Should I Let Sky Romp?

[Ruth]

 I have ALWAYS walked my Doodle on a leash. I recently took him to a dog park and he seemed more interested in the people than the dogs. It was the first time that he has been leash-free. Doodles at Dewey Beach is coming up, and I looked at the you-tubes posted from last year and I see that EVERY Doodle was running leash-free! Sky knows basic commands, but sometimes fails to obey them. I am afraid if I let him romp, he may never come back! Does anyone have any advice for me? I should also mention, he is an intact male!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Ruth, I noticed on your profile that you noted Sky does not like other male dogs.  An intact male often can create energy that can cause a reaction from other males.  If he is not solid in his obedience I would at least keep him on a long line. 

[Ruth]

Good advice! Think I will rig something up as the retractible leash is dangerous! Almost cut my hand!

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Yes, I would definitely avoid the retractable leash.  We bought a cotton long line at the pet store that we use with our guys for training.  It wasn't very expensive and it's strong and washable.

[J and Riley (and Luna)]

We just bought a length of cotton rope from a hardware store.  It was pretty cheap (compared to a "leash") so we don't mind if it gets battered and worn.  Of course it doesn't have any metal fittings, which I'm beginning to realize is sort of annoying :p

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Buy a training leash - they are 12 - 18 feet long and NOT retractable.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I don't know much about Sky so I say the following with caution. When we have beach romps the doodles get caught up in the activity and people and don't go far afield. I was nervous the first time. My two come back to check me out then go off a little. Of course , I preferred the beach that was far from the road. Also, my two don't venture into the ocean, which would make me nervous.

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

We had the same qualms on our first romp-it was not at a peach though and in a fenced area but they have never been around dogs off leash I was terrified. They just went around to all the PEOPLE and could give a hoot about the dogs (not obsessed like me I guess) If you are not sure I would use the long lines and practice. Good luck

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

I don't know if one dog park experience is enough for you to draw a conclusion.  Before you embark on such a big event in Delaware, try various dog parks and alternate different times a day that you attend the park with Sky.

It is important to know much more about how your dog reacts in these situations.

Good Luck

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Our dog park does not allow intact males in the park. Maybe you should ask the coordinator for the Dewey Beach Romp what she thinks. Good luck!

[Colleen, Jake & Baxter]

The dog parks around me do not allow intact males either.  I LOVE seeing Jake running round with the other dogs and it would be very sad if he were not allowed. 

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Our Daycare doesn't allow intact males either.  I think that's pretty standard.

[Barbara B., Sasha & Oliver]

If your doodle is not good on recall then I would not let him loose on the beach especially if he is intact.  I have the same concern when I am going to the NJ doodle romp this spring on the beach.  Sasha sticks by my side at the dog park and does not venture out too much but Oliver is all over the place at the park.  He does check in often but he is also extremely friendly to other dogs and humans.  I would not feel comfortable letting Oliver loose on the beach, its better to be safe than sorry.