Reading the Room

Before entering the park, stand outside the fence and observe. Count the dogs, note their energy levels, and watch for bullying behavior. A park with three calm dogs is ideal. A park with eight frantic dogs chasing one target is a recipe for a bad experience.

If the energy inside looks chaotic, wait or leave. The composition of dogs inside the park changes constantly — what was fine fifteen minutes ago can become tense and dangerous with the arrival of one poorly socialized dog.