Basics to Learn for Off Leash Play

I have said it before, and I will say it again! I think the first thing to learn before taking your dog to the dog park or somewhere else they will be playing off leash, is to learn basic canine body language.
That is the first step in keeping your dog and the other dogs safe. Dogs give signals to show you and other dogs when they are ready for play vs. not wanting to be bothered at all. There are plenty of signals to show if they are scared, stressed, happy, etc. They are usually very easy to spot once you know what you are looking for! It's important in highly excitable or stessful environments to always keep your eyes on your dog and pay attention to their body language!
I've heard of so many stories about people taking their dog to the dog park thinking it'll be a fun day for them and their dog. But it turns out to be the opposite, their dog just gets in a fight or attacked. If ALL owner's pay a bit more attention when their dog is engaged with other dogs in an off leash setting, they could prevent most of these incidents.
You'll clearly be able to tell if your dog is loving the off leash play or hating it. Some dogs are just not cut out for that much stimulation. There's nothing wrong with that! Some dogs would just rather be with people. Hell, just like us! Some people would rather not be around their own kind, they'd rather be around their furry friends! :P

Dog Body Language

Important information that everyone should know - dog body language! Thanks to these guys for making this poster. I love it. We have it hanging up at the daycare. :)

New Project!

I decided to start this blog to share my love of dogs and what I have learned about them.
Right now, I am a manager at a doggie daycare/boarding facility. Since I work with dogs every day, I figured this would be a great way to share my experiences and the knowledge I gain. I have been working with dogs for the past 6 years and like to think I have learned a lot in that amount of time.
I am fascinated by dog behavior. I love dogs so much; they are my life.
I hope you enjoy my thoughts here! :)
The picture here is of my furry babies, loves of my life!