BarksBudsEvery dog run has its regulars, and the regulars all follow the same handful of unspoken rules. Learn them once and you'll be welcome at any run from Riverside Park to Christopher Morley Park.
At the gate
- One gate at a time. Most runs have a double gate. Close the outer gate behind you before you open the inner one, so nobody slips out.
- Unclip in the airlock. Take the leash off between the two gates. A leashed dog in an off-leash crowd feels trapped, and that tension can start squabbles.
- Give the welcome committee a second. Dogs often rush the gate to greet a newcomer. If the crowd at the gate is big, wait a moment or walk your dog a few steps away from it once inside.
Inside
- Eyes up, phone down. The most important rule. You can't step in early if you aren't watching.
- Pick up every time, even if someone else's dog left it. Bring more bags than you think you need.
- Leave food at home. Treats and snacks can cause scuffles fast. If you train with treats, do it outside the fence.
- Think twice about toys. A favorite ball can turn a sweet dog possessive. Bring a toy you don't mind losing, and pocket it if anyone starts guarding.
- Ask before you pet or treat someone else's dog. Some dogs are nervous, on special diets or in training.
- Kids stay close. Running, squealing kids can trigger chasing. Keep little ones next to you and away from the gate.
Who should sit today out
Skip the run if your dog is sick, in heat, too young to be fully vaccinated, or just not in the mood. A dog who is grumpy at home is usually grumpy at the run, too.
Know when to leave
If your dog is being bullied, bullying, or getting over-excited and can't settle, it's completely fine to leash up and try another day. Nobody at the run will judge you for leaving; they'll respect you for noticing.
Every run posts its own rules by the gate. When they're different from anything here, the posted rules win.