Choosing the right pet care provider can often be a challenge for pet owners. With the rise of dog walkers using secure dog walking fields we're exploring the benefits and drawbacks of using them compared to traditional park walks.
In this post, we'll dive into the pros and cons of both options, aiming to help you decide the best fit for you and your furry friend.
The Appeal of Secure Dog Walking Fields
Secure dog walking fields have surged in popularity for good reason. They provide enclosed areas where dogs can romp freely. Below are some notable benefits:
Safety and Security
Safety is a top concern for many dog owners. Enclosed fields drastically reduce the risk of dogs escaping and getting lost, a fear that many can relate to. For instance, open parks can expose dogs to traffic or wandering off without supervision. The enclosed setup of secure fields ensures that high-energy dogs can run without worry, allowing owners to relax and enjoy the experience.
Controlled Environment
These fields often offer a space free from common park distractions, such as bicycles or joggers. This peace can be especially helpful when training your dog or helping them socialise.
Tailored Amenities
Some secure facilities include features such as agility courses or toys that keep dogs entertained. Having access to specialised equipment can enhance physical activity and mental stimulation. Facilities with agility equipment can increase your dog’s physical skills, improving their coordination and strength over time.
The Drawbacks of Secure Dog Walking Fields
Despite their appeal, there are some drawbacks to consider when opting for secure dog walking fields:
Socialisation Concerns
Although secure fields promote safe play, they may limit exposure to various breeds and behaviours that dogs would normally encounter in public parks. A lack of diverse socialisation experiences can hinder development, as dogs need to learn to interact with different animals and people.
Routine Dependency
Limited exposure may make it challenging for them to adapt to busy park settings. Dogs that only play in controlled environments may struggle when encountering unexpected situations, potentially creating anxiety.
Lack of Variety
Strictly using secure fields can lead to a lack of variety in your dog's walking experiences. Walking at the same field daily may lead to boredom, frustration, anxiety leading to unwanted or problem behaviours developing.
Multiple Dogs
It's important to know how many other dogs your dog will be sharing the field with. Secure fields are more frequently used by dog walkers to manage more dogs than would be possible in public parks.
Making sure their insurance policy covers the number of dogs they are responsible for is essential. While there are no enforceable limits on the number of dogs that can be walked on private land, an insurance policy will still only cover a handler for a specified number of dogs.
Limited Space
Secure dog walking fields vary in size, typically ranging from 2-6 acres. For context, a standard football pitch is 1.32 acres and on average it takes around 35 seconds to walk an acre. If your dog is in the field for an hour they'll be lots of walking and running back and forth. To help high-energy breeds expend more energy, ball throwing is often employed, which can sometimes result in repetitive strain injuries for dogs.
The Benefits of Dog Walking in Parks
Conversely, parks present a distinct array of benefits that attract many dog owners:
Natural Environment
Parks expose dogs to different terrains, sounds, and smells, which can enhance their mental stimulation. Research has shown that dogs enjoy diverse environments, displaying increased energy levels when exposed to new stimuli. A visit to a park can also provide dogs with recreational activities, improving their overall well-being.
Social Interaction
Parks are great venues for dogs to socialise with various breeds. Encountering different types of dogs helps develop their social skills, which is vital for their behaviour.
Diverse Walking Routes
With numerous trails, parks provide an array of walking paths, stimulating exploration and curiosity. Changing our dogs walking routes can significantly enhance your dog’s desire to explore and discover, benefiting their physical health by promoting a varied exercise routine.
Smaller Groups
Local parks typically impose restrictions on the number of dogs a walker can handle at one time, usually allowing between 4 to 6 dogs per handler. Managing smaller groups helps maintain control over the dogs, offers more tailored care and attention to each dog and can help reduce problematic behaviours.
The Drawbacks of Traditional Park Walks
While parks have many strengths, they also present their own set of challenges:
Potential Risks
One major concern is the increased likelihood of dogs running off or encountering aggressive dogs. These unpredictable situations can lead to stress for both the dog and owner.
Distractions
The lively atmosphere in parks can overwhelm certain dogs, making it challenging to maintain focus during training. Dogs easily distracted may encounter issues with recalling or following commands, as they face competing stimuli.
Final Thoughts
Both secure dog walking fields and traditional parks offer a mix of benefits and drawbacks. Secure fields provide a safe, controlled atmosphere but often come with potential risks and limited socialisation. Parks allow for exploration and interaction but may pose risks and distractions.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your dog’s individual personality and requirements. Whether you choose a secure field or a vibrant park, what matters most is that your dog gets the exercise and socialisation they require, is happy and having the time of their life!
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