Dog parks work when owners actively supervise, respect signed rules and recognise that not every dog wants to interact.
Read the signs
Off-leash permission is location-specific. Check hours, boundaries and wildlife or sporting restrictions every visit.
Manage entrances
Do not crowd gates. Move into open space before greeting and call your dog away when another owner is entering or leaving.
Stay present
Watch your dog rather than your phone. Interrupt escalating play early and remove waste immediately.
Respect a no
A yellow lead, a nervous dog or an owner asking for space is not an invitation to socialise. PawPal messages should also remain optional and respectful.
Common questions
Can a dog be off leash without reliable recall?
It is safer to use a long line in an appropriate leashed area until recall is dependable.
Who is responsible during a PawPal meetup?
Each owner remains responsible for their dog and compliance with NSW and council requirements.