The dog beach is top of the list for many people wanting a warm day out with their dog. However, like with any dog-friendly space, there are rules in place to ensure it’s an enjoyable time for everyone.
Here are our top tips for dog-friendly beach etiquette.
Control Your Dog in The Carpark
Ensure your dog stays on the leash until you’re at the designated dog beach. Carparks are dangerous places for dogs. In addition, unrestrained dogs in the car park can cause issues for others trying to get their dogs or children out of the car safely.
Read the Signs
There are often specific hours your dog can and cannot be on the beach. All beaches are well-signed at the entry and exit points, so read the signs before you go on the sand. Beaches will always state if it is an on or off-leash beach. Rangers patrol beaches regularly and will issue fines if you break these rules.
Pick Up After Your Dog
It seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how many dog owners ignore this simple rule. Burying dog poo in the sand or kicking into the water is poor etiquette. Be prepared and ensure you always have plenty of poo bags with you.
Control Your Dog on the Beach
If your dog does not respond well to recall, it must stay on a leash. Even if it is an off-leash dog beach, this basic skill is a must. Dogs that jump on people, dogs or other people’s belongings should not be off a leash.
Keep your Dog Safe
Watch your dog in the water. Not all breeds can swim, and they can drown if they panic. Consider a dog life jacket or keep your dog out of rips and deep water if it’s not a good swimmer.
Always be aware of what is on the sand. Dogs will explore, eat or lick a range of objects, and Blue Ringed Octopuses, Puffer Fish and Blue Bottle Jellyfish are not uncommon during the summer months. If your dog comes in contact with these, you must take them to the vet immediately.
Stay Away from Wildlife
Many Australian beaches have signage that informs beachgoers of wildlife and nesting areas. It is important to obey these signs as the conservation of nature can be critical for the status of Australian wildlife. Dogs pose an extreme danger and can disrupt habitats, and kill birds, eggs and chicks. So, respect the rules and don’t take your dog into areas marked with “No Dogs Allowed” signs.
Karingal Vet Hospital’s Top Tips for Dog-Friendly Beach Etiquette
If you have a new dog, you may want to enrol them into puppy school. Learning the basics can make visiting your local dog beaches less stressful and a lot more enjoyable for your dog and for you. For more information about puppy school, feel free to contact our team on (03) 9789 3444 or via our website today.
