I would suggest it all depends on your dog's character and how well it responds to your commands.
I mentioned our beloved Jack Russell, what an amazing dog! Prior to having him, my family had labradors, border collies, Rhodesian Ridge Backs.
Of all the above, the border collies were, surprisingly, the most difficult to control. The border collies were trickier, but not impossible. But my goodness, did they run — and hide!
The Rhodesian Ridge Backs used to fly off, had an enormous run and come back totally delighted with their achievement. But they came back without us having to chase them — even if we could not because of their speed when running. But back they came.
I will draw a parallel which is going to be criticized, but so be it. Dogs, in many ways, respond like children, but that is life. You may have a dog that is incredibly obedient to your commands. Children too, though not commands but requests. Some will go wild and forget you, some will come to you as you call them.
In small parks, you have the benefit of seeing your dog running around. In a bigger park, perhaps not, but as I said, it depends on the character of your dog. But I also know, that big open spaces are to dogs, well, like ice creams to children.
Ivonne Holliday ● 2265d