I hadn’t been to a dog park in over a year, but ended up driving by one we used to frequent and said, sure let’s go. My dog is galloping around with the pack and one dog joins and is snappy, anxious, and under socialized. I called my dogs name and she peeled off and came right back. Honestly, though she has perfect recall and I shouldn’t have been, I was shocked by the instant response since she hadn’t been at a dog park in so long. It is incredible how much the bond has grown since we do off leash walks every morning and apparently she’s crystal clear on her boundaries. It was nice to know and she got lotsa praise
I think that's two great points, to 1) take her out of the play when it's not the right company and 2) make sure she comes back immediately. I go to a dog park with a high energy border collie once a week, and as soon as there are more than 3 other dogs we leave. I also make sure she checks in with me regularly, we do regular pauses where she has to rest with me, and by now she has learned to take pauses by herself, she has learned to come to me when she is not comfortable.
Excellent explanation as to why we must avoid dog parks. I’d also add that we should never assume that other dog owners are responsible, or capable, dog owners. I also have a European Doberman and know the energy they have. We’ve found hiking difficult trails can be good for burning off energy and teaching them to figure out steep climbs and such working them mentally. On easier trails and our daily walks, I’ll do regular training to keep her sharp and stimulate her mind. Then afterwards we’ll use the tugs and throw the ball to use up her energy. She also sees this as a reward following her daily training. They’re truly amazing dogs. And they will build an incredible bond with you if you work them properly.
My dogs love the dog park, but I only take them when it’s empty. As soon as I see another dog about to enter, I leash my dogs up and leave. They love the ability to flat out run, and it gives me a good space to work on their recall without the worry of them taking off and not coming back.
I go to tennis courts for this reason, in the winter when they aren't in use and there is snow on the ground. If the surface is bare, it tears up her feet.
My dog was attacked at the dog park. I had him on the leash, but some pit bull was roaming around and came after my dog. He was a male like mine. Then when I told the owner to control his dog he got mad at me and tried to threaten me. I stood up to him and he backed down. It was a messed up experience and I'll never take my dog there again
I stopped taking my dog to dog parks. There's too many owners who goes there they have no idea what they are doing with dogs. My dog has been attacked several times by owners who doesn't know what they are doing on how to handle a dog. They just keep making the same excuses. It's got to the point where my dog has trust issues with other dogs.
@@tanatribe luckily I have 0.5 acre lot (no fencing) and I use an e collar. Once my dog was aware of her “yard border”, she does amazingly. I have a 3 year old gsd. She ignores other dogs, or people (walking, jogging, riding bikes), unless they enter the yard threshold.
Your own back yard--fenced, of course! I walk my GS on a 6 ft. leash. I also have a 20 ft. horse lunge lead to allow her to run when we are at parks, parking lots or vacant lots/areas.
So sorry that happened. My rescue GS is dog reactive and We assume as does her vet that she was attacked and quite socialized. She is growing g in her confidence weekly. She wants to please and her recall is at 90% already. Dog do NOT have to mingle. We sit on front porch in evenings and watch all the dogs exiting and entering the apartment building taking their walks. It is good training for her to gauge other dogs body language etc. Some she barks to, most she calmly observes from the safety of our porch.
While training in some parkland this evening a fight broke out between a number of dogs in the dog park adjacent to the parkland. It got out of control right away with most of the owners screaming and not knowing what to do. When I seen the only male owner that was there swinging his fists I ran over, put my Dobie into a down stay near by, and then helped out one of the dogs that was attacked. Both young girls with that dog were traumatized. To keep it short, I helped them out and then explained to a few of those there that this is the very reason to avoid dog parks. It’s just not worth the risk with small dogs and some larger and very powerful dogs there all together with too many unknowns. That was a lesson learned the hard way. And a lesson to those there why a down stay can be an important command to teach their dog.
I didn't quite agree with the the no dog park thing when I first started watching roberts videos I thought it can't hurt... but it was the video about seeing other dogs in public and thinking they can run up to them at will because they're used to doing it in the dog park. Also when you think about it hundreds of dogs (some potentially sick) have pooped and urinated on every inch of those dog parks
Not every person and not every dog likes to go on a leashed run. The dog park is a great place to let your dog play without having to worry about him getting hit by a car. The biggest issue with dog parks is stupid dog owners. You can go early in the morning when it's empty and setup play dates with other dogs that you know your dog plays well with. If you walk into a big dog park full with dogs that you don't know, you and your dog are at risk for sure. I take our two dogs to the dog park every morning when it's empty and kick the squeaky balls around for them, they love it!
I just got a Chocolate Lab puppy and was wondering about dog parks. I didn't like the idea of strange, untrained dogs coming up to my little guy. You've pretty much decided me to give them a miss. I never took my other dogs in the past to the park, preferring the nearby nature walk, and I'll continue with that. He just got his 8 week shots, and he was already the best behaved animal in the vet's office.
absolutely use it standing on the edge to train recall and bond with you, but going in is usually a disaster, unless there's one well trained dog in there alone. i also have a Choc lab, and we trained our asses off using the dog park to dial her in and train recall.
Absolutely agree!!! Most people who bring their dogs to the dog park in LA, CA just stare at their phone and ignore their dog/dogs. My husky was scared of all the aggressive dogs and the owners had no control of the dogs. Instead, we have very supervised controlled playdates in our yard where we interact with the dogs during playtime.
Because most dog parks where we live don't have owners with the dogs, just dog walkers who bring 20 dogs at a time and don't watch any of them. Kind of sad really.
I take my dogs to our local dog park at about 5:00 am. It's empty except for about 2 other people I know. By 6:15 am we are gone before the general population shows up.
The only thing I will use a dog park for is to test a dogs ability to maintain compliance under the heavy distraction of being in the presence of dogs that are out of control. Even then I never actually go inside of the dog park because the test is unfair if another dog can run up and lunge at them. Dog parks are for poorly trained dogs for the most part.
Here (The Netherlands) we have so-called “off-leash areas”. I avoid these areas with my very active and social GSD-mix. Dogs get bitten there, people get bitten there. Dogs get scared, people get scared and angry, dogs are running around there, totally uncontrolled. If you or your dog get involved in a serious incident, you have a lot of trouble at hand. I prefer to walk in the woods with my dog on the (long) leash.
Joop, I agree…the culture of the off leash areas here in the Netherlands is horrible. Owners with zero control of their dogs, and who think it’s perfectly ok to let their dogs run up and jump on people, antagonize leashed dogs, etc. But even worse, these people let their dogs off leash where it’s not allowed (like in the small forest areas near my house). There’s hardly anywhere truly safe for me to walk my tiny dog without risking unwanted encounters with rude, pushy off leash dogs. Sorry for the rant, but I’ve soooo had it with this.
@@GlassOfJuicee Dat is ook fijn voor de hond, maar de boete is hier (in de bossen) €90,- en mijn hond geniet ook van het bos aan de lange rollijn en vangt zelfs muizen! En in die losloopgebieden is het vaak chaos, daar waag ik mijn hond niet aan, ook al is hij nergens bang voor en weet hij zonodig van zich af te bijten.
Bingo!! My Amstaff is well trained and well mannered and I will not take her to a dog park even though she enjoys socializing with other dogs. In my experience, most dog parks are full of untrained and unsupervised dogs which are just a disaster waiting to happen. The few times I've taken her in is during a time when there are few dogs and I can see that they are well behaved and are playing nicely. Even then, I keep a close eye on her and remove her if things get too rough. As you say, there are much better ways to let your dog have a fun outing.
I stood outside a busy fenced dog park with my new GS pup and watched the chaos within for about 15 mins. I saw owners talking and playing on their phones and paying zero attention to their dogs. Owners socializing with each other and not paying attention to their dogs. Several fights broke out in a very short period of time. My pup was scared and I was definitely never going back. My pup has zero dog reactivity and I want to keep it that way ❤️
Before I started watching your videos, I took my GSD 8 month old pup to a dog park for socializing. Unfortunately I learned a lesson, another dog (had a spiked collar) pinned my pup in a corner and was growling. I yelled out at dog as I ran towards them. The owner was not paying attention to their dog. As I pulled on the collar, I cut my hand. I threw the dog backwards and picked up my pup putting him over the fence. Finally the owner came over and we had words. Someone called the police but I didn’t press charges. And I never went back to a dog park again. I went to classes with Sammy for training, got in with a GSD club and socialize him in control settings. I still feel responsible for that incident today. I found your channel watched all your videos, became a member and today feel confident with both my GSDs. Please listen to the advice of no dog parks, that incident happened in a second and could have been much worse. Thanks Robert for all you do making your videos and look forward to seeing your next video!
My back yard is the only dog park for us. It's not just that we won't be able to control our dogs in this atmosphere because SOME can. It's everyone else's dogs I worry about. I spend all this time training my dogs to trust me and then I dump them in the bullpen where I have no control over all the other dogs. For me this is no nonsense thinking. I still need my dogs trust and this can interfere with it. 🐕❤️
Excellent advice! I've been working with my dog to STOP REACTING to every dog she sees for over a year. I used to think it would be nice for her to play with other dogs in a controlled environment. Now I'd be happy if she would just ignore them! She's super high drive with a bite history. She needs to be under complete control to stay out of trouble and alive. Allowing her to go off with other dogs would just undo everything we have worked so hard to achieve
You and I have the same story. So thankful for Mr. Cabral and his commitment to sharing his experience and frank opinions. My girl now is choosing not to react and has excellent recall. I think she trusts me to keep her safe and help her be successful and less fearful. Congrats to you! Our only thing we still have trouble with are other owners with their dogs who don't respect our space in public when I am trying to provide it for my girl to help her focus and succeed. 😒
I learnt my lesson just last week about chaotic dog parks with my 9 month male border collie. It was great for 'burning off' all that high energy alongside my 4 yo terrier x bitch with ball retrieve fun but then he was so obsessed on arrival at the park in anticipation of the chase I had no control and a dog throwing a tantrum. So back to the backyard for controlled play and on leash walks only at quite times in the park areas plus more focus on obedience work at a dog club venue. There has already been an big improvement in the behaviour of both dogs. Thanks for your vids as they are really helpful.
I'd never take my pack to a dog park. They are all rescues from terrible areas and had lots of ptsd when they arrived. I'm fortunate to have two fenced acres, so they run as much as they want and socialize with each other, which is fine by me. More is not necessarily better. They are so calm and sweet now, you'd hardly believe what they were like in the beginning. One looks and acts like she has a lot of fawn Maninoise, super smart but not a spaz, thank goodness. It is super fun teaching her new things. Thanks for all the good advice Robert! I, for one, am listening.
Hi Robert, love your videos. Thanks a lot. I feel you're trying to say that ideally you would want this high octane release in a controlled environment (with dogs you know). With a dog park comes risk. The risk of losing control and getting a dog hurt. You alone can assess this risk in your situation best. Im from the Netherlands so I don't know the dog parks situation, however we have off leash nature trails. Having raised 5 dogs, walking in these areas for 15+ years the times I have seen a dog pin another dog is once and never a serious dog bite. So for me, in these areas the pro's outweigh the cons. Can it happen..? Sure. What I get in return is a ton of socialization, mental stimulus and social contact with other dog owners. Robert could it be that your vision is a bit clouded by all the screwed up dogs you've seen? Ask a criminal detective how safe the world is you will get a different answer than a kindergarten teacher. And what's the science on dog happiness on this one? When my dog is running/wrestling and having reciprocal play with another dog it seems like pure joy. Sure my dog likes to play tug with me, run, etc, but it seems like a lot different. Because in theory you could be doing all those things (obedience, running, dog sports) and interaction with other dogs still adds something to the mix those things don't. Would like to hear your thoughts on this. Regards!
I work and train so that my Mal girl of 14 months best for times for both of us are with me and not other dogs. We are bounding as a new team! So well said Robert your response! 👋👋👋
People keep telling me to take my dog to let my dog off with other dogs to socalise with dogs in our local fields. I have told these random dog owners that this is how I end up adopting my dog because of the previous owner had two dog walkers who had my dog out with random dogs and he ended up in the vets where the owner had his bit done because my dog had little dogs attacking him so he bit one. I am trying so hard to turn my dog's life around and gain the knowledge I need to do my best very best by him. I am working so hard and I am making progress but training a dog takes time and patience time I have loads of time to improve myself and give my dog the chance he needs to succeed. Just need to get this training right for my dog and if it was for professional dog trainer like your good self Robert I would be lost so thank you so much for your time and advice.
We do go to dog parks and it's truly a fun experience with the new installation of obstacles HOWEVER we wait or return another time if we observe aggressive/dominant k9's. We have service dogs and PPD's that have tons of invested hours and prefer to socialize within our own pack in our fenced homestead.
If you have a service dog, which you don't btw, you're full of it, then that dog does not get to interact with any dog. This dog has been trained not to interact with any other dog. You are fucking up the training these dogs went through.
My dog loves the dog park, we are often there on our own doing recall training. He also likes meeting up with other dogs to have some fun. At least at the dog park, he's safe.
I am not a fan of dog parks so we go to a local hiking trail where dogs are allowed off leash, but since the pandemic started people have been using the trail as a pseudo dog park. Although my dog is well trained and balanced, I do not let him interact with new excited dogs because I know that although he looks cute he will become protective of me if the other dog is too much, but the owners give me scowls and stares as if I am a terrible person for not allowing their boisterous dogs to run up to us. Watching your videos has made me feel vindicated and encourages me to keep doing what is best for my dog regardless of other peoples judgment.
Local group wanted to make a perfectly good park into a dog park. Thankfully it got squashed by the city attorney. Dog fights, liability, nobody cleans up after their dogs anyway. My Aussie won't go looking for a fight but he won't suffer a fool either.
Hi Robert. Love your videos. My Vizsla, whom I trained myself, is not allowed to go up to other dogs. When we are hiking and he is off leash, he knows to come back to me and heel if there is another dog. We don’t go to dog parks and I don’t permit leash contact with other dogs. However, I do let him run and roughhouse with his friend, another dog that often stays over with us or whom I take with us on hikes. Sometimes I will allow both off-leash time to run and chase. However, I also use these “high octane” periods to practice my recall out of a high distraction situation. My dog always returns on command; the other dog follows my dog and also come back for the treat. Is this fine in your book? It is not an unknown dog and it is not totally uncontrolled, although it is high energy play. The rest of the time they are on leash or in heel or walking close to me. I can also have them walk off-leash and if they start play, I can say “uh uh” and they stop and walk normally. So play is only when I explicitly release them and I never let it go on more than a minute or two before practicing the recall.
My previous dog was attacked by a German shepherd a few years back at a regular park, he just got loose from the owner. I’ll say seeing my dog attacked like that was one of the scariest things I’ve ever seen!
Hi Robert define a “good run with a Dobermann” who’s 5 when your 66 ...I’m interested since having Dobes from when I was 22 I’ve had to adapt and be clever when bringing a new pup on board and learn and adapt new ways to exercise the dogs .....might be a topic for one of your videos
I am 65 with a soon-to-be 4 yr old GS. I have discovered the 24 ft. Horse lunge lead( my dog weighs 72 and can be quite strong though not lunging or jerking me anymore.). This we use along our walks when we reach a park, open area/ vacant lot, or uncongested parking lot. She can cover a lot of ground while I just need to pick up my pace a hair or occasionally run with her, and manage the rope-- which is flat and soft and not that hard due to its weight.
sorry, but I'll be blunt: maybe 66+ year old people who cannot be very active should not be getting a high energy dog. It's unfair to the dog. Ppl should accept their limitations and adjust and adapt accordingly, including choosing a dog breed (or any animal, for that matter) that will be a good fit for their energy level as well as other resources, including providing exercise.
Sir you are spot on! That is why I do not take my dogs to dog parks Any time my dogs have interaction with other dogs I use it to teach my dogs self control, while they under my control.
Robert, you mentioned the possibility of a dog getting pinned or pinning another dog. Can you explain the significance of this ? It sounds like something I need to know. Thanks
Some well meaning folks here are pushing our small town for a dog park. I've expressed my concerns at city council meetings. Actually commenting because I finally got to hear Robert Cabral say "willy nilly"
Just wondering if your dog is never off leash will it ever learn how to act around other dogs . Do you keep your children on a leash to at the park. I think dog parks in my area of Canada at least are great, and my dogs interact with other dogs and run and Play but never lose sight of me and always come on command. I think dogs need to learn how to make handle themselves around other dogs
I used to go to dog parks frequently only for the socialization with other dogs however, you get people who can’t control their dogs and it’s infuriating because my dog has been attacked two times and it really is a mood killer. My dog showed submission each time even though he’s a big dog with high test. I will only go now when there is none or couple low to medium driven dogs for this reason now.
I used to visit dog parks(in Japan, we say "dog run") when I was in Japan. Whenever I visited, I was cautious and checked before I got into the area, what kind of dogs there were (I mean not breeds but behaviour), what type of the owners they were and so on. There was a guy who often showed up with his two white shepherds at the dog park. I found out later that his two dogs attacked a small dog at the park and killed him. It was devastating news for everybody who used the park.
I didn’t know this but then took my dog today and my dog got a little nip. At the gate there was one dog barking at her. My instincts based on other videos said don’t go inside. But the owner said “don’t worry they don’t bite” well I thought it was the owner it was a dog sitter. Note to self! Stick to the trail walks and the park path.
I took my cane corso to a dog park a few years back. Huge mistake , she was attacked by a pit pull . Long story short $1000 later for my dog , we now go play her and I only . Lucky where I live there is a fenced off leash area you can rent for just you and your dog , no other dogs . I take her there and we play , and she's happy .
It is frustrating to me how Pet dog owners consistently have the wrong idea about dog exercise. They think the dog park is the answer to burning their dog’s excess energy, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Hmm, it's not that I disagree with you, it's that I've always used dog parks as a distraction for training. Once obedience is good with us one-on-one, I periodically visit a dog park (always different ones) to complete our training sessions with ample distraction. My expectations for other dogs and owners is always very low. On the rare occasion I find a well trained, obedient dog with a respectful owner, I let the dogs play with each other for 5-10 minutes and end in obedience with rewards. The bond between me and my dog is always my primary objective. Now I'm going to look at dog parks differently and decide if I want to continue training there. FYI: I also love grocery stores, small open-air malls and schools as distractions for training.
I think it's important to note that most, if not all, of the dogs in the park are unknown to you. There are really no rules or boundaries, and they're strangers. It's kind of like if we dropped a person into a prison recreational yard. Sure, most of the inmates probably aren't going to hurt you, but there are some who will, and you don't know which is which. For example, some people aren't as responsible as you. I've seen dogs with "policing" tendencies, that see other dogs running and playing and feel the need to stop them. This can easily turn into other dogs (that are not yours) getting involved, and fights start. All the while your dog didn't do anything, but is now involved in a fight. That's just one example of the fact that you don't know the other dogs or what they'll do. It's a pretty big risk.
Hello sir Robert! I've been watching your videos for quite a while now and I'm learning quite alot. I have something to ask, should I socialize a future protection dog/guard dog? Wouldn't socializing my dog make him/her less effective in protecting me and my family? I hope you get to answer my question. Thanks!
Can you please elaborate when /how you would suggest owners to let their dogs socialize w other dogs? Is that not very important, esp for puppies? Thank u
Own more than one dog roughly the same age. They will live together, play, run and be social. Problem solved....but only if you are committed to being a multi-drug family. I have always had 2- 3 dogs together. Sometimes 3 can leave an odd man out though.
You nailed the training aspect of dog parks and why it’s bad. The veterinary side should terrify people. The amount of animals my colleagues have had to put down because of diseases or injuries sustained at dog parks is awful. They’re a health nightmare for your animal
Running with my gsd every day in the mtn. His and mine fav experience. He only plays with his sister which my best friend owns. They both have a special relation. He used to be able to hang with his dad. Not anymore.
I pre-liked this video!! Seattle is full of the most crap dog-parks and I’ve never used them. Labs are great Northwest dogs. They love cold, wet, and get plenty of action with me. They still have their neighborhood buddies etc and don’t need a fenced area full of crap to have fun. Thank you for your videos Robert. Hard to find authentic voices these days.
Hello, Robert. I love your videos and overall info. Lots of dog owners think that a dog needs to run full throttle to be excercised and underestimate that power of running alongside your dog at your speed. Dogs love it!!
@@RobertCabralDogs We do'n't have dog fights at our dog park. Owners with aggressive dogs know they're not allowed to bring their dogs in. People are very polite in England, and even ask if it is OK to come into the dog park with their dogs.
@@eliakimjosephsophia4542 I'm in England too, but clearly not as genteel an area as you. I have treated plenty of casualties from the local dog fight club (aka dog park). Never mind when the humans start fighting. Often in the waiting room if both dogs have the same vet practice. I'm disabled so can't run, but I can do daily scent work/ tracking and obedience which tires the mind, as well as daily off-lead walks in the forest. Plus a slat treadmill is an option for disabled people with higher drive service/assistance dogs on days they may not be able to get out and about much.
@@eliakimjosephsophia4542 Your relying on a lot of assumptions here which is never wise . Just because you haven’t had one “yet” (and how do you truly know that even?) , doesn’t mean there isn’t going to be one. And just because owners are currently not bringing aggressive dogs to the park today has no bearing on whether or not an aggressive dog will be brought to the park tomorrow . Never assume everyone around you is going to act responsibly.
Ps: i am still not sure i get it... would dog parks be ok when the owner is highly involved and maintains control and only a problem in this example of totally uncontrolled doggie time? Tx
I took my dog Woofman Jack to our local dog park and someone's little dog kept trying to snap in his face and when I demanded to know who it belongs to nobody would speak up........I hate those kinds of dog owners.........
We go to the dog park but we go late at night when noones there. We don't have a fenced in yard and my pitbull is a big ol butt and has bad recall. I HATE them though. We used to go during the day so he could play w other dogs but he got attacked so we never went back when other dogs were there
You are right Robert Cabral, maybe his dog is trained and socialized, but other dogs in the dog park aren'tt socialized and trained. Because dog owners who goes to the dog parks don't exercise their dogs by their self and letting their dogs exercise for them self, and 99% dogs there are not right socialized with other dogs, don't know how to play with other dogs and their owners aren't controling them right. Keep going, i love your videos.
Maybe it depends on the country? I agree dog parks may not suit all dogs but it suits some. I take my two dogs, kelpie is neutral with other dogs and prefers the ball, maremma loves other dogs and is quite placid- go to a very big park usually around the same time and better to not go on weekends as the more stupid dogs and owners go on weekends. I live in Australia.
Sorry but this seems to be a narrow view of the human/ K9 relationship. Listen, I get that dog parks are risky place for the following reasons: intact animals, reactivity, poor play, and pack order issues. However, all of these can be addressed with a well behaved, trained, and respectful relationship between humans and dogs. Ive seen plenty of "arguments" between pups and 99% never cause physical harm. That's not good enough, but that's when owners must be willing to speak out about poor behavior and control. I dont believe every dog is a dog park dog or every park is a typical dog park. I do know and have experienced professionally and privately the good of free play. Its not willy nilly either. Work goes into teaching proper play and dog to dog communication. Advising though as a "professional" that this should be avoided 100% doesn't show most effective training technics according to professionals, doctors, or governing agencies. So, train your dogs to Schutzhund all day but for 90% of owners thats not their level of engagement. Dont think im some lazy owner either. my little lady knows commands in multiple languages, full sentence commands, whistles, points, and so on but she goes to dog parks. what keeps her safe is me. regulating play and interaction. Even if that means doing the job for another owner.
I’ve had to fire a few dogs this year. I luckily have access to a private dog park and I’m very selective with my crew. Dog parks aren’t for every dog. Dogs having friends is wonderful, but not every dog is safe at a dog park and people need to get a grip and keep everyone safe by not bringing dogs that can’t handle the parks.
The only thing I like dog parks for is training around them for distraction training around dogs. I never go instead, too risky, a lot of people bring their overstimulated, aggressive dog inside. I want my dog to come to me for fun and exercise, not other people or dogs.
This video totally took me by surprise I've been taking my Rottweiler/ Doberman mix to dog park since he was 3 months old to socialize and thought was the right thing... I do stay vigilant and use a e collar going over all obedience commands there as it provides so many distractions.... there have been a couple small fights when my wife took him so she's not comfortable taking him anymore but I still do it a few times a week but I do have a much "firmer" or better choice of word would be diligent..... is this counter productive to his development....I'm really confused
Not a professional but I think that it becomes tremendously counter-poroductive when there is eventually a fight/bite incident. I also don't trust any owners at the dog park, most people can't spot any cues whatsoever and will refuse to defuse a situation until it's too late. You can honestly socialize your dog at this point by just being out in the world around dogs, people, kids, animals, crowds etc. Dog parks just cause friction IMO.
@@lacqueredhearts It also depends on the context. IMO not ALL visit to the dog park cause friction. I’ve been going to the dog park on a weekly basis for a year and there has been about 5 times were my dog has been on the receiving end of another dog bad behavior. We left the park immediately. Other than that I’ve never taken my eyes off my dog while at the park and we leave when we see him getting tired or even before because that is when there can be frustration and less self control.
Agree, I don't take my dog to dog parks. I think it sets them up for potentially ugly experiences, when I want to set my dog up for good experiences and good behaviors. Also, you just never know the health and well being of other dogs, not everyone takes great care of the pets.
Like that person, I too have watched many of your videos but that doesn't mean your opinion is the LAW and we should all obey it. Dogs have personalities just like humans and for you to say you should not let a 22 month old run at the park because she's high drive is single minded. I agree if it's a high drive dog like yours which are working dogs then sure but that would mean all people watching your videos would have the same type of dogs and same intentions and personalities. If I have misunderstood then I apologise in advance but I have seen ex federal police work dogs have an absolute blast in a dog park I like and the trainer demonstrates and exercises control when she's playing with recall etc and by doing that inspires so many dog owners to want to have a similar relationship with their dogs. He's had heaps of dogs but not all go to the park because of their personality he told me. If all your subscribers are only working dog owners and trainers then maybe I am wrong to say this, I hope not. My dog loves other dogs so much I could literally leave him there and he would be happy, and in the park I can recall him easily and he will listen to other commands.
My issue is that you don’t know the other dogs at a random dog park. You’re putting your dog at risk by allowing them to run free with dogs you don’t know. If that doesn’t concern you, then have at it. I would not do it. My dog plays with dogs he knows and I trust only. Nothing to do with working dogs or pets… any dog.
I honestly thought that if two dogs with good obedience and training would be fine to play 1 on 1 with their own kind. When you see this, the dogs look so happy and content and play the only way two dogs can play. I couldn't imitate that play as a human. Would you say this would be a different situation and an allowable situation than a stranger-free for all dog park???? Thanks
Over and above the fact that dp s are dangerous is the damage they do to the dog/human relationship. The dog learns that it’s more fun without you and also loses trust and respect and learns that strange dogs are more important than you.
Dog parks are great places, to pick up really bad habits . Like letting your kids run the streets nothing good is going to happen. I toss a ball or frisbee . Until my arm falls off while building the bond
Not a good analogy. Since in a dog park you are supposed to look after your dog constantly. That is not the case with a kid running the streets. I feel a lot of the people commenting under this video have had bad experiences and only see the bad side from what dog parks can provide.
The whole idea of socialization is flawed in the canine industry. Like humans we feed of the temperament of other beings, likewise you should be the first source of interaction; then neutrality with other dogs in brief interaction is the basics in beginning stages. Choose a Dog that suits your energy. A cute Pitbull or a big bear of a Rottweiler seems romantic, until you go flying out the door!
Same thing with doggy daycare. Let you be your dog's reinforcement, not dogs that may not be well adjusted. None of the dog club members go to dog parks or doggy daycare. Half the time dog owners are on their phones, not even watching their dog. One of the dog parks by us the guy had wolf dogs he would bring in. They killed a Chihuahua and a few years later killed a kid. The park is now shut down. Wouldn't want to be anyone in that situation. Such a shame and it can be difficult to find well adjusted dogs and owners that are on their dogs to correct when necessary or redirect and/or to get their dogs to even listen to them. And then there's getting people to pick up after their dogs even with clean up equipment available...
Dog parks are a haven for the untrained owner. The dog is going to act like a dog, and going to be the dog you’ve trained it to be. It’s the ignorant owners who have not trained their dogs that drive me nuts at dog parks and the reason I stopped going.
A typical "black and white" total control video. Dog parks and owners are different in different states and countries. I have been too many including a dog beach full of dogs in Vienna. If people are responsible, know their dogs and have good obedience, and the dogs who regulary go there know each other then what's the problem? The danger of one dog flipping out? That can happen anywhere like in the attack video Robert analyzed. For example in Germany dog owners have to do a dog "driving license" for example, before getting a dog, you can't compare that situation with other countries who don't have that. Or a small village with a small population, why can't they meet up if the dogs know each other?
I appreciate your response. I have a feeling that Mr. Cabral was more so talking about a dog park with random owners/dogs. However, I agree with you regarding the « black and white » total control that is clearly seen in the comments. In my experience, a lot of dog behavior experts recommend not to ever take your dog in a dog park. I believe that in some contexts going to the dog park is okay and should not be considered « bad training » for your dog. A owner should be able to analyze what type of dogs are at the dog park and take a rational decision to take the dog in the park or in the contrary to refrain from doing so. In some instances, going to the dog park is a good thing. And I take one hour walks every day + a 30 min walk in the morning (before people start assuming I’m lazy as I’ve seen in the comments).
stop by my online dog training site at: robertcabral.com
Totally agree with you Robert. The best toy and friend to a dog must be it's owner/handler.
I hadn’t been to a dog park in over a year, but ended up driving by one we used to frequent and said, sure let’s go. My dog is galloping around with the pack and one dog joins and is snappy, anxious, and under socialized. I called my dogs name and she peeled off and came right back. Honestly, though she has perfect recall and I shouldn’t have been, I was shocked by the instant response since she hadn’t been at a dog park in so long. It is incredible how much the bond has grown since we do off leash walks every morning and apparently she’s crystal clear on her boundaries. It was nice to know and she got lotsa praise
It's great that your dog is under control. Many at dog parks are not.
I think that's two great points, to 1) take her out of the play when it's not the right company and 2) make sure she comes back immediately. I go to a dog park with a high energy border collie once a week, and as soon as there are more than 3 other dogs we leave. I also make sure she checks in with me regularly, we do regular pauses where she has to rest with me, and by now she has learned to take pauses by herself, she has learned to come to me when she is not comfortable.
Excellent explanation as to why we must avoid dog parks. I’d also add that we should never assume that other dog owners are responsible, or capable, dog owners. I also have a European Doberman and know the energy they have. We’ve found hiking difficult trails can be good for burning off energy and teaching them to figure out steep climbs and such working them mentally. On easier trails and our daily walks, I’ll do regular training to keep her sharp and stimulate her mind. Then afterwards we’ll use the tugs and throw the ball to use up her energy. She also sees this as a reward following her daily training. They’re truly amazing dogs. And they will build an incredible bond with you if you work them properly.
My dogs love the dog park, but I only take them when it’s empty. As soon as I see another dog about to enter, I leash my dogs up and leave. They love the ability to flat out run, and it gives me a good space to work on their recall without the worry of them taking off and not coming back.
I go to tennis courts for this reason, in the winter when they aren't in use and there is snow on the ground. If the surface is bare, it tears up her feet.
Same or I’ll take her into the basketball courts and close the gates and let her run
lol then u dont go to the dog park
My dog was attacked at the dog park. I had him on the leash, but some pit bull was roaming around and came after my dog. He was a male like mine. Then when I told the owner to control his dog he got mad at me and tried to threaten me. I stood up to him and he backed down. It was a messed up experience and I'll never take my dog there again
He got pissed because he got called out. You didn’t back down. Hurt his ego.
That is why they call them OFF LEASH DOG PARKS. KEY WORDS OFF LEASH.
You shouldn't have your dog on a leash at a dog park. The leash creates tension and can escalate a situation.
I stopped taking my dog to dog parks. There's too many owners who goes there they have no idea what they are doing with dogs. My dog has been attacked several times by owners who doesn't know what they are doing on how to handle a dog. They just keep making the same excuses. It's got to the point where my dog has trust issues with other dogs.
Exactly , some people are just complete morons .
Where can you let a dog off leash without dog parks in USA? I’m in
U.K.
@@tanatribe luckily I have 0.5 acre lot (no fencing) and I use an e collar. Once my dog was aware of her “yard border”, she does amazingly. I have a 3 year old gsd. She ignores other dogs, or people (walking, jogging, riding bikes), unless they enter the yard threshold.
Your own back yard--fenced, of course! I walk my GS on a 6 ft. leash. I also have a 20 ft. horse lunge lead to allow her to run when we are at parks, parking lots or vacant lots/areas.
So sorry that happened. My rescue GS is dog reactive and We assume as does her vet that she was attacked and quite socialized. She is growing g in her confidence weekly. She wants to please and her recall is at 90% already. Dog do NOT have to mingle. We sit on front porch in evenings and watch all the dogs exiting and entering the apartment building taking their walks. It is good training for her to gauge other dogs body language etc. Some she barks to, most she calmly observes from the safety of our porch.
While training in some parkland this evening a fight broke out between a number of dogs in the dog park adjacent to the parkland. It got out of control right away with most of the owners screaming and not knowing what to do. When I seen the only male owner that was there swinging his fists I ran over, put my Dobie into a down stay near by, and then helped out one of the dogs that was attacked. Both young girls with that dog were traumatized. To keep it short, I helped them out and then explained to a few of those there that this is the very reason to avoid dog parks. It’s just not worth the risk with small dogs and some larger and very powerful dogs there all together with too many unknowns. That was a lesson learned the hard way. And a lesson to those there why a down stay can be an important command to teach their dog.
I didn't quite agree with the the no dog park thing when I first started watching roberts videos I thought it can't hurt... but it was the video about seeing other dogs in public and thinking they can run up to them at will because they're used to doing it in the dog park. Also when you think about it hundreds of dogs (some potentially sick) have pooped and urinated on every inch of those dog parks
Not every person and not every dog likes to go on a leashed run. The dog park is a great place to let your dog play without having to worry about him getting hit by a car. The biggest issue with dog parks is stupid dog owners. You can go early in the morning when it's empty and setup play dates with other dogs that you know your dog plays well with. If you walk into a big dog park full with dogs that you don't know, you and your dog are at risk for sure. I take our two dogs to the dog park every morning when it's empty and kick the squeaky balls around for them, they love it!
I just got a Chocolate Lab puppy and was wondering about dog parks. I didn't like the idea of strange, untrained dogs coming up to my little guy. You've pretty much decided me to give them a miss. I never took my other dogs in the past to the park, preferring the nearby nature walk, and I'll continue with that. He just got his 8 week shots, and he was already the best behaved animal in the vet's office.
absolutely use it standing on the edge to train recall and bond with you, but going in is usually a disaster, unless there's one well trained dog in there alone. i also have a Choc lab, and we trained our asses off using the dog park to dial her in and train recall.
Absolutely agree!!! Most people who bring their dogs to the dog park in LA, CA just stare at their phone and ignore their dog/dogs. My husky was scared of all the aggressive dogs and the owners had no control of the dogs. Instead, we have very supervised controlled playdates in our yard where we interact with the dogs during playtime.
Why wouldnt you start telling their owners then.
Because most dog parks where we live don't have owners with the dogs, just dog walkers who bring 20 dogs at a time and don't watch any of them. Kind of sad really.
I take my dogs to our local dog park at about 5:00 am. It's empty except for about 2 other people I know. By 6:15 am we are gone before the general population shows up.
I do the same thing. We are at the park at 5am and out by 545 when no one is there and at night when it's completely dark.
@@MuvaLaNegra Definitely the way to go!
The only thing I will use a dog park for is to test a dogs ability to maintain compliance under the heavy distraction of being in the presence of dogs that are out of control. Even then I never actually go inside of the dog park because the test is unfair if another dog can run up and lunge at them. Dog parks are for poorly trained dogs for the most part.
This is exactly what I do!
Here (The Netherlands) we have so-called “off-leash areas”.
I avoid these areas with my very active and social GSD-mix.
Dogs get bitten there, people get bitten there. Dogs get scared, people get scared and angry, dogs are running around there, totally uncontrolled.
If you or your dog get involved in a serious incident, you have a lot of trouble at hand.
I prefer to walk in the woods with my dog on the (long) leash.
Joop, I agree…the culture of the off leash areas here in the Netherlands is horrible. Owners with zero control of their dogs, and who think it’s perfectly ok to let their dogs run up and jump on people, antagonize leashed dogs, etc. But even worse, these people let their dogs off leash where it’s not allowed (like in the small forest areas near my house). There’s hardly anywhere truly safe for me to walk my tiny dog without risking unwanted encounters with rude, pushy off leash dogs. Sorry for the rant, but I’ve soooo had it with this.
@@LoriLinstruth schaf dan ook een fatsoenlijke hond aan😂
Ik snap je man…. Maar loslopen is heerlijk voor de hond
@@GlassOfJuicee Dat is ook fijn voor de hond, maar de boete is hier (in de bossen) €90,- en mijn hond geniet ook van het bos aan de lange rollijn en vangt zelfs muizen!
En in die losloopgebieden is het vaak chaos, daar waag ik mijn hond niet aan, ook al is hij nergens bang voor en weet hij zonodig van zich af te bijten.
@@GlassOfJuicee Q.E.D.
Bingo!! My Amstaff is well trained and well mannered and I will not take her to a dog park even though she enjoys socializing with other dogs. In my experience, most dog parks are full of untrained and unsupervised dogs which are just a disaster waiting to happen. The few times I've taken her in is during a time when there are few dogs and I can see that they are well behaved and are playing nicely. Even then, I keep a close eye on her and remove her if things get too rough. As you say, there are much better ways to let your dog have a fun outing.
100%
I stood outside a busy fenced dog park with my new GS pup and watched the chaos within for about 15 mins. I saw owners talking and playing on their phones and paying zero attention to their dogs. Owners socializing with each other and not paying attention to their dogs. Several fights broke out in a very short period of time. My pup was scared and I was definitely never going back. My pup has zero dog reactivity and I want to keep it that way ❤️
probably these fights are just them playing
Before I started watching your videos, I took my GSD 8 month old pup to a dog park for socializing. Unfortunately I learned a lesson, another dog (had a spiked collar) pinned my pup in a corner and was growling. I yelled out at dog as I ran towards them. The owner was not paying attention to their dog. As I pulled on the collar, I cut my hand. I threw the dog backwards and picked up my pup putting him over the fence.
Finally the owner came over and we had words. Someone called the police but I didn’t press charges. And I never went back to a dog park again. I went to classes with Sammy for training, got in with a GSD club and socialize him in control settings. I still feel responsible for that incident today.
I found your channel watched all your videos, became a member and today feel confident with both my GSDs. Please listen to the advice of no dog parks, that incident happened in a second and could have been much worse.
Thanks Robert for all you do making your videos and look forward to seeing your next video!
👊🏽
@@RobertCabralDogs thanks I told that story in hope of preventing another accident from happening.
My back yard is the only dog park for us.
It's not just that we won't be able to control our dogs in this atmosphere because SOME can.
It's everyone else's dogs I worry about.
I spend all this time training my dogs to trust me and then I dump them in the bullpen where I have no control over all the other dogs.
For me this is no nonsense thinking.
I still need my dogs trust and this can interfere with it. 🐕❤️
Perfect!
ROFL at 0:25! He does those looks occasionally and it cracks me up.
Excellent advice! I've been working with my dog to STOP REACTING to every dog she sees for over a year. I used to think it would be nice for her to play with other dogs in a controlled environment. Now I'd be happy if she would just ignore them! She's super high drive with a bite history. She needs to be under complete control to stay out of trouble and alive. Allowing her to go off with other dogs would just undo everything we have worked so hard to achieve
You and I have the same story. So thankful for Mr. Cabral and his commitment to sharing his experience and frank opinions. My girl now is choosing not to react and has excellent recall. I think she trusts me to keep her safe and help her be successful and less fearful. Congrats to you! Our only thing we still have trouble with are other owners with their dogs who don't respect our space in public when I am trying to provide it for my girl to help her focus and succeed. 😒
I learnt my lesson just last week about chaotic dog parks with my 9 month male border collie. It was great for 'burning off' all that high energy alongside my 4 yo terrier x bitch with ball retrieve fun but then he was so obsessed on arrival at the park in anticipation of the chase I had no control and a dog throwing a tantrum. So back to the backyard for controlled play and on leash walks only at quite times in the park areas plus more focus on obedience work at a dog club venue. There has already been an big improvement in the behaviour of both dogs. Thanks for your vids as they are really helpful.
I'd never take my pack to a dog park. They are all rescues from terrible areas and had lots of ptsd when they arrived. I'm fortunate to have two fenced acres, so they run as much as they want and socialize with each other, which is fine by me. More is not necessarily better. They are so calm and sweet now, you'd hardly believe what they were like in the beginning. One looks and acts like she has a lot of fawn Maninoise, super smart but not a spaz, thank goodness. It is super fun teaching her new things. Thanks for all the good advice Robert! I, for one, am listening.
Hi Robert, love your videos. Thanks a lot. I feel you're trying to say that ideally you would want this high octane release in a controlled environment (with dogs you know). With a dog park comes risk. The risk of losing control and getting a dog hurt. You alone can assess this risk in your situation best. Im from the Netherlands so I don't know the dog parks situation, however we have off leash nature trails. Having raised 5 dogs, walking in these areas for 15+ years the times I have seen a dog pin another dog is once and never a serious dog bite. So for me, in these areas the pro's outweigh the cons. Can it happen..? Sure. What I get in return is a ton of socialization, mental stimulus and social contact with other dog owners. Robert could it be that your vision is a bit clouded by all the screwed up dogs you've seen? Ask a criminal detective how safe the world is you will get a different answer than a kindergarten teacher. And what's the science on dog happiness on this one? When my dog is running/wrestling and having reciprocal play with another dog it seems like pure joy. Sure my dog likes to play tug with me, run, etc, but it seems like a lot different. Because in theory you could be doing all those things (obedience, running, dog sports) and interaction with other dogs still adds something to the mix those things don't. Would like to hear your thoughts on this. Regards!
I work and train so that my Mal girl of 14 months best for times for both of us are with me and not other dogs. We are bounding as a new team! So well said Robert your response! 👋👋👋
People keep telling me to take my dog to let my dog off with other dogs to socalise with dogs in our local fields. I have told these random dog owners that this is how I end up adopting my dog because of the previous owner had two dog walkers who had my dog out with random dogs and he ended up in the vets where the owner had his bit done because my dog had little dogs attacking him so he bit one.
I am trying so hard to turn my dog's life around and gain the knowledge I need to do my best very best by him.
I am working so hard and I am making progress but training a dog takes time and patience time I have loads of time to improve myself and give my dog the chance he needs to succeed.
Just need to get this training right for my dog and if it was for professional dog trainer like your good self Robert I would be lost so thank you so much for your time and advice.
👊🏽
We do go to dog parks and it's truly a fun experience with the new installation of obstacles HOWEVER we wait or return another time if we observe aggressive/dominant k9's. We have service dogs and PPD's that have tons of invested hours and prefer to socialize within our own pack in our fenced homestead.
If you have a service dog, which you don't btw, you're full of it, then that dog does not get to interact with any dog. This dog has been trained not to interact with any other dog. You are fucking up the training these dogs went through.
My dog loves the dog park, we are often there on our own doing recall training. He also likes meeting up with other dogs to have some fun. At least at the dog park, he's safe.
I am not a fan of dog parks so we go to a local hiking trail where dogs are allowed off leash, but since the pandemic started people have been using the trail as a pseudo dog park. Although my dog is well trained and balanced, I do not let him interact with new excited dogs because I know that although he looks cute he will become protective of me if the other dog is too much, but the owners give me scowls and stares as if I am a terrible person for not allowing their boisterous dogs to run up to us. Watching your videos has made me feel vindicated and encourages me to keep doing what is best for my dog regardless of other peoples judgment.
Local group wanted to make a perfectly good park into a dog park.
Thankfully it got squashed by the city attorney.
Dog fights, liability, nobody cleans up after their dogs anyway.
My Aussie won't go looking for a fight but he won't suffer a fool either.
Hi Robert. Love your videos. My Vizsla, whom I trained myself, is not allowed to go up to other dogs. When we are hiking and he is off leash, he knows to come back to me and heel if there is another dog. We don’t go to dog parks and I don’t permit leash contact with other dogs. However, I do let him run and roughhouse with his friend, another dog that often stays over with us or whom I take with us on hikes. Sometimes I will allow both off-leash time to run and chase. However, I also use these “high octane” periods to practice my recall out of a high distraction situation. My dog always returns on command; the other dog follows my dog and also come back for the treat. Is this fine in your book? It is not an unknown dog and it is not totally uncontrolled, although it is high energy play. The rest of the time they are on leash or in heel or walking close to me. I can also have them walk off-leash and if they start play, I can say “uh uh” and they stop and walk normally. So play is only when I explicitly release them and I never let it go on more than a minute or two before practicing the recall.
100% I've actually seen 3 different fights between humans at the local dog park, LOL!!! Dog parks are great during the winter time though!!
My previous dog was attacked by a German shepherd a few years back at a regular park, he just got loose from the owner.
I’ll say seeing my dog attacked like that was one of the scariest things I’ve ever seen!
Hi Robert define a “good run with a Dobermann” who’s 5 when your 66 ...I’m interested since having Dobes from when I was 22 I’ve had to adapt and be clever when bringing a new pup on board and learn and adapt new ways to exercise the dogs .....might be a topic for one of your videos
I am 65 with a soon-to-be 4 yr old GS. I have discovered the 24 ft. Horse lunge lead( my dog weighs 72 and can be quite strong though not lunging or jerking me anymore.). This we use along our walks when we reach a park, open area/ vacant lot, or uncongested parking lot. She can cover a lot of ground while I just need to pick up my pace a hair or occasionally run with her, and manage the rope-- which is flat and soft and not that hard due to its weight.
sorry, but I'll be blunt: maybe 66+ year old people who cannot be very active should not be getting a high energy dog. It's unfair to the dog. Ppl should accept their limitations and adjust and adapt accordingly, including choosing a dog breed (or any animal, for that matter) that will be a good fit for their energy level as well as other resources, including providing exercise.
Sir you are spot on! That is why I do not take my dogs to dog parks Any time my dogs have interaction with other dogs I use it to teach my dogs self control, while they under my control.
Robert, you mentioned the possibility of a dog getting pinned or pinning another dog. Can you explain the significance of this ? It sounds like something I need to know. Thanks
Some well meaning folks here are pushing our small town for a dog park.
I've expressed my concerns at city council meetings.
Actually commenting because I finally got to hear Robert Cabral say
"willy nilly"
Just wondering if your dog is never off leash will it ever learn how to act around other dogs . Do you keep your children on a leash to at the park. I think dog parks in my area of Canada at least are great, and my dogs interact with other dogs and run and Play but never lose sight of me and always come on command. I think dogs need to learn how to make handle themselves around other dogs
I used to go to dog parks frequently only for the socialization with other dogs however, you get people who can’t control their dogs and it’s infuriating because my dog has been attacked two times and it really is a mood killer. My dog showed submission each time even though he’s a big dog with high test. I will only go now when there is none or couple low to medium driven dogs for this reason now.
I used to visit dog parks(in Japan, we say "dog run") when I was in Japan. Whenever I visited, I was cautious and checked before I got into the area, what kind of dogs there were (I mean not breeds but behaviour), what type of the owners they were and so on. There was a guy who often showed up with his two white shepherds at the dog park. I found out later that his two dogs attacked a small dog at the park and killed him. It was devastating news for everybody who used the park.
It's okay to check for breeds.
My GSD has a high prey drive. I play with her Tug and run with her I stopped taking her to dog parks after 7 months
I didn’t know this but then took my dog today and my dog got a little nip. At the gate there was one dog barking at her. My instincts based on other videos said don’t go inside. But the owner said “don’t worry they don’t bite” well I thought it was the owner it was a dog sitter. Note to self! Stick to the trail walks and the park path.
Not everyone can run with their dog or have a backyard. I do agree with the ring dog. Backyard agility tools are good too.
Perhaps someone without a yard should get a fish rather than a dog!
I took my cane corso to a dog park a few years back. Huge mistake , she was attacked by a pit pull . Long story short $1000 later for my dog , we now go play her and I only . Lucky where I live there is a fenced off leash area you can rent for just you and your dog , no other dogs . I take her there and we play , and she's happy .
This comment section is so refreshing for someone that avoids dog parks.
It is frustrating to me how Pet dog owners consistently have the wrong idea about dog exercise. They think the dog park is the answer to burning their dog’s excess energy, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.
Hey James, How do I teach my dog to look at whatever I'm pointing at?
Hmm, it's not that I disagree with you, it's that I've always used dog parks as a distraction for training. Once obedience is good with us one-on-one, I periodically visit a dog park (always different ones) to complete our training sessions with ample distraction. My expectations for other dogs and owners is always very low. On the rare occasion I find a well trained, obedient dog with a respectful owner, I let the dogs play with each other for 5-10 minutes and end in obedience with rewards. The bond between me and my dog is always my primary objective.
Now I'm going to look at dog parks differently and decide if I want to continue training there.
FYI: I also love grocery stores, small open-air malls and schools as distractions for training.
@Robert - any advice to ween puppy off the wee wee pad?
Crate
Great video love this channel
Dog park = neighborhood fight club
Its like having two kids...
One is 19 in a frat/sorority, the other is 16.
Would you let the 16 year old learn from his siblings peers?
Well said!
Totally agree with you🐶🐾
I think it's important to note that most, if not all, of the dogs in the park are unknown to you. There are really no rules or boundaries, and they're strangers. It's kind of like if we dropped a person into a prison recreational yard. Sure, most of the inmates probably aren't going to hurt you, but there are some who will, and you don't know which is which.
For example, some people aren't as responsible as you. I've seen dogs with "policing" tendencies, that see other dogs running and playing and feel the need to stop them. This can easily turn into other dogs (that are not yours) getting involved, and fights start. All the while your dog didn't do anything, but is now involved in a fight. That's just one example of the fact that you don't know the other dogs or what they'll do. It's a pretty big risk.
Hello sir Robert! I've been watching your videos for quite a while now and I'm learning quite alot. I have something to ask, should I socialize a future protection dog/guard dog? Wouldn't socializing my dog make him/her less effective in protecting me and my family? I hope you get to answer my question. Thanks!
Can you please elaborate when /how you would suggest owners to let their dogs socialize w other dogs? Is that not very important, esp for puppies? Thank u
Own more than one dog roughly the same age. They will live together, play, run and be social. Problem solved....but only if you are committed to being a multi-drug family. I have always had 2- 3 dogs together. Sometimes 3 can leave an odd man out though.
You nailed the training aspect of dog parks and why it’s bad. The veterinary side should terrify people. The amount of animals my colleagues have had to put down because of diseases or injuries sustained at dog parks is awful. They’re a health nightmare for your animal
Running with my gsd every day in the mtn. His and mine fav experience. He only plays with his sister which my best friend owns. They both have a special relation. He used to be able to hang with his dad. Not anymore.
I pre-liked this video!! Seattle is full of the most crap dog-parks and I’ve never used them. Labs are great Northwest dogs. They love cold, wet, and get plenty of action with me. They still have their neighborhood buddies etc and don’t need a fenced area full of crap to have fun. Thank you for your videos Robert. Hard to find authentic voices these days.
Hello, Robert. I love your videos and overall info. Lots of dog owners think that a dog needs to run full throttle to be excercised and underestimate that power of running alongside your dog at your speed. Dogs love it!!
What about the people that can't run for health reasons Mario? Not all dog owners are young and physically healthy.
Well then they’re probably not strong enough to break up the potential dog fight at the dog park. Get a lower energy dog and take a walk.
@@RobertCabralDogs We do'n't have dog fights at our dog park. Owners with aggressive dogs know they're not allowed to bring their dogs in. People are very polite in England, and even ask if it is OK to come into the dog park with their dogs.
@@eliakimjosephsophia4542 I'm in England too, but clearly not as genteel an area as you. I have treated plenty of casualties from the local dog fight club (aka dog park). Never mind when the humans start fighting. Often in the waiting room if both dogs have the same vet practice.
I'm disabled so can't run, but I can do daily scent work/ tracking and obedience which tires the mind, as well as daily off-lead walks in the forest. Plus a slat treadmill is an option for disabled people with higher drive service/assistance dogs on days they may not be able to get out and about much.
@@eliakimjosephsophia4542 Your relying on a lot of assumptions here which is never wise . Just because you haven’t had one “yet” (and how do you truly know that even?) , doesn’t mean there isn’t going to be one. And just because owners are currently not bringing aggressive dogs to the park today has no bearing on whether or not an aggressive dog will be brought to the park tomorrow . Never assume everyone around you is going to act responsibly.
Understood but I think it's a natural part of socializing to run and play with other dogs
Get a playmate for your dog and they can run and play in your fenced yard all day long.
Robert nails it again! Thanks
My problem is the other dog owners that take their dog to a dog park and let the dog go and dont watch their dog. so no longer go to dog park.
Ps: i am still not sure i get it... would dog parks be ok when the owner is highly involved and maintains control and only a problem in this example of totally uncontrolled doggie time? Tx
Strange dogs = problems.
@@RobertCabralDogs thank you, got it
My very high energy dog gets on fine with other dogs but hates to be in a large group of dogs
Ps fully agree about your comments on Dog parks
I took my dog Woofman Jack to our local dog park and someone's little dog kept trying to snap in his face and when I demanded to know who it belongs to nobody would speak up........I hate those kinds of dog owners.........
I take my retriever for a walk for 45 minutes THEN I will release him into the park, the high energy is gone and he is happy with the other dogs.
We go to the dog park but we go late at night when noones there. We don't have a fenced in yard and my pitbull is a big ol butt and has bad recall. I HATE them though. We used to go during the day so he could play w other dogs but he got attacked so we never went back when other dogs were there
You are right Robert Cabral, maybe his dog is trained and socialized, but other dogs in the dog park aren'tt socialized and trained. Because dog owners who goes to the dog parks don't exercise their dogs by their self and letting their dogs exercise for them self, and 99% dogs there are not right socialized with other dogs, don't know how to play with other dogs and their owners aren't controling them right. Keep going, i love your videos.
Maybe it depends on the country? I agree dog parks may not suit all dogs but it suits some. I take my two dogs, kelpie is neutral with other dogs and prefers the ball, maremma loves other dogs and is quite placid- go to a very big park usually around the same time and better to not go on weekends as the more stupid dogs and owners go on weekends. I live in Australia.
Sorry but this seems to be a narrow view of the human/ K9 relationship. Listen, I get that dog parks are risky place for the following reasons: intact animals, reactivity, poor play, and pack order issues. However, all of these can be addressed with a well behaved, trained, and respectful relationship between humans and dogs.
Ive seen plenty of "arguments" between pups and 99% never cause physical harm. That's not good enough, but that's when owners must be willing to speak out about poor behavior and control.
I dont believe every dog is a dog park dog or every park is a typical dog park. I do know and have experienced professionally and privately the good of free play. Its not willy nilly either. Work goes into teaching proper play and dog to dog communication.
Advising though as a "professional" that this should be avoided 100% doesn't show most effective training technics according to professionals, doctors, or governing agencies.
So, train your dogs to Schutzhund all day but for 90% of owners thats not their level of engagement. Dont think im some lazy owner either. my little lady knows commands in multiple languages, full sentence commands, whistles, points, and so on but she goes to dog parks. what keeps her safe is me. regulating play and interaction. Even if that means doing the job for another owner.
You’re the 2nd trainer I’ve heard say this. Possibly the 3rd. The dog park is like the arena.
Do you allow your dogs to free play together at home?
Yes!
I’ve had to fire a few dogs this year. I luckily have access to a private dog park and I’m very selective with my crew. Dog parks aren’t for every dog. Dogs having friends is wonderful, but not every dog is safe at a dog park and people need to get a grip and keep everyone safe by not bringing dogs that can’t handle the parks.
Well said.
Agreed
“I don’t know why you watch my video but don’t listen to me” In the words of smokey, what kind of shit is that.
The only thing I like dog parks for is training around them for distraction training around dogs. I never go instead, too risky, a lot of people bring their overstimulated, aggressive dog inside. I want my dog to come to me for fun and exercise, not other people or dogs.
"A high energy dog has no better friend than an Ebike." - me
Kickbike
Agree watching from Pennsylvania 🙏🙏🙏🎚🎚🎚🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
This video totally took me by surprise I've been taking my Rottweiler/ Doberman mix to dog park since he was 3 months old to socialize and thought was the right thing... I do stay vigilant and use a e collar going over all obedience commands there as it provides so many distractions.... there have been a couple small fights when my wife took him so she's not comfortable taking him anymore but I still do it a few times a week but I do have a much "firmer" or better choice of word would be diligent..... is this counter productive to his development....I'm really confused
Not a professional but I think that it becomes tremendously counter-poroductive when there is eventually a fight/bite incident. I also don't trust any owners at the dog park, most people can't spot any cues whatsoever and will refuse to defuse a situation until it's too late. You can honestly socialize your dog at this point by just being out in the world around dogs, people, kids, animals, crowds etc. Dog parks just cause friction IMO.
@@lacqueredhearts It also depends on the context. IMO not ALL visit to the dog park cause friction. I’ve been going to the dog park on a weekly basis for a year and there has been about 5 times were my dog has been on the receiving end of another dog bad behavior. We left the park immediately. Other than that I’ve never taken my eyes off my dog while at the park and we leave when we see him getting tired or even before because that is when there can be frustration and less self control.
I agree 100% 👍
Agree, I don't take my dog to dog parks. I think it sets them up for potentially ugly experiences, when I want to set my dog up for good experiences and good behaviors. Also, you just never know the health and well being of other dogs, not everyone takes great care of the pets.
Like that person, I too have watched many of your videos but that doesn't mean your opinion is the LAW and we should all obey it. Dogs have personalities just like humans and for you to say you should not let a 22 month old run at the park because she's high drive is single minded. I agree if it's a high drive dog like yours which are working dogs then sure but that would mean all people watching your videos would have the same type of dogs and same intentions and personalities.
If I have misunderstood then I apologise in advance but I have seen ex federal police work dogs have an absolute blast in a dog park I like and the trainer demonstrates and exercises control when she's playing with recall etc and by doing that inspires so many dog owners to want to have a similar relationship with their dogs.
He's had heaps of dogs but not all go to the park because of their personality he told me.
If all your subscribers are only working dog owners and trainers then maybe I am wrong to say this, I hope not.
My dog loves other dogs so much I could literally leave him there and he would be happy, and in the park I can recall him easily and he will listen to other commands.
My issue is that you don’t know the other dogs at a random dog park. You’re putting your dog at risk by allowing them to run free with dogs you don’t know. If that doesn’t concern you, then have at it. I would not do it. My dog plays with dogs he knows and I trust only. Nothing to do with working dogs or pets… any dog.
I honestly thought that if two dogs with good obedience and training would be fine to play 1 on 1 with their own kind.
When you see this, the dogs look so happy and content and play the only way two dogs can play. I couldn't imitate that play as a human.
Would you say this would be a different situation and an allowable situation than a stranger-free for all dog park????
Thanks
I would also like to know this.
I have a friend who lets his dog pull him on a skateboard around the block
Over and above the fact that dp s are dangerous is the damage they do to the dog/human relationship. The dog learns that it’s more fun without you and also loses trust and respect and learns that strange dogs are more important than you.
Dog parks are great places, to pick up really bad habits . Like letting your kids run the streets nothing good is going to happen. I toss a ball or frisbee . Until my arm falls off while building the bond
Not a good analogy. Since in a dog park you are supposed to look after your dog constantly. That is not the case with a kid running the streets. I feel a lot of the people commenting under this video have had bad experiences and only see the bad side from what dog parks can provide.
200# daniff. He would not be as good of a dog if it weren't for dog parks. He needed and still needs the socialization.
This needs to be amplified much more than it is.
Dog Parks= Breeding ground for disaster
Agreed 💕
It's stranger danger.
The whole idea of socialization is flawed in the canine industry. Like humans we feed of the temperament of other beings, likewise you should be the first source of interaction; then neutrality with other dogs in brief interaction is the basics in beginning stages. Choose a Dog that suits your energy. A cute Pitbull or a big bear of a Rottweiler seems romantic, until you go flying out the door!
Same thing with doggy daycare. Let you be your dog's reinforcement, not dogs that may not be well adjusted. None of the dog club members go to dog parks or doggy daycare. Half the time dog owners are on their phones, not even watching their dog. One of the dog parks by us the guy had wolf dogs he would bring in. They killed a Chihuahua and a few years later killed a kid. The park is now shut down. Wouldn't want to be anyone in that situation. Such a shame and it can be difficult to find well adjusted dogs and owners that are on their dogs to correct when necessary or redirect and/or to get their dogs to even listen to them. And then there's getting people to pick up after their dogs even with clean up equipment available...
What state did this happen in?
Some dog day cares are just built different😉
Kids should not go to the dog park IMO
Dog parks are a haven for the untrained owner. The dog is going to act like a dog, and going to be the dog you’ve trained it to be. It’s the ignorant owners who have not trained their dogs that drive me nuts at dog parks and the reason I stopped going.
A typical "black and white" total control video. Dog parks and owners are different in different states and countries. I have been too many including a dog beach full of dogs in Vienna. If people are responsible, know their dogs and have good obedience, and the dogs who regulary go there know each other then what's the problem? The danger of one dog flipping out? That can happen anywhere like in the attack video Robert analyzed. For example in Germany dog owners have to do a dog "driving license" for example, before getting a dog, you can't compare that situation with other countries who don't have that. Or a small village with a small population, why can't they meet up if the dogs know each other?
I appreciate your response. I have a feeling that Mr. Cabral was more so talking about a dog park with random owners/dogs. However, I agree with you regarding the « black and white » total control that is clearly seen in the comments. In my experience, a lot of dog behavior experts recommend not to ever take your dog in a dog park. I believe that in some contexts going to the dog park is okay and should not be considered « bad training » for your dog. A owner should be able to analyze what type of dogs are at the dog park and take a rational decision to take the dog in the park or in the contrary to refrain from doing so. In some instances, going to the dog park is a good thing. And I take one hour walks every day + a 30 min walk in the morning (before people start assuming I’m lazy as I’ve seen in the comments).
Don’t like dog parks I take my newfs off leash trail hiking and swimming that wears them out
Make videos with dogs with problems from start to finish