Dog Parks

One question I hear all the time is: “Do you take your dogs to the dog park?”

My answer is an emphatic no.

It’s not because I don’t think dogs should socialize—they absolutely should, especially puppies. Early, positive socialization is one of the most important things you can do to help a puppy grow into a confident, well-adjusted adult. The key is making sure those experiences are safe, controlled, and positive.

After years of working in emergency medicine, I’ve seen too many preventable injuries and illnesses that started with, “They were just playing at the dog park.” While the vast majority of visits end without incident, I’ve treated many injuries ranging from minor puncture wounds to severe trauma. Unfortunately, some dog attacks even result in life-threatening injuries.

Many traditional dog parks create an environment that can be challenging for dogs. In smaller, fenced areas, unfamiliar dogs are often expected to interact immediately, with little opportunity to create space if they’re feeling uncomfortable. Dogs rely heavily on body language and distance to avoid conflict. When they can’t simply walk away, tensions can escalate.

At the same time, many owners have the best intentions but simply don’t recognize the subtle body language that signals a dog is becoming stressed, fearful, or overstimulated. By the time growling or snapping occurs, the earlier warning signs have often been missed.

Even well-meaning owners can also unintentionally increase the risk of conflict by:

• Bringing toys, balls, or treats that may trigger resource guarding.

• Throwing balls repeatedly, which can encourage competition and activate chasing instincts.

• Allowing dogs to gather around gates, benches, or water stations where crowding can create tension.

If you do choose a dog park, I much prefer the larger parks with acres of open space, walking trails, or hiking paths. These allow dogs to move naturally, walk together, or simply pass one another without feeling pressured to greet every dog they see.

There’s also the health aspect. Dog parks bring together many dogs with unknown vaccination histories and health status, increasing exposure to contagious diseases such as kennel cough, canine influenza, intestinal parasites, and, for puppies and unvaccinated dogs, parvovirus. While the risk of parvovirus is much lower for dogs that have fully completed their vaccine series, it can be devastating—and sometimes fatal—for susceptible dogs.

The good news is that there are many wonderful ways to socialize dogs without the same level of risk. My favorites include:

• Puppy socialization classes that require age-appropriate vaccinations and are supervised by experienced trainers.

• Playdates with dogs you know and trust.

• Reputable daycare facilities that evaluate temperament, require vaccinations, and actively supervise play.

• Group walks (the best!) or training classes, where dogs learn to be comfortable around one another without the expectation of nonstop play.

Remember, socialization isn’t just about play. It’s about helping dogs learn that the world is a safe place. Calm, positive exposure to new people, dogs, sounds, environments, and experiences builds confidence—and often does far more for a dog’s long-term behavior than an afternoon of chaotic play with unfamiliar dogs.

Jodi Thompson, DVM

2026. Used with permission.