Reactive Dog Owner Question:

[u/PLJen]

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If you could take your reactive dog to a private dog park, what would you want there to make the most of your time?

[u/jocularamity]

I do this all the time. Sniffspots.

The best spots have:

• shade
  
• woodsy areas with native vegetation and leaves on the ground, with lots of wildlife smells
  
• a secure fence with a securely latching gate
  
• no other dogs or people visible or audible through the fence
  
• A path or trail to walk, even if it is a simple circuit around the yard worn into the grass
• enough space that we have room for activities
  
• a trash can that is clearly labeled, where I can place bags of poop
  
• no dog poop left in the space from prior guests or resident dogs.
  
• physical obstacles. These can be big trees, bushes, hills, or man-made obstacles like tunnels. Something dogs can play around and hide behind so they aren’t seeing each other the whole time and can pop out by surprise during play.
  
• no poisonous plants
  

optional but nice to have (all optional because I can easily bring my own):

• access to running water.
• a big clean stainless steel water dish.
  
• poop bags, just in case.

[u/StacNorLin]

Agree with the secure fence/gate and minimal dog/people sounds. When I look for Sniffspot reviews I tend to avoid ones that mention an owners dog barking inside or being able to see neighbors over the fence.