Most dog parks only have two areas: one area for large dogs and one area for small dogs. Usually, the difference is based on the weight of the dog. For example: Dogs over 20 pounds go into the big dog area. The prime reason for seperating large and small dogs is a safety factor. A Great Dane can do some serious damage to a Chihuahua, for example. This is not based on aggression. It is based on the fact that dogs play, and they can bump into smaller dogs (as well as adults!).
FORDOG has designated Area 1 for larger dogs and Area 2 for smaller dogs. To date, we have not distinguished larger dogs from smaller dogs. We anticipate that our dog owners can work the differences out based on common sense.
We also realize that some smaller dogs are used to playing with larger dogs, and that some larger dogs have very quiet personalities and get along well with smaller dogs. Owners usually know the personality of their pets and make the appropriate decision as to which area is best. Some dogs like to play hard (suggest Area 1 with the larger dogs).
The same holds true for medium dogs, such as Dachshunds, Border Collies, etc. Some get along fine with larger dogs, some do not. You make the appropriate decision.
Area 3 is a different situation.
This area is reserved for owners with special needs. For example, they may have a really small dog like a Chihuahua where even a medium sized dog is too big to play with. Other circumstances might be someone's first visit to the dog park and the owner is not sure how their pet will socialize with a bunch of new dogs. Area 3 is a good break-in area. Older dogs (senior) dogs or dogs that might not be too socialable might also give Area 3 a try.
This is also a good place for small children that are supervised by an adult and their pets to be able to enjoy the activity of the dog park. There is a rule, however, that children under 5 are strictly prohibited from entering the dog park. This is a safety rule!
There is one rule for Area 3 that is different than the other areas. Anyone who is using Area 3 has priority. Other dog owners who wish to use Area 3 must ask for permission to enter.
These guidelines for the useage of the different areas have been in place for several years and have been very successful. Until proven otherwise, we recommend that pet owners follow the recommended useage of Areas 1, 2, and 3: "Use common sense."
Top of Page |
