Most Aussie dog owners avoid dog parks and believe they are unsafe, according to new 9Honey poll
In a 9Honey poll, which surveyed hundreds of readers and asked 'Do you think dog parks are safe for dogs?', 77 per cent said "No, I would never take my dog to a dog park."
Meanwhile, 23 per cent said they would have no problem taking their furry friend to an off-leash space.
READ MORE: Pet owner's life-saving act inspires $1 million business idea
Yesterday, in a column for 9Honey, pets expert Dr Katrina Warren said she would never take her border collie Chilli to a crowded dog park.
Most Australian dog owners avoid taking their pooches to dog parks. Getty Images/iStockphoto
"There's so little known about the dogs when you arrive to the dog park, it's very difficult to know where play will lead," she wrote, explaining that while sometimes play will be fun and cheeky, other times disagreements can spark, including fights or bullying.
READ MORE: 10 Aussie pet owners reveal how much they spend in a month
She also revealed dog parks can be a breeding ground for bad behaviour.
In response to the belief dog parks are key to socialising your dogs, Dr Katrina disagreed. Supplied
"Dogs can learn bad behaviour from other dogs like ignoring the recall, and rough play," Dr Katrina said.
READ MORE: Here are the top 10 most popular dog breeds in Australia for 2022
The former Harry's Practice star said she does not let Chilli run off-leash at any dog park unless she is with other dogs she knows and trusts.
Dr Katrina Warren says she would never take her border collie Chilli to a crowded dog park. Facebook
In response to the belief dog parks are key to socialising your dogs, Dr Katrina disagreed.
READ MORE: Star responds after being 'spat on by Harry Styles'
"Socialising your dog, so that it is calm and comfortable in foreign places, on streets, around other dogs and new people, doesn't come by throwing them in a dog park without a lead," she said.
"Instead, socialisation comes from exposing your dog to a variety of well-controlled situations that are going to be positive, such as planned dog walks with dogs and owners you know and managed play dates."
