08/11/2026
How I use dog parks as a dog trainer 👀🐾
Most of the time, I’m not actually taking my dogs inside the park—I’m using the environment around it as a controlled training opportunity.
Dog parks provide movement, barking, running dogs, excited people, and plenty of unpredictable distractions. By working outside the fence and at an appropriate distance, I can practice:
• Neutrality around other dogs
• Engagement with the handler
• Loose-leash walking
• Recall around distractions
• Calm observation without greeting
• Advocating for the dog’s space
We begin far enough away that the dog can still think, respond, and take rewards. As they become more confident and successful, we may gradually decrease the distance.
The goal isn’t for my dog to meet every dog they see—it’s for them to notice the excitement and still choose to remain connected with me.
Dog parks can be incredibly useful training environments, even when you never step through the gate. 🐕
