More barking at the playground lately? This might explain it.

If you notice your dog barking more at the playground, it might be because it’s getting to be Spring. Spring brings more kiddos and caregivers to the playground. And Spring brings more dogs to the playground, as parents (including me) try to meet their kiddo and doggo needs at the same time.

Dogs bark to communicate a need. With strangers, other dogs, and trikes, the need is for space. When a dog is on leash at a playground, the dog doesn’t have the option to move away on their own. So the only way the dog has of trying to get space for safety is to bark. A scared dog barks to say “I’m scared, you’re too close, go away”.           

Hey, if you bring your kid and dog to the playground, you’re not alone. I do too. 

I also know when the playground is going to be too hard for our dog. It’s too hard for Trixie, and might be too hard for your dog if: 

• The playground has kids playing. To be clear, the playground is *for* kids! And too many people is scary for dogs. Kids and their grownups often try to pet dogs. Even if the dog doesn’t bark, most dogs are NOT fine with pets from strangers.

• There are other dogs. Many dogs are scared of other dogs. Or frustrated they can’t get to other dogs. Both of which mean barking.   

• There’s kids, balls, trikes, or swings in motion. Dogs know kids and play equipment often come too close. 

When me and my partner take our kid to the playground, we do sometimes take Trixie. 

Unless there’s no one in sight, I avoid Trixie going on the playground itself. That’s too hard for Trixie. And the playground is for kids and their caregivers, many of whom are scared of dogs. 

If there’s just a few folks at the playground, I give Trixie the option to come a little closer while checking Trixie’s body language to make sure she’s feeling relaxed. 

As the playground gets busier in the Spring, Trixie and I do sniffari without coming too close to the playground. 

If you’re having a hard time meeting your kid’s and doggo’s needs, I see you. 

You don’t have to go this alone. Reach out and I’m here to help.