It’s no secret that New Yorkers love their dogs. From strolling the neighborhood to enjoying an afternoon in the park, many city dwellers include their pets in day-to-day activities. The Big Apple is full of places that welcome canines — including increasingly popular dog-friendly swimming areas.
Swimming can condition dogs in the same way it helps humans, by improving both cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health. This form of exercise is low-impact and easy on the joints, so it’s perfect for older dogs, pets recovering from injury, or those with mobility issues.
From parks to pools, here are the best places to take your dog swimming near NYC.
1. Water4Dogs
77 Worth Street, New York City, NY
Open Monday and Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed Wednesday.
Water4Dogs is a fully functional canine rehab facility providing hydrotherapy, integrative health services, laser therapy, ultrasounds, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and boarding for special needs dogs. It’s accredited by both the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians and the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, so you can rest assured knowing your pet will be safe and well cared for. Dogs can swim in a controlled environment heated to 90 degrees or walk along an underwater treadmill.
2. All Dogs in the City
18-73 42nd Street, Astoria, NY
Open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed Sunday.
Servicing pets in Manhattan, Astoria, and Long Island City, All Dogs is a huge, all-encompassing daycare facility. Its heated pool delights water-loving dogs of all sizes, and an attendant works in the water to ensure all pets have a fun, safe time. All Dogs also provides complimentary pickup and drop off, making life that much easier for you.
3. Prospect Park Dog Beach
View this post on Instagram
Quick dip and then right back to running around like a crazy lady!! #dogdaysofsummer
95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY
Open daily. Dogs allowed off-leash from 5 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
Take a detour during your daily walk to the dog beach at Prospect Park. Trust us, your pet will have a great time splashing around in the water—especially during the summer. The dog-friendly part of the pond is fenced in so that your pet stays close to you.
4. Sherry Dog Run
Queens Boulevard and 65th Place, Woodside, NY
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
This traditional dog park has sprinklers, splash pools, and water hoses for play and relaxation. Dogs who are nervous about swimming (or owners concerned about choppy water and algae blooms) can come here for some cooling aqua-based fun and socialization.
5. Louis Valentino, Jr. Park and Pier
Ferris Street between Coffey Street and Van Dyke Street, Brooklyn, NY
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Some people launch their kayaks from this spot beneath the pier, but you and your pet can enjoy a nice waterscape. The waves can be tougher at times than other swimming areas, so you’ll want to keep a close watch on your dog. That said, strong swimmers and highly active dogs can burn off lots of energy here. If you’re lucky, you might even get a nice shot of your dog with the Statue of Liberty in the background, as this iconic landmark is only a mile and a half away.
6. Francis Lewis Park
3rd Avenue between Parsons Boulevard and 147th Street
Open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Head to the end of the Bronx-Whitestone Bridge toward Queens for a small, enclosed area that’s safe for dogs to play in. The water here is relatively peaceful, and a barrier keeps your pet close to you.
7. Martial ARFS
251 Voice Road, Carle Place, NY
Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
NYC proper may be a bit too far for Long Island residents. Luckily, Martial ARFS has your dog’s swimming needs covered. In addition to standard training tools, Martial ARFS has a 10-by-18-foot heated saltwater pool. Dogs can swim at their leisure or participate in standard training drills, giving them extra conditioning.
8. Healing Hands 4 Paws
1010 Montauk Highway, Shirley, NY
Open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m, Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Closed Sunday.
Healing Hands is Long Island’s answer to hydrotherapy for dogs. Like other facilities, it uses heat and an underwater treadmill to help senior and injured dogs get much-needed exercise.
What to Know About Taking Your Dog Swimming near NYC
Swimming is great exercise, but there are a couple of safety tips to keep in mind.
First, make sure your dog has a clean bill of health. Keep her vaccinations up to date, and don’t go to the water if she’s experiencing diarrhea or stool issues.
If you’re headed to a park or beach, you’ll also want to come prepared with necessities like poop bags and water. Dog-safe sunscreen is also a good idea, and keep track of shady areas. Finally, it’s a good idea to learn to recognize signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke in dogs.
If you need help once in a while or every day, Rover’s got you covered. Check out our list of qualified dog walkers near NYC, and rest easy knowing your pet is in good hands.
