Dogs love to run and play, though depending on where you live, such actions may not be a daily option. More and more pet owners are moving to apartment complexes that just don't have enough elbowroom for humans, let alone dogs. While many newer apartment complexes are now being created with 'Doggie Playgrounds', finding a local dog park is usually the only option, for dog owners living in the city, to provide a dog-friendly and safe environment for their beloved pets.

A dog park allows dogs, and their human owners, to have fun off-leash, which offers an incredible feeling of freedom to your dog. Tails will wag, eyes will shine and tongues loll in absolute joy. If you think it's hard to get kids to get back into a car after taking them to the local playground, just wait until you try to reattach that leash to your dog's collar when it's time to leave the local dog park!

Within city environments, more dog parks are being created for such joys, but they are still few and far between in many communities. Finding a local dog park may not be as difficult as it may seem, however. Looking in your local phone book is one option, as is calling your local Chamber of Commerce or Animal Shelter. Local city government offices should know such details as well, so information should be readily available. Finding a local dog park online is also an option, as many city governments offer such areas through their Departments of Recreation.

Before you take your dog to a dog park and let him loose, make sure that he will get along with other dogs within the same area. Take your dog on outings to determine whether or not he or she will react well to different dog breeds, sizes and temperaments. There's nothing worse than taking your dog to a local dog park and then having to break up a dogfight! If your dog is aggressive around other dogs, or reacts with fear to other dogs, refrain from taking him or her to a local dog park, not only for the safety of your dog, but other dogs and owners as well. Then, take your dog when the park is not busy, even if it means some inconvenience for you. Both you and your dog will need to get acclimated to the new environment.

Also make sure that your dog reacts well to strangers, and most especially children, who often accompany their pets to local dog parks. Safety is the first thing to consider when looking for a local dog park, and before you introduce your dog into such an environment, it may be a good idea for you to visit the park alone to determine what kind of dog and people frequent the area.

Local parks provide optimal freedom for dogs, but manners and good behavior are a must to ensure that both pets and their owners enjoy relaxed, enjoyable outings.

How To Stop Your Dog from Fighting with Other Dogs

If you have a dog with some behavior or territorial issues, you may have your work cut out for you when it comes to teaching your dog to stop fighting with other dogs. Keep in mind before you go any further, that in many cases, aggressive behavior in a dog is a result of fear.

Work with your dog, first on obedience basics, using commands such as sit, stay, heel, and 'no'. Don't punish your dog, though reinforce and reward good behavior. When that step has been accomplished, take your dog out for walks along quiet neighborhood streets where interaction with other people or dogs isn't likely. Get your dog used to being around others, without them being too close.

Carry dog treats in your pocket to immediately reward your dog for good behavior and responding to your commands. When approaching other dogs or people, place yourself between your dog and others. Grasp the leash tightly and pull the DOG leash sideways as the dog approaches, keeping your dog at a distance. Pulling his or her leash sideways will keep your dog unbalanced, while allowing you greater control.

Carry something that will distract your dog when he or she sees another DOG approaching, but don't yell or scold your dog to behave before the other people even near you. Maintain an even pace, always talking to your dog in low, soothing tones, and urge him to respond to you instead of approaching DOGS or people. Reward him or her immediately with a treat when he makes eye contact with you.

Other people dealing with difficult situations like dog aggression often introduce their dog to a passive pooch in a new location. This will alleviate any need for territoriality with your dog, and the non-aggressive temperament of the other dog may serve to teach your dog that others dogs don't always imply a threat. Of course, have the other dog owner holding tightly to their dog and remain calm and unthreatening as well.

Be aware of the first signs or signals of aggression in your dog toward others. Staring at an approaching dog or person, hackles raised, and stiff legs and tail should alert you that your dog is in an aggressive mode. Calmly give the approaching dogs or people plenty of room while speaking to your dog in upbeat and soothing tones, and then reward your dog after the brief meeting has passed.

The key to changing any behavior in a dog is patience. New lessons won't be learned overnight, and may take days, or even weeks, to see signs of progress. Reassure your dog that he or she is loved and make sure you lavish them with plenty of attention after each outing. However, if your dog continues to express aggressive behavior after all attempts by you to correct such behavior have failed, consider taking your dog to an obedience class that specializes in aggressive dog behavior.