Category Archives: Dog Parks

Jun
11

Top 10 New York Off-Leash Dog Parks

Post by |

See also: more area dog parks in Top Off-Leash Dog Parks in Brooklyn.

Finding a place for your beloved friend to romp and play in the concrete jungle isn’t as difficult as you might think!  When it comes to providing pet-friendly spaces with engaging features, New York City has outdone itself.  Regardless of where you reside in the Big Apple, there is probably a dog park within walking distance!  As long as everybody plays by the rules and respects each other’s space, the city will be able to continue to provide this much needed service and city dogs will rejoice!

Sirius Dog Run  (385 South End Av)

Sirius dog run was built as homage to one of the brave service dogs that made the ultimate sacrifice during the rescue events of 9/11. This lovely dog park is located in Battery Park and offers some great amenities to the dogs that visit and their owners.  There are plenty of shade trees and benches to rest upon.  The dog run is fully paved and comes complete with a dog wading pool that fills up and empties on a timer, making it a safe and exiting place for you and your dog to visit.  This park is a free service.

Central Park  (West 79th St Transverse Road)

If you’ve never been to Central Park you are in for a treat!  This enormous preserve is loaded with breathtaking views, interesting people, vendors, and activities.  Aside from certain designated times and places, all dogs are welcome but must remain leashed while in the park.  Don’t let that dissuade you, though; there are a whopping 23 areas within the park that are accessible for off-leash fun!  Before 9am and after 9pm, dogs are allowed to run freely with others and may enjoy any of the 13 beautiful dog fountains!  This is a very popular place to meet up with other dog-lovers and enjoy the great outdoors!  This park is a free service.

Madison Square Dog Park Run  (23rd Street and Broadway) 

This park is smaller than many others but is big in popularity!  The double-gated area makes getting in and out a breeze, especially in the busy summer months.  There are lots of features that make this location special, including the umbrellas, shade trees, and benches for resting; the provided water for pets, and the private area for small dogs to play without the danger of getting trampled on by the big guys!  If you haven’t tried the Madison location, you’re missing out!  This park is a free service.

Hillside Dog Park  (Columbia Heights and Vine St)

This large park has gotten some raving reviews by the locals.  Being one of the larger off-leash dog parks, Hillside has a lot to offer dogs and owners of all ages!  There are many places to relax and socialize while the dogs have fun on over 2 acres of free space.  The park is fenced in and includes a wooded area for curious exploration.  There is a separate area for small dogs to enjoy without the hassle of big dogs.  There are watering holes for both dogs and humans to take advantage of! This park is a free service.

Washington Square Dog Run (West 4th St and MacDougal St)

If you live near Greenwich Village, you have probably seen Washington Square (aka. George’s Dog Run).  This beautiful little park is surrounded by trees and park benches for your enjoyment and viewing pleasure.  The Robin Kovary Run for Small Dogs is located near this park so if you are worried about your little friend mingling with the big dogs, there’s a special spot for him nearby!  There are lots of other activities happening in the park so it can get busy!  It’s a beautiful space with lots of music to listen to and people to chat with.  This park is a free service.

Tompkins Square Dog Park (9th St and Avenues A and B)

This historic dog park has been around since 1990 and was the first dog park opened in New York City.  The beautiful location in the East Village attracts dog owners from all over the city.  There are great people, great pools, and tons of fun to be had by pets and owners at the “First Run.”  This park is a free service.

West Village D.O.G. (Little West 12th Street and Washington)

This small park does have a first-come, first-served membership fee because it is not located in a public park.  Volunteers work diligently to keep the park updated and nice for all who visit.  There are useful amenities available to dogs and owners, such as: first-aid kits, balls and toys, cleaning items, lights and benches, and dog pools.  The cost is $75 per year.

Mercer/Houston Dog Run (Greenwich Village and Soho District)

This exclusive, members only, dog run have been a labor of love for many years.  After a lot of remodeling and researching, a park was created that benefits the dogs and owners of this area!  The well-drained, well-kept grounds have plenty of amenities for owners to feel comfortable and safe while the dogs can have the time of their lives.  There are pools, fresh water, and seating available.  This park is located in a busy and exclusive location so there are a lot of passers-by with cameras who are usually entertained by the dogs’ silly antics and frolicking play.  The cost is $60 per year.

Hudson River Park Pier 84 Dog Run (Pier 84 and West 44th Street)

This exciting and unique location boasts a waterfront property and the use of a restaurant to entice dog owners from the area!  The indoor and outdoor restaurant and bar is so convenient for dog owners to grab a quick lunch or beverage while watching their best friends run and play.  Once on the west side, this great location has access to the Westside Hudson River Parkway which will take you up and down the river, passing many other dog parks along the way!  This is a great way to spend summer afternoons with your pooch and get some excellent exercise!  This park is a free service.

Chelsea Waterside Park (West 23rd Street and the Hudson River)

This dog run is a great choice if you have a very active or athletic dog!  The beauty of the park is not in its size but what it offers.  The grounds are riddled with natural and man-made rocks for dogs to run amidst and climb on.  It’s very entertaining to play hide-and-seek and to watch the dogs play and climb together!  This is a very interactive park.

Additional Resources:

 

Jun
7

Top 10 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Brooklyn

Post by |

See also: more area dog parks in Top New York Dog Parks.

Brooklyn is always in a state of renewal. The neighborhoods seem to be in transition, favoring more single family dwellings and small business. It is a vibrant area full of big open spaces for both dogs and their humans. Many dog runs were created by the immediate area residents. Most treat the parks like their own backyard, so do be considerate and never forget the ‘doggie bag’.

Hillside Dog Park

The Hillside Dog Park is located at Columbia Heights & Vine Street. A far better park than the one at Pier 6, this is a perfect place to desensitize your pup to large crowds. A diverse mix of dogs and their owners come here daily, mostly locals, but you will have a hard time parking around here. It is far easier for owners of small dogs to get here on the subway, just tuck your pal in their favorite carrier and go.

Keep an eye on your smaller breeds since the front gate is a bit worn, they could easily wiggle underneath if the opportunity presents itself. Easy to locate on the way from the Brooklyn Queens Expressway. Benches and picnic tables are a welcome addition for pet parents to relax. People also come here without pets just to hang out and watch the dogs. With dirt and wood chip paths it is easy on the paws, but beware; you will get muddy.

Shore Road Park

The Shore Road Park is a quick walk from the Bay Ridge – 95 Street Station. About a five mile area, also home of an excellent bike run, this scenic park has an extensive dog run. With hills and meandering paths it is a great endurance course. The Belt Parkway runs parallel to this space, so do expect some noise. situated at the intersection of Fourth Avenue and, Shore Road, in some parts of the park you can see views of the Verrazano Bridge.

Dyker Beach Park

At 86 Street and the Belt Parkway you can find a large area with an allee of mature trees. Parts of the park are intimate with plantings that create smaller spaces. The entrance is near the corner of Seventh Avenue and 86th Street. Over the past forty years the community has bought parcels of land in phases to assemble this space for public use. Besides a stellar dog park, there are areas for athletes and families, even a golf center for the local youth league.

McCarren Park Dog Run

Located at the corner of Driggs Avenue and North 12th Street is entrance to the McCarren Park Dog Run. Ideal for large and small pooches; there are circles that are divided by size, so no fear that your little pomeranian will get spooked. But be warned that the smell, especially in the summer, is strong. There don’t seem to be many trash cans and the space could be maintained better. A simple hose and a bathroom located near the dog runs would make this an A+ space, but if you are in the area this is a sweet park for some puppy unruliness.

Monsignor McGlorick Park

In the popular area of Greenpoint, the entrance of this park is at Nassau Avenue and Russell Street. A quick walk from Nassau Ave (G train), you can easily sneak a small dog here via subway. Otherwise there are two private parking facilities nearby. You can drive here via McGuinness Blvd or the BQE. New gardens have freshened the space, and with beautiful sunset views of the Chrysler Building it is a small gem in the borough. Mostly frequented by nannies and moms, it is a great space for the kids and the pets.

Bay Ridge Owls Head Park

At 68th Street and Shore Road, or on the same side as Colonial Road, Owls Head Park in Bay Ridge is a family favorite. You can let your dog off-leash on a long and narrow strip near the road, but don’t worry the area is fully fenced in. This is a great place to go jogging with your furry friend. The space is grassy, making laps easy on the knees. It was slated for a renovation, hopefully a water fountain and bathroom are in the works, but for now plan ahead before you come.

Seth Low Playground

Seth Low Playground at West 12th Street and Avenue P is a little known spot for families and workers in the neighborhood. An official off-leash area designated by the City of New York you are expected to have on you a copy of your dogs rabies shots and license. A triangle bordered by Foster Avenue and East 89th Street, this space is like many small parks made from intersections of the original grid plan for the city.

Brower Park

Brower Park is located at Brooklyn and Kingston Avenues. Do note that you must keep your dogs on the leash here, but with friendly families and colorful local animal lovers your pooch will be at ease here. It is a very quiet area, with minimal traffic noise this is an ideal spot for skittish pets. Bordered by Park and Prospect Places, you are close to the Nostrand Subway Station.

Fort Greene Park

Fort Greene Park at the corner of Cumberland and DeKalb is a great off the leash park for everyone to enjoy. Encompassing over 30 acres, this is the place where Continental Soldiers built forts, named for Revolutionary War Hero; American-born Major General Nathanael Greene. Beloved by Walt Whitman, this space was originally planned by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1867. Today it is more than a historical site, but many neighborhood residents treat the park as their backyard.

Rapelye Street Dog Run

Rapelye Street Dog Run is located at Rapelye and Hicks Streets, with the entrance at this corner intersection. Dogs are welcome to interact sans-lease at the corner nearest to Hicks Street. Iron gates and fences are secure, so no need to worry about Fido getting under the fencing. The dog run is in view of the handball and tennis courts, they are securely surrounded by simple chain link. Since it is see-thru, expect local children or even tennis pros as viewers to your dog’s antics. This park is also very well lit at night.

References:

  • https://foursquare.com/v/rapelye-street-dog-run/4c6d5bc699b9236af7f9e4c9
  • http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/FortGreenePark/history
  • http://yapsie.com/biz/seth-low-playground-dog-run-brooklyn-ny
  • http://www.bayridgebarks.org/content/owls-head-park-dog-run-open-again
  • http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/DykerBeachPark

Photo Sources:

  • http://www.flickr.com/photos/joeymanley/4277532347/
  • http://www.flickr.com/photos/desultrix/5582516043/
  • http://www.flickr.com/photos/wonderlane/5197997160/

 

Jul
6

Dog Park Do’s and Don’ts

Post by |

 

Summer is here which means there is only one place your pooch wants to go: the Dog Park!  Dog parks are a great place to give your dog the exercise he needs and the fun he deserves. Here is a list of DO’s and DON’Ts for your trip to the dog park:
DO
  • Clean up after your dog. Many dog parks provide waste bags, but some do not.  Remember to bring your own to the park!
  • Make sure your dog’s ID tags and registration are up do date.
  • Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date.
  • Be careful to close and latch the gates behind you!
  • Make sure your dog has plenty of water.

 

DON’T

  • Allow your dog off-leash unless the posted park rules allow it.  Many parks only allow off-leash dogs in designated areas.
  • Bring an aggressive dog that is not properly socialized.
  • Bring small puppies and could be scared or injured by larger/older dogs.  Vets recommend waiting until your puppy is fully inoculated before introducing them to other dogs.
  • Bring food or rawhide toys/treats, as these can incite aggressive behavior.
  • Take your eye off your dog—they need supervision!

 

We want to hear from you!
What is your pup’s favorite thing to do at the dog park? Have you learned any good tips to add when taking your dog to the park? Do you have any funny dog park stories?

Jun
7

Top 10 dog parks in Washington, DC

Post by |

Life can be tough for a canine living in a big city, but fortunately, the DC area offers several dog parks that allow pooches to make friends, run to their heart’s content, or cool down with a splash. Here are the 10 best dog parks in Washington DC for you and your furry companion to explore.

1. S Street Dog Park (S St at 17th St NW) provides an enclosed area for dogs to play off-leash. Located just a stone’s throw from Embassy Row, Dupont Circle, and the Connecticut Avenue scene, it’s a great way for both dogs and their owners to plan a fun-filled day. The cozy run is covered with antimicrobial turf to promote cleanliness and prevent digging, and a water fountain ensures that pooches stay adequately hydrated. Benches positioned strategically around trees provide shady resting spots for owners who need a break or who love watching the dogs’ antics.

washington dc dog park

2. Rosedale Conservancy (3518 Newark St NW, between N 35th St and N 36th St in Cleveland Park) permits dogs to roam off-leash for several hours each day; other times, dogs must remain on leashes in deference to visitors who are unaccompanied by pets. This 260-year-old fenced-in property complements an historic farmhouse with beautiful landscaping and is preserved by the local community. Dogs love the hills, lush green grass, and shady trees. Be aware that to visit this not-for-profit corporation, you must become a member and register your dog for a fee, but these charitable contributions are tax deductible.

3. Shirlington Park (2601 S. Arlington Mill Dr. in South Arlington) offers a long and narrow exercise run with double-entry gates. A path beyond the fence heads toward a stream where pets – and owners – can cool off with a splash; some liken it to walking in the woods, except here your dog can explore freely. In fact, many consider Shirlington Park the best Washington, DC dog spot for mixing nature walks, water play, and socialization. Plentiful shade trees keep the atmosphere cool even on hot summer days. For little doggies that might feel intimidated by such a large park, a “small dog and puppy” area provides a more intimate setting complete with picnic tables for owners. And if you feel iffy about taking your dog home after a healthy romp in the dirt and dust, the connected DIY dog bath offers a way to clean your pooch on the way out.

Washington DC Dog Park

4. Glencarlyn Park (301 South Harrison St in Arlington) offers a peaceful haven for those who want to commune with nature and a dog run with a stream for active pooches. The water appears cleaner than at Shirlington Park, and a large waterfall offers to douse dogs who wander too close. A small playground gives children their own play area as well. This unenclosed, well-shaded park offers hours of fun for dogs who obey voice commands well.

Washington DC Dog Park

Washington DC Dog Park

5. Lincoln Park (East Capitol and 11th St, in the NE Capitol Hill neighborhood)  provides a versatile spot of greenery that’s therapeutic for people and dogs alike. Plunked right in the middle of DC activity, the park includes two children’s playgrounds and an unfenced large area for dogs to play off-leash. The park’s circumference measures one mile with a dirt path, making it popular with exercise enthusiasts looking to escape the cement. Shady trees in the middle maintain a cool and refreshing ambiance, while sunny spots on the ends attract sunbathers.

 

6. Langdon Dog Park (2901 20th Street NE, between N. Franklin St and N. Hamlin St) is a fenced-in, off-leash dog run that opened just last year. As a spacious new playground, word is still spreading about the cleanliness, plentiful water fountains, and thoughtful design so there’s no need to worry about the park being crowded. A separate area is marked off just for little balls of fur, and numerous bags and trash cans encourage owners to contribute to keeping the park pristine.

7. Shaw Dog Park (1651 11th St NW, between N Q St and N R St) is one of the largest dog spots in DC. A double gated entry keeps dogs secure, and plentiful bags, trash cans, water, and water bowls keep everyone healthy and clean. Evening romps are encouraged with lights, and a separate area is designated for small dogs. Lots of trees and benches make this a people-friendly spot too.

8. Montrose Park (R St and 32 St NW in Georgetown), while not strictly a dog park, is a beautiful park that’s favored heavily by locals. Many strive to keep this great Washington, DC dog spot a well-kept secret. A variety of regions, including a children’s playplace, tennis courts, picnic areas, and short trails, are tucked away so thoroughly that a simple stroll can remove you entirely from the sights and sounds of the city. The well-connected dog community permits dogs to run off-leash and ensures proper etiquette, and the Dog Spot offers free agility training periodically.

9. Newark Street Dog Park (39th St NW and Newark St NW) offers separate play areas for large and small dogs with benches and water fountains for human visitors and water bowls for the canine variety. Located in the southeast corner of the Newark Community Garden, it also offers a Children’s Garden with monthly learning sessions, picnic table, and children’s garden equipment.

10. Stanton Park (C St between 4th and 6th St NE in the Capitol Hill/Northeast neighborhood) generally sees an eclectic mix of dogs and dog owners as well as families who enjoy the fenced-in children’s playgrounds. A loosely enclosed area allows dogs to socialize and run off extra energy. Numerous benches and plush grass offer owners a choice of where to relax.

References:

http://www.yelp.com

http://www.bringfido.com/attraction/parks/state/district_of_columbia/

http://www.rosedaleconservancy.org

http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/homes/best-of-washington-coolest-dog-parks/

http://www.langdondogpark.org

http://www.newarkstreetdogpark.org

http://newarkstcommunitygarden.org

Join Rover.com and find your own alternative to traditional dog boarding.
How dog lovers board.