If your guy is good with recall (coming to you almost without fail when called even with distractions) then you do not have too much to worry about. My big concern is Mario is 8.5lbs and our parks allow up to 30lbs in the small yard. Some owners bring in bigger since they think their dogs are super gentle. I know Mario has not an aggressive bone in his body, but he can be pesteringly annoying, so I have to watch other dogs for their aggression level since massive injuries can occur so fast.
When I take Mario, I keep him on a leash until I size up the "attitude" of those already in the yard. If they all look to be agreeable with Mario (and his pestering ways
), then I will let him off leash, but keep him near me with frequent recalls until I am pretty sure no aggression from other dogs is imminent. Then, I just have to keep my eye on the gate for newcomers, and if someone shows up, I recall Mario, and we approach the new dog with caution looking for aggression.
Some folks believe a dog park is a great place to off leash socialize a less than social animal. Then they may or may not watch their animal since the human, in reality, has no idea how to socialize them to begin with
.
During warmer months, I also make sure I give Mario a dose of Capstar right before we get to the park so he does not bring home fleas.