Dogs on the DG Course

[zud00]

Does anyone take their dog to play DG with them? I have thought about it several times but the courses I play are too far away. Also, whenever I play DG, I usually do other things in the city I'm playing in before/after a round.

I've read that certain courses don't allow dogs, but a lot of courses are in public parks where there are no restrictions to dogs.

If you take your dog, do you keep it on a leash? And if so, what do you do with it when you are taking your shots?

[borndasaur]

Many of the players in our area have dogs and bring them to the courses to walk along during rounds. Since most of the area courses are in public parks, leashes are mando and it is common courtesy to keep your pet under control. Some use their bags as anchors, some have obedient dogs that understand "stay", some have a carabiner on the end of the leash so it can be temporarily looped around a tree or pole. Some even have "doggie bags" for their discs and Rover makes a helluva caddy! If you ever have the pleasure of attending the USDGC or other tourneys, Look for
Bear, the amazing disc diving dog, who has been known to recover discs in 6' of water!

[Flies to the Left]

I almost always have my dog with me. I keep a leash in my bag. I rarely use it. I keep it mostly if someone complains that I not following the rules.

My dog is trained and comes when commanded to do so. He just hangs around me. He doesn't pick up discs, only tennis balls. He is more interested in squirrels and rabbits. About 3 weeks ago he cornered a big possum in a blackberry brier at Timber Linn. He didn't know what to do with it so he just barked at until I came and got him and brought him back to the course.

I was at Milo McIver last week and there must have been 1 or 2 dogs per group on the course. I counted at least 9 dogs that day. It was a real nice day with the sun out and all.

[zud00]

I've actually never seen anyone with a dog on the DG course. I haven't played very long, so that may contribute to the fact.

I wish my dog was obedient enough to keep off of a leash. She is getting better, but is easily distracted by picking up the scent of some other animal or something along those lines.

I've read about Bear...what a great story. http://forums.stickitdg.com/smf/index.php?topic=2518.0

It'd be pretty cool to see a dog caddying. I can see it now....my dog carrying a saddle bag with discs on both sides. It'd probably help her to shed a few lbs.

[J-Man]

Follow the local rules concerning leashes and be respectful of other golfers and dogs are great on the course. I have 2 Border Terriers and bring them often. If the are on leash they are secured to my bag; it has been known to head down the fairway after squirrels. And off leash the squirrels stay out of our way.

[Donovan]

I play with a couple of people with dogs. The dogs love to run out and mark the disc where it lands and never pick them up. One of them even went out in the lake a nd brought a disc back to shore. I think they are great and love playing with them around. Some people may find it annoying or distracting, but I think it is great watching them do their "job" with such pride. :)

[SigmaChris]

I almost always have my dog with me. I keep a leash in my bag. I rarely use it. I keep it mostly if someone complains that I not following the rules.

My dog is trained and comes when commanded to do so. He just hangs around me. He doesn't pick up discs, only tennis balls. He is more interested in squirrels and rabbits. About 3 weeks ago he cornered a big possum in a blackberry brier at Timber Linn. He didn't know what to do with it so he just barked at until I came and got him and brought him back to the course.

I was at Milo McIver last week and there must have been 1 or 2 dogs per group on the course. I counted at least 9 dogs that day. It was a real nice day with the sun out and all.

+1 on what he said. I usually bring 2 plastic grocery bags in case she leaves any presents (poop) on the course. More times than not I am using the bags to pick up trash on the course and not poop.

Keep in mind the courses I play are out in the woods so the only time the dog would be around people is in the parking lot. An urban / college DG course wouldn't be as good for bringing a dog.

[DiscChainBasket18]

At our local course (Richmond Hill) there are dogs running all over the place. Occasionally you will see a dog owner holding the leash or securing it when they were throwing. But most of the time the dogs are unclipped & set free to roam. There are signs saying "dogs must be on leash, big fines" etc. but I don't think people look at that too much. It is like a dog park out there sometimes. Personally, I don't mind because I like dogs! But I know it upsets others.
Should you bring your dog to the course? I say yes, but be responsible!

[magictenor1]

I see people with dogs all the time. I don't see it being a problem.

[sidewinding]

Many private courses don't allow dogs because if your dog bites someone the property owner is liable.

[agentdozzer]

Living in a apartment i cant go golfing without my dog i feel bad leaving him at home. My bag is stuffed with dog bags to clean up, i would be so mad if my disc landed in a land mine. I have two leashes one that is looped on the end of the other so i can throw it around things or my leg when i am throwing. With my dog its fifty fifty sometimes he will listen and stay right beside me others its off to the races. I can tell his moods and i let him run when i think he will come back.

[DGtourist]

I have thrown my disc into a pile of dog **** before on Seatac in WA. Luckily it was raining and I was able to clean up a little. It doesn't bother me. What I don't like about dogs at course is the people who take their dogs to use the course like a dog park.

[leathercash]

Ug...this is always a heated discussion among me and my hombre's. I say,if you want to bring a dog that's totally cool. I happen to like a pup. But leash him/her. Once,a friend of mine brought his jack Russel terrier to play 18 with us and with-out a leash. I protested and he brought him along anyway. Seriously,the dog went after EVERY DISC WE THREW,and ran around with'em. Needless to say it was a bad,BAD eighteen holes.

[chairman63vt]

I almost always bring my dog along, unless its too hot out. This season I bought a set of saddle bags for him to carry extra discs for me. There is even a bungee cord laced across the middle to hold my putter. Along with clean up bags I also carry treats for him when we finish.

[YonderScott]

I love dogs, esp mine. But I hardly ever take her to a DG course. She minds really well, but she distracts me while I try to play. In Charlotte, NC if you bring your dog you should have it on a leash. The parks people at Sugaw Creek got really upset about unleashed dogs at one point and threatened to take the baskets out if DGers didn't keep dogs on a leash. Guess they didn't want the homeless people that camp out near 12 getting bit.

[peabody]

Dogs should be on a leash and close to their master. If allowed to run free they might get hit by the discs. I would feel really bad if I hit someone's dog.

[swarren1977]

Sometimes they get spooked. I've always thought it was a good idea to keep them on a leash even the well disciplined ones. You're right Peabody gotta watch out for those flying discs.

[Lewis]

Dogs should be allowed in parks, and while I fully support allowing good dogs to walk off-leash, this requires that the owners use good judgment. I often bring my dog with me, and when I do I always let her off leash because she's so gentle and well-mannered. However, if your dog does not consistently stay with your group, if it does not consistently come when it's called, or if it bothers other park users in any way, it should be kept on its leash. Even though my dog is has nearly perfect manners, I always bring her leash with me, because I never know when I might need it. So far nobody has asked me to leash her, but if they did, I wouldn't hesitate to comply.

As for the poop, there's no excuse for leaving it on the course. Even if you forgot to bring a poop bag, you can always find a stick and sweep it into the shule where nobody will ever see it again.

[landon77]

some dogs don't even mind! I hit my Rottie in the head with a drive, she yelped and learned to watch when we throw!!

[peabody]

some dogs don't even mind! I hit my Rottie in the head with a drive, she yelped and learned to watch when we throw!!


I LOLed at that! My dog is a chiuaua and might not fare as well though:D

[sidewinding]

Ug...this is always a heated discussion among me and my hombre's. I say,if you want to bring a dog that's totally cool. I happen to like a pup. But leash him/her. Once,a friend of mine brought his jack Russel terrier to play 18 with us and with-out a leash. I protested and he brought him along anyway. Seriously,the dog went after EVERY DISC WE THREW,and ran around with'em. Needless to say it was a bad,BAD eighteen holes.

Short legged dogs (especially Jack Russel Terriers) are useless and should all be exterminated. I think they all have napoleon complex. ;)

[Geoffro]

I almost always bring my dog along, unless its too hot out. This season I bought a set of saddle bags for him to carry extra discs for me. There is even a bungee cord laced across the middle to hold my putter. Along with clean up bags I also carry treats for him when we finish.

That's awesome that your dog caddys for you. I would bring my dog, but she is like those described that would chase the discs and bring them back, so she stays home when I play. We play with old discs at the park when I get home:)

[DiscChainBasket18]

As for the poop, there's no excuse for leaving it on the course. Even if you forgot to bring a poop bag, you can always find a stick and sweep it into the shule where nobody will ever see it again.
Don't put it there man. The shule is where I am always at looking for my disc haha

[DiscChainBasket18]

I remember one time out on the course hearing this guy scream at the top of his lungs "whos f***ing dog is this? He just peed on my leg". It seems this Doberman had peed on this guy & he was pissed off (no pun intended). The owner sheepishly went over to the guy & got his dog under control. Not sure what ever happened out of that. What can you say? Dogs are strange.

[DiscChainBasket18]

Don't put it there man. The shule is where I am always at looking for my disc haha
Throwing poop into the shule is going to fertilize it & make it grow even more. Argggh

[Yank it Right]

here is my take on dogs. Casual rounds its fine. Dog owners need to remember just cause their dog is well behaved and not on a leash doesn't mean billy bob's doberman/pitbull/whatever is and when your dog rolls over there and gets tore up you get mad and blame the person who actually was following the rules and had the dog on the leash. :eek:
Dog owners like everyone else just need to remember common courtesy. I have a couple buddys that bring their dogs. In general I don't mind, but pay attention to your dog. Don't ask me where it went. It's not my dog.
Just my two cents...

[landon77]

my dog helps protect me from the critters. I have never been attacked by a squirrel, rabbit, or possum, or porcupine,or even a coon. My dog helps keep me safe!!

[DeafDiscGolfer]

I do bring my dog at certain courses where its not crowed with players or non-players.

I mostly bring him to Chili course (http://www.dgcoursereview.com/course.php?id=3) until he got too old to walk the whole 18 hole course. He's 13 years old now. He has been going that course since he was an year old.

In his younger dog year, he tend to hang out with me and likes to meet other dogs at the course. Of course, I had to make sure that the dogs can get along well before moving on. Other dog owners or players don't mind to allow my dog to approach them to say "hi" and sniff them up before coming back to me to the next tee. His only skill of disc golfing is to able to get in the water and pull out the disc for me after I pointed him to the right spot. He also have a good common sense of where to dump his poops. He tend to go so far off the course into the thick unplayable area and take the dump there. I was never able to find his poop but I always carry plastic bags and leash anyway.

Hope someday for my next dog, I plan to train him or her to be DG caddy that can carry my stuff, seek out and retrieve lost discs from the water, tall grasses or under leaves. Whatever.

Maybe getting Bloodhound dog will do that...umm...

:D

[chairman63vt]

I do bring my dog at certain courses where its not crowed with players or non-players.

I mostly bring him to Chili course (http://www.dgcoursereview.com/course.php?id=3) until he got too old to walk the whole 18 hole course. He's 13 years old now. He has been going that course since he was an year old.

In his younger dog year, he tend to hang out with me and likes to meet other dogs at the course. Of course, I had to make sure that the dogs can get along well before moving on. Other dog owners or players don't mind to allow my dog to approach them to say "hi" and sniff them up before coming back to me to the next tee. His only skill of disc golfing is to able to get in the water and pull out the disc for me after I pointed him to the right spot. He also have a good common sense of where to dump his poops. He tend to go so far off the course into the thick unplayable area and take the dump there. I was never able to find his poop but I always carry plastic bags and leash anyway.

Hope someday for my next dog, I plan to train him or her to be DG caddy that can carry my stuff, seek out and retrieve lost discs from the water, tall grasses or under leaves. Whatever.

Maybe getting Bloodhound dog will do that...umm...

:D

Yeah, Id been thinking maybe a pointer for my next dog, "Find that disc!". My last dog was Border collie/Golden Retriever cross that I successfully retrained to retrieve ONLY on command when I started disc golfing again.:D Broke his heart not to chase everything,:o so I started bringing "his" disc for him to chase down.

[basmith42]

my home course has a lot of dogs wandering around.. mostly on leashes. I've never had a dog grab a disc and run off... others I know have. That's just rude.

The funniest thing I've seen on the course, thougg, involves a dog. A friend of mine drove short and landed on a walking path. A lady about 30 feet back on the path, coming towards the disc, just about face planted herself as her golden lunged trying to get the disc that landed in front of it. You had to be there.

[mzuleger]

Like pretty much everyone you should follow your course rules... Personally, I like dogs but I have been golfing with people that had a serious fear of dogs and were freaking out when we came across one. so keep in mind that not everyone loves dogs if you take yours with you.

Not all that related but one time I saw a deer run across the course I was at. It ran into a fence a couple times before changing course and running right past me... that was pretty cool.

[valkyriefb11]

Not all that related but one time I saw a deer run across the course I was at. It ran into a fence a couple times before changing course and running right past me... that was pretty cool.

Tyler State Park has a ton of deer and few really nice bucks. I had one of the bucks (6 point) standing off about 10 feet from the tee pad ... he didnt move, just watched me tee off. It was pretty cool.

[Donovan]

Tyler State Park has a ton of deer and few really nice bucks. I had one of the bucks (6 point) standing off about 10 feet from the tee pad ... he didnt move, just watched me tee off. It was pretty cool.

That would be really cool. Sometimes I wonder what makes some animals so much more comfortable with us than others.

[Lewis]

The fact that they're big and we're not shooting at them. :p

But seriously, in parks that are considered wildlife refuges, deer can get suprisingly tame. It's a matter of how we treat them over long periods of time.

[Brokensaint]

I think most of agree. Dogs are cool, as long as you mind them. If you wonder about their behavior at all, leash them at least, keep them home if you must. On only one occasion have I had someone's dog come up on me and start barking in a proprietary way with no owner in immediate sight. I am not particularly frightened by dogs, but a good sized beast with no guiding hand barking at you like you're in his yard can put you off your putt. Granted, this one's owner came around the shule from a near hole quick enough and called his dog back, so all was good. But, if you ever have to think "He probably won't..." or "I'm pretty sure..." or any other equivocation of certainty, leash 'em or leave 'em.

[discinator]

I like to see the dogs, but I don't take mine usually though. I like to focus on playing dg instead of my dog. I have played a few rounds with a guy here in austin whose dog will go after the discs and find them for him. His dog doesn't pick them up he just sits by them- pretty cool IMO.

As far as wildlife, I was about 10 yards from a nice 2 or 3 y/o 8 point white tail here: http://www.dgcoursereview.com/course.php?id=934. Its fun to see animals in the park.

[Midnightbiker]

Tyler State Park has a ton of deer and few really nice bucks. I had one of the bucks (6 point) standing off about 10 feet from the tee pad ... he didn't move, just watched me tee off. It was pretty cool.

My home course is quite wooded. As we were approaching the #5 basket, I kept hearing something that sounded like a "big rig" setting its air brakes. I was surprised to think that someone would be bringing a big truck to the park, so I looked around and noticed a huge buck standing on the #6 tee box.
He was snorting at us and I realized why. We had some how gotten between him and his girlfriend (the doe) . The stared at us for a minute or two, so I got my champ Valkyrie ready just in case. I guess he realized he was out numbered and ran off. It was something to see. That buck had a huge rack.

[trifocal]

I'm in agreement with you guys...any dog any size ...in a public place must be in control. If there's any doubt, you gotta leash your dog. Most dogs love people and get along just fine with strangers, but there are more than a few people that have been bit by dogs out of control and have real anxiety in the presence of a dog.

true story: Few years back, before I had my own dog I was dog sitting a friends dog and took the 80 pound Lab/ New Foundland for a walk. Leashed in the City. There were 3 black kids...small but street smart on the side walk. One kid looked particularly anxious. I thought I was cool and said "don't worry, she's good, she doesn't bite." The kid said..." Does that dog have teeth?"

He had me there.

[brian j]

i bring my dog and let her off leash when i go to a course that has plenty of open space or one i know won't be crowded. if the course is crowded i leash her, people tend to be afraid of 80 lb dobermans. :D

[sidewinding]

I'm in agreement with you guys...any dog any size ...in a public place must be in control.

I disagree. I think dogs should be out of control. :rolleyes:

[discflinger]

That buck had a huge rack.

What about his girlfriend?

Seriously, I like dogs on the course with a bunch of buddies, but sometimes you just wanna focus on dg.

[trifocal]

What about his girlfriend?

Seriously, I like dogs on the course with a bunch of buddies, but sometimes you just wanna focus on dg.

When I bring my dog, its more for about spending time together than my game. Just the exposure to a different environment. He's still young and has a lot to learn, but I can't play my best with 88lbs of pup energy in tow. Most rounds he stays home and we hit the dog park later.

[Lewis]

i bring my dog and let her off leash when i go to a course that has plenty of open space or one i know won't be crowded. if the course is crowded i leash her, people tend to be afraid of 80 lb dobermans. :D

Funny you should say that. All the dobermans I've ever met were big goofy fun-loving happy things. I couldn't have been afraid of them if I'd have tried. I must admit, though, that I find it easy to get along with dogs, and I instinctively trust them. I once had a somewhat scary episode with a neighborhood pit bull, but she had run off from her home up the street, was looking worried and lost, and my parents responded poorly to finding an anxious pit bull in their yard and me trying to get it to come to me so I could call the number on its collar. Nothing bad came of it, and after a good half hour of my frightened parents foiling my every attempt to build trust with her, a neighbor eventually identified the dog and called her owner. My point is that a common problem with fear of dogs or of breeds is that it tends to snowball, because dogs don't trust people who don't trust them. In those cases, it's best not to push it.

[solomon.trenton]

i bring my dog with me when i play about half the time. i will have her on a leash and have someone hold her when i throw. ill let her off the leash if nobody is around though.

[BENFTS]

love taking my dog to play with me. she has no interest in disc just sniffing and staying close to me. she will however go after any squirrel in sight.

[crouchingwombat]

I've been fine with dogs and even have been taking my dog to my local course but lately I'm getting fed up with all of the dog **** everywhere and a few morons who let their dogs run around and do what ever they please. I think the amount of crap building up is growing exponentially and I just can't wait to throw my disc in a big pile of ****!!!!!! Clean up after your effin dog and if they don't listen to your dumb ass put them on a leash!

Phew, just hat to get that off of my shoulders.

[kpc2004]

i feel dogs should be on a leash if on the course. i dont want my disc to have puncture marks from a dog running and biting it and running off with it....this happened to one of my wraiths.....and another time i saw a big ol' lab tackle a jogger. If you have a dog, respect the people around you and either train it to obey you or keep it on the leash

[optidiscic]

I love dogs on the course I think its very cool and dogs love to get out and walk with the pack...I saw a dog rip a groundhog apart once at nockamixon....It was the most gruesome thing you ever saw....Usually dogs arre along for the walk and rarely disrupt play....If it does affect your game...maybe your annoyed by choppers overhead....birds chirping....planes....cars....boats....squirells.. and any other excuse for missing that 15 foot putt!

[trifocal]

Dogs are great....I got one, but on DGC they have to be leashed...The Courses are for the players. A few rare and beautiful dogs can be unubtrusive off leash, but those dogs and owners are not very common.
A dog killing a groundhog during a round is a dog out of control. Out of control dogs ( and their negligent owners ) have no place during a round of DG.
As a dog owner, I've noticed that the guys who let their dogs off leash are also the most likely to not clean up after the dog. Thats a nusiance and spoils things for everyone else.

[BENFTS]

Dogs are great....I got one, but on DGC they have to be leashed...The Courses are for the players. A few rare and beautiful dogs can be unobtrusive off leash, but those dogs and owners are not very common.
A dog killing a groundhog during a round is a dog out of control. Out of control dogs ( and their negligent owners ) have no place during a round of DG.
As a dog owner, I've noticed that the guys who let their dogs off leash are also the most likely to not clean up after the dog. That's a nuisance and spoils things for everyone else.

agreed dogs are great if they behave and also if the owner cleans up. i have a beagle and they are notorious for barking. i got a lot of heat form friends after they saw another beagle barking at anything flying. i told them i trained my dog not to do that so don't worry. i think all dogs should be leashed if the dog will not follow you commands. bottom line its all about respect to the course and to the to the other players.

[trifocal]

I get really heated about dog owners who take their dogs in parks that are posted off limits to dogs, owners who do not have absolute voice command over their dog, yet insist on running them off leash, dog owners who do not pay close attention to their dogs in off leash public areas and ....dog owners who are dumber than their dog.

In most cases of trouble with dogs....it's the owner.

[BENFTS]

true i see so many good dogs that never got trained and as a result they do what they want.

[trifocal]

true i see so many good dogs that never got trained and as a result they do what they want.

Thats right....a good dog, a sharp dog ,always has a plan....if you are not ahead of your dog's thinking....well then, your dogs smarter than you. And that dog will find something more interesting than it's owner. The choice the dog makes in that situation is often not human friendly, because....he's a dog.

[solomon.trenton]

I get really heated about dog owners who take their dogs in parks that are posted off limits to dogs, owners who do not have absolute voice command over their dog, yet insist on running them off leash, dog owners who do not pay close attention to their dogs in off leash public areas and ....dog owners who are dumber than their dog.

In most cases of trouble with dogs....it's the owner.

i agree with you here and i dont bring my dog on the course if its posted no dogs. however i do let her run around when i am away from other groups and in the woods. she does come back when i call her. i think that that is fine. what about you?

[cc0049]

I take my Golden Retriver with me quite often to play disc golf, usually only if I am going alone. The courses I play at don't have rules against dogs being there, but stipulate that they must be on a leash. I rarely have him on leash, but carry one with me just in case someone complains. He is very obedient and will stay within about 100 feet of me wherever I go on the course. If I need him to stay with me and not wander off, then I just tell him to Sit-Stay and he listens. I've never had another disc golfer complain about him, only walkers/bike riders that I didn't see coming in time to call the dog over to me. He comes in handy for retriving discs from water too. He won't dive down for them, but if they are just a couple of feet deep or floating, then he'll bring them back.

[trifocal]

i agree with you here and i dont bring my dog on the course if its posted no dogs. however i do let her run around when i am away from other groups and in the woods. she does come back when i call her. i think that that is fine. what about you?

I think thats fine and I do that with Shadow when I'm on quiet areas of Vallarta-Ast, which allows leashed dogs. But, if I become aware of anyone or thing ( like deer which Shadow loves to chase), he is leashed immediately and the leash is carabinered to my bag.

Not everybody loves dogs and some people are rightfully fearful of dogs. A golfer was bit at Hiestand DGC this month. I don't know the details, but Hiestand is clearly off limits to dogs, yet I see golfers and non-golfers there with dogs leashed and unleashed fairly often. And dog crap. A few people can spoil it for everyone.

I have a large, highly recognizable dog, I feel its my responsibility to set a good example and unless I'm in a dog park or out in the woods, no-one ever sees Shadow off leash, except me.

[thatguy]

I have noticed that it's the private courses that don't allow dogs. Usually due to the owners having dogs, they don't want the poop or because they don't want a bunch of peoples dogs there fighting or possibly biting other people. I haven't taken my dog out yet but am planning to this summer. She doesn't chase discs and is very well behaved. She has her own disc bag so she can caddy for me. I just haven't had the chance to take her to the course yet but I have big hopes in her abilities, I just hope she gives good advise.

[landon77]

I take my dog all the time, I don't usually have her on a leash but she is so well trained that my voice commands her attention. I agree that most dogs need to be leashed and there are a few exceptions. THere is no excuse for piles of fecal matter that are not cleaned up, the best thing to do is SPEAK UP!!

[_.-Dut-._]

I see dogs out and about quite a bit, I wouldnt bring them to a tourney but a casual round I see no problem with.

[ChaseTheAce]

Not a problem unless my disc lands in doo doo.

[thatguy]

I agree about not bringing any dogs to a tourney with 1 exception. The first tourney that I played in, there was a "disc dog" there carrying a mans discs. This gentleman also happened to have some moderate joint problems and couldn't walk up hills or stand up from kneeling down with out assistance. This was a service dog that had also been trained to be a caddy. It worked very well and the dog was very polite. I thought it was a great idea and could possibly work for more people.

[jaymon1]

I'll take my dog to the two local courses that are mostly wooded and don't see as much play. He always comes when I call him, so I let him off the leash once we get started (and thus away from the nature trail and other park facilities and users), though I put him back on the leash if we're playing through a group, for instance, or otherwise interacting with people. But generally we're on our own and he certainly loves it. Playing DG is the highlight of his week!

Of the local courses, one prohibits dogs so I don't take him there, though I certainly see dogs there sometimes. Another allows dogs but is by far the most played, so I'd have to be careful about him staying on the leash and with me, and that would distract me too much. Out in the woods with not too many other people around though, he's a perfect companion.

[Chainchaser]

I get really heated about dog owners who take their dogs in parks that are posted off limits to dogs, owners who do not have absolute voice command over their dog, yet insist on running them off leash, dog owners who do not pay close attention to their dogs in off leash public areas and ....dog owners who are dumber than their dog.

In most cases of trouble with dogs....it's the owner.

I read a post on another forum somewhere where a guy lets his dog run loose on the course never really knowing where it is at. He said he never had a problem and it made me think how would he know he had a problem when he don't know where his dog is. My dogs are trained but in a public park never leave the leash. As my dog trainer said and he is good one "don't let your dog make you look stupid". It don't matter how well your dog is trained they are just that dogs. Have respect for others in the park and leave your dog on a leash or at home. If your dog needs to run take him to a dog park or toeher area similar. It's really just a matter of respect for others in the park!

[thatguy]

I agree with the last post. I am a dog owner and a dog lover do training with dogs...... However there are far too many people that don't teach their dogs manners and the dogs (and owners) act like idiots and misbehave. When dogs are jumping up on people or showing any dominance towards people (not agression, just dominant behavior) it is not a good thing and there is a problem. Too many dog owners think that their dog is the best and don't want other people correcting them or their dog (it's called mother bear syndrome). Those people are the same kind that let their kids run wild at stores and restaraunts, disturbing everyone else.

[solomon.trenton]

I think thats fine and I do that with Shadow when I'm on quiet areas of Vallarta-Ast, which allows leashed dogs. But, if I become aware of anyone or thing ( like deer which Shadow loves to chase), he is leashed immediately and the leash is carabinered to my bag.

Not everybody loves dogs and some people are rightfully fearful of dogs. A golfer was bit at Hiestand DGC this month. I don't know the details, but Hiestand is clearly off limits to dogs, yet I see golfers and non-golfers there with dogs leashed and unleashed fairly often. And dog crap. A few people can spoil it for everyone.

I have a large, highly recognizable dog, I feel its my responsibility to set a good example and unless I'm in a dog park or out in the woods, no-one ever sees Shadow off leash, except me.

so people like us should be the only ones with dogs.:D

[Lewis]

In most cases of trouble with dogs....it's the owner.

So true!

To people whose dogs "need to run": please don't take them to the dg course for their running exercise unless you know you're the only one on the course. Running amok just doesn't work in that setting, no matter how friendly and well-mannered your dog is otherwise. Being confident that your dog will "come when called" isn't good enough, in my opinion. Good enough is a dog that wants to be near you above all else. One that wants to be by your side in spite of the squirrels and the deer and the other players. These are rare. I thank God daily that I've got one of them in my life now, but I don't know if I'll ever have another. It also helps that she's 10 years old and has always been fairly "low-energy". My main concern at this stage in her life is she's turning into a slowpoke, and it can be a challenge to get her to keep up with me. In her defense, I play faster than almost anybody else in the park. (Faster, not better. ;) )

[topdawgy58]

I have taken my Pit Bull out on the course with me on a Leash. The problem is other people have there dogs running lose and they come running up to my dog and she gets scared and will attack a on coming dog. There are signs at every entrance of the park saying the law is to have dogs on leashes.
I have almost gotten in fights telling people that there dogs need to be lashed and the dog park is down the street. The police dept will not enforce the law either.

[JR Stengele]

I'm with trifocal in the fact that usually it is the neglegence of the owner and the lack of respect of someone either trying to be a tough guy or just ignorant. I love animals and feel that a man's best friend should have the opportunity to be apart of the worlds best game...besides soccer of course. As long as the dog is trained and doesn't eat discs I am all for it. They usually have better manners then their drunk owner or friends.

[topdawgy58]

If you want to have your dog off the leash take him to the dog park down the street. Thank you

[Big Chipper]

Nope...I have a border collie who thinks discs are frisbees and would catch everything I threw.

[trifocal]

I have taken my Pit Bull out on the course with me on a Leash. The problem is other people have there dogs running lose and they come running up to my dog and she gets scared and will attack a on coming dog. There are signs at every entrance of the park saying the law is to have dogs on leashes.
I have almost gotten in fights telling people that there dogs need to be lashed and the dog park is down the street. The police dept will not enforce the law either.

Thats a dangerous situation and a good example of people not knowing how to handle a dog in public. A dog on a leash feels vulnerable when encountering a dog off leash...that energy feeds back to the owner and back again to the dog. Bad things can happen very fast. Mix that with idiots defending their "right" to run a dog off leash in a posted "leash only" area and trouble is close by.

Shadow and I have learned the hard way ( a Sunday morning trip to the the emergency room, 12 stiches in his shoulder ), to just leave the area if someone is running an unleashed dog in a leash only area...maybe its wimpy, but it beats having my dog torn up.

[topdawgy58]

Its funny how some people are except from the law. If they do not enforce the leash law people will break the law.

[Wheat]

I have taken my dog on many occasions over the years. She used to chase my disc when I'd throw it, but be afraid of it when it would begin to fade and come down. I never lost a disc when she was there because she would always stalk it. When I wasn't the only one on the course I would have her on a leash.

[zud00]

Shadow and I have learned the hard way ( a Sunday morning trip to the the emergency room, 12 stiches in his shoulder ), to just leave the area if someone is running an unleashed dog in a leash only area...maybe its wimpy, but it beats having my dog torn up.

...and an expensive vet bill. It's not fair that you would have to pay for the damage when you are following the rules.

I have taken my dog on many occasions over the years. She used to chase my disc when I'd throw it, but be afraid of it when it would begin to fade and come down. I never lost a disc when she was there because she would always stalk it. When I wasn't the only one on the course I would have her on a leash.

I've tried to train my dog to locate the discs after I've thrown them all (on the practice field) but she just enjoys running around. She will sometimes just run right over it, but not stop to point it out.



I've only taken my dog out once to the course and at my course it is usually empty. There are walkers and kids on the playground and occasionally other dogs, but the particular day I took her the park was empty. I left her on a leash for 9 holes and the second 9 I let her loose. Since she was somewhat tired (she's out of shape) after 9, when she was off the leash, she didn't run too far off.

If I ever take her when there are other people out, I will definitley keep her on a leash, maybe let her off when we are away from everything.

[Wheat]

I'd do the same, let her off when we are away from everyone. My friend and I played about a month ago, and he took his retriever pup, and that dog would bring you back your disc...I guess that is why they are called retrievers huh? it was all good fun though, we'd got a kick out of it.

[DWill]

Maybe this topic would be a good episode for this guy to take on. Also would be great cross promotion for our sport.

http://photos.oes.org/albums/userpics/10002/CesarMillansFirstSeason.jpg

[Wheat]

haha..."do you enjoy disc golf?" "do you wish to be as free as the disc?" that guy is weird.

[trifocal]

...and an expensive vet bill. It's not fair that you would have to pay for the damage when you are following the rules.


The incident I described happened on a suburban street at 7:00 in the morning, across the street from the owners house. She had her pit bull on leash in the front yard and we were walking on the sidewalk on the other side of the street. Her dog ripped the leash out of her hand and charged across the street. I stopped walking double checked that my dog was secure and shortened his leash. The pit did not hesitate when he got close but just ran in and grabbed Shadow by the shoulder. I was pretty scared. It seemed like an hour, but it was only a second...I kicked that dog ( hiking boot) right in the throat. That took the wind out of him and it was over.
The womans neighbor was sitting on his front porch having coffee and reading the paper...he saw the whole thing. She didn't really have any choice but to pay my vet bills.
What was very wierd was that there was not a drop of blood. Seriously. The pit ripped the skin from the flesh, but didn't actually get in the muscle. That was lucky because the damage was mostly superficial.
I later learned that this woman "rescued" the pit, who had been a fighting dog. wtf??? That woman was definately not the leader of her dogs pack.

[Lewis]

Every dog owner on this forum could benefit from watching Cesar Millan's show or reading one of his books, from the woman who can't control her aggressive rescue dog to those of us who have trouble controlling the situation when other dogs approach our own (not that trifocal could do anything but fight back -- man, you were lucky). The man is quite simply a genius, and what he does on-camera in short order is nothing short of magical.

Heck, even people who have no pets could benefit from watching him, because dogs are an ubiquitous part of human society, and it's good to learn at least a little of their language.

[thatguy]

As wierd as Cesar Milan is, his techniques work very well. Anybody can learn that body language is how dogs communicate.

[warren1086]

This is probably the most annoying thing that I can think of while on the course, is a dog WITHOUT a leash and a careless owner. Dogs running around aimlessly picking up peoples discs and running off with them and potentially ruining them is BS. Not to mention they dump all over the place and more than likely the owners don't pick it up. I am a dog lover but the course is one place that they should be brought to without a leash.

[JCthrills]

My buddy in Indy had a collie mix that he would bring along to the disc course & usually let run. He kept a leash in the bag for when the cops would say hey leash your dog (cop shop was attached to the park that the course was in) sometimes they made him, sometimes they didn't, this was a very well mannered dog. She would run out to his disc & sit by it, awesome golfing partner.

I bring my Husky/Wolf mix occasionally but usually when someone I'm shooting with can hold the leash. I was never worried about my dog, but the strays that run the Downtown Indy area are what kept me from bringing her too often. I'm totally against dog fighting & dont want mine to get hurt but in a one on one I'll take my dog over any pit, she's nice as can be but if she feels threatened (takes alot, & a human has never tripped her trigger finger) She'll go nuts lol. I've seen her stomp some giant raccoons in the backyard numerous times. & really it would never be one on one cuz I'd kick the crap out of a unleashed dog that comes at mine with aggression. & it's owner if they were around & found my actions less than acceptable.

[Guurn]

I used to take my Dalmation out on the course. He is long gone now but he still holds my number 2 favorite animal related occurance on a course.

[jaymon1]

Its funny how some people are except from the law. If they do not enforce the leash law people will break the law.

Ahh, but we all feel like we're exempt from the law sometimes, don't we? Who hasn't gone 5 or 10 (or 20) over the speed limit, for instance, or turned right on red without coming to a full stop?

And just as there's a difference between going 5 over or 50 over, or blowing through a stop sign in busy residential area as opposed to not quite stopping at a red light before turning right, there's a difference between taking your dog to a crowded course with NO DOGS displayed prominently at the first hole, and still letting your dog run amok, or letting your friendly, obedient dog off the leash on a sparsely played course where the chance of coming within 200 feet of anybody else is slim, and easily controlled.

[Lewis]

And just as there's a difference between going 5 over or 50 over, or blowing through a stop sign in busy residential area as opposed to not quite stopping at a red light before turning right, there's a difference between taking your dog to a crowded course with NO DOGS displayed prominently at the first hole, and still letting your dog run amok, or letting your friendly, obedient dog off the leash on a sparsely played course where the chance of coming within 200 feet of anybody else is slim, and easily controlled.

Hear him! :)

The rule of law is critical to civilization, but rules are made for us, not us for them.

[Djza]

Common courtesy is what it all boils down to. There is no one "rule" to work off of all the time. Every course has a different feel. Know where you are before you let them run free. What works at one course may not be kosher at all somewhere else. Just like you get layered up to go play in inclimate weather, same goes for golfing with your dog. Have certain items for their maintenance:
1) Leash (mando on some courses, Just In Case on others)
2) Poop bags (any will do, some parks provide em, use your beer bag if you have to)
3) Water (dogs get thirsty too, not all courses have H2O)
4) Treats (one way to keep them close is to reward them for doing so, and in case they beg for someones beef jerky)
5) Toy (This could be a ball, their own disc or even just a stick)

I also recommend feeding them before going to the course, so they will not be as distracted by their belly while you are out there.

Just respect the people around you and the level of dog interaction appropriate for your course.

[Flies to the Left]

Common courtesy is what it all boils down to. There is no one "rule" to work off of all the time. Every course has a different feel. Know where you are before you let them run free. What works at one course may not be kosher at all somewhere else. Just like you get layered up to go play in inclimate weather, same goes for golfing with your dog. Have certain items for their maintenance:
1) Leash (mando on some courses, Just In Case on others)
2) Poop bags (any will do, some parks provide em, use your beer bag if you have to)
3) Water (dogs get thirsty too, not all courses have H2O)
4) Treats (one way to keep them close is to reward them for doing so, and in case they beg for someones beef jerky)
5) Toy (This could be a ball, their own disc or even just a stick)

I also recommend feeding them before going to the course, so they will not be as distracted by their belly while you are out there.

Just respect the people around you and the level of dog interaction appropriate for your course.

Finally someone with some common sense. Good job Djza!!!!

[Chainchaser]

Really though it comes down to one thing. If a park says "dogs must be on leash" put them on a leash. Don't be the owner that says " I can't believe my dog bit your kid in the face or hurt your dog like that"!!!!! No matter how trained you think your dog is they can and will make you look stupid. I have 3 60 lb plus dogs and generally the wife will walk them as we play. Don't put us in the situation that we have to either leave the course or defend our dogs because your otherwise good dog did not pay attention to you. Just plan common courtesy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ;)

[cc0049]

Common courtesy is what it all boils down to. There is no one "rule" to work off of all the time. Every course has a different feel. Know where you are before you let them run free. What works at one course may not be kosher at all somewhere else. Just like you get layered up to go play in inclimate weather, same goes for golfing with your dog. Have certain items for their maintenance:
1) Leash (mando on some courses, Just In Case on others)
2) Poop bags (any will do, some parks provide em, use your beer bag if you have to)
3) Water (dogs get thirsty too, not all courses have H2O)
4) Treats (one way to keep them close is to reward them for doing so, and in case they beg for someones beef jerky)
5) Toy (This could be a ball, their own disc or even just a stick)

I also recommend feeding them before going to the course, so they will not be as distracted by their belly while you are out there.

Just respect the people around you and the level of dog interaction appropriate for your course.

Thank you! Finally a little common sense.
I personally am a "spirit of the law" person and not at all a "letter of the law" person. If my dog is causing a problem, then I'll leash him. If not, then he gets to be a dog and I'll enjoy getting to play some disc golf while giving the dog some exercise at the same time.

[cc0049]

I have taken my Pit Bull out on the course with me on a Leash. The problem is other people have there dogs running lose and they come running up to my dog and she gets scared and will attack a on coming dog. There are signs at every entrance of the park saying the law is to have dogs on leashes.
I have almost gotten in fights telling people that there dogs need to be lashed and the dog park is down the street. The police dept will not enforce the law either.

If your dog has emotional issues to the point that it will attack a friendly dog that comes up to say hi and sniff, then you shouldn't even have that dog on a disc golf course to begin with. The same thing could happen at a dog park.
It's up to the owner to know what situations their dog can handle. If I knew that my dog would react that way to unleashed dogs, then I'd make sure to keep her away from unleashed dogs. I sure wouldn't get in arguments with others about it who would otherwise be enjoying their round of golf with their dogs if it weren't for running into you.
If the police aren't doing anythying about it either, that should tell you something.
If the unleashed dogs are being aggressive towards you or your dog then that is a whole other story and then the police would definitely do something about it.

[peabody]

I ain't never seen a ball golfer ever have his dog with him/her. Take your dog elsewhere and spend time with it. Jog/rollerblade/hike,k your dog needs steady exercise/ not waiting for you to throw and sniffing the crotch of the players on the tee. I love my dog but would NEVER EVER take her to the course.

[Flies to the Left]

I ain't never seen a ball golfer ever have his dog with him/her. Take your dog elsewhere and spend time with it. Jog/rollerblade/hike,k your dog needs steady exercise/ not waiting for you to throw and sniffing the crotch of the players on the tee. I love my dog but would NEVER EVER take her to the course.

I guess you want all the courses to be private and have memberships.
We play at public parks because it's free and all are welcome there. Including those with dogs and mothers with crying babies.

[Chainchaser]

If your dog has emotional issues to the point that it will attack a friendly dog that comes up to say hi and sniff, then you shouldn't even have that dog on a disc golf course to begin with. If the unleashed dog was on a leash it wouldn't matter what emotional issues my leashed dog has. My dog is a male dominant dog. He puts up with our other male dog but he does put up with a stray dog coming into his territory. It blows me away how people who are breaking the law by having there dog off the leash want to put the blame on the person who has their dog on a leash. It's no different if you came and stuck your face in mine freindly or not I will react to it, some dogs are no different. If a stray(any dog off a leash in a park with a leash law) comes up to me I take it as a threat because 1.I do not know the dog and 2. it is not under control and 3 it is not on a leash. I will take my dog to any park I want because I always have control of my dog so all I can say is make sure you have control of yours because I will defend my dog and his right to be in that park under my control unlike the dog off the leash not under your control. They have leash laws for a reason believe it or not and it probably has something to do with a person who thought their dog was the best trained and nicest dog out there that bit somebody. Really this post proves the old addage that there are no stupid dogs just stupid owners of dogs!:rolleyes:

Sorry I went on a rant here but I am very passionate about this subject. I show respect to other dog owners and non dog owning people in the park by keeping my well trained dogs on a leash and i just wish other people who think that they are special and can let their dog run free would show me and my family the same amount of respect and courtesy. I don't think that is asking to much!!!

[Chainchaser]

I sure wouldn't get in arguments with others about it who would otherwise be enjoying their round of golf with their dogs if it weren't for running into you. I will!!! because maybe i could have otherwise have enjoyed my game of disc golf if they would have not broke the law by having their dog off a leash. Don't go to the police go to the animal control officer, they do care and as a matter of fact they will give warnings and tickets people who have their dogs off a leash.

[kpc2004]

my stance on the subject is this...i know dogs are cool and its fun to play with them but respect the other people at the course by following the rules and keeping them leashed.

[Lewis]

Having your dog off leash is not the same as letting your dog run free.

[solomon.trenton]

Having your dog off leash is not the same as letting your dog run free.

its all good as long as your dog listens right?

[peabody]

I guess you want all the courses to be private and have memberships.
We play at public parks because it's free and all are welcome there. Including those with dogs and mothers with crying babies.

I just want all courses to be enjoyed by everyone.

[kpc2004]

if one guy has a nice trained dog off his leash and a guy with a crazy dog who retrieves other peoples discs and who runs up to other groups and jumps on them sees that people have dogs off their leash, he is gonna let his devil dog free. its a chain reaction. everytime i have encountered the crazy dogs the owners always say "well i always see people with dogs off the leash". maybe your dog will stay close and be obedient, but the rules are there for a reason. now if you are in a park that has no leash laws, do whatever you want. all im saying is if you are in a park that has the laws present, follow the rules.

[Lewis]

I'm not advising disobedience of posted park rules. I just want to make sure we all understand that not all dogs are instinctively unruly. At the same time, "everybody else is doing it" is not an excuse for poor judgment.

But I'm not interested in getting all passionate about this. Just use sound judgment, and take responsibility for your and your companions' actions.

[BrotherDave]

I love dogs and generally could care less but I HATE it when people bring their dogs to dg. Mostly because the last thing I want to worry about when playing is stepping in shat. One of my buddies has the most disobedient shepherd type dog ever that he brings with him and I secretly try and hit it every throw.

[Krover]

I love dogs and generally could care less but I HATE it when people bring their dogs to dg. Mostly because the last thing I want to worry about when playing is stepping in shat. One of my buddies has the most disobedient shepherd type dog ever that he brings with him and I secretly try and hit it every throw.
Sounds like your buddies dog is the one you have to worry about. Keep trying to hit the dog and maybe someone will hit you. Its not the dogs fault its the owners!

[kpc2004]

i hit a dog once....i laughed at first but felt bad the rest of the round cause it skipped first but hit pretty hard right into the side of the dog cause it was running accross the fairway. i know it wasnt really my fault cause how can you expect a random dog to take off in front of your drive, but i still dont want him to be hurt

[BENFTS]

I love dogs and generally could care less but I HATE it when people bring their dogs to dg. Mostly because the last thing I want to worry about when playing is stepping in shat. One of my buddies has the most disobedient shepherd type dog ever that he brings with him and I secretly try and hit it every throw.

dude you need to get over it, is hitting a dog really gonna make you a better person. what you need to do is tell your friend whats up and not dream of hurting animals. if you have a problem it is best solved with someone addressing that problem, this is why i hate two faced people. will say one thing to you and say something else on dgc. he is your friend so your telling him that he needs to correct his behavior should be respected. i would expect someone to tell me when i am f-ing up.

[BENFTS]

if one guy has a nice trained dog off his leash and a guy with a crazy dog who retrieves other peoples discs and who runs up to other groups and jumps on them sees that people have dogs off their leash, he is gonna let his devil dog free. its a chain reaction. everytime i have encountered the crazy dogs the owners always say "well i always see people with dogs off the leash". maybe your dog will stay close and be obedient, but the rules are there for a reason. now if you are in a park that has no leash laws, do whatever you want. all im saying is if you are in a park that has the laws present, follow the rules.

devil dogs are Marines, its it the name earned while fighting the Germans in WWI. sorry to note that i am just partial to that saying. USMC vet.

[BrotherDave]

dude you need to get over it, is hitting a dog really gonna make you a better person. what you need to do is tell your friend whats up and not dream of hurting animals. if you have a problem it is best solved with someone addressing that problem, this is why i hate two faced people. will say one thing to you and say something else on dgc. he is your friend so your telling him that he needs to correct his behavior should be respected. i would expect someone to tell me when i am f-ing up.

I was joking, sort of. Besides, this dog has more than once robbed me of 30+feet on my drives by jumping up and trying to catch it. He's a tough dog trust me. Even his owner tells me not to worry about hitting him. So put down the PETA licensed pitch fork and torch.

[Myers]

I have to agree with knowing your dog. I have had many dogs, and work with dog rescue. My older, well behaved dog was never leashed and was not required to be according to the parks. My lab, pit cross 2 year old had to be leashed all of the time unless I hit the course early in the morning when next to no one was there. My lab pit cross was too energetic and overbearing to other dogs/ players. I love bringing my dog to the course but it truly depends on the situation. If it is the busiest time of day at the course then I wouldn't even bring my 2 year old. I think you have to think of others first in this matter whether it be other players or other dogs

[BENFTS]

I was joking, sort of. Besides, this dog has more than once robbed me of 30+feet on my drives by jumping up and trying to catch it. He's a tough dog trust me. Even his owner tells me not to worry about hitting him. So put down the PETA licensed pitch fork and torch.

just because i can take a hit doesn't mean that i want to. i would assume an unsuspecting dog would feel the same way. i am not a PETA supporter nor do i condone what they do to people who do not agree with their point of view but i for no reason think it is ok to hit a dog regardless of weather or not he robs you of some distance. perhaps your friend has no place owning a dog if he can't control it and sees no reason why it could be a big deal if he's hit. i guess people need to see some really bad things to make them realize the suffering on any level is not ok. in this case i guess it is just a lack of prospective.

[BrotherDave]

just because i can take a hit doesn't mean that i want to. i would assume an unsuspecting dog would feel the same way. i am not a PETA supporter nor do i condone what they do to people who do not agree with their point of view but i for no reason think it is ok to hit a dog regardless of weather or not he robs you of some distance. perhaps your friend has no place owning a dog if he can't control it and sees no reason why it could be a big deal if he's hit. i guess people need to see some really bad things to make them realize the suffering on any level is not ok. in this case i guess it is just a lack of prospective.

Dude, It's not an unsuspecting dog if it is jumping up and trying to bite your discs in mid air. My friend plays at the butt crack of dawn in the morning so there's never any chance of his unruly dog really being too mischievous, and lastly suffering on any level, whether morally "ok" or not, is ever-present and always will be, fortunately for us, because without suffering we cannot know bliss or pleasure. Now, I'm a gonna go get a beer, get off my high horse, and beat my Mini Schnauzer bloody with my discs. (JOKING, he's due for his night walkies actually).

[matticus fry]

I'd say this, dogs are a welcome addition to the disc golf world as long as their owners are respectful of the others on the course. This means training the dogs behavior to suit disc golf. No chasing discs, don't bug the other golfers, you know behave. Most importantly PICK UP THE SH*T. My only real problems with dogs on the course is the owners not taking responsibility for them. I love dogs, I don't love stepping in the sh*t of a dog I've never seen.

[trifocal]

Dude, It's not an unsuspecting dog if it is jumping up and trying to bite your discs in mid air. My friend plays at the butt crack of dawn in the morning so there's never any chance of his unruly dog really being too mischievous, and lastly suffering on any level, whether morally "ok" or not, is ever-present and always will be, fortunately for us, because without suffering we cannot know bliss or pleasure. Now, I'm a gonna go get a beer, get off my high horse, and beat my Mini Schnauzer bloody with my discs. (JOKING, he's due for his night walkies actually).

Not quite sure where you got spirituality, Brother Dude....but causing suffering ain't in the Book. Reprimanding a dog (or human) is way different then throwing objects at dogs ( I'm thinking somebody likes to pull wings off flies, Brother Dude..) or throwing anonymous insults at people.
Whats the point your trying to make? Suffering is everpresent so causing it is A-Okay?

If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?
An unruly dog wandering a disc course at any time is mischeivousness looking for an opportunity.

[valkyriefb11]

If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?


yes. :p

[borndasaur]

If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?
.


Define "sound".;)

[Lewis]

Define "no one."

(Is this a sign that just about everything has been said in this thread?)

[valkyriefb11]

Define "no one."

(Is this a sign that just about everything has been said in this thread?)

Ever heard of Bishop Berkeley? (the Empiricist philosopher)

[ShaZaun]

Dog's are cool on the course..... it's there poop that sucks.......;)

[Wheat]

Dog's are cool on the course..... it's there poop that sucks.......;)

you just made me lol

[BrotherDave]

Not quite sure where you got spirituality, Brother Dude....but causing suffering ain't in the Book. Reprimanding a dog (or human) is way different then throwing objects at dogs ( I'm thinking somebody likes to pull wings off flies, Brother Dude..) or throwing anonymous insults at people.
Whats the point your trying to make? Suffering is everpresent so causing it is A-Okay?

If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?
An unruly dog wandering a disc course at any time is mischeivousness looking for an opportunity.

My personal religious beliefs are an amalgamation of Deism, Marcionite Christianity, and Taoism. I never advocated suffering, I meant to imply that it is often unavoidable. If a dog continued to run around your fairway would you refuse to throw? Why let a dog interfere with your good time. Let fate and the dog decide whether it gets hit with a disc. I just find it hypocritical that people selectively choose which animals are worthy of their protection and empathy. Throwing a disc with a dog in the area of the target is much less dangerous to the environment than driving an SUV or building a house on newly cleared land yet people generally act like it is an act of inhumanity.

Don't get me wrong, I love dogs, I just think people are a wee bit more important. :)

[BrotherDave]

Not quite sure where you got spirituality, Brother Dude....but causing suffering ain't in the Book.

Oh, and if it's the Bible to which you are referring, it is. It's kind of the basis for Christian eternal salvation. I don't think Christ had a dandy good time on the cross. No biggie.

[Lewis]

Ever heard of Bishop Berkeley? (the Empiricist philosopher)

As a matter of fact I have, and I've got some of his essays within arm's reach. I'm a particular fan of David Hume, though: "Be a philsopher, but in so doing, do not cease to be a man."

[valkyriefb11]

As a matter of fact I have, and I've got some of his essays within arm's reach. I'm a particular fan of David Hume, though: "Be a philsopher, but in so doing, do not cease to be a man."

:D nice to know someone out there knows about him. Berkely was an interesting philospher, kind of an anomoly in the empiricist line.
Im not particularly fond of Hume ... although he was a great (and very influential) philosopher and did take Empiricism to its conclusion ;) ...

[valkyriefb11]

btw ... Im not sure how a thread on dogs ended up with philosophy ... kinda funny

[progprowl]

My personal religious beliefs are an amalgamation of Deism, Marcionite Christianity, and Taoism. I never advocated suffering, I meant to imply that it is often unavoidable. If a dog continued to run around your fairway would you refuse to throw? Why let a dog interfere with your good time. Let fate and the dog decide whether it gets hit with a disc. I just find it hypocritical that people selectively choose which animals are worthy of their protection and empathy. Throwing a disc with a dog in the area of the target is much less dangerous to the environment than driving an SUV or building a house on newly cleared land yet people generally act like it is an act of inhumanity.

Don't get me wrong, I love dogs, I just think people are a wee bit more important. :)
I think an unruly dog like that could be on a leash . I think that makes it avoidable. Then you don't have to worry about him running around the fairway or stealing 30 ft off your drives. Sounds like your friend needs to be more resbonsible with his dog.

[BrotherDave]

I think an unruly dog like that could be on a leash . I think that makes it avoidable. Then you don't have to worry about him running around the fairway or stealing 30 ft off your drives. Sounds like your friend needs to be more resbonsible with his dog.

He's trying to teach his dog to behave off a leash and he only brings him out on the course early in the morning when no one else is really at the park. I really don't mind the dog when I'm playing with him cause it's funny watching him get bent out of shape trying to control the dog and play at the same time, keeps the playing field even since he usually beats me. I could care less about the occasional dg'er and his dog, it's when you're playing a serious round and you come up on the Swiss family Robinson with like 3 dogs, kids, and dollar store frisbees that gets under my skin.

[BENFTS]

He's trying to teach his dog to behave off a leash and he only brings him out on the course early in the morning when no one else is really at the park. I really don't mind the dog when I'm playing with him cause it's funny watching him get bent out of shape trying to control the dog and play at the same time, keeps the playing field even since he usually beats me. I could care less about the occasional dg'er and his dog, it's when you're playing a serious round and you come up on the Swiss family Robinson with like 3 dogs, kids, and dollar store frisbees that gets under my skin.

if the kids were in the fairway with the dog would you throw then. are you going to secretly try to hit them because it is inconvenient for you to wait. honestly it is best to just smoke a bowl and wait it out, maybe that's just how it is in Cali. maybe i need to play a serious round with you when i come out to NC. FYI i sent a PM saying no offense and no hard feelings.

[BENFTS]

My personal religious beliefs are an amalgamation of Deism, Marcionite Christianity, and Taoism. I never advocated suffering, I meant to imply that it is often unavoidable. If a dog continued to run around your fairway would you refuse to throw? Why let a dog interfere with your good time. Let fate and the dog decide whether it gets hit with a disc. I just find it hypocritical that people selectively choose which animals are worthy of their protection and empathy. Throwing a disc with a dog in the area of the target is much less dangerous to the environment than driving an SUV or building a house on newly cleared land yet people generally act like it is an act of inhumanity.

Don't get me wrong, I love dogs, I just think people are a wee bit more important. :)

just nice to know you wont be aiming for me because i have 2 legs.

[Lewis]

I really don't know what we're talking about in this thread any more. :confused:

[valkyriefb11]

I really don't know what we're talking about in this thread any more. :confused:

that probably means that after 3 or 4 threads on dogs and DGing there isnt much more to be said ... ;)

[hippiediscdude]

Bring your dog but keep control of it. There are leash laws for a reason. Please pick up your dog crap. I've had a drive land in a pile of dog crap. Man was I pissed. I would love it if my lab would fetch discs. Hes way to spazzy he rushes the teepad, shows you where your disc is picks it up puts a hole in it, and swims out in the water and sinks any floaters. I used to bring my shephard out shes a good old girl. Stopped taking her out after she was attacked by two unleashed pitbulls, then got into a fight with the owners because they were mad I kicked there dogs to break up the fight. I think in this case the dogs were smarter than their owners. Had to end my round and take my dog to the vet. Cost me a couple hundred dollars in vet bills, not to mention the physical confrontation with the dogs owners. Ever since that its been rare that I take my pooches out to play.

[Lewis]

I'm truly amazed at how many of you are reporting dog attacks on the disc golf course. I've never experienced a dog attack, neither on me nor on my dog. I guess once is all it takes to change your mind.

[landon77]

Bring your dog but keep control of it. There are leash laws for a reason. Please pick up your dog crap. I've had a drive land in a pile of dog crap. Man was I pissed. I would love it if my lab would fetch discs. Hes way to spazzy he rushes the teepad, shows you where your disc is picks it up puts a hole in it, and swims out in the water and sinks any floaters. I used to bring my shephard out shes a good old girl. Stopped taking her out after she was attacked by two unleashed pitbulls, then got into a fight with the owners because they were mad I kicked there dogs to break up the fight. I think in this case the dogs were smarter than their owners. Had to end my round and take my dog to the vet. Cost me a couple hundred dollars in vet bills, not to mention the physical confrontation with the dogs owners. Ever since that its been rare that I take my pooches out to play.

If you were obeying the law and had your dog leashed and she still got attacked, you should contact the authorities, espically with people who own dogs that are attacking others and out of control, much better to have them pay for the damage then you. I feel bad for you though I went through something similar but my Rott took care of herself.

[trifocal]

I think most of the dog on dog attacks go unreported. The person with the injured dog is too busy getting to the vet and dealing with an often antaganistic dog owner. Also, the consequences of reporting could lead to the other dog being put down and I believe a lot of dog lovers are hesitant to take that kind of action.

Vets don't seem to ask about the dog that caused the injuries, except in a general way. But if a person gets bit, the hospital is going to call the police and there's going to be an investigation.

[BENFTS]

oh yes, if a person is bit the cops should be involved.

[SigmaChris]

Just to add some more of my 2 cents...if you are ever walking with your dog on a leash and other dog or dogs come to play or even attack...do your dog a favor and DROP THE LEASH.

You are putting your dog at a disadvantage by keeping them leashed up. They can do a better job of defending themselves without you holding them back while the other dogs punk them. Also by them being on leash and the other dog off leash, your dog will be more defensive (your dog and the strange dog will sense that) and escalate the situation. Plus there is a chance of you getting tangled up and hurt. The dogs can take care of themselves most of the time...and if they can't, well you holding onto the leash still won't stop it.

You wouldn't hold your kids arm behind their back while another kid punked your kid, so why do it with your dog.

Sorry about the rant...

[trifocal]

We are kinda driftin' this thread, but what the heck. When Shadow my Dog was attacked, after all was said and done, he was looking at 3-4 weeks wearing one of those lampshade deals so he wouldn't be able to lick the stitches open. ( He took the hit on his lower left shoulder) Those lampshades are a pain in the neck. The dog has zero peripheral vision and the cone shape creates a white noise that sounds like your're inside a seashell. We both were going crazy after about 2 hours of that thing. A neighbor told me about this donut contraption. It has loops inside that the collar slips thru, a velcro clousure, a pretty tough rubber vinyl exteriour and a zipper to remove the inner bladder if you need to patch the bladder. The inflated shape keeps the dog from being able to turn his head far enough to worry any surgery or wounds on the front third of his body. It won't work if the injury is near the groin or hips. And...its kinda like a pillow when the dog lays down. Woof!

So here's Shadow modeling this thing. (PetSmart, PetCo, PetWorld...one of those places)

[BrotherDave]

if the kids were in the fairway with the dog would you throw then. are you going to secretly try to hit them because it is inconvenient for you to wait. honestly it is best to just smoke a bowl and wait it out, maybe that's just how it is in Cali. maybe i need to play a serious round with you when i come out to NC. FYI i sent a PM saying no offense and no hard feelings.

I must give off the impression that I'm more ornery than I am. These things (dogs on the course) do piss me off to an extent but I generally brush it off and politely smile as we Southern gentlemen are accustomed to doing. I'd just rather take a dog hunting than disc golfing, that's just me, dogs seem to enjoy that more too. But I guess you wouldn't be for that since the dog might catch a stray bullet or rabid squirrels might fall from the trees and bite the dogs. I guess it's just a matter of culture between you and I, to me dogs are dogs and to you they're precious little people that should be covered in teflon at all times(?) Whatever, I could care less and I respect your opinion if you respect mine. Peace, love, and happiness, I'm done with this.

[Lewis]

Just to add some more of my 2 cents...if you are ever walking with your dog on a leash and other dog or dogs come to play or even attack...do your dog a favor and DROP THE LEASH.

You are putting your dog at a disadvantage by keeping them leashed up. They can do a better job of defending themselves without you holding them back while the other dogs punk them. Also by them being on leash and the other dog off leash, your dog will be more defensive (your dog and the strange dog will sense that) and escalate the situation...

I would tend to disagree with this, though I understand the spirit of it. What I don't like is the assumption that my dog will be defensive and the other dog will tend to escalate. Your dog will take on your energy (it travels down the leash, to be sure), whether it's tense or confident. So if you present, in Cesar's words, a calm, assertive presence, and you know how to handle the meeting (good sense of dog body language, etc.), you won't have a problem with a friendly dog. Of course attacks are a different story. When in doubt, I prefer to put myself between my dog and the strange dog. This tends to break the stranger's focus, which is a good thing, and helps me control the situation. The bottom line is that you should take control of the situation rather than letting the dogs take control. I'm convinced that the human failure to lead is the source of most canine social problems.

But that's just me.

[ShaZaun]

If you see a weenie dog with saddlebags on it......let me know........

[Lewis]

You mean like this? (snicker)

http://doginmypocket.com/FunnyDogPictures/dimp46e9effce37e3.jpg

[ShaZaun]

ROFLMAO...... if I were drinking milk it would be coming out my nose......:D

[runnaman]

Oh my gosh, I was playing today in Newberg, OR and this girl was with her dog. We waited at the tee pad for like 10 minutes and she just looked up and waited there with her dog because the dog didn't want to walk with the leash. She could clearly see that we were waiting to play the hole but just sat there waiting for her dog to move. It was very annoying, so I don't think dogs, especially untrained ones, should be allowed on courses.

[cc0049]

I would tend to disagree with this, though I understand the spirit of it. What I don't like is the assumption that my dog will be defensive and the other dog will tend to escalate. Your dog will take on your energy (it travels down the leash, to be sure), whether it's tense or confident. So if you present, in Cesar's words, a calm, assertive presence, and you know how to handle the meeting (good sense of dog body language, etc.), you won't have a problem with a friendly dog. Of course attacks are a different story. When in doubt, I prefer to put myself between my dog and the strange dog. This tends to break the stranger's focus, which is a good thing, and helps me control the situation. The bottom line is that you should take control of the situation rather than letting the dogs take control. I'm convinced that the human failure to lead is the source of most canine social problems.

But that's just me.

Cesar Milan couldn't have said it better himself...or maybe he did already? Either way, I agree.

[Lewis]

I must admit I'm a fan of Cesar's, and most of what I said I learned from watching him. But thanks for the encouragement.

[Tarazarr]

I played the other day and this couple's dog Rottwieller (although it was definately the girls dog) came out of nowhere right at me and at first I thought he was going to attack, he was big and running fast at me, turned out he just wanted to sniff my sack while I was trying to putt...no problem, I like dogs as long as they are that friendly...

[cc0049]

I must admit I'm a fan of Cesar's, and most of what I said I learned from watching him. But thanks for the encouragement.

I'm a fan too. I think he really knows what he is talking about. I enjoy watching that show. When it's raining outside of course. :)

[kunipshunfit]

So today is a day that reminds me why I hate some dogs on the DG course. Now do not let me mislead you - I love dogs, I'm definitely a dog friendly individual. However when you have your dog on the course, off-leash and the dog is running around all crazy chasing ****. Well lets face it - I can even let that go. That is until the crazy ass dog runs up on me, barking, barking like he seems my ass as a giant pork-chop and he is starving. This happened to me today while playing a local course.

3x!!!

The first time, I ignore it, dog runs up, barks, owner calls him, dog runs back.

The second time, I get annoyed, dog runs up, barks aggressively, owner calls him back, dog barks more, owner calls him a second time, dog runs back.

The third time, I get pissed, dog runs up, barks aggressively again, owner calls him, dog gets closer, barks more aggressively, I ponder how far I can kick what looks to be an 80lb mutt, owner calls him again - dog runs back to his owner.

At this point I yell over to the owner "Hey, can you put him on a leash or something". Owner pretends to not hear me. I say again "Can you put your dog on a leash". He then goes into this long talk about how his leash is in his bag and he'll do it after he takes his up-shot. I yell back to him "Great, thanks". I then throw my next shot.

Now here is the part that really really gets me. The owner never put the dog on a leash. I ran into him a few holes later (he and his group were about 4 holes ahead of me). I saw his dog running around acting all crazy yet again, this time with another dog, chasing random things on the course.

I think I have every right to request this guy put his dog on leash if his dog is acting like an idiot. I also think after telling the guy (after this had happened 3x) that I should have a right to at least throw a disc at the owners head 1x for each time the dog ran up on me (ok ok i'm joking).

Sigh - it was an annoying day.

[EclipticOne]

shoulda called animal control... even if there is no leash law the dog still has to be under control... or you could just beam him in back of the head... either way works.

[Lewis]

No kidding. The leash laws are written for dogs that don't know how to behave in civilized society. Not even a pack of ferile dogs would tolerate this kind of behavior. If you know it's going to act like a kindergartener hepped up on pixie stix, there's no excuse for letting it off leash.

[borndasaur]

This is an excellent example of "the-owner-is-the-problem" syndrome.

[phishbrained]

This weekend i disced with my friend and his dog for the first time. His dog was properly trained and never went after one disc. When my friend threw, he let go of the leash, told his dog to stay and his dog sat and did not move. (I suppose he really didn't need the leash but had it for the leash laws) If all dogs were trained properly like this I would have no problem discing with dogs, however, this usually isnt the case and they usually cause disruptions or chase discs.

[cc0049]

This weekend i disced with my friend and his dog for the first time. His dog was properly trained and never went after one disc. When my friend threw, he let go of the leash, told his dog to stay and his dog sat and did not move. (I suppose he really didn't need the leash but had it for the leash laws) If all dogs were trained properly like this I would have no problem discing with dogs, however, this usually isnt the case and they usually cause disruptions or chase discs.

Chasing the disc isn't always a bad thing, it's picking the disc up that is. I love to have my dog with me when I go play a new course. He'll chase the disc down (if I tell him to) and will spot it for me. I don't have to worry as much about losing my disc that way. He's also able to get the disc back from shallow water for me.

[Flies to the Left]

I had a bad experience last week with 2 dogs on a course. I was in Southern Oregon at Lake Selmac.

I just finished up on #7 and was scoping out the layout for the basket on 8 when 2 dogs showed up. One was a big mutt and the other a young German Shepard. Both were growling at me. So I stood around awhile with them moving around a bit. I finally walked back to the tee pad and had a seat on the bench with them still hovering around. Finally after about 5 minutes they moved on and I continued with my game. After I finished with the 9th basket I went over to the camp host and complained about it. She seemed to think they belong to a private property owner near the park. I suggested calling animal control.

I should state that I do like dogs and I take mine to the course all the time. I would hate to think what would have happened if my dog was with me. He is scared of all big threatening dogs and hides behind me, but will bark up a storm if they are secured behind a fence.

The course I was on was a very clean wooded course and there was not a big stick in sight. Plus there is no mobile phone coverage there. If the situation had escalated I think I would have been on the losing end of it. I would hate to think what might have happened if young kids were playing the course at that time.:(
Maybe I should be caring pepper spray when playing remote courses?

[Disc Golf Cowboy]

I alwawys take my dog with me, He's on leash 99.5% of the time. When we get out away from everyone I sometimes let him off to run for a bit. Then back on the leash just to avoid any crap from anyone. If I'm carrying a bag or pulling the cart he stays hooked to it.

[jhgonzo]

I've got a big, lazy English Mastiff who LOVES people, and I've never had a problem with her interfering with other people's games. In the process of socializing her with other people/dogs/parks, the leash was imperative; however, as she became better trained and familiar with our activities on the course, I've been able to unleash her, and she'll happily trot along with us, never chases discs, and never goes after groups of other golfers. She will run up and greet a nearby group if she senses friendliness, but I've never had a complaint. Some people find her intimidating by her size, especially those unfamiliar with the breed (Mastiffs are frequently dubbed "gentle giants"), but she doesn't even bark or growl unless she perceives a threat, and even then she won't go after anyone; she'll position herself between owner and perceived threat, stand her ground, and wait out the situation.

She came up to Highbridge with us, where we had rented out the Honka House, and she couldn't even make it through a round...she left our group towards the end of our round and headed back to the Honka House to wait on the porch! She's pretty old (almost 5--more than halfway through the average Mastiff lifespan), so I don't think she's got a lot of rounds left in her. :(

[Midnightbiker]

I had a bad experience last week with 2 dogs on a course. I was in Southern Oregon at Lake Selmac.

I just finished up on #7 and was scoping out the layout for the basket on 8 when 2 dogs showed up. One was a big mutt and the other a young German Shepard. Both were growling at me. So I stood around awhile with them moving around a bit. I finally walked back to the tee pad and had a seat on the bench with them still hovering around. Finally after about 5 minutes they moved on and I continued with my game. After I finished with the 9th basket I went over to the camp host and complained about it. She seemed to think they belong to a private property owner near the park. I suggested calling animal control.

I should state that I do like dogs and I take mine to the course all the time. I would hate to think what would have happened if my dog was with me. He is scared of all big threatening dogs and hides behind me, but will bark up a storm if they are secured behind a fence.

The course I was on was a very clean wooded course and there was not a big stick in sight. Plus there is no mobile phone coverage there. If the situation had escalated I think I would have been on the losing end of it. I would hate to think what might have happened if young kids were playing the course at that time.:(
Maybe I should be caring pepper spray when playing remote courses?


Next time that happens, look the dogs right in the eyes, and make sure you have a driver in your hand. Yell back at them and let them know who is boss. The dogs where in "Pack Mode" and the were sizing you up. Dogs few humans as other dogs. You don't need a stick, you have a whole bag of weapons.

[A.Mutt]

damn straight ... dogs understand dog behavior best. If ones challenging your place in the heirarchy you gotta stand up confident and hold your ground ... and get ready to put that dog on its back if it really steps outta line . In one motion with your favored hand on its neck with thumb under lower jaw and fingers wrapping around the back of the head, take your off hand and pull one of the front legs out from underneath. Once on the ground If they continue to fight back you increase pressure to let them know you are in full control.

[Lewis]

You'd better know what you're doing if you pick a fight with two large dogs. With aggressive, escalating behavior like these last two guys are recommending, don't be surprised if the dogs bite back. I wouldn't necessarily back down, but force isn't always the best negotiating tool.

[Skankin77]

Someday I would like to bring my dogs, but they aren't really trained well so it wouldn't work out too good, lol (I got 3 Boxers)

A lot of people at my local course bring their dogs, and once my friend did. The park has a path that is for dog walking/walkers, so it's nice. They don't bother anyone, and sometimes, they help ya pick up your discs :p

[trifocal]

Oh. gosh....3 not so well trained dogs would be fun in a forest or a dog park with an extra handler, but not a DG Course. I've one 85lb dog and he goes discing with me and he is clipped to my bag at all times. He sits on the tee and doesn't move, but still....its a lot of work bringing a dog to course that isn't distracting anyone. Costs me 3-4 strokes a round easy. Many people are just fearful of dogs....mostly because the teeth they have.... and even the most easy going dog makes these folks edgy. Its really not fair to the public to have dogs running around on a course.

[Lewis]

Its really not fair to the public to have dogs running around on a course.

It's not really fair to dogs to have owners who don't teach them manners. :p

No seriously, there are good reasons for the leash laws, and no good reason to have an impolite dog running free on the course any more than to have an impolite human running free on the course. So leash your dogs and chain your drunk litterbug friends to the trees. :)

[A.Mutt]

You'd better know what you're doing if you pick a fight with two large dogs. With aggressive, escalating behavior like these last two guys are recommending, don't be surprised if the dogs bite back. I wouldn't necessarily back down, but force isn't always the best negotiating tool.

Woah I never said aggressive escalating behavior ... just that you should stand your ground and be confident, NOT aggressive. IF the dog comes at you, show it who's boss. But not with hitting or any kind of pain inflicting force. If you don't feel comfortable putting a dog on its back then you are probably feeling pretty nervous around the dog and its going to pick up on that and act like it owns you.

I've been bitten only once by a dog out of the many times I've had a dog challenge me ... and that was the time I ran away. I've been around dogs a long time and connect well with them. I understand my dog better than I understand people most of the time (part of why my name is what it is). Dogs respect confidence in your place in the world ... and thats all I really think anyone needs to know to feel safe around them.

[Lewis]

Sure there's truth in what you say, A. Mutt, but it's one thing for someone with experience and confidence to manage a dog that way, and another thing to advise someone who's inexperienced and naturally unconfident to manage a dog that way. And I'm sure you'd agree that it's more difficult when there's a couple of 'em cooperating as a pack.

I'm comfortable with dogs myself, but I wouldn't do everything I see professional dog handlers do on TV. I'm not saying you're wrong; I'm just saying not everybody can pull of what you've advised.

[Omega SuperSloth]

Next time that happens, look the dogs right in the eyes, and make sure you have a driver in your hand. Yell back at them and let them know who is boss. The dogs where in "Pack Mode" and the were sizing you up. Dogs few humans as other dogs. You don't need a stick, you have a whole bag of weapons.
your right on about the yelling thing i had a pit try to bite me repeatedly for at least a minute in an open field with nothing around or on me to attack him with and at the last second i guess my instinct kicked in and i yelled as loud as i could while looking straight at him and he ran off , if he had actually gotten me i would have gone for the neck but would never suggest doing that unless you have to cause theres no way your doing that in an open area without him sticking you their head movements are just to fast .

[A.Mutt]

Sure there's truth in what you say, A. Mutt, but it's one thing for someone with experience and confidence to manage a dog that way, and another thing to advise someone who's inexperienced and naturally unconfident to manage a dog that way. And I'm sure you'd agree that it's more difficult when there's a couple of 'em cooperating as a pack.

I'm comfortable with dogs myself, but I wouldn't do everything I see professional dog handlers do on TV. I'm not saying you're wrong; I'm just saying not everybody can pull of what you've advised.

Fair point, I definitely see your side. I suppose my main point is to remain calm and confident around dogs. I forget sometimes that I've been living and rough housing with dogs my whole life while others have never been around them, and that certainly makes a difference in perspective.