Indoor Dog Parks in Washington Where You Can Bring Your Shy Dog
You can do so many things at Washington State, from hiking at local trails to enjoying relaxing days with your dog at Washington indoor dog parks.
You can also stop by local tourist attractions like the Seattle Center and the Space Needle or Seattle Downtown.
There are several dog-friendly destinations, too, but if your fur baby is afraid of strangers and crowds, you can go to indoor dog parks instead.
Why Washington indoor dog parks can be a good option for fearful dogs
Like many in the country, Washington indoor dog parks have separate spaces for small and shy dogs.
Although a few outdoor dog parks also have this feature, indoor dog parks have become a more popular option for fur parents because of their additional features.
For one, many indoor dog parks also offer daycare and boarding services. In addition, they also have training services usually headed by professional dog trainers.
Professionals also monitor indoor dog parks, so you’re sure your dog is in safe hands.
However, before you and your dog can enjoy a trip to the dog park, you have to understand and address why he’s fearful of strangers and other dogs.
Why your dog is fearful of strangers
1) Lack of proper socialization
Were you able to socialize your dog with other canines and people when he was younger? If not, it could be one of the reasons why he grew up shy and fearful.
If your dog is still less than a year old, you still have a chance to introduce him to new people. For example, you can bring him to dog daycare and let him undergo obedience training.
The Spruce Pets has a few tips to help you train your puppy to be less afraid.
However, if you have an older dog, it may be more challenging to help him overcome his hesitation to meet new people.
Consult with dog behavior experts and professional trainers to assess what to do.
2) Trauma
Fearfulness can also be because of trauma.
For example, if you have a rescue dog who experienced abuse, it may take a while of rehabilitation before he starts trusting other people and dogs again.
It’s best to consult with professional dog trainers so you can give your dog the care he needs to start trusting again.
3) Genetics
Not many pet owners are aware that sometimes, shyness and fearfulness could be because of genetics.
Some puppies are predisposed to grow up shy because their parents are also shy.
How to help your fearful dog
1) Build your dog’s confidence
Start building your dog’s confidence as early as possible by allowing him to have positive experiences while he’s still young.
For example, have family and friends give your fur baby treats during their first meeting.
You can also play games like tug-of-war or praise your dog whenever he does something good.
Shy dogs will also benefit a lot from obedience training and interactive activities.
2) Don’t punish your dog for being fearful
Punishing your dog for being shy is counterproductive.
He will not only retreat some more, but he might also become even more fearful if you show aggression because of how he is.
3) Try indoor dog parks or small playdates
Shy dogs still need to socialize, but outdoor dog parks with other canines and humans may be a little overwhelming.
Bring your fur baby to indoor dog parks or small playdates instead. These smaller, more intimate settings may be more helpful for your fearful dog.
Take note, although indoor dog parks will still have other dogs and fur parents, there are ones that have a separate space for dogs like yours.
Washington indoor dog parks you can visit with your shy dog
1) Ales and Tails
Location: 5809 238th St SE Suite 3, Woodinville, WA 98072
Ales and Tails isn’t only made for your fur baby; there’s also a space for fur parents like you. You can have refreshing drinks at their taproom while you’re dog is having fun.
Although the dog park staff can help watch over your dog, you still need to keep an eye on Fido.
You are also encouraged to clean up after your dog. You can use the bags and cleaning supplies provided. They also have an outdoor space that your dog can use.
Don’t bother bringing dog toys because they already have a few at Ales and Tails. The dog park management ensures that the toys are sanitized and cleaned every night.
You can read more about their membership rules and fees here.
2) The Doggie Den
Location: 405 Washington Ave North Kent, WA 98032
The Doggie Den is a 4,000 sq. ft. indoor dog park that provides dogs with a fun and stimulating environment.
They also have a fully fenced yard, which is also open for dogs. Apart from that, there are also structural rocks, shrubbery, and tug-of-war stump.
There are also watering stations in the dog park, so you don’t have to worry about your dog’s drinking needs. All the staff at The Doggie Den know first-aid and are all CPR-certified.
You can learn more about their other services here.
3) Dogwood Play Park
Location: 12568 33rd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125
Dogwood Play Park is an off-leash dog park with a bar. They have an indoor and outdoor space where your fur baby can have fun while you enjoy refreshing drinks.
They have a separate space for “gentle play,” which is great for a shy dog.
Check out details about what’s included in their membership here.
4) Wet Noses Dry Paws
Location: 411 & 421 Fawcett Ave, Tacoma WA
Wet Noses Dry Paws already has two locations, and another one is opening soon.
Their Washington indoor dog park has a 6,000-square-foot play area, which is great for when you need to get out of the rain.
They have agility equipment and dog toys, too, to keep your dog occupied.
They also offer other services like dog grooming and daycare. You can learn more about that here.
Have you been to Washington indoor dog parks recently?
You don’t have to worry about whether or not your shy and fearful dog would ever be able to enjoy a day at indoor dog parks.
Some establishments welcome all dog sizes and help your dog have fun no matter his temperament.
Just make sure you follow dog park rules like getting your fur baby vaccinated, cleaning up after him, and keeping an eye on him.
Have you been to the indoor dog parks in Washington recently? Tell us how your visit went.
