City of Darwin is committed to helping you keep your dog happy, healthy and well behaved. Follow our Animal Education recommendations to become a responsible dog owner:  

Get to know your dog and strengthen the bond

Getting to know your dog and your dog’s needs is the first step. Learning to see the world through your dog’s perception will help you understand what they want and need. Your dog is always trying to tell you something through body language! If you want to learn more contact the Animal Education Team. 

Socialisation is key to a happy and mentally balanced dog

 It’s crucial for a dog to be exposed to a variety of experiences that, in the future, will help them interact confidently with their surrounding environment, people and other animals.  

Socialisation isn’t just about meeting other pets and people. Dogs need to get used to components of the surroundings. Some examples are cars, bicycles, loud noises, nature, and water. Socialisation is a critical period in the development of a puppy that leads to a calm adult. On the other hand, adult dogs that haven’t been socialised, may react fearfully or excessively to new things, leading to behaviours like scaping, fence rushing, constant barking and even aggression.  

Although socialisation is more effective in puppies, it’s never too late for an adult to learn and discover new experiences. This is the initial step for dog training, and to prevent or reduce unwanted behaviours.  

Training is the way to an obedient dog

Basic obedience training is the first step for a happy and well-behaved dog; however, training is much more than just tricks. The key to successful training is understanding your pet’s needs and traits because every pet is unique! To start with the training a process, you will need to create a connection between you and your dog. Have you wondered what’s the best age for dog training? As soon as possible! Dogs of all ages can learn, so get started in dog training through the following videos that City of Darwin has developed for you.

If you need further animal behaviour advise, City of Darwin recommends contacting Pawsitive K9 Behaviour.  

 

Exercise your pet

Walking your dog improves socialisation, strengthens the bond with your pet, reduces nuisance behaviours, and allows your dog to release pent-up energy. Remember to keep your dog on a leash or under effective control during your walks. City of Darwin has several exercising areas, identify the dog friendly and restricted locations. Watch this video for simple tips on how to train your dog during a walk while enjoying Darwin’s beautiful scenery.  

Darwin dog parks

A dog park is a great space to socialise your pet and allow some energy release off the leash.  

City of Darwin has currently three dog parks: 

• Muirhead Dog Park  
• Alawa – Lakeside Drive Dog Park  
• Bundilla Dog Park (new) 

 When visiting these parks be aware of the rules and “dog park etiquette”:  

• Supervise your dogs 
• Dogs must be under effective control and respect distance with other dogs when requested by other owners 
• Clean after your dog. Bag it and Bin it 
• Evaluate if your dog is having a good time and interacting with other animals in a positive way. 
• Dogs in heat are not allowed to visit the dog parks 
   

Keep your dog’s mind active

Did you know that dogs need mental exercise just as much as physical activity? Engaging your pup’s mind can reduce boredom and help curb barking. Plus, they love the challenge of searching for food! Here are three fun activities you can try at home:

Puzzle Toys: head to your local pet shop and pick up some treat and food puzzles. Your dog will have a blast figuring them out. You can also make a simple puzzle using an egg carton; just place some treats inside and close it up. 

LickiMat Fun: grab a LickiMat and spread some tasty treats on it. You can use bone broth, unsweetened peanut butter (make sure it doesn't have xylitol), plain yogurt, or thick chicken broth (without salt or fat).  

​​As your dog gets the hang of it, feel free to make things a little trickier. They'll love the challenge! ​

Treasure Hunt: scatter some treats in a safe area and let your pup go on a treasure hunt. You can also hide treats in various objects like empty toilet paper rolls or small plastic bottles (make sure there are no sharp edges).  
 

 

As your dog gets the hang of it, feel free to make things a little trickier. They'll love the challenge!

Dog events

City of Darwin offers different activities to help you being a fantastic pet owner and learning more about your dog. This is what we have to offer:  

Free Behavioural Workshops: the Council’s Animal Education Team has partnered with canine behaviourists to help you understand your dog’s behaviour without any cost. These workshops are for pet owners who’d like help with dog training and minimising nuisance behaviours.  

Walk n Wag: City of Darwin will help you exercising and socialising you dog! Join us to the fun of dog family walks around the beautiful places of Darwin City.  

Pop-Ups: there is so much to learn about dogs and pet ownership! Get engaged with the monthly animal education activities that City of Darwin has planned for you. Many surprises waiting for you through these activities designed for children and grown-ups.  

Check our calendar! 

More information

If your pet's behavioural issue continues or for more advice on responsible pet ownership, please contact the City of Darwin Pet Care Help Line:

Tel: 08 8930 0606

Email: darwin@darwin.nt.gov.au