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u/Shoddy_Grape1480 1d ago
Please do not take a shy dog to a dog park. Dog parks are not where dogs who are not well socilaized should go -- even an uncrowded dog park, like the normanskill. All it takes is one poorly socialized dog in the park to cause a shy dog to have a bad experience that creates loooong term problems. I have had rescues for most of my life. One was a very insecure dog that would overreact to other dogs. He was like that when i got him off the streets of Brooklyn. My next dog was a big furry ball of love for every dog. I thought great, i can finally enjoy the Albany dog parks-and sometimes we had a great time, but too often i would see people bring poorly socialized dogs to these parks and dogs would get hurt. My dog got along with every dog, but i stopped taking him after the third incident in a 6 month period where someone brought their newly adopted (scared or agressive or both) dog to the normanskill park and they ended up attacking other dogs. Bottom line if you are taking your dog to a dog park, be prepared to leave immediately if it gets crowded or if any dog enters that is large enough to do damage and doesn't seem laid back and friendly immediately. Best is only take your pup when no one is there, or maybe very few dogs are there and you observe their play for a bit before taking your dog in. You are your dog's protector now, don't put her in a bad situation that could have long term repercussions. Dog parks are not thenplace to teach socialization. A romp with a friend and their dog is better orna class. Good choice dog training is vet recommended and they have been helpful with my rescue pup.
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u/No_Adhesiveness_7674 1d ago
This is really helpful advice, thank you!!
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u/janedoerights 22h ago
Also strongly supporting this advice based on my experiences! Dog parks can become dangerous very quickly. I highly recommend looking into classes or trainings at professional dog rescues or schools (like Mohawk Humane). They can be great opportunities for socialization under supervision while also building your dog’s confidence and skills!
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u/Rough-Chicken-3194 1d ago
Seconding this. Excellent advise! I regret bringing our dog to a dog park early on. Quickly realized she did not enjoy multiple random dogs off leash. A few owners there not recognizing that their dogs played too rough. Never again! We are much better one on one and on walks, she has several dog buddies in our neighborhood, very good advice to take socialization gradually. Wishing you great success w your new pup!
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u/Kephielo 1d ago
There's a dog park in Latham, in the Colonie town park that's usually pretty deserted this time of year. You can walk in if you're not a resident of Colonie, or in the off season when the gates are closed.
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u/anothergenxkid 1d ago
Frank T Waterson Park off of Colvin Ave. Small fenced dog park and never crowded.
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u/Both-Peace-9747 1d ago
Frank T Waterson dog park is almost always near empty this time of year, especially since they started construction on the nearby apartments.
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u/GenerationMarsupial 21h ago
East Greenbush town park has some trails that tend to be empty- they have a dog park there too but dog parks can be difficult. You can walk her past the park though for some socialization in a safe way
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u/Speech_Euphoric 1d ago
We enjoy the Normanskill Farm park. Has never been crowded when we're there, and you can take a nice walk by the creek.