to get out. Most of the time she just sniffs around and chases my son or they play catch....she rather go up and greet all the humans then doggies :P (she thinks she is a person anyhow :P)

Marie · 09-02-2005, 04:34 PM

Yorkieagility gave great advise. I haven't take Gucci to a dog park yet but I will defenitely follow the tips.

DomLee · 09-02-2005, 05:12 PM

Bella Bear - just signed up for the Yorkie group. Will be in touch.
SoCalyorkilvr - will have to arrange for a SoCal gathering some time.

09-02-2005, 12:16 PM	#1
AIM Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: Apr 2005 Posts: 95	Are off-leash dog parks safe? Lucky has so much energy and I would love to let her run around without a leash. We heard that there is an off-leash dog park in our area. Is it safe to take her there? She doesn't seem to be aggressive with other dogs, although she will approach them and she is very curious and nervous around them. She is 10 lbs, so she is a big yorkie but a small dog. Do you think she will be safe if there are big dogs there?

09-02-2005, 12:34 PM	#2
Bella Bear YT Addict Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 494	I think she will be safe in the dog park, but I'd keep her in the small dog section. I don't know if your dog park has separate sections for small and big dogs or not. But the ones around my area has them separated. Its pretty standard for the small section to allow dogs up to 25 lbs. only and the big one is well, you know...big dogs! But I really wouldn't take her over to the big side. I've heard of yorkies and other small dogs being killed over in the big dog section before. __________________ Rachel & Bella Bella's Dogster Profile Meetup.com-Westside Small Dogs Club (Los Angeles)

09-02-2005, 12:39 PM	#5
Bella Bear YT Addict Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 494	Just to clarify, were you referring to just a park or specifically a "dog park"? Because if it's just a park, don't do it. Don't take the risk of her running away, or some dog attacking her. Also, I don't know if this applies everywhere, but in Los Angeles, if your dog is off lease at a public park, you will get a fine. They can only be off leash at a dog park. I take Bella to the dog park all the time. They are just like kids at a jungle gym. You have to watch them, but they do enjoy themselves. __________________ Rachel & Bella Bella's Dogster Profile Meetup.com-Westside Small Dogs Club (Los Angeles)

09-02-2005, 12:40 PM	#6
Deegan's mom YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Windsor, ON Posts: 1,271	I would be iffy to. I usually don't let Deegan just play with strange dogs. I like to get to know them and the owner. I've never brought him to a park, just puppy school, and friends houses. I would be too nervous. Especially since Deegan doesn't seem to be afraid of anything. __________________ Jayde, Deegan & Trooper ~Be the change you wish to see in the world - Adopt a rescue pet~

09-02-2005, 01:04 PM	#9
DomLee YT Addict Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: SoCal Posts: 300	Bella Bear I go to the one in Redondo (even though I live in South Pasadena). By far the best one that I've been to so far. Reason being is because my parents live in Redondo...anyways... The one in South Pasadena/Eagle Rock is not good. Feels like a kennel w/ only dirt on the ground and large cage fencing. The one in Laurel Canyon, the one that celebrities supposed go to. Not good for small dogs at all. Small dog area is literally the size of a large living room and bedroom (not considering the incline/hill that the area is built on). While the large dog area is larger than 1.5 football fields. Whomever designed this arrangement should be shot. Not to mention the distinct smell of fecal mature and occasional bugs. The one in Redondo is awesome! Cleaned every week early Wednesday morning. LARGE area for small dogs. Area consists of grass and small woodchips (to cover the areas where grass is dying until the grass grows back). Lots of local South Bay residents take their dogs here. Worth the drive as I usually plan my day somewhat around that area, such as going to the beach. I heard about the one in Alhambra. Basically it sucks as it is just a big mud/dirt hole. I know they are building a dog park in the Pasadena area, but it is not finished yet. Last edited by DomLee; 09-02-2005 at 01:08 PM.

09-02-2005, 12:34 PM	#3
yorkieagility YT 1000 Club Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: House Of York Posts: 1,079	I let my dogs run without a leash in the park sometimes. Here are the rules I follow. 1. Will not let a dog off leash until I know I can call it back no matter what is going on. 2. I usually make sure there isn't a lot of people around the area. If there is too much people I don't. It's too much trouble keeping an eye on your dog and the things around you. 3. Is there other people with dogs around. I don't let my dog loose. I can call my dog back to me no matter what happens but a loose big dog can quickly catch up with mine and possibly hurt it. Plus, just because a large dog is on leash does not mean it will be safe. I have seen large dogs pull loose from handler and run after rabbits and small dogs. 4. I'm alway aware of what is going on in the park. Never know who or what is coming in the park. I hope the info helps

09-02-2005, 12:35 PM	#4
Joy BANNED! Join Date: May 2005 Location: Maine Posts: 2,094	Tough question to answer. I trust my dog but I just have a hard time trusting other peoples around my babies. You just never know what they will do.

09-02-2005, 12:47 PM	#7
DomLee YT Addict Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: SoCal Posts: 300	My Yorkie LOVES the dog park. We go to the small dog section. And yes, the rule is that leashes must be removed. They require this because being on a leash can promote aggression. With that said, the first day we introduced him to the dog park, we left his leash on because we were not sure how he would act. We let go of the leash and let him drag it behind him. I've seen an owner or two do the same thing as well. Anyways, our Yorkie was fine w/ the other dogs. He is the most hyper one there, but he is able to socialize w/ the other dogs just fine. So we removed the leash the next time we went. As Yorkieagility said though, just make sure that you have command of your dog. I also somewhat trail and keep an eye on my dog (we ONLY go to the small dog area). And please do not allow complete strangers (like little kids) to pick up your dog...as they may not know how to properly pick up and hold dogs. God forbid if they accidentally drop your dog on the ground and break it's leg...

09-02-2005, 01:13 PM	#10
Bella Bear YT Addict Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Los Angeles, CA Posts: 494	Hi Domlee, I haven't been down to the Redondo dog park but there are some great ones over on the westside as well. The one that is closes to me and the best one that I've been to so far is the Brentwood Dog Park http://www.fobdp.org/index2.html . If you guys are in the LA area a lot, you should join our Yorkie meetup! http://yorkie.meetup.com/135/ . Let me know if you guys ever want to meet up for a play date or something. Actually, this applies to anyone in So. Cal! __________________ Rachel & Bella Bella's Dogster Profile Meetup.com-Westside Small Dogs Club (Los Angeles)

09-02-2005, 04:07 PM	#13
jenefor Senior Yorkie Talker Join Date: May 2005 Location: Orange, CA Posts: 136	Gidget loves the dog park....we usuallly go to one in Costa Mesa and they have a seperate park for big dogs and then one for small, old or injured dogs (i dont know why you would bring a injured dog to a park though) the small dog side usually isnt that busy...maybe 5 dogs at one time (I go in the AM and I guess it is busy in the PM) I know the first time we went we went on the big dog side since there were just 3 dogs and the man said they were fine with smaller dogs and they played welll then more people came and told me about the smalll dog that got maulled by a big dog I guess it was a freak thing but it happened none the less so we have stayed in the small dog area from then on I take her off the leash since there are two gates you have to go through to get out. Most of the time she just sniffs around and chases my son or they play catch....she rather go up and greet all the humans then doggies :P (she thinks she is a person anyhow :P)

09-02-2005, 04:34 PM	#14
Marie Mom loves Gucci Donating Member Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: New York City Posts: 6,427	Yorkieagility gave great advise. I haven't take Gucci to a dog park yet but I will defenitely follow the tips. __________________ Huggies, Gucci and Marie http://www.dogster.com/?132187 "I have been egged"

09-02-2005, 05:12 PM	#15
DomLee YT Addict Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: SoCal Posts: 300	Bella Bear - just signed up for the Yorkie group. Will be in touch. SoCalyorkilvr - will have to arrange for a SoCal gathering some time.