Some people can't wait to take their new dog to the dog park as soon as they bring him home. It sounds like a perfectly natural place to let the dog run off leash and play with other dogs, while the owner meets other dog owners and talks about their canine companions. But while it may be the ideal outing for some dogs, it can be a disaster for others.

Not every breed is suited to dog park play. Some dogs just don't like crowds and are naturally territorial, and others are not the rough-housing kind. Still others may have serious behavior problems with other dogs and people and need more socialization in a controlled environment, such as a training class, before they can reap the benefits of an off-leash community.

For dogs with a strong predator drive that have never been around small children before, tiny tots inside the dog park could mean trouble. Every dog that frequents the dog park should play well with others and should not be aggressive. It is up to owners to take responsibility for their dogs and know when to keep a dog away from the dog park. The last thing you want to have happen is a child or a dog injured in a fight.

Park Training

Your dog should be well socialized and should feel comfortable around people and other dogs before you visit the park. To accomplish this, take him to an obedience class or go walking around your neighborhood or outdoor shopping centers in your community where he'll encounter dogs and people and realize they're not threatening.

Basic obedience skills will also come in handy. You should always be able to have your dog obey instructions to wait, sit, stay, or come. Park manners are everything! If you ever feel afraid of another dog at the park, it's wise to leave.

Choosing a Healthy Park

Above all, dogs at the park should be healthy and free from communicable diseases and parasites that may affect other playmates. If you see that owners aren't cleaning up after their dogs' messes, politely remind them to do so or be prepared to do it yourself. You may also want to think about finding another place to play.

If you're contemplating your first visit to a dog park, here are a few simple rules that may help you and your dog have a safe encounter:

• Honestly assess your dog's personality to determine if it's suitable for this environment.

• When you arrive at the park, observe the dogs. If there's one who's coming on too strong with the other dogs, this isn't a safe place for your dog, so leave.

• Don't bring small children, reading material, hand-held computer games, or food with you. You need to pay attention to what your dog is doing and be ready to step in if there's a problem.

• Limit the number of toys and treats you give your dog inside the park. Your dog may not want to share his bounty with other dogs and this may trigger aggression.

• Leave your dog's collar on but remove his leash inside the park. A leashed dog could feel stressed and may want to protect himself if other dogs are not leashed.

• Take responsibility for your dog's actions. If your dog is getting too rough and someone complains about his behavior, apologize and take your dog home in order to avoid a conflict.

• If another dog is acting inappropriately, notify the owner. Be prepared to leave if the owner doesn't modify the offending dog's behavior.

• Always clean up after your dog.

• Observe the park rules.

Remember that your dog's health and safety comes first no matter where you take him. Never force a dog, especially if he is fearful, into a new situation or demand that he accept the touch of someone he fears. This invites aggression; your dog may feel the need to protect himself. Some dogs just need more time than others to feel comfortable, so be patient.

Don't coddle your dog. If he's shaking or trying to hide behind your legs when someone new approaches, resist the urge to comfort him and tell him it's okay. This sends the message that it's acceptable to act like this. It's better to ignore his reaction and prevent it by not putting him into a stressful situation in the future. Hopefully he'll pick up the cue from you that you're not worried and he shouldn't be either.

Always carry your cell phone with the number of the local animal control agency programmed in. You may need it if a problem arises, but don't use it to idly chit-chat with your friends or make business calls. After all, you brought your dog to the dog park to have a pleasurable outing away from your other responsibilities.