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Last month my husband and I visited New York City. We stayed in Manhattan near Madison Square Park (named after James Madison, the 4th US president) – home to the best dog park ever! We didn’t bring our dogs, but we did spend lots of time watching other dogs. Of course I didn’t take any pictures or videos – but thanks to this thing called “the internet”, you can find a link to the dog park’s website here.

I must say, Jemmy’s Dog Run (which is James Madison’s nickname) is the cream of the crop when it comes to dog parks. It actually has two parks – one for large and one for small dogs. Both play areas have an artificial hill – which is the best part. I guess the game “king of the hill” was created after watching dogs’ behavior. As soon as one dog reached the “summit” another dog was quick to challenge that position. This park has both hard surfaces and artificial turf, along with a little water feature that runs between the two areas.

While this may be the pinnacle of dog parks, it begs the question – what should be included in a community dog park? After-all, a community dog park is as important as a community playground for toddlers.

Off Leash Essentials

First – you need a fence. The entire reason to have a dog park is to allow the dogs to run and play – especially with other dogs. Many dog parks have a double gate, so dogs don’t accidentally (or purposefully) escape.

Most parks that I have seen have a 48” to 60” high fence – just enough to create the boundary of play. Obviously if you have a small and large dog area, a shorter fence can be utilized.

Under paw surface

The surface of the dog park is important. I have seen mulch, crushed fines (gravel), and artificial turf. 

Artificial turf is by far the lowest maintenance and best for when it rains – but it isn’t cheap. It also can get hot in the full sun – so shade is a bonus in the summer.

Shade

Shade is a must have feature for both pets and their owners. Another must have for the pet parents is a comfortable place to sit and watch. The more seating the merrier as pet owner’s can socialize just like their dogs – okay maybe not “just like” their dogs.

Water

A watering station for both pets and people is great – especially in the hot and humid south. Some dog parks include pet washing stations. No one wants to come back with a stinky and muddy dog.

And waste stations are also a must because who wants to bring the poop bag along for the drive home? Also consider irrigation for the dog park – even if the turf is synthetic, it keeps the surface clean.

Bonus Features

Some dog parks have agility courses. One dog park in Alabama has a fetch football field and water splash pads. My favorite dog activity is frisbee throwing and catching. It’s amazing how agile a dog can be when it wants to catch a disc.

Finding the Right Location

One thing to keep in mind when locating the dog park within a community is obsessive barking. Yes – dogs can get really loud. Locating the dog park at the edge of the community next to a noisy highway is a good combination.

Don’t Forget Signage

Last – but not least. You will need good signage spelling out the rules of dog park. Dogs should always be supervised in a dog park and they should have up to date vaccinations.

Do you have a favorite Dog park?

If you’re a dog owner and have a favorite dog park, send it along. USA did a 10 best dog parks in the USA. Not surprisingly, New York and Chicago – urban areas – has many in the top ten.