Enjoying Outdoor Markets with Your Dog: Tips for a Safe and Fun Experience

As the weather warms up, many of us look forward to spending time outdoors, particularly at farmers' markets and other outdoor events. Bringing your dog along can make these excursions even more enjoyable. However, not all dogs are naturally comfortable in busy, crowded environments. It's important to ensure your furry friend is safe and happy while you both enjoy the market experience. Here are some tips to help you and your dog have a successful outing, along with signs to look for to ensure your dog is enjoying the trip.

The first question you should ask yourself is, is your dog’s personality a good fit for an outdoor market? I attend a lot of markets for Easy Breezy and I see some dogs who are NOT enjoying themselves at all.

Signs Your Dog is Stressed

It is important to recognize signs of stress and discomfort in your pooch. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to take your dog home or find a quieter space:

1. Tucked Tail: A tail tucked between the legs is a clear sign of fear or anxiety.
2. Panting and Drooling: While normal in hot weather, excessive panting and drooling can indicate stress. Stress panting is when the mouth is wider and you see the back teeth.
3. Dilated pupils: Along with the stress panting, your dog’s pupils may be very large, this is a stress signal.
4. Yawning and Lip Licking: These can be signs of nervousness.
5. Avoidance Behavior: If your dog is trying to hide behind you or seems reluctant to move forward, they may be overwhelmed.
6. Whining or Barking: Unusual vocalizations can be a sign that your dog is uncomfortable.

You get your puppy and you think bringing them to these outdoor events will help them socialize and desensitize them. You may have the opposite effect on your pup. This type of environment can be very overwhelming for them.

• Perhaps the first few markets you walk around the perimeter of the market and see how they do.
• If they are small enough, put them in a carrier or pouch and carry them around.
• Avoid letting strangers pet your puppy if they are showing signs of stress. They may look away, ears pinned back, mouth closed, or they may step away. 
• Flooding your puppy may impede their training as we are not respecting their boundaries.

I would love to bring Finlay to the Navan Market or the Wiggle Waggle Walkathon, however, these types of environments with many many dogs is not something he would not enjoy, therefore, he stays home!

If your dog is confident and curious consider the following preparation steps:

1. Training Basics: Ensure your dog knows basic commands such as "sit," "stay," and "leave it." These commands can help manage your dog in a busy environment.
2. Health Check: Make sure your dog is up-to-date on vaccinations and is protected against fleas and ticks.
3. Proper Identification: Your dog should have a collar with an ID tag and be microchipped in case they get lost.
4. Hydration and Snacks: Bring water and a bowl to keep your dog hydrated. Some markets might have water stations (I don’t recommend these as they are a breeding ground for kennel cough), but it's best to be prepared.
5. Leash and Harness: Use a sturdy leash and a comfortable harness. A retractable leash is not recommended as it can be hard to control in a crowd.
6. Leash Greetings: Teach your dog to be neutral on leash. Even a well behaved dog who is put in a stressful environment like a market may snap at another dog, especially with improperly greeting etiquette.

At the Market

Once you're at the market, keep these tips in mind:

1. Choose the Right Time: Visit the market during less busy times to help your dog acclimate to the environment.
2. Watch the Temperature: Hot pavement can burn your dog's paws. Test the ground with your hand and stick to shaded areas when possible.
3. Respect Personal Space: Keep your dog close and be mindful of other market-goers. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and other dogs might be reactive.
4. Stay Vigilant: Keep an eye out for food scraps and other hazards on the ground that your dog might ingest.
5. Provide Breaks: Find a quiet spot where your dog can take a break from the crowd if needed.

Signs Your Dog is Enjoying the Market

It's crucial to pay attention to your dog's body language to ensure they are comfortable and enjoying the experience. Look for these positive signs:

1. Relaxed Body Language: A wagging tail, soft eyes, and a relaxed posture are good indicators that your dog is happy.
2. Curiosity: If your dog is sniffing around and showing interest in their surroundings, they are likely enjoying themselves.
3. Engagement: A dog that is responsive to your commands and appears eager to explore is having a good time.

Making the Most of Your Market Visit

With a bit of preparation and careful attention to your dog's behaviour, a trip to the market can be a delightful experience for both of you. Remember, every dog is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient, keep your dog's well-being as your top priority, and enjoy the beautiful weather together.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your furry friend has a safe and enjoyable time at the market, making your outings even more special. Happy market shopping!