This TikTok Video Nails the Awkwardness of Dog Park Conversations—Here's How to Power Through

Your local dog park is a great place for your pup to stretch their legs and socialize with fellow pups. But sometimes, a trip to the dog park requires making awkward small talk with other dog owners, which always seems to follow the same script.

Check out this hilariously spot-on TikTok video depicting what it’s like to chat with your fellow humans at the dog park. Plus, garner some tips on how to survive dog park small talk.

This Dog Park Skit is Too Real

TikTok user Courtney Michelle made us feel uncomfortably seen with her recent video that followed the dog park social script we all know too well.

It all begins when your fur baby introduces themselves to a new doggy friend. “Ope, made a friend!” Michelle says through a pained smile.

Over the next 90 seconds, Michelle awkwardly attempts to further the conversation by asking questions like “Is he a….terrier?” and “How old is he?” but not without the required accompaniment of a plastered-on smile and pained giggle.

The only surefire exit out of such a conversation is via the opne that instigated it all in the first place, taking your cues from your pup. “Ope, alright, I guess we’re done!” Michelle exclaims before exiting the TikTok skit with her fictional fur baby.

Unique Dog Park Conversation Topics

If Michelle’s video is a little too familiar, don’t worry. You don’t have to dread conversations at the dog park. Here are three unique topics you can breach with dog parents the next time you hit a lull.

1. What toy is that? If you notice your dog taking a liking to their new friend’s frisbee or squeaky ball, get the deets from their owner. It’s a win-win: you flex your social muscles, and your dog may get a new toy on the way home.
2. What other dog-friendly areas do you frequent? Sometimes, you and your pup are in the mood for a change in your routine. Ask around to see what other dog-friendly areas around town you can add to your rotation.
3. Do you have any other pets? A select group of lucky pet parents know what a blessing it is to have multiple dogs or have a dog and a cat peacefully cohabitate. Pick your fellow pet parent’s brain about the other fur babies that may occupy their household.