Author: Elfi Devolder
Private off-leash areas versus public off-leash areas
For many dogs, running free is one of the greatest forms of freedom. Running, sniffing and moving at their own pace without the restriction of a leash. However, carefree running free is not a given for every dog. More and more dog owners are experiencing stress or uncertainty in public off-leash areas and are looking for alternatives that are safer and better suited to their dog's needs.
In this article, we look at the differences between public and private off-leash areas, and why the latter can be a valuable addition for many dogs.
Public off-leash areas: well-intentioned, but not without risk
Public off-leash areas are often created with positive intentions: to give dogs space to move freely. In practice, however, many owners and professionals encounter the same challenges:
1. Unpredictable encounters
In public areas, you have no control over:
- which dogs are present
- how socially skilled they are
- whether they are experiencing stress, pain or fear
- whether their owners can read signals and intervene in time
This can be very overwhelming for sensitive, young, older or reactive dogs.
2. Social pressure
There is often an implicit expectation that dogs “should be able to”: run free, be sociable, play with strangers. And they should want to do all of this too... They are let loose in an often fenced-off area and then expected to have a good time with whoever they meet there. Dogs that don't like something are given little room to set their boundaries without conflict.
3. Risk of negative learning experiences
One bad experience can be enough to:
- develop or reinforce reactivity
- cause or increase fear
- undermine social behaviour
Even dogs that used to be social can change due to stressful situations. Owners often think that dogs enjoy playing in a public off-leash area because everyone is running around, but the reality is that many dogs only experience stress and are not helped because owners simply do not notice the signs.
4. Health and safety risks
Any vet will tell you that dogs are injured every day in public off-leash areas. Bringing random dogs together and a lack of control and knowledge of body language on the part of owners can lead to conflicts that can have serious consequences. From minor bite wounds to serious injuries that are difficult to heal.
In short, public off-leash areas are set up with the best of intentions. Unfortunately, they also carry many risks that people are unaware of until it is too late.
"Owners often think that dogs enjoy playing in public off-leash areas because everyone is running around freely, but the reality is that many dogs only experience stress and are not being helped because owners simply do not notice the signs."
Private off-leash areas: freedom and safety
Private off-leash areas offer an alternative that is increasingly appreciated by behaviourists, vets and dog owners.
1. Complete predictability
You choose:
- when you come
- which dog(s) you bring
- how long you stay
- what you do there
This provides peace of mind for both the dog and its owner. Because predictability breeds confidence, as we all know. However, we don't always realise how valuable this actually is.
2. Safe off-leash walking for every dog
Even dogs that are anxious or sensitive to stress can enjoy themselves carefree in such a place. Dogs that are not (or no longer) social with other dogs do not have to worry about a fellow canine suddenly appearing, but can fully inspect all the scents left by previous visitors. Puppies and older or injured dogs have the opportunity to sniff and explore at their own pace and in peace.
Any dog can truly be a dog in a private off-leash area, without a doubt. And that is very valuable.
3. Sniffing as stress regulation
It has been scientifically proven that calm sniffing actively lowers the heart rate. Dogs can gather and process information, which is extremely important for them. Especially for stress-sensitive or insecure dogs, it can make a world of difference when they are given the opportunity to sniff around in peace and safety.
4. Ideal as a supplement to training
For many dogs in training, a private off-leash area is:
- a safe place to practise
- a moment of recovery between training sessions
- a place where successful experiences take centre stage
Skills they need in everyday life can be practised in a safe and quiet place, so that they can later be applied during walks or in social situations that are challenging for them.
The confidence of insecure dogs can be worked on, which can only benefit their functioning in our society.
It's not about “better or worse”, but about the right choice for your dog
Public off-leash areas are not necessarily bad. They work well for some dogs. There are people who have been visiting public off-leash areas with their dogs for years and have not experienced any negative consequences. That's great!
But it is important to recognise that not every dog thrives in this context and that there are real risks involved. It is better to be aware of this in advance and then make an informed choice.
What private off-leash areas have to offer fits seamlessly with a modern, welfare-oriented view of dog behaviour, which is precisely why they have become so popular in recent years.
Elfi Devolder is a columnist for WOEF Magazine and owner of the private dog walking area LaatZeLos.
