Are Dog Parks Really Bad for Dogs?
/The New York Times recently published an article titled “Dog Parks Are Great for People, But Terrible for Dogs”, and it’s causing quite the stir. As a dog trainer, I find the controversy fascinating—after all, dog parks are spaces many of us love. They’re community hubs where dog owners connect, swap tips, and commiserate over the challenges of urban dog parenting. But what if something we enjoy as humans isn’t actually great for our dogs? The article’s provocative take shines a light on this dilemma and raises questions that every dog owner should consider.
The Times describes dog parks as “undersupervised and vaguely dirty watering holes during thunderstorms when there’s a good chance of lightning: high risk and best avoided.” Dramatic? Yes. But for urban dwellers, the stakes are higher. In cities where access to open spaces is limited and apartment living means dogs don’t have yards to roam, dog parks may feel like the only viable option for off-leash exercise and socialization. It’s no wonder they spark fierce debates—dog parks can seem like either a saving grace or a necessary evil.
This isn’t the first time the value of dog parks has been questioned. Many dog behavior experts have raised concerns about their impact on canine well-being. Articles in Psychology Today and The Bark have echoed similar sentiments, cautioning against the potential for overstimulation, injury, and stress in these unregulated environments. As the Times points out, “dogs are social animals, yes, and need exposure to other animals. But much like us, they’re not necessarily well suited to random interactions with a rotating cast of strangers.” Think of how exhausting it would be to navigate the social dynamics of a crowded party every single day—it’s not all that different for our dogs.
For city dog owners, though, the options can feel limited. Sidewalk walks are great for sniffing, but they don’t always burn off energy. Long walks through Central Park are wonderful, but not everyone has time for them every day. Many of us turn to dog parks not out of preference, but out of necessity. The tension lies in the fact that what works well for people—convenient spaces to tire out their dogs—might not be working as well for the dogs themselves.
The controversy boils down to this: Are we prioritizing our convenience over what’s best for our dogs? Or are dog parks a necessary compromise in city life, where other exercise options just aren’t as available? This is where the conversation gets heated, and it’s why this article—and the hundreds of comments and social media debates it’s sparked—has struck such a nerve. Let’s dive deeper into this discussion and unpack whether dog parks are really the best choice for your dog.
Are Dog Parks Right for Your Dog?
Not every dog thrives in a dog park, and that’s okay. For some dogs, the chaotic environment is just too much. The article notes that “dogs are social animals, yes, and need exposure to other animals. But much like us, they’re not necessarily well suited to random interactions with a rotating cast of strangers.” Sound familiar? For humans, it’s the equivalent of being forced to mingle at a party when you’d rather be home with Netflix.
Before you take your dog to the park, consider their temperament. Do they enjoy playing appropriately with other dogs? Are you ready to actively supervise and leave at the first sign of trouble? If not, a dog park might not be the best fit.
The Stress Factor
One of the article’s most compelling points is about overstimulation. It explains how all the sniffing, chasing, and ruckus at a dog park can leave dogs “discombobulated” or even overaroused. Those “zoomies” your dog does at the park? They might not be pure joy. They could also be your dog screaming, “I just can’t take it anymore!”
The stress of these environments isn’t just about what happens in the moment. The Times reminds us that “even small doses of stress can take up to three days to drain out of a dog’s system.” This prolonged stress can show up as unexpected bad behavior later, even if the park seemed fine at the time.
Health Concerns at Dog Parks
The article also touches on the health risks. Diseases like leptospirosis can spread easily in shared spaces, especially in cities like New York. Some dog parks are notorious for outbreaks, which can have serious health consequences. Bringing your own water and cleaning your dog’s paws, tail, and underside after a visit can help reduce risks, but there’s always some level of exposure.
Alternatives to Dog Parks
If you’re questioning whether dog parks are the right choice, here are some other great ways to exercise and socialize your pup:
Long Leads in Central Park or Along the Water: A long leash gives your dog freedom to explore safely.
Sniff Spots: These private, rentable spaces let your dog run and play without the chaos of a dog park.
Dog Daycares: With temperament testing, professional supervision, and strict health protocols, daycares can be a safer option.
Hiking Companies: For adventurous dogs who love nature (and can handle car rides), hiking groups are a great alternative.
The Bottom Line
Dog parks aren’t inherently bad, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. As the article says, “forgo the dog park: You have nothing to lose but your urban guilt.” It’s a harsh truth, but one worth considering. Dogs don’t need a “thunderdome of rowdy pooches” to be happy. As long as their needs are being met, more often than not, they just want to be with you—whether that’s on a quiet walk, a sniff-filled adventure, or lounging on the couch.