Sometimes I take my dogs (both dachshunds) to the dog park for a change of environment. My younger dog is a little high-strung and he will bark at any people or dog he sees, and he growls and bares his teeth when a dog tries to socialize with him. I believe this aggression comes from being scared, because that’s how he acts, though he never ever bites other dogs. Is it bad that I keep taking him to the dog park to try to socialize him?

postmaster Smiling Dogs

If your pups do not enjoy the company of other dogs, then the dog park isn’t the best place for them. It is important to socialize, but the dog park isn’t the proper place for dogs without social skills. It is not a great learning environment because not every dog is a great teacher.

A better alternative is to have play dates with a family or friend’s dog where you can be in a controlled environment and give the dogs feedback. Letting them loose to fend for themselves will create defensive dogs if they are unsure of themselves, but closely monitored play dates will provide a less stressful situation, and the opportunity to learn.

Some dogs just don’t like other dogs, though, and that’s okay! They’d prefer to be home in their yard.