The fun (and risky business) of off leash play



​Many of our clients choose The Grinning Dog because they like the idea of their dogs being able to play off leash and outdoors.

​Unfortunately, like most fun things in life, this is not without risk!

​Off leash activities take place either within our fenced play areas (about 2.5 acres, 6' chain link - see photos below) or unfenced and unsecured on about 50 acres (see more photos below) of fields and woods surrounding The Grinning Dog. While both fenced and unfenced versions carry similar risks for dog/dog injury, disease and parasite transmission, the unfenced option is obviously much riskier in terms of escape, interactions with wildlife and bodies of water. The decision to take your dog on off leash, unfenced walks and swims should not be made lightly. We won't even entertain the idea of unsecured off leash walks until we have a solid bond (could take months) with your dog and have been on a trial run accompanied by you. The Grinning Dog reserves the right NOT to take your dog out of the fenced yards if we get even an INKLING he/she may not come when called. Our judgement on this issue is final. We have a zero tolerance policy for any off leash behavior that scares us! The goal, after all, is that your dog is here when you get back!
                    FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT          FINE PRINT
                                                                    IMPORTANT LIABILITY STUFF!
​When you authorize off leash activities for your dog, you will agree to indemnify The Grinning Dog, LLC, Alison Smith and her staff and her/their families from any liability in relation to your dog being loose. Think your options (fenced vs. unsecured) over carefully and ask questions. The photos below will help you understand what each option looks like. Together we can design the off leash experience that is right for you and your dog.

Off leash - fenced
these photos show off our 2.5 acre, 6' chain link fenced yards. Lots of room to carouse, zoom and explore. The best option for most dogs...

Off leash - unfenced
these photos are taken out on our 50 acres of unfenced property. Lots of fun and less safe than the fenced yards. A good option for dogs with perfect recalls, a solid, long term bond with us and owners with a good understanding of the risks involved.