Anyone who has a television or a radio knows that bully breeds of all kinds get a bad rap. Either it's fearful pedestrians cowering as your wiggly pal walks by with you, or dirty looks from less-than-fond dog park patrons. We're here to spread a better image for bully breeds by putting together small, organized and supervised playgroups for people to socialize their dogs in.
As described by BadRap; Everyone knows dog parks are the most common place for conflicts. Adrenaline runs high and the condensed confusion of an ever-changing pack tempts even the most passive dogs beyond their limits. Scuffles and fights are normal for ALL breeds of dog and chances are your bully will end up in the middle of it. And no matter who started it, it's always going to be the bully to blame. This is the exact reason we do our weekly roundups... Being with other responsible bully owners is a safe way to socialize your dog-social bully with peace of mind in knowing we're not out to get your dog.
We screen all our participants and do a trial playdate the first time around to make sure things are going to work out. And while we love bullies of all shapes and sizes, not every bully is cut out to play with other dogs well. We take our screening seriously and enforce a set of rules during every playgroup.
Feeling a little unsure? Read some frequently asked questions to get a better feel on the situation.
So Why Playgroups?
Way More Than Walks
Besides being a lot of fun, the pack environment brings out a variety of instinctual play behaviors, providing your dog with mental, as well as physical stimulation. This release of long pent-up energy leads to calmer and happier dogs. Positive, controlled exposure to other dogs can also reduce the anxiety that leads to dog-dog aggression over time.
Playgroups vs. Dog Parks
Playgroups are not dog park free-for-alls. In any public, off-leash park its impossible to control the number of dogs, or their ability to safely interact with each other. Dog parks represent an inherent risk not present in our private Playgroup setting, and can be especially problematic for puppies, small, or timid dogs, or any dog who doesn't yet have great social skills. Unfortunately, the lack of appropriate supervision so common in dog parks often results in overt displays of dog-dog aggression, which can be quite serious, and can negatively impact any dog's self-confidence.
Breed prejudice in dog parks is second only to ignorance about canine behavior.
What Are Playgroups?
Playgroups are supervised groups of dogs, matched by size and temperament, who get together in a private, secure yard for exercise, fun, and socialization. Each group enjoys playtime with a small number of dogs, and are personally supervised by pit bull educated individuals, to insure the best possible experience for all participants.