DOG PARKS - BODY LANGUAGE TO WATCH FOR

If you decide to visit a dog park, it is important to read the body language of your dog and the other dogs present. Overall you are looking for balanced play between dogs – sometimes one is on top, and next time, he’s on the bottom. Sometimes he’s the chaser, and next, he will be the chased.

It’s always wise to leave the park if your pet shows signs of tiredness, stress, or fear.

Positive, playful actions:

  • Back and forth play – dogs change position – role reversals.

  • Bouncy, exaggerated gestures

  • Wiggly bodies

  • Open relaxed mouth

  • Play-bows

  • Twisted leaps or jumps

  • Pawing the air

Signs of Anxiety or Stress:

  • Fast wagging low tail

  • Whining or whimpering

  • Ears may be back

  • Hiding behind objects or people

Signs of Fear:

  • The dog will try to look small.

  • Tail tucked

  • Hunched over, head down

  • Tense

  • May urinate submissively

Red Flags that Require Intervention:

  • Excessive mounting

  • Pinning (holding another dog down and standing stiffly over them)

  • Shadowing another dog (following) incessantly.

  • Bullying: repeatedly bothering another dog that does not want to interact

  • Fast non-stop running with a group – high arousal situation

  • Full-speed body slams

  • Putting head repeatedly onto another dog’s neck or back

  • Staring with a fixed gaze directly at another dog

  • Snarling or raised lips

  • Showing teeth

  • Hackles up at the shoulders

In theory, dog parks are a wonderful way for dogs to socialize with other friendly dogs. It is important that owners who frequent dog parks know their pets' limitations and act accordingly to keep playgroups interacting safely and responsibly.

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