Party 4 Paws!

When throwing a dog party, one of the most important decisions you will make is WHERE! The location of your dog party will play a major role when it comes to the success of your event. Choosing your location will depend on several factors including your budget and of course, the number of guests (dogs, as well as humans) you plan to invite.

For those of you who have extra money to spend (and I don’t know many that currently fall into this category!) you may want to consider an indoor park and play facility.  Companies that cater to canines are popping up all over the United States.  Indoor doggie adventure parks are the latest trend in the pet industry.  Though these facilities can charge a hefty fee, they are designed to cater to dogs of all sizes and breeds. You will not need to worry about bringing dog toys or planning games….the facility you choose should have everything you need in order to keep your canine guests happy and entertained.

There are several other possible locations to consider when planning your dog party….and best of all, they are FREE! Your local public dog park is a great place to throw a fun, yet informal dog party.  Dog parks are prolific. Currently, there are over 750 off-leash dog parks in the United States.  Just goes to show how much people LOVE their pooches!

 If you plan on celebrating Fido at your local, public dog park be sure to brush up on your dog park etiquette BEFORE your event.  As host of the pawty, oops, I mean party, it is important you know the rules and regulations of the park, as well as general etiquette.

General Dog Park / Dog Party Etiquette

1. Have each guest (human, not dog) read the posted rules and regulations before entering the park. 
2. Make sure that each dog you invite has received the proper immunizations and flea treatments. 
3. Bring your own dog toys. Don’t allow your pooch to steal another dog’s toy. This can be annoying and can cause problems (between humans and canines!). 
4. Dress appropriately. Remember, you are going to a dog park. Dog parks are dirty, not to mention full of jumping, excited dogs. If you wear your favorite cashmere sweater to the dog park and it gets ruined…you have no one to blame but yourself! 
5. If you have an aggressive dog that does not get along well with other animals…DO NOT take it to the dog park. You would think this is common sense…but I have witnessed many aggressive dogs start fights at local dog parks. 
6. Bring your own water and treats. 
7. Don’t play dumb. Remember, you are at the dog park so that your dog can play, get some exercise and socialize with other animals. Though the dog park is also a great place to socialize with other HUMANS, remember to keep an eye on your pup at all times. If your dog goes to the bathroom…don’t pretend NOT to notice. Clean it up! If your dog is annoying another dog or having his way with a poor pup in the corner….do something! It is your responsibility to keep your dog in line. 
8. You are NOT the Dog Whisperer or Victoria Stillwell. Though you may know a lot about dogs and their behavior, most people don’t appreciate a “know it all.” Don’t spread doggie wisdom unless asked or approached. Many people don’t want to hear what they are doing wrong when it comes to their dog’s training and/or behavior. 

The dog park is a great place to have a dog party…especially if you are inviting a lot of dogs. If you are planning a smaller dog party, you may want to consider having the event in your basement or back yard. Check back soon as my next post will be all about how to have the perfect at home dog party. Until then my furry friends…

Filed under: Dog Party Planning on January 8th, 2009