Quality dog parks can be good for people and pets.

Dog parks give dogs a safe space to exercise and roam around freely.

Dog parks allow sociable dogs to socialize with other dogs.

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Dog parks enable dog owners to spend time outdoors being physically active with their pets.

Dog parks are a place where people of all ages with a common interest (dogs) can interact.

Since dog parks are for people as much as they are for dogs, amenities matter.

A young boy and girl pose with a happy Golden Retriever

The following guidelines for people and pets are recommended by dog care professionals and park experts.

Fearful dogs might also pull back their lips, show teeth, and even give a warning snarl.

A dog that shows these signs is finding the park too overwhelming.

Dewey Dog Park in Maryland

Just like us, dogs have good days and bad days, says Hamrick.

If a dog looks uncomfortable or is not getting along with the other dogs, leave.

Don’t wait around to see if they warm up.

Two women sit on a bench with a white dog while another dog plays with a ball on the grass

Not every dog will do well at a dog park, and that’s okay, adds Queen.

Homeowners with fenced yards but no dogs are renting out their backyards by the hour to dog owners.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Lennard Goehner is a freelance reporter and writer.

An illustration of the Cut Bank City Bark Park site plan, a dog at a fire hydrant, and a woman poses with pine tree plants