Dog Park Observation

Abstract

The focal point of this observational study is to examine dog owners and their dogs in their natural setting. The purpose and goal is to gain a deeper understanding of how people and their dogs react around other dog owners and other dogs. This study delves into the norms and characteristics associated with the dog park. After visiting Chapin Park in Wichita, Kansas over 4 weekend day periods for an hour each in the mornings, there are a few common themes that can be derived from observation, themes of which can easily be compared to past observational studies. The following analysis reveals how dog owners and their dogs act in the dog park setting. A few commonalities derived from this study and will be explored further throughout

In actuality, these thoughts are all true. Each day at the dog park is unique and different presenting its own problems, fun, and unique dogs and people. Generally, the same people and their dogs visit the dog park on a frequent basis, however there are the unique owners and dogs who are irregular and not as known or as seen on a regular basis. It has been an enjoyable experience taking the time to observe the dog park, the unique qualities of the dogs and their owners and then comparing my findings to similar observation studies. Before I began this study, I took time to delve into the purpose, of which is mostly to gain an exploratory understanding of dog owners and their dogs in the setting of the dog park, however, there are a few questions I sought to answer. How do dogs and their owners generally behave at the dog park? Do owners follow the dog park rules? How do dog owners resolve conflict, especially when their dog is showing signs of aggression? Throughout this paper, you will find my research observations along with a comparison of other similar findings. My hope is, that by the end of this paper, you will have a unique perspective and appreciation for dog