Dogs that are highly socialised and exercised are healthier, happier, and less aggressive in behaviour. They are less likely to bark or be destructive or aggressive if they are able to expend pent-up energy during regular play or exercise. Off-leash dog areas, or dog parks, provide a community setting in which people can gather and socialise and where they can observe the interaction of groups of
dogs at play. Dog parks allow owners and their dogs to spend time together and offer dogs a space for play and companionship with others. Leashes can cause dogs to become territorial. Studies have shown that people find it easier to talk to each other with dogs as the initial focus, breaking down the usual social barriers that make people perceive others as strangers. Research has also shown that dogs improve the health of their owners by lowering their blood pressure and increasing resistance to disease. They reduce anxiety and depression, stimulate people to exercise, connect people with others, and help redevelop a sense of purpose. Companion animals are very beneficial for the elderly, many of whom are unable to properly exercise their dogs and who stand to benefit from taking their dogs to a dog park. Additional benefits of a dog park to the community include promoting responsible dog ownership as well as accommodating dogs and their owners in a public open space, which has been shown to lead dog owners to higher levels of compliance with relevant laws. A dog park is a park for dogs to exercise and play off-leash in a controlled environment under the supervision of their owners. These parks have varying features, although they typically offer a 4' to 6' fence, separate double-gated entry and exit points, adequate drainage, benches for humans, shade for hot days, parking close to the site, water, tools to pick up and dispose of animal waste in covered trash cans, and regular maintenance and cleaning of the grounds. Dog parks may also offer wheel-chair access, a pond for swimming and a separate enclosure for small dogs.
