How can I ensure my dog’s safety at the dog park?

Unfortunately, you can’t. You are dealing with living breathing beings, not robots. We can never be sure how another dog or your dog will react in a situation. However, you can take as many steps as possible to ensure your dogs safety. These include:

1. Getting to know the dogs and humans who frequent the park so you can be sure everyone is sensible, and the dogs get to know each other.
2. Observing body language and learning to read subtle signals that dogs are uncomfortable.
3. Learning what ‘good play’ looks like and when to decide if play becomes one sided or over the top, not even or dangerous. For example, if your dog is getting chased by one dog all the time and there are no reciprocal behaviours, it’s best to interrupt and take your dog away. The better matched in play style dogs are the better and safer.
4. Always advocate for your dog and stay connected with them.