Dos and don'ts for safe canine fun at your local dog park

Whether you're a dog owner in the city or the suburbs, chances are you're been to a dog park. It is a canine playground, a place where your dog is free to sniff, run around and meet other dogs.

But just as with any other social activity, it's important to know basic etiquette when your dog is interacting with other dogs and their owners. It's not just a matter of social formality. Failing to comply can put your dog and other pets at risk.

To ensure that your next trip to the dog park is safe and enjoyable, the American Kennel Club offers the following tips:

If your puppy is younger than 4 months old, you should avoid dog parks. Puppies this young are susceptible to illness and/or disease. Also, should your dog show signs of illness or a contagious disease, don't bring it to the park. You don't want to infect any other dogs.

Watch your dog closely to be sure it is not becoming aggressive with another dog. Do not hesitate to intervene if play starts to get too rough.

Feel free to bring a ball or other toy to the dog park, but be prepared to lose it. You may not want to bring your dog's favorite toy if she is possessive over it.

Always pick up after your dog, even if other pet owners are not doing the same.

Bring a portable water bowl for your dog and offer it water often. Communal water bowls at dog parks carry the risk of communicable illnesses. By bringing your own bowl, you can help prevent illness in your dog.

Many dog parks have separate sections for small and large dogs. Keep your dog in the designated area depending on its size. Even if you feel that your dog behaves well around all sizes of dogs, you don't want to make anyone else feel uncomfortable.