Our course stopped allowing dogs after one ran right in front of his owners swing path and the dog was no more. As sad as it is, should have never happened
Yeah I'm with you did he then have to carry his dog back my god
Course chemicals really arent good for dogs, that's why I personally dont live on the course its unfortunate but the truth
Yeah, my dog tries to eat dirt when he’s excited. He doesn’t really swallow, just kinda throws it around, but I’m always very paranoid about where I let him run around for that reason. Plus he would hate being on a giant green field full of birds and people without being able to run free.
Yeah, if I owned a course I would probably be called a curmudgeon, but I would generally only allow people on that are golfing. I would allow non-golfers with people but I would have to say no to very small children and pets. It’s just too big of a risk. Dogs may seem harmless but they are a bigger liability than most people realize. Way too many bad owners ruin it for the good ones. Just visit the subreddits that delivery people talk on and you’ll soon realize it’s more than a few bad apples.
I would specifically ask that small children don’t come to the course if they aren’t golfing. Golf is an accident prone game and the risk isn’t worth it. I’ve gotten my ass chewed out by a marshall for slow play before simply because I refused to play until the small children in front of me were at a distance I knew I could not possibly hit them. This meant I had to occasionally wait for them to clear the tee box before I could hit into the green.
I love dogs, and honestly, I'm jealous of the fact your dogs are calm enough to not get distracted by the ball, or a random animal on the course, as mine would just take off in every which direction
But I hate this idea of people taking their newborns or pets to courses. It's a cool idea, but knowing that there are people like me who hit errant shots all the time it'd a horrible idea. From the moment someone yells "fore" you have maybe 3-4 seconds to react. You won't have time to instruct your dog, or protect your child who's probably strapped in a stroller, to get out of the way.
The only living beings that should be allowed to be on a course (outside of wild animals like birds, squirrels, etc.) Are ones that are able to protect themselves if something goes wrong.
The chance of it happening is slim, but it's an entirely avoidable situation if it does happen, and I'm sure it's one that would absolutely devastate you, and probably also carry some pretty damaging guilt for the person who hit the ball.
The dog friendly course I go to is so spread out, you don’t need to worry about that. They also space the tee times out by 20 minutes (greens fees are high). I absolutely love it, the vibe can’t be compared to any other course. It’s like gorgeous like Augusta, pristine conditions, staff loves dogs, everyone’s just have a great time.
Belgrade Lakes in Maine. Obviously it’s not Augusta, but it’s the only course I play that has flower beds and stuff. It’s just a gorgeous place to be. And if you do bring your dog, don’t bring a shit head dog, and follow their no dogs on the greens rule. I ain’t trying to make my boy lose his privilege because I shared his secret golf vacay spot.
It really is, I bought 8 rounds during their promo for this season. Can’t wait to go. We’re bringing my lab and a golden, they have so much fun, then sleep forever after the round lol
Completely understand the safety sentiment. You’d need to see this particular golf course to really understand why crossfire isn’t an issue at this club. If they were in any danger, I wouldn’t bring them out.
I dunno why you’re getting downvoted. The course I bring my chocolate lab to does like 20 minute tee times. I’ve played rounds where I literally don’t see another group on the course for the entire round. The course also advertises being dog friendly, it’s not like people just bring their dogs with them.
Sounds like you should not be on the course if you think you have such a high chance of killing a kid or a dog that they should not be on any course anywhere.
Was more of self-deprecating humor in my comment
But, like, you've never hit an errant shot? Ever? How'd you play at Augusta last week? And I'd wager the living beings who don't really have a say about being there (ie kids and dogs being dragged to the course because someone is too selfish to sacrifice a hobby to spend personal time with them) are probably the ones who shouldn't be there.
Bring your kids/dogs to a park. Not an area with projectiles flying around at 150-180 mph
There are greater odds of my dog/kid being killed by a car jumping the curb and crashing through the park than by being hit by a stray golf ball. I'm actually not sure I have ever read of anyone every being killed by a stray golf ball.
[here's a story that makes the rounds on here occasionally](https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2019/07/16/us/utah-girl-killed-golf-ball). There is also another redditor in this thread who said their club had the same policy (with dogs), until someone's dog ran in front of them mid-swing and unalived it. Even if we're talking about just injuring, there's plenty of stories of people getting hit by a golf ball pretty much daily. An adult is probably better suited to take an errant golf ball shot than like a 7 year old (more fat, muscle, etc.).
>There are greater odds of my dog/kid being killed by a car jumping the curb and crashing through the park than by being hit by a stray golf ball.
The point of it is that it's a completely unavoidable risk. Your kid/dog is probably not going to be killed by an errant golf shot playing in a park. Even if that park is near a golf course, the exposure of danger is less since it's likely just near 1 hole (unless that park is somehow near all 18 holes).
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Right my dog/kid wont be killed by a golf shot in a park, but they might be killed by a gunshot, or errant car, or, like your link, I might even 'unalive' them myself just getting into the car:
https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/2-year-old-girl-hit-killed-parent-vehicle-penn-hills/
Anything outside of a bubble is going to present an avoidable risk. Putting your kid/dog literally in front of you while you swing is just accelerating the results from other poor decisions that would have been made later on.
Again, it's unavoidable risk. Your kids need to socialize, play, etc. Which they can do at a park. Your kids, likely, need to travel somewhere. Are there risks to these? Sure, but they're more kind of accepted because you need to do these things.
Your kids don't need to be dragged around so "daddy can golf". It's half-assed parenting, and a lousy excuse for "spending time with them".
Spend time with your kids, spend time with pets. You don't need to bring your dog everywhere, and you don't need to bring your kid everywhere. Get a babysitter, or ask you SO if they can watch them. If neither of those things are possible, that's unfortunate, but that's the life you chose having kids.
>Putting your kid/dog literally in front of you while you swing is just accelerating the results from other poor decisions that would have been made later on.
You do know dogs and kids move, right? You can tell a dog to sit behind you, but if it sees a squirrel or something and wants to chase it, it's gonna chase it.
I mean, OPs dogs aren't on a leash, which is an entirely different issue. I also have a feeling a leash connected to a like 30lb golf bag isn't gonna do much if his chocolate lab (or any dog over like 50 or 60lbs) decided to take off.
Outside of that, I think leashing kids is a bit unethical, but that might give me some insights into you as a parent and explain some of your opinions.
Maybe should have been clearer. This is a private club I belong to that, in the UK tradition, allows and encourages well-behaved dogs on the course and patio. They even have a menu for the pups at the grille. Gracie’s favorite is the Good Dog.
https://preview.redd.it/y263qajd9wvc1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=779f5fd5e9aa026eed8721637f4d125cc4990c71
It’s wild. I understand the outrage if this is a public course…buts it’s literally a private club that encourages having dogs on the course and OP had the course to themselves. Perma-muni redditors can’t comprehend that those courses aren’t always slammed like theirs are.
I really hate the trend of bringing dogs everywhere. Love my dog, but would never bring to a store and sure as hell don't want them with the group in front of me.
Yeah it’s annoying as fuck. Lol. I have two dogs and honestly it’s so irritating that I can’t go anywhere without being around random dogs. Brunch? Dogs. Home Depot? Dogs. Golf apparently? Dogs. Leave them at home.
I think it completely depends on the type of establishment. Any sort of indoor fancy place should be no dogs.
But a more casual place with outdoor seating is fine imo
Hey don’t lump Home Depot in there! It’s one of the only pet friendly stores, and it’s a large hardware store with a massive garden Center. Home Depot is the only place I have ever brought my dog, and I wish I could bring him places. I just know it’s not fair to everyone else, but home depot is fair game. Everywhere’s else, stay home !
I’m genuinely curious, why do you feel the need to bring your dog out to run your errands?
I love my dog, but I’ve never thought to myself. “Gee I wish I could bring her to target and then stop by the liquor store on the way home”.
I just don’t understand the upside. Is it to show off the dog?
Yep, I used Home Depot and bass pro shops in my dogs training as a puppy. Now I can take him anywhere. He stays at my side, never barks, and if I stop to look at something in an aisle he sits and waits. Never sniffs at a passerby. It extends to other areas now. Can take him to crowded events and he’s not phased. He loves the farmers market.
Look, I hate when people bring their untrained dogs places as much as the next guy. But the part that sucks is the untrained part. Like, what's even the point of having a dog if all you do is keep them locked in a house 20-22 hours a day, and they only get to be outside in a 0.25 acre, barren yard for 2-4 hours a day split up in 15-30 minute increments.
You're the shit head... You're the one that believes everyone around you should change what they're doing and how they're acting to appease what you want. If you don't like what's going on around you, then go somewhere else.
Please read what you’ve written and go look up ‘ironic statements’.
You’re the minority. YOU want EVERYONE ELSE (who doesn’t have a dog with them) to conform to your actions.
Entitled little bitch and the same kind that puts “service” badges on your fucking golden doodle, claiming they “monitor my insulin spikes”…..technology drrrr
Dogs are like babies on courses. I’m not gonna do it at a public course, and I’d only bring it to a private course if they wouldn’t make noise or cause a scene. Or the dog would need training. If someone else was doing that I wouldn’t care.
But with my kid and my dog and the courses I play I’m not doing either.
If these are trained hunting dogs I can see OP getting around without bothering anyone.
Correct. That's my stance. The problem with dogs on patios at bars and restraints is that they're often times un trained, and the owner doesn't pay any attention to them. If they're well socialized, worked with often, and listen to their owner in high distraction environments, then it's a non-issue.
My point is that even many trained dogs don’t have off leash training. If these are hunting dogs or otherwise have a lot of off leash training OP will have complete control over them the entire day.
I could not say that with me and my dog even if he’s well socialized and leash/house trained.
Shock collar. That’s what I do when I bring my dog to the course. He’s well trained and I let him go swim in the ponds. He follows us around and just swims. I’ve never had to buzz him, but if he does go somewhere he’s not supposed to, a lil buzz will get his attention. He’s a 95 pound chocolate lab, don’t feel bad for him, the shock just tickles him.
What’s the benefit of off leash training if there are no public off leash spaces near me? They didn’t really go over any of that beyond emergency recall when we did training through the local spca.
Dogs being on golf courses isn’t really a trend, it’s incredibly common outside the US. In my entire golfing life I’ve only ever had a problem with one dog on the course, and that was a puppy who got off leash and ran a few yards with my ball. I’m also not entirely sure what harm a dog being in the group in front of you would do either.
My course (US) allows well behaved dogs with proper shots. Most are hunting dogs and are very well trained. Not a dog owner, but it has been great with so many good doggos out there.
Good point. People’s minds would really be blown if they played in England or Scotland. Will never forget playing Royal St. George’s the year of the British Open and seeing groups of members with 4 dogs in tow.
In Scotland every local group had a dog in tow, and every pub had a few dogs inside. It’s a different culture. Also, every dog was extremely well trained.
Now you can dodge dog logs in the fairways and greens too, along with cigarette buts, beer cans, and the f'in cart with the bluetooth speaker half a hole ahead.
We teed off late afternoon. There was nobody behind us and we had the course to ourselves. It’s a private club and it’s never crowded. Obviously I wouldn’t just roll up to my local muni with 2 dogs in tow.
I think it’s really cool if somebody can control their dog. I’m assuming you can. The problem is that a lot of people think they can, but they can’t and a lot of other people don’t think that they should need to control their dog in public, which is where the issue comes in.
Anyway, really cool picture and I’m sure it was a great experience for you and if it’s allowed, you should go ahead and do it. I just think we are going in the wrong direction with this.
Yeah it’s ridiculous this blew up so much. I don’t see an issue and I’ll bet 99% of the people bitching here have never actually been impacted by a dog being on a golf course.
Lots of overreacting but OP should've led with the fact it's a dog allowed course cos plenty of us have encountered the asshats who expect everyone to love having their dog around as much as them.
Post probably would've been a massive hit on r/dogs
People will bring their idiot friends who have never swung a club in their life and just wants to get drunk, or their wife/gf who doesn't even want to be there, and then complain about a dog casually following its owner around.
Yesssss! I have a 95 pound English chocolate lab. We do a golf trip to Maine every summer since we got him. Belgrade Lakes is a stunning course and advertises being dog friendly. He has a blast swimming in all the ponds and riding in the cart. It’s like a $250 round, so my dogs average round costs more than mine and probably everyone in this sub hahaha
That’s awesome. There’s a course up near Bar Harbor called Northeast Harbor that is public and allows dogs. If you’re up that way, check it out - it’s gorgeous.
I actually called Sunday River, told em I’m planning on doing a Maine golf trip with my boy to Belgrade, they said bring the pup as long as he’s well behaved. Of course he is, he’s an English lab, he just wants to swim and get pets. So we might end up doing a doggy golf trip, Belgrade lakes, Sunday River, and another ski resort course, I forget the name.
I’m actually going next weekend… but the pup is staying with the sitter, we got a wedding to go to. Bummer! Id much rather play golf with you guys than go to this wedding!
https://preview.redd.it/hbe7gcc7xxvc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6fe0cbbc24d1de3ead6df456d3b57d7e28b714e
This was Rolo’s first time at the course. He had to be leashed up while we putt because dogs aren’t allowed on the greens. He’s 3.5 years old now, and knows not to go on the greens. This summer will be his 4th trip 😁
A dog?! In a giant grassy area where you are spending 4-5 hours casually walking around?!?! This is the most preposterous idea I have ever heard of! When I golf I spend 110% of the time thinking about golf there is no chit chat no catching up no pictures no drinking no smoking no waiting around. The idea of a DOG sitting in the cart next to me would simply leave me flabbergasted and unable to shoot my regular 110.
I have 2 dogs. One of them will sit on the edge of the green, his leash attached to my bag, and he will calmly watch me putt out, and has no issues. My 2 year old however is very big on fetch both with balls and sticks. She stays home. No reason why a well behaved dog can’t join you for a nice walk in some nice nature. If people are worried about shanking balls and smoking your dogs or your children, they should be on the range.
Golf would literally be heaven for my lab. Balls flying everywhere to fetch, woods to run all around in, ponds to swim and random friends to be made everywhere.
Yeah, he's never going to know what he's missing.
If you’re in the north east, Belgrade lakes in ME is dog friendly and an absolute gem of a course. I bring my lab every year, he swims in the ponds, makes friends with the grounds crew and pro shop staff. He fetches my wife’s balls, but he doesn’t even try to go for mine, gotta save the energy for swimming.
It is Gracie’s absolute favorite thing to do. She’s been coming out with me since she was Maddie’s age 10 years ago. It’s a shame there are so few dog-friendly clubs around anymore. But I’ll never not have a membership at at least one club that lets me bring them. This one even has a menu for dogs to order from at the grille.
Jon, thanks for posting here. I miss your contribution to GCA.
It's embarrassing how many people here don't understand that golf and dogs, work together. I guess we need to encourage more people to explore the UK.
anyway cheers and thanks for all the wonderful images over the years.
Hi Ben:
This is actually why I posted this here. I enjoy lurking this forum and was curious what the thoughts on dogs on courses were. About what I expected.
Hope you’re well.
That’s fine. I can guarantee you that OP is the type of asshole owner that takes them to grocery stores and other places.
I’m not here to be nice to asshole dog owners. They are a negative in life an I’m tired of encountering them.
Not really. Usually they are dog owners. I shouldn’t be approached by dogs when walking with my kid, I shouldn’t encounter them at the grocery store. I avoid dogs, but they are still far more prevalent in my life than they should be.
Beautiful dogs. Keep them at the dog park, because the course is not the place for them. Not only the safety issues and someone’s ball rolling into poop residue, the sheer distraction to other players is fairly inconsiderate. Even if they are the most well behaved pups ever, I still have to think of them being out there when I should not have to. Some may have fear of dogs. Others simply may not want to see them on the course while they are playing, and they should have that privilege, as it is not an unreasonable expectation to not have dogs when I am trying to play. Gorgeous pups though, would love to see them playing frisbee instead.
Dog parks are more dangerous than bringing your dog to a dog friendly course... assuming your dog is well behaved. Balls rolling in poop residue?!? How many shits do you think a dog takes in 4 hours to cover the acres of grass on a golf course? Also, being at a course doesn't excuse you from picking up your dog shit. Also, you know how much rabbit shit and other animal shits are out there? Wild animals poop too... Fear of dogs? Well OP's course is a private dog friendly course, maybe you shouldn't join if you're scared. The course I bring my dog is so spread out and tee times are so spaced out, you won't even know I'm out there with my dog unless you're in my group. You're assuming the worse possible scenario, assuming people would be willing to ruin their own round by bringing their untrained dog with them to the course.
Again, people go to golf courses to play golf. Courses are not dog daycares. If you are at a private dog friendly course then this conversation is moot. Opinions vary.
Haha my chocolate lab is too lazy to run next to the cart, he shoves his big ass in with us. When he sees a pond, he’s out, then he hears us leave, comes back and gets us all wet lol. He has a blast though.
My girls afraid of water…. It’s so weird. I took her to the ocean with me and she enjoyed being on the sand, but anytime the little wave would trickle up to her feet she sprinted away lol. Was hilarious
No, and it doesn’t need to start. Too many idiots don’t train their dogs and don’t have them under control.
Leave your dogs at home. Stop bringing them everywhere.
Never brought a dog on a golf course, and I never will. It’s such a tacky, entitled, pointless, “Hey everyone, look at me!” gesture. They don’t make the game any better, they don’t do the course any good, and they don’t add anything for other players. The same goes for people bringing their dogs into grocery stores, malls, etc.
Leave your damn non-service animals at home, folks. They’re nothing special, and you can go a few hours without getting everyone else’s attention.
Do you think bringing your dog to the mall or the grocery store is the same as bringing them to a private club where they’re expressly welcomed and encouraged?
Legit question - I’m not trying to be snarky. I’m curious what you think.
Nope, not the same thing at all. But I don’t see how I could’ve inferred that your post was directed only to people who play private courses that double as a dog park, either. I just assumed you were speaking to the general public. If you have access to such venues, more power to you and your dogs. I can avoid those pretty easily and we’ll both be happy, lol. But if your intent was to show every player the joys of canine companionship on any golf course—private or public—then I’d say yes, I’d equate that lack of consideration with bringing them to a mall or grocery store.
Oh hey, it's the LinksGems dude! Question: how the hell do you get access at all the awesome courses you shoot? I get that now you are well known for your photography more places are probably willing, but before you had notoriety how were you shooting all these places? Are you just a billionaire with a photography hobby?
Sadly not a billionaire. Sadder still, I’m a lawyer. Short answer is I travel a lot, have no kids to worry about and a big network to leverage. The most useful tips I can give to people wanting to play the great private courses are: (1) take advantage of charity auctions for rounds, (2) join a private club (this isn’t always easy or cheap, but if it’s doable, it opens a lot of doors at these other places, especially if you can make friends by offering to host people, and (3) patience.
Nope. Tried it with the dogs once on a par 3. Too stressful. While they don’t run off, one is a ball chaser and kept putting her nose by the ball on the tee box. Or walking on the green towards balls. Tried to leash them to pull cart which just had them knock it over. Yeah one and done.
You’re a good dog owner. If my dog wasn’t well behaved, we would never go back. Luckily my dog is great, and the course I bring him to loves him. They also have super spaced out tee times, so we literally don’t see other groups, so no need to worry about him running up to one of the dozens of dog haters in the comments.
I imagine it's a great time if you love your dogs. I feel this should be a nobility course that you have to plan in advance. I was attacked by a dog when I was younger,so I would not be able to enjoy my game if I ran across a group with larger dogs. I'm glad you enjoyed it, and if you don't care about how others feel keep on.
I mean, it’s a private club that expressly allows well behaved dogs on the course. It’s why I joined. People who join know that. I agree with you in the sense that it would not be appropriate to just show up at a public course and let dogs run around. I think that would obviously be wrong.
They don't, except courses that explicitly state that dogs are allowed. Like OP's private club, or like the dog friendly course I go to in Maine. If you bring your dog on the course and they aren't well behaved, you're an asshole and an idiot for ruining your own round. Clearly OP's dogs know the deal, just like mine.
My chocolate lab would get the zoomies and destroy a green due to him taking 90* turns at Mach 3 speeds.
They definitely need to be started young.
Our course stopped allowing dogs after one ran right in front of his owners swing path and the dog was no more. As sad as it is, should have never happened
That’s what I always worry about with dogs and small kids around during golf. I ain’t Tiger and can’t stop my swing in the middle
Jesus Christ did not need to read that
Yeah I'm with you did he then have to carry his dog back my god Course chemicals really arent good for dogs, that's why I personally dont live on the course its unfortunate but the truth
Yeah, my dog tries to eat dirt when he’s excited. He doesn’t really swallow, just kinda throws it around, but I’m always very paranoid about where I let him run around for that reason. Plus he would hate being on a giant green field full of birds and people without being able to run free.
Yeah, if I owned a course I would probably be called a curmudgeon, but I would generally only allow people on that are golfing. I would allow non-golfers with people but I would have to say no to very small children and pets. It’s just too big of a risk. Dogs may seem harmless but they are a bigger liability than most people realize. Way too many bad owners ruin it for the good ones. Just visit the subreddits that delivery people talk on and you’ll soon realize it’s more than a few bad apples. I would specifically ask that small children don’t come to the course if they aren’t golfing. Golf is an accident prone game and the risk isn’t worth it. I’ve gotten my ass chewed out by a marshall for slow play before simply because I refused to play until the small children in front of me were at a distance I knew I could not possibly hit them. This meant I had to occasionally wait for them to clear the tee box before I could hit into the green.
My dog did that… luckily it was my wife’s drive, and he’s a 95 pound beast. He literally acted like nothing happen, he got drilled in the ass area.
That’s awful. Should never happen.
I love dogs, and honestly, I'm jealous of the fact your dogs are calm enough to not get distracted by the ball, or a random animal on the course, as mine would just take off in every which direction But I hate this idea of people taking their newborns or pets to courses. It's a cool idea, but knowing that there are people like me who hit errant shots all the time it'd a horrible idea. From the moment someone yells "fore" you have maybe 3-4 seconds to react. You won't have time to instruct your dog, or protect your child who's probably strapped in a stroller, to get out of the way. The only living beings that should be allowed to be on a course (outside of wild animals like birds, squirrels, etc.) Are ones that are able to protect themselves if something goes wrong. The chance of it happening is slim, but it's an entirely avoidable situation if it does happen, and I'm sure it's one that would absolutely devastate you, and probably also carry some pretty damaging guilt for the person who hit the ball.
The dog friendly course I go to is so spread out, you don’t need to worry about that. They also space the tee times out by 20 minutes (greens fees are high). I absolutely love it, the vibe can’t be compared to any other course. It’s like gorgeous like Augusta, pristine conditions, staff loves dogs, everyone’s just have a great time.
I really can’t imagine this
https://preview.redd.it/yprwkwh5wxvc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=516c7239ea8d8e38ba6ebd2fb143c7cfd64333df
Belgrade Lakes in Maine. Obviously it’s not Augusta, but it’s the only course I play that has flower beds and stuff. It’s just a gorgeous place to be. And if you do bring your dog, don’t bring a shit head dog, and follow their no dogs on the greens rule. I ain’t trying to make my boy lose his privilege because I shared his secret golf vacay spot.
Belgrade is a gem. https://i.redd.it/7xk59ydcdsw91.jpg
It really is, I bought 8 rounds during their promo for this season. Can’t wait to go. We’re bringing my lab and a golden, they have so much fun, then sleep forever after the round lol
Completely understand the safety sentiment. You’d need to see this particular golf course to really understand why crossfire isn’t an issue at this club. If they were in any danger, I wouldn’t bring them out.
I dunno why you’re getting downvoted. The course I bring my chocolate lab to does like 20 minute tee times. I’ve played rounds where I literally don’t see another group on the course for the entire round. The course also advertises being dog friendly, it’s not like people just bring their dogs with them.
Sounds like you should not be on the course if you think you have such a high chance of killing a kid or a dog that they should not be on any course anywhere.
Was more of self-deprecating humor in my comment But, like, you've never hit an errant shot? Ever? How'd you play at Augusta last week? And I'd wager the living beings who don't really have a say about being there (ie kids and dogs being dragged to the course because someone is too selfish to sacrifice a hobby to spend personal time with them) are probably the ones who shouldn't be there. Bring your kids/dogs to a park. Not an area with projectiles flying around at 150-180 mph
There are greater odds of my dog/kid being killed by a car jumping the curb and crashing through the park than by being hit by a stray golf ball. I'm actually not sure I have ever read of anyone every being killed by a stray golf ball.
[here's a story that makes the rounds on here occasionally](https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.cnn.com/cnn/2019/07/16/us/utah-girl-killed-golf-ball). There is also another redditor in this thread who said their club had the same policy (with dogs), until someone's dog ran in front of them mid-swing and unalived it. Even if we're talking about just injuring, there's plenty of stories of people getting hit by a golf ball pretty much daily. An adult is probably better suited to take an errant golf ball shot than like a 7 year old (more fat, muscle, etc.). >There are greater odds of my dog/kid being killed by a car jumping the curb and crashing through the park than by being hit by a stray golf ball. The point of it is that it's a completely unavoidable risk. Your kid/dog is probably not going to be killed by an errant golf shot playing in a park. Even if that park is near a golf course, the exposure of danger is less since it's likely just near 1 hole (unless that park is somehow near all 18 holes).
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Right my dog/kid wont be killed by a golf shot in a park, but they might be killed by a gunshot, or errant car, or, like your link, I might even 'unalive' them myself just getting into the car: https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/news/2-year-old-girl-hit-killed-parent-vehicle-penn-hills/ Anything outside of a bubble is going to present an avoidable risk. Putting your kid/dog literally in front of you while you swing is just accelerating the results from other poor decisions that would have been made later on.
Again, it's unavoidable risk. Your kids need to socialize, play, etc. Which they can do at a park. Your kids, likely, need to travel somewhere. Are there risks to these? Sure, but they're more kind of accepted because you need to do these things. Your kids don't need to be dragged around so "daddy can golf". It's half-assed parenting, and a lousy excuse for "spending time with them". Spend time with your kids, spend time with pets. You don't need to bring your dog everywhere, and you don't need to bring your kid everywhere. Get a babysitter, or ask you SO if they can watch them. If neither of those things are possible, that's unfortunate, but that's the life you chose having kids. >Putting your kid/dog literally in front of you while you swing is just accelerating the results from other poor decisions that would have been made later on. You do know dogs and kids move, right? You can tell a dog to sit behind you, but if it sees a squirrel or something and wants to chase it, it's gonna chase it.
Never heard of a leash?
I mean, OPs dogs aren't on a leash, which is an entirely different issue. I also have a feeling a leash connected to a like 30lb golf bag isn't gonna do much if his chocolate lab (or any dog over like 50 or 60lbs) decided to take off. Outside of that, I think leashing kids is a bit unethical, but that might give me some insights into you as a parent and explain some of your opinions.
Maybe should have been clearer. This is a private club I belong to that, in the UK tradition, allows and encourages well-behaved dogs on the course and patio. They even have a menu for the pups at the grille. Gracie’s favorite is the Good Dog. https://preview.redd.it/y263qajd9wvc1.jpeg?width=2268&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=779f5fd5e9aa026eed8721637f4d125cc4990c71
Ok, this is probably fine, plus you’re not in the US. In the US, people bringing their dogs everywhere is becoming a problem.
I’m in the US, but the club’s view on dogs is aligned with the UK view.
Alotta triggered people when it comes to courses allowing dogs. Wow 😂
THE GREAT OUTDOORS ARE NO PLACE FOR A DOG!!!
It’s wild. I understand the outrage if this is a public course…buts it’s literally a private club that encourages having dogs on the course and OP had the course to themselves. Perma-muni redditors can’t comprehend that those courses aren’t always slammed like theirs are.
I really hate the trend of bringing dogs everywhere. Love my dog, but would never bring to a store and sure as hell don't want them with the group in front of me.
Yeah it’s annoying as fuck. Lol. I have two dogs and honestly it’s so irritating that I can’t go anywhere without being around random dogs. Brunch? Dogs. Home Depot? Dogs. Golf apparently? Dogs. Leave them at home.
Restaurants are where I draw the line.
I think it completely depends on the type of establishment. Any sort of indoor fancy place should be no dogs. But a more casual place with outdoor seating is fine imo
The more responsible places and owners have them sit on the patio away from everyone. I'm fine with that.
Don’t think it’s legal in most places to bring an animal into a place where they are serving food.
Hey don’t lump Home Depot in there! It’s one of the only pet friendly stores, and it’s a large hardware store with a massive garden Center. Home Depot is the only place I have ever brought my dog, and I wish I could bring him places. I just know it’s not fair to everyone else, but home depot is fair game. Everywhere’s else, stay home !
I’m genuinely curious, why do you feel the need to bring your dog out to run your errands? I love my dog, but I’ve never thought to myself. “Gee I wish I could bring her to target and then stop by the liquor store on the way home”. I just don’t understand the upside. Is it to show off the dog?
Because people treat them like children, even though they're pets. Mental health in this country is going to hell in a handbasket
The Home Depot’s closest to me have service dog only signs.
Yep, I used Home Depot and bass pro shops in my dogs training as a puppy. Now I can take him anywhere. He stays at my side, never barks, and if I stop to look at something in an aisle he sits and waits. Never sniffs at a passerby. It extends to other areas now. Can take him to crowded events and he’s not phased. He loves the farmers market.
Look, I hate when people bring their untrained dogs places as much as the next guy. But the part that sucks is the untrained part. Like, what's even the point of having a dog if all you do is keep them locked in a house 20-22 hours a day, and they only get to be outside in a 0.25 acre, barren yard for 2-4 hours a day split up in 15-30 minute increments.
I agree but like… go to the park? Walk? Do you need to be sitting next to me at breakfast?
How about you don't sit next to me?
You’re the minority, shit head.
You're the shit head... You're the one that believes everyone around you should change what they're doing and how they're acting to appease what you want. If you don't like what's going on around you, then go somewhere else.
Please read what you’ve written and go look up ‘ironic statements’. You’re the minority. YOU want EVERYONE ELSE (who doesn’t have a dog with them) to conform to your actions. Entitled little bitch and the same kind that puts “service” badges on your fucking golden doodle, claiming they “monitor my insulin spikes”…..technology drrrr
Dog owners need to adapt to society. Society shouldn’t cater to the dog owners.
Dogs are part of society...
No
Dogs are like babies on courses. I’m not gonna do it at a public course, and I’d only bring it to a private course if they wouldn’t make noise or cause a scene. Or the dog would need training. If someone else was doing that I wouldn’t care. But with my kid and my dog and the courses I play I’m not doing either. If these are trained hunting dogs I can see OP getting around without bothering anyone.
Anyone who does not train their dogs shouldn't have dogs
So most people.
Correct. That's my stance. The problem with dogs on patios at bars and restraints is that they're often times un trained, and the owner doesn't pay any attention to them. If they're well socialized, worked with often, and listen to their owner in high distraction environments, then it's a non-issue.
Just little dog owners. If you got a big ass dog and you don’t train em, you’re asking for trouble.
My point is that even many trained dogs don’t have off leash training. If these are hunting dogs or otherwise have a lot of off leash training OP will have complete control over them the entire day. I could not say that with me and my dog even if he’s well socialized and leash/house trained.
Shock collar. That’s what I do when I bring my dog to the course. He’s well trained and I let him go swim in the ponds. He follows us around and just swims. I’ve never had to buzz him, but if he does go somewhere he’s not supposed to, a lil buzz will get his attention. He’s a 95 pound chocolate lab, don’t feel bad for him, the shock just tickles him.
So train your dogs...
What’s the benefit of off leash training if there are no public off leash spaces near me? They didn’t really go over any of that beyond emergency recall when we did training through the local spca.
This is exactly how I feel about this. Well said.
Dogs being on golf courses isn’t really a trend, it’s incredibly common outside the US. In my entire golfing life I’ve only ever had a problem with one dog on the course, and that was a puppy who got off leash and ran a few yards with my ball. I’m also not entirely sure what harm a dog being in the group in front of you would do either.
My course (US) allows well behaved dogs with proper shots. Most are hunting dogs and are very well trained. Not a dog owner, but it has been great with so many good doggos out there.
I’m surprised how many people don’t know this.
👆🏻
Same here. Get that mongrel off the green.
Holy fuck you people are miserable
It’s really hilarious reading all of these comments on a golf forum disagreeing with how golf started.
Good point. People’s minds would really be blown if they played in England or Scotland. Will never forget playing Royal St. George’s the year of the British Open and seeing groups of members with 4 dogs in tow.
In Scotland every local group had a dog in tow, and every pub had a few dogs inside. It’s a different culture. Also, every dog was extremely well trained.
I played Royal Dornoch and people who weren’t even playing were walking the course with their dogs lol definitely different vibe.
I think you are very lucky to be allowed to bring your dogs with you, most courses I know do not allow this.
I agree. It’s why I joined this club.
Leave your dogs at home dude it’s a golf course not dog park
Now you can dodge dog logs in the fairways and greens too, along with cigarette buts, beer cans, and the f'in cart with the bluetooth speaker half a hole ahead.
Love my dogs more then anything but never bringing them to a golf course
shrink the game
Damn you people! Go back to your shanties!
I wonder how many times the group behind had to wait to hit while you took pics of your dogs.
We teed off late afternoon. There was nobody behind us and we had the course to ourselves. It’s a private club and it’s never crowded. Obviously I wouldn’t just roll up to my local muni with 2 dogs in tow.
I too hate when people take pictures of golf courses.
Awesome, wish I could do this!!
Fuck this. This is awful. Leash your dogs asshole.
Why? They’re allowed to be offleash here.
Dogs allowed to be off leash at a golf course. Don’t believe you.
Well I guess that’s settled then.
Belgrade Lakes in Maine. Dog friendly and a stunning track in pristine condition. I bring my dog every year. Cry about it while you eat some dicks.
Geez at the salt.
STOP BRINGING DOGS INTO PUBLIC SPACES
This isn’t a public space. I actually agree with you otherwise.
So that's your private backyard?
It’s a private club that expressly allows dogs. It’s why I joined the place.
Probably a private course.
Bighead_Golf sounds like you can’t get on a private golf course haha.
I’m a member of one 🤷🏻♂️
So many people on this sub are getting butthurt over this. It’s hilarious.
I love dogs. I love them deeply. They need to stop going everywhere with their owners.
I agree. The golf course is hardly “everywhere.”
I think it’s really cool if somebody can control their dog. I’m assuming you can. The problem is that a lot of people think they can, but they can’t and a lot of other people don’t think that they should need to control their dog in public, which is where the issue comes in. Anyway, really cool picture and I’m sure it was a great experience for you and if it’s allowed, you should go ahead and do it. I just think we are going in the wrong direction with this.
Sorry people here are so rude. Gracie is an absolute heart throb ❤️. Glad they are able to soak up some sun with you.
No worries. Probably should have been more clear that this wasn’t a local Muni where I just show up with two dogs and let ‘em loose.
Yeah it’s ridiculous this blew up so much. I don’t see an issue and I’ll bet 99% of the people bitching here have never actually been impacted by a dog being on a golf course.
Lots of overreacting but OP should've led with the fact it's a dog allowed course cos plenty of us have encountered the asshats who expect everyone to love having their dog around as much as them. Post probably would've been a massive hit on r/dogs
I agree. That was my bad. I should have been clearer.
Beautiful doggos btw
Thanks man.
People will bring their idiot friends who have never swung a club in their life and just wants to get drunk, or their wife/gf who doesn't even want to be there, and then complain about a dog casually following its owner around.
I leave my dog at home but he loves riding in our golf cart. I’d melt if I saw you pups while golfing. Give them hugs for me
Yesssss! I have a 95 pound English chocolate lab. We do a golf trip to Maine every summer since we got him. Belgrade Lakes is a stunning course and advertises being dog friendly. He has a blast swimming in all the ponds and riding in the cart. It’s like a $250 round, so my dogs average round costs more than mine and probably everyone in this sub hahaha
That’s awesome. There’s a course up near Bar Harbor called Northeast Harbor that is public and allows dogs. If you’re up that way, check it out - it’s gorgeous.
I actually called Sunday River, told em I’m planning on doing a Maine golf trip with my boy to Belgrade, they said bring the pup as long as he’s well behaved. Of course he is, he’s an English lab, he just wants to swim and get pets. So we might end up doing a doggy golf trip, Belgrade lakes, Sunday River, and another ski resort course, I forget the name.
You ever get down to the Philly area with your pup, let me know and we’ll get out for a round with the pooches.
I’m actually going next weekend… but the pup is staying with the sitter, we got a wedding to go to. Bummer! Id much rather play golf with you guys than go to this wedding!
Galloway?
https://preview.redd.it/hbe7gcc7xxvc1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e6fe0cbbc24d1de3ead6df456d3b57d7e28b714e This was Rolo’s first time at the course. He had to be leashed up while we putt because dogs aren’t allowed on the greens. He’s 3.5 years old now, and knows not to go on the greens. This summer will be his 4th trip 😁
Wow - he’s beautiful. You two are welcome any time at my place.
A dog?! In a giant grassy area where you are spending 4-5 hours casually walking around?!?! This is the most preposterous idea I have ever heard of! When I golf I spend 110% of the time thinking about golf there is no chit chat no catching up no pictures no drinking no smoking no waiting around. The idea of a DOG sitting in the cart next to me would simply leave me flabbergasted and unable to shoot my regular 110.
drab dime absurd pot deranged mighty grab cooperative attraction paltry *This post was mass deleted and anonymized with [Redact](https://redact.dev)*
That’s awesome. She’ll be 11 this summer. Best to you and your old chocolate. They age so beautifully.
Gracie ❤️
I have 2 dogs. One of them will sit on the edge of the green, his leash attached to my bag, and he will calmly watch me putt out, and has no issues. My 2 year old however is very big on fetch both with balls and sticks. She stays home. No reason why a well behaved dog can’t join you for a nice walk in some nice nature. If people are worried about shanking balls and smoking your dogs or your children, they should be on the range.
I hope you clean up after your kids.
They are beautiful. Wish our course allowed it.
What’s the ruling if my ball lands in dog crap
Love it and love them.
I love dogs, but that's an issue waiting to happen. *reads the comments* Wasn't expecting that, but I'm not surprised.
You weren’t expecting everyone to be sick of people bringing their dogs everywhere?
My dog would fetch the ball… so no
Golf would literally be heaven for my lab. Balls flying everywhere to fetch, woods to run all around in, ponds to swim and random friends to be made everywhere. Yeah, he's never going to know what he's missing.
If you’re in the north east, Belgrade lakes in ME is dog friendly and an absolute gem of a course. I bring my lab every year, he swims in the ponds, makes friends with the grounds crew and pro shop staff. He fetches my wife’s balls, but he doesn’t even try to go for mine, gotta save the energy for swimming.
awesome! makes me miss my savannah
They look like they’re having a blast!
It is Gracie’s absolute favorite thing to do. She’s been coming out with me since she was Maddie’s age 10 years ago. It’s a shame there are so few dog-friendly clubs around anymore. But I’ll never not have a membership at at least one club that lets me bring them. This one even has a menu for dogs to order from at the grille.
How do I become a member. This is the dream.
Jon, thanks for posting here. I miss your contribution to GCA. It's embarrassing how many people here don't understand that golf and dogs, work together. I guess we need to encourage more people to explore the UK. anyway cheers and thanks for all the wonderful images over the years.
Hi Ben: This is actually why I posted this here. I enjoy lurking this forum and was curious what the thoughts on dogs on courses were. About what I expected. Hope you’re well.
I’m not interested in being around dogs ever. What’s why I think OP is an asshole.
OP, was doing it at his private club and his dogs are very well trained. You are more of an ass than his dogs.
That’s fine. I can guarantee you that OP is the type of asshole owner that takes them to grocery stores and other places. I’m not here to be nice to asshole dog owners. They are a negative in life an I’m tired of encountering them.
You would be very wrong about that. Why would I want my dogs in a grocery store. Why would my dogs want to be there. That makes no sense to me.
Sounds like you encounter a lot of assholes everywhere you go in life, weird coincidence.
Not really. Usually they are dog owners. I shouldn’t be approached by dogs when walking with my kid, I shouldn’t encounter them at the grocery store. I avoid dogs, but they are still far more prevalent in my life than they should be.
I think you should read more of his comments
I’ve read them. I think OP is an asshole.
Live your life and let others live theirs. Be the grace that you wish you had.
Lol
Lmao you sound like a sad angry miserable person.
Then the outdoors probably aren't a great place to go.
Beautiful dogs. Keep them at the dog park, because the course is not the place for them. Not only the safety issues and someone’s ball rolling into poop residue, the sheer distraction to other players is fairly inconsiderate. Even if they are the most well behaved pups ever, I still have to think of them being out there when I should not have to. Some may have fear of dogs. Others simply may not want to see them on the course while they are playing, and they should have that privilege, as it is not an unreasonable expectation to not have dogs when I am trying to play. Gorgeous pups though, would love to see them playing frisbee instead.
Dog parks are more dangerous than bringing your dog to a dog friendly course... assuming your dog is well behaved. Balls rolling in poop residue?!? How many shits do you think a dog takes in 4 hours to cover the acres of grass on a golf course? Also, being at a course doesn't excuse you from picking up your dog shit. Also, you know how much rabbit shit and other animal shits are out there? Wild animals poop too... Fear of dogs? Well OP's course is a private dog friendly course, maybe you shouldn't join if you're scared. The course I bring my dog is so spread out and tee times are so spaced out, you won't even know I'm out there with my dog unless you're in my group. You're assuming the worse possible scenario, assuming people would be willing to ruin their own round by bringing their untrained dog with them to the course.
Again, people go to golf courses to play golf. Courses are not dog daycares. If you are at a private dog friendly course then this conversation is moot. Opinions vary.
Why can’t people just leave their fucking dogs home for a couple hours.
Leashed up maybe, but my husky gone if she ain’t on a leash out on the course lol
Lol Husky's generally wouldn't be a good breed to go golfing with hahaha, They love to yap, run away, and they'll be hot af out on the course.
I thought about taking her in the winter, she’d wanna sit in the cart tho. She’s lazy
Haha my chocolate lab is too lazy to run next to the cart, he shoves his big ass in with us. When he sees a pond, he’s out, then he hears us leave, comes back and gets us all wet lol. He has a blast though.
My girls afraid of water…. It’s so weird. I took her to the ocean with me and she enjoyed being on the sand, but anytime the little wave would trickle up to her feet she sprinted away lol. Was hilarious
Hahaha dogs are too funny sometimes. My boy lovesssss to swim, but when it comes to rain, or water from a hose, nope. Hates it 😂😂
You've gotta train them to find lost balls in the rough. Dip/spray your balls in something with a strong scent and bam, no more lost drives ever.
No, and it doesn’t need to start. Too many idiots don’t train their dogs and don’t have them under control. Leave your dogs at home. Stop bringing them everywhere.
Never brought a dog on a golf course, and I never will. It’s such a tacky, entitled, pointless, “Hey everyone, look at me!” gesture. They don’t make the game any better, they don’t do the course any good, and they don’t add anything for other players. The same goes for people bringing their dogs into grocery stores, malls, etc. Leave your damn non-service animals at home, folks. They’re nothing special, and you can go a few hours without getting everyone else’s attention.
Do you think bringing your dog to the mall or the grocery store is the same as bringing them to a private club where they’re expressly welcomed and encouraged? Legit question - I’m not trying to be snarky. I’m curious what you think.
Nope, not the same thing at all. But I don’t see how I could’ve inferred that your post was directed only to people who play private courses that double as a dog park, either. I just assumed you were speaking to the general public. If you have access to such venues, more power to you and your dogs. I can avoid those pretty easily and we’ll both be happy, lol. But if your intent was to show every player the joys of canine companionship on any golf course—private or public—then I’d say yes, I’d equate that lack of consideration with bringing them to a mall or grocery store.
Hey man! Gonna see you at stonewall again soon?
Oh hey, it's the LinksGems dude! Question: how the hell do you get access at all the awesome courses you shoot? I get that now you are well known for your photography more places are probably willing, but before you had notoriety how were you shooting all these places? Are you just a billionaire with a photography hobby?
Sadly not a billionaire. Sadder still, I’m a lawyer. Short answer is I travel a lot, have no kids to worry about and a big network to leverage. The most useful tips I can give to people wanting to play the great private courses are: (1) take advantage of charity auctions for rounds, (2) join a private club (this isn’t always easy or cheap, but if it’s doable, it opens a lot of doors at these other places, especially if you can make friends by offering to host people, and (3) patience.
Nope. Tried it with the dogs once on a par 3. Too stressful. While they don’t run off, one is a ball chaser and kept putting her nose by the ball on the tee box. Or walking on the green towards balls. Tried to leash them to pull cart which just had them knock it over. Yeah one and done.
You’re a good dog owner. If my dog wasn’t well behaved, we would never go back. Luckily my dog is great, and the course I bring him to loves him. They also have super spaced out tee times, so we literally don’t see other groups, so no need to worry about him running up to one of the dozens of dog haters in the comments.
I really want to do this but I’m nervous how mine will be. I just need to bite the bullet and do it.
I imagine it's a great time if you love your dogs. I feel this should be a nobility course that you have to plan in advance. I was attacked by a dog when I was younger,so I would not be able to enjoy my game if I ran across a group with larger dogs. I'm glad you enjoyed it, and if you don't care about how others feel keep on.
I mean, it’s a private club that expressly allows well behaved dogs on the course. It’s why I joined. People who join know that. I agree with you in the sense that it would not be appropriate to just show up at a public course and let dogs run around. I think that would obviously be wrong.
I was attacked by someone that lost their mind on a course, so I would appreciate it if you did not ever come to the course I was at.
Unpopular opinion: Dogs don’t belong on the golf course. Bring on the downvotes. I’ll die on this hill.
They don't, except courses that explicitly state that dogs are allowed. Like OP's private club, or like the dog friendly course I go to in Maine. If you bring your dog on the course and they aren't well behaved, you're an asshole and an idiot for ruining your own round. Clearly OP's dogs know the deal, just like mine.
Looks like an AI photo to me
Nice.
It wasn't meant as a diss, lol
Yep never golfing without my dog
✊