Off-Leash Dog Safety

By Rhiannon at Raintown Dog Training

Off-leash parks can be a fantastic resource for pet parents, offering your dog freedom to play, explore, and just be a dog. To make those adventures both fun and safe, here are some training and safety tips for off-leash outings!

Tip 1: Learn to Read Dog Body Language

Before letting your dog play with others while out on walks, make sure you are comfortable reading dog body language! You need to know what good play looks like, and when to intervene to avoid fights and potential injury. It is a good idea to observe the dogs present before letting your pup into a dog park, and to monitor the dogs present at all times.

Is your dog avoiding the other dogs and trying to hide? Maybe another dog at the park is laser-focused on their fetch game and snarking at any dogs who get too close? These could be signs that it’s time to move to another area or leave the park. For more info on body language check out this recent blog post.

Tip 2: Train a Strong Recall

Recall is the number one cue to have down pat before letting your dog off leash! Begin by working with your dog on their recall indoors, reinforcing with high-value treats (think cheese or chopped hot dogs). Once they are flying to you each time you call, you can try outdoors and eventually at the dog park!

For an extra level of safety, our Emergency Recall workshop with Kris is a great guide to teaching a killer recall that can be used in any setting.

This Month’s Thought:

Stick to Designated Off-Leash Parks!

Though tempting to let your pup off the leash when you’re at a public park or on a quiet street, it’s a good idea to stick with your area’s leash regulations. In Vancouver, leashes are required everywhere besides designated off-leash trails and parks! Sticking to these rules allows other pet parents to enjoy public spaces with their dogs who may be nervous, reactive, or in training.

If you don’t love the idea of dog parks, but still want to give your dog free time outside, try using a long line or going to a dog park at a quieter time of day (eg. during regular work hours).

Need some support preparing your dog for off-leash adventures? Contact a trainer today!