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The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States

David Adams photo

David Adams

September 30, 2024

City Dog Parks

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Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.

Let's dive into what the United States has to offer to its more than 90 million canine companions!

This page is about public city dog parks and also includes Sniffspot private dog parks. Sniffspot is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world. Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with 100% private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced fields, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches, and more. Click here to learn more about Sniffspots near you!

Know Before You Go: Public Dog Park Checklist


What to bring with you to an off-leash dog park


Here are a few things to bring with you when visiting any dog park in the United States.

Bring your own dog waste bags


Keep your parks clean! Always pack a few extra poop bags in case you need to pick up after your pup — and consider scooping any left-behind piles you come across from other park users, too. This will make the environment safer for everyone who visits.

Pack fresh drinking water


Some public dog parks offer water bowls or fountains for your dog, but it’s a good idea to pack some of your own just in case. Never leave your dog’s hydration up to chance, especially on hot days.

Put your dog in a collar or harness with ID tags


If your dog will be playing with other dogs, it’s important to pay close attention to what they’re wearing. You don’t want anyone’s teeth or paws getting caught in loose fabric or buckles! That said, it’s always a good idea to bring a well-fitted collar or harness along with your dog’s identification tags.

Bring a leash or two


Along with a collar or harness, bring a leash — yes, even if the dog park you’re visiting is a designated off-leash area. This way you can keep your dog under control while walking to and from the entrance. You might also consider packing an extra leash in case you need to grab hold of another dog or intervene if a conflict arises — and it’s a good idea to read up on leash laws in your local area before venturing out.

What to do before going into a public dog park


Consider your dog's recall


Some off-leash dog parks are very large or unfenced. Even in smaller spaces that are fully secure from escape attempts, it's a good idea for your dog to have at least a basic recall. Voice control can be the difference between an outing being enjoyable for you and your dog... or frustrating.

Research the park ahead of time


Read reviews and be on the lookout for any common issues, like unruly dogs or left-behind waste. Know the rules about whether or not you can bring food, dogs in heat, and more to your local off-leash parks.

It can be hard to find reliable information about some public parks (one reason Sniffspot’s private listings might be a better option) — when in doubt, don’t risk it. Your dog’s safety and comfort are too important.

Watch the dog park for a few minutes before entering


Take inventory of the other dogs and owners. Is everyone under control? Are the dogs enjoying their play time? Is the area large enough that dogs can take breaks and get space from their playmates if they start to feel overwhelmed? (Tight spaces can prevent your pet from engaging in natural social behavior.) Ultimately, is there anything about the situation that makes you feel uncomfortable?

Make sure you have basic knowledge of dog body language


This will help you make sure your dog is enjoying their time and keep everyone safe! Know what signs might indicate that your pup is stressed or overwhelmed — and be ready to step in if needed. You can read more about interpreting your dog’s body language in this article.

What area of the country has the best dog parks?


Sniffspot conducted a 2022 survey of dog owners across the country to better understand the state of public dog parks.

The common stereotype is that the east and west coasts are the most dog-friendly regions of our country — but survey results show that public dog parks in the coasts are actually the dirtiest and most dangerous in the country. We found that more than 1 in 7 dog owners report their dogs having been attacked in a public dog park.

The midwest seems to have the safest dog parks in terms of injuries while the east coast has the cleanest public dog parks.

The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States


While some regions offer more room to roam than others, our country is full of off-leash dog parks. It would be impossible to list them all! That said, here are some of the top places where your dog can run off leash — including open dog beaches, green spaces, and more.

How to find an off-leash dog park near you


Can't find the perfect park? Here are a few tips:

  • Check with local government websites: Many cities and towns have government websites that provide information on local parks and recreation areas, including off-leash dog parks. You can search for these websites by using a search engine and entering your city or town's name followed by "parks and recreation". On occasion, public athletic fields might also open themselves to off-leash use either during certain seasons (like less-popular winter months) or designated times of day.

  • Ask other dog owners: If you know other dog owners in your area, ask them if they know of any good off-leash dog parks nearby. They may be able to provide valuable insights on the quality of the park, the type of dogs that frequent it, and any other tips or recommendations.

  • Contact local animal shelters or dog rescue organizations: These organizations often have information on local off-leash dog parks and may be able to provide recommendations based on your dog's size, breed, and temperament.

  • Check social media: Many off-leash dog parks have dedicated social media pages or groups where owners can share information, ask questions, and connect with other dog owners in the area. You can search for these pages or groups by using a search engine or by checking social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram.


Fiesta Island (public dog park)



  • Address: 1750 Fiesta Island Rd, San Diego, California

  • Hours: 6 am to 10 pm

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Walking, swimming, wading, running, surfing, biking

  • Entrance fee? No


Located in Mission Bay Park, Fiesta Island is one of the most popular dog beaches in the country. It’s a massive space up against the water that is dog friendly with no leash rules, making it more of an outdoor recreation area for a range of activities than a traditional enclosed dog park. Fiesta Island offers a 5.2-mile asphalt path around the island for dogs to enjoy with their owners.

Note that this area is not fenced and is very large, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Ocean Beach Dog Beach (public dog park)



Ocean Beach Dog Beach was one of the first off-leash dog beaches in the country. It’s located near the Ocean Beach Flood Control Channel and is open to dogs, owners, surfers, runners, and more.

Note that this area is not fenced and is large, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Westminster Hills Off-Leash Dog Park (public dog park)



  • Address: 10499 Simms St, Westminster, Colorado

  • Hours: 24 hours

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Walking, hiking, running, swimming, wading, picnicking

  • Entrance fee? No


Westminster Hills is a popular dog park for pet owners in the Denver Metro area. It’s a properly spacious park offering 420 acres (yes, you read that right!) between Standley Lake North Open Space and Colorado Hills Open Space Park. The spot includes a dog drinking fountain, swimming pond, plenty of benches, and patches of shade throughout.

Note that this area is very large and only partially fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Cherry Creek State Park (public dog park)



  • Address: 4201 S Parker Rd, Aurora, Colorado

  • Hours: 5 am to 10 pm

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Walking, hiking, running, swimming, wading, picnicking

  • Entrance fee? Yes, $3 daily or $25 annual pass


Cherry Creek State Park is operated by Colorado Parks and Wildlife just like Chatfield — and it’s even bigger at 107 acres that’s completely fenced. Cherry Creek flows through the off-leash area to provide your pup with the opportunity to swim, wade, and cool down from Colorado’s dry heat.

Note that this area is very large, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Dog Mountain (public dog park)



  • Address: 143 Parks Rd, St Johnsbury, Vermont

  • Hours: 10 am to 5 pm Friday through Sunday

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Walking, hiking, art viewing, swimming, wading, picnicking

  • Entrance fee? Optional donation


According to the Friends of Dog Mountain, this dog park is set on 150 acres on a mountain top location in St. Johnsbury, Vermont. The grounds are always open to people and their dogs who can roam freely off leash while exploring hiking trails, dog ponds, and unique artwork.

Montrose Beach Dog Friendly Area (public dog park)



  • Address: 601 West Montrose Avenue

  • Hours: 6 am to 11 pm

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking, swimming, wading

  • Entrance fee? $10 dog friendly area permit


Find this 3.83 acre stretch of dog-friendly beach where Wilson Avenue reaches east to Lake Michigan. This is one of Chicago’s largest public city dog parks — and one of only two dog-friendly beaches where your dog can swim and wade off leash. The water space and larger land size make it a better, safer option than most dog friendly areas in the Windy City.

Sociability note: This public dog park is relatively small in size, which means your dog might not be able to make space from other pets if they aren’t interested in playing. You should only visit if you’re confident your pup is social and tolerant with unfamiliar dogs.

Beau’s Dream Dog Park (public dog park)



  • Address: 901 Buchanan Ave, Lancaster, PA

  • Hours: 6 am to 9 pm

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Off-leash play

  • Entrance fee? No


Beau’s Dream Dog Park is a Beneful’s Dream Team dog park built by DIY network star Jason Cameron, pet expert Arden Moore, and interior design star Nate Berkus. Unveiled in 2013, it has separate small and large dog areas to help minimize the risk of prey drive related incidents as pets chase each other around. Each section has its own splash pad. The small dog size has a fancy dog tunnel while the large pet area has a tennis ball tree that launches tennis balls in every direction — a bit chaotic, to be sure, but a dream for many high energy, social dogs.

Sociability note: This public dog park is small in size, which means your dog might not be able to make space from other pets if they aren’t interested in playing. You should only visit if you’re confident your pup is social and tolerant with unfamiliar dogs.

Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)



  • Address: 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, Washington

  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Off-leash play, swimming, wading, walking, running

  • Entrance fee? No


Magnuson Park’s off-leash area is one of the largest in the area at 8.6 entire acres! It’s also the only dog park within Seattle’s city limits that has water access, coming up against Lake Washington’s freshwater shoreline where your pup can swim and wade to their heart’s content. There is also a winding gravel trail to walk on as well as an open, flat play area — ultimately making Magnuson Park one of Washington’s top dog park destinations.

Schuylkill River Park Dog Run (public dog park)



  • Address: 25th & Spruce Sts., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • Hours: Dawn to dusk

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Off-leash play

  • Entrance fee? No


The Schuylkill River Park boasts to being one of the best dog parks on the East Coast. It features two separate dog runs, providing a designated space for small, elderly, or shy dogs who might be overwhelmed by larger crowds. This can also help minimize the risk of prey drive related incidents between dogs. The park has benches, special canine grass to make play safe and prevent messes, and water permeable pavers as well. In the summer your dog can wade and lounge in kiddie pools provided for them to cool down.

Sociability note: This public dog park is small in size, which means your dog might not be able to make space from other pets if they aren’t interested in playing. You should only visit if you’re confident your pup is social and tolerant with unfamiliar dogs.

Fort DeSoto Dog Beach (public dog park)



  • Address: 3500 Pinellas Bayway South, Tierra Verde, Florida

  • Hours: 7 am to 8 pm

  • Off leash? Yes

  • Activities: Off-leash play, swimming, wading, walking, running

  • Entrance fee? $5 parking fee


According to the Pinellas County website, Fort De Soto has one of the only dog parks in Florida where dogs are allowed on the beach in a designated area. There are also two fenced-in areas with water stations near the beach for large and small dogs.

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)



  • Address: 12138 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, Texas 78758

  • Hours: 5 am to 10 pm unless otherwise posted

  • Off leash? Yes, in designated area

  • Activities: Hiking, sports, swimming, biking, barbecuing, picnicking

  • Entrance fee? No


Metropolitan Park is a 239-acre park in North Austin. It has miles of paved trails where dogs should be on a leash as well as a designated off-leash area where your pup can run and play freely. There are several spots where you and your dog can enjoy the creek itself to cool down.

The park also features a human swimming pool, children’s playground, and a handful of recreational facilities for sports like softball. All of this makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Ruppert Estate Farm (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Pittsgrove, New Jersey

  • Size: 15 acres

  • Fenced: No


Ruppert Estate Farm provides a whopping 15 acres of space for your dog to play freely while you take in nature together on a private hike. An easy trail with beautiful scenery ends at the perfect spot of the creek, with a different trail and scenes on the way back.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Country Canine Getaway (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Holtwood, Pennsylvania

  • Size: 9 acres

  • Fenced: Yes


The Country Canine Getaway is a secure, fully fenced area with 9 acres for your dog to explore. It’s mostly flat with plenty of ground to cover however you see fit — walking and taking it in, running in a game of chase, or throwing a favorite toy.

Country Canine Getaway Pond (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Holtwood, Pennsylvania

  • Size: 5 acres

  • Fenced: Yes


A sister property to the Country Canine Getaway above, this fully fenced area includes a large pond where your dog can swim, wade, and enjoy all of the smells. 5 acres provide plenty of space to frolic.

North East Manor Doggie Heaven (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: North East, Maryland

  • Size: 10 acres

  • Fenced: No


This beautiful manor is a 1700s historic home with 10 acres of private property for your dog to explore. The North East river borders one side to run and play — the railroad line runs along the other side but is fenced (providing an ideal training and desensitization opportunity). Rabbits, groundhogs, and squirrels are plentiful! Fields and woods are both available to walk through, depending on what type of terrain your pup is interested in. The host also provides a gazebo e for shade or inclement weather.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Mahalo Doggie Haven (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Bulverde, Texas

  • Size: 10 acres

  • Fenced: Yes


10 acres of freedom with both day and night time spots (especially wonderful since public Austin parks close in the evening). The host has an area lit up just for those late night visits! Lots of up and down hills that will give your dog the exercise they desire and the exploration they crave. During the spring there are beautiful wildflowers and butterflies that will take your breath away.

Canyon Lake Acres (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Canyon Lake, Texas

  • Size: 150 acres

  • Fenced: Partially


A partially fenced area next to a big beautiful lake. This private dog park has a lot of space for walking and hiking — and if your dog loves swimming, there is nice access to the water.

Note that this area is only partially fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Dogtopia Hillside (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Vancouver, Washington

  • Size: 10 acres

  • Fenced: Yes


Doptopia Hillside is a 10 acre property with both open grassy and wooded areas. There are slopes for your dog to run on or flatter areas if you’re looking to keep your pup from exerting themselves too much. It’s completely private and not viewable at all from neighboring properties, making it ideal for nervous pups.

Meracle Acres (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Dousman, Wisconsin

  • Size: 50 acres

  • Fenced: No


Meracle Acres is a huge private dog park with 50 acres of woods, trails, and ponds dotted throughout the property. The hosts note wild animal sightings sure to keep your dog on their toes, along with patches of grass, sand, and all the other midwest terrain you could dream of.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Maple Ridge Farms 100 Acre Woods (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Otsego, Michiga

  • Size: 100 acres

  • Fenced: No


Yes, you read that right — Maple Ridge Farms private Sniffspot features 100 acres of land for you and your dog to enjoy. You’ll have to come back multiple times to enjoy it all, and you won’t run into a single other soul! The trails are well maintained and often home to birds, deer, and plenty of other interesting wildlife.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Rip’s Romper Room (private Sniffspot dog park)



  • Location: Calhan, Colorado

  • Size: 40 acres

  • Fenced: No


Rip’s Romper Room private dog park boasts 40 acres where your dog can run free without worrying about encountering other pets or people. Enjoy Colorado’s stunning views and a wide open space for fetch, chase, or simply walking about.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Sniffspot Dog running on field

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

FAQ About Public Dog Parks in the United States


Are public dog parks good for dogs?


It is important for dogs to have off-leash exercise and plenty of opportunities to explore. But the free and open nature of public dog parks can have drawbacks.

Many dog behaviorists discourage visiting public dog parks and recommend Sniffspot's private dog parks. With Sniffspot, dogs can get their exercise safely — without worrying about other dogs, people, or potential disease transmission.

What are the biggest concerns with public dog parks?


While the popularity of dog parks has been skyrocketing in the United States, so has the number of professional trainers who caution against their use. The top risks associated with public off-leash dog parks are that:

  • Dog parks can create an unnatural social environment

  • Busy dog parks can overwhelm shy or nervous dogs

  • Dog parks can exacerbate problem behaviors like leash reactivity

  • Bad experiences at a dog park can also create behavior problems in the first place

  • Public dog parks can lead to physical injuries and illnesses


(Thankfully, private dog parks don’t have these concerns. Learn more about Sniffspot listings in your area here!)

How do public dog parks create an unnatural social environment for dogs?


Many owners are drawn to dog parks because they want to socialize their pets. We’re inundated with messages of the “perfect” friendly dog. Our social media feeds feature viral videos of animal best friends that echo the cutesy movies we loved as children — but they often show a false reality.

While dogs are social mammals, it’s typically not natural for them to regularly engage in play with strangers. Dog sociability can be viewed as a sliding scale:


  • Some dogs are truly dog social. This means they genuinely enjoy interaction with almost every dog they meet! We tend to think these dogs are more common than they really are — they’re the ones we most see out and about because they can handle the widest range of environments.

  • Most dogs are dog tolerant or dog selective. They don’t often seek out new friends, but they can comfortably interact with other dogs when needed after a proper introduction process. (You can read more about properly introducing dogs who don’t know each other in this article.)

  • Some dogs are dog aggressive. They might live with or know a few specific canine friends, but they don’t generally enjoy being around their own species.


Ultimately: It’s perfectly normal for our dogs to not want to play with other pets outside of our families. Renting a private dog park just for your dog and a few trusted friends might be the best option.

How can public dog parks overwhelm shy or nervous dogs?


Owners have great intentions when they bring their nervous dogs to the dog park in hopes of building social skills. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much for that plan to backfire.

Because dog parks are often busy, chaotic environments, it can be difficult to ensure all interactions are positive. Uncertain dogs are easily overwhelmed by large packs — if the space is fenced-in without adequate space to flee, these pets can quickly feel trapped or resort to the “fight” option of fight-or-flight reactions.

After a few stressful experiences, previously shy dogs can lose trust in their owners and even become fear aggressive.

Sniffspot takes these risks seriously. That’s why all of our private dog park listings are carefully booked to make sure there’s ample time between arrivals and departures — and you can filter listings by whether or not your dog is likely to see any other animals at all, even from afar.

Do public dog parks exacerbate problem behaviors like leash reactivity?


It’s not just nervous dogs who can be harmed by dog park visits — exuberant dogs might struggle in these environments, too.

Many social dogs struggle with excitement-based leash reactivity. When they see another dog, they want to say hi! When the leash prevents them from doing so, they experience something called barrier frustration. Eventually this boils over into an aggressive-looking display that makes it difficult to go on walks or explore public spaces.

While playing with other dogs can be an important part of a social pet’s fulfillment, too much unstructured off-leash time can have unintended consequences when they routinely practice running up to other dogs.

These risks are especially high when owners take their dogs to the dog park with the intent of tiring them out. Pets often arrive in an amped-up, energetic state of mind that impairs good decision making.

Can one bad experience at a public dog park have a lasting effect on a dog?


Even a previously social dog might develop a behavior issue (like fear reactivity) due to a negative interaction with another dog at a public dog park. Perhaps they get subtly bullied, feel overwhelmed, or are even bit — and they decide to preemptively try to keep other dogs away from them. Now your social dog is selective or even aggressive toward others.

While some dogs seem to let those negative interactions roll off their back (especially if they’ve been well socialized since puppyhood) others are affected in lasting ways. Each dog and situation is different.

What are the risks of physical injuries and illnesses at public dog parks?


Public dog parks also increase the chances of pets sustaining injury or developing infection.

Dog park injuries


While many dog-dog injuries at dog parks are accidental — canines can be mismatched in size, inadvertently break skin while wrestling with untrimmed nails, or simply come on too strong without realizing — others are overtly aggressive.

Even friendly dogs can start fights by failing to recognize another pet’s signals of discomfort. Resource guarding over food and toys can turn into a dangerous scuffle. Sometimes heightened arousal from being in a large social group elevates even a typically clear-headed dog’s prey drive.

Dog park illnesses


No matter how hard a city works to keep their parks clean, it’s impossible to fully eliminate all infection risk. This is especially true in dog-designated spaces that see dozens, or perhaps hundreds, of different canines each week.

There’s no way to confirm that every dog entering an off-leash space has been fully vaccinated — and bacterial diseases like leptospirosis often thrive in wet, muddy terrain that’s been torn up by paws.

Young puppies and elderly dogs have the greatest chance of getting sick.

Are all public dog parks dangerous?


While dog parks certainly come with their risks, it would be unfair to claim they’re always a bad idea. Public dog parks do serve an important community service in cities.

Some areas lend themselves to safe interactions better than others — large plots of land with acres to maneuver are less dangerous than fenced-in city runs, for example — and responsible owner involvement can make a world of difference.

What are public dog parks good for?


Well-maintained off-leash dog parks can provide dogs and owners with:

  • Biological fulfillment. At their best, dog parks provide an opportunity to fulfill our dogs’ natural canine instincts (running, sniffing, digging, etc.) without impacting others in shared spaces. This can be especially valuable if owners don’t have a yard of their own or walking trails nearby.

  • Playtime. While most dogs don’t want to play with strangers, some particularly outgoing canines might enjoy playing with brand-new friends. A small percentage of truly “dog social” dogs are good candidates for traditional dog parks.

  • Distraction training. Dog parks can be an ideal place to practice advanced training, like recalls, around the distractions of other dogs, people, and nature scents.

  • Owner connections. Many owners enjoy the human social aspect of the dog park — and public spaces enable those relationships without the costs commonly associated with formal group training classes or dog sports practices.


How can I keep my dog safe at a public dog park?


If choosing to use a public dog park, you can do a lot to manage your dog’s safety:

  • Make an honest assessment of your dog’s sociability. Are they one of the small portion of dogs that gets along with all other animals?

  • Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccines to protect them against any bugs that may be present in the park.

  • Choose an appropriate public dog park. Make sure that it is large enough and free from obvious hazards.

  • Assess the dog park and other owners before entering. Are there any maintenance issues in the park that could be a problem? Is it overly crowded? Are there owners that are not keeping a close eye on their dog? Are there dogs that could be an issue for your dog or others?

  • Keep a close watch and be an active part of your dog's play.


FAQ About Private Dog Parks in the United States


Are private dog parks safe?


While public dog parks have a number of safety issues, such as potentially aggressive dogs and disease transmission, Sniffspot dog parks are much safer.

Sniffspot bookings are private for just you and dogs you bring. We require every dog to be vaccinated (or have equivalent titers). All Sniffspot locations are vetted and reviewed by guests so you can find the perfect safe place for you and your dog.

How do I know if a Sniffspot private dog park works for my dog?


You can filter Sniffspot dog parks by fencing and distractions.

  • If your dog is still working on their recall, you can visit one of our fully fenced private dog parks.

  • If your dog is reactive to other dogs, you can visit one of our off-leash areas where there are no dogs audible or visible nearby. You can also filter locations to avoid other domestic animals and people.


We recommend reading reviews and reaching out to the host ahead of time with any questions!

Does the US have any fully fenced private dog parks?


Yes! Sniffspot has tons of fully fenced dog parks. Browse all fully enclosed options by clicking this link and filtering by fence height.

Can I rent a private field for my dog to run?


You sure can! There are Sniffspot fields all over the country where dogs can be off leash safely. Filter for flat, open spaces near you at this link.

Are there private dog agility courses for rent near me?


Sniffspot has dog parks with agility equipment and/or dog obstacles in most cities in the United States. You can filter for these spots at our main listings page.

Get your dog the safe enrichment they need by renting a Sniffspot

Sniffspot Dog swimming in pool
David Adams photo

David Adams

September 30, 2024

City Dog Parks

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    How to Deal With Food Aggression in Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.

  • Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    Comprehensive Guide to Scent Training for Dogs (Facts + Infographic)

    As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.

  • How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog? thumbnail

    How Much Does it Cost to Train a Service Dog?

    More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.

  • What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression thumbnail

    What is and How to Handle Potty Training Regression

    You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?

  • Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop? thumbnail

    Coprophagia: Why Does Your Dog Eat Poop?

    Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!

Dog enrichment guides

  • The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Dog Water Parks in the United States

    Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.

  • Best Toys for Herding Dogs thumbnail

    Best Toys for Herding Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

  • The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic) thumbnail

    The Best Dog Toys for Aggressive Chewers (Facts + Infographic)

    Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?

  • Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need? thumbnail

    Dog Exercise Calculator: How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?

    You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.

  • Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs thumbnail

    Complete Guide To Herding With Dogs

    * All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *

Dog reactivity guides

Sniffspot community guides

  • The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States thumbnail

    The State of Public Dog Parks Across the United States

    From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.

  • How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs thumbnail

    How This Family is Affording Their Dream Property Through Renting it Hourly to Dogs

    Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.” 

  • Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me thumbnail

    Host Tips: Ellen K. What Makes Sniffspot Successful for Me

    Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.

  • How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs thumbnail

    How this Oregon Farmer is Making a Business From Renting Her Land to Dogs

    Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.  

  • Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot thumbnail

    Host Tips: Fran T. Providing Great Guest Service at our Spot

    Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.

Top dog trainers in the US

City dog parks guides

  • The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Indoor Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.

  • The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States thumbnail

    The Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the United States

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.

  • The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Las Vegas, Nevada Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.

  • The Best United States Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best United States Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!

  • The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks thumbnail

    The Best Portland, Oregon Dog Parks

    Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.

Dogs breeds

  • Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

    Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

  • Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Labrador Retriever: Real Tips from Owners

    Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs.

  • Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Golden Retriever: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Golden Retriever, a breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s.

  • Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the American Staffordshire Terrier: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Considered a medium-sized dog, American Staffordshire Terriers were originally bred in the United Kingdom for baiting bulls, fighting, and hunting beginning in the 1800s — though they're known as gentle, playful lovers today.

  • Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners thumbnail

    Explore the Australian Shepherd: Genuine Tips from 9,000+ Owners

    Discover the Australian Shepherd, a breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were originally bred in the United States for herding beginning in the 1950s.

Top dog names in the US

  • Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names thumbnail

    Top 1,000 Most Popular Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new pup? We have created filterable lists of dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative dog names.
  • Most Popular Male Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Male Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new male pup? We have created filterable lists of male dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative male dog names.
  • Most Popular Female Dog Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Female Dog Names

    Looking for the perfect dog name for your new female pup? We have created filterable lists of female dog names from our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users. You can filter by gender, breed and state to find the most cute, unique and creative female dog names.
  • Most Popular Golden Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Golden Retriever Names

    Welcome to our comprehensive list of Golden Retriever dog names, curated from our vast database of Sniffspot users. Filter through hundreds of thousands of options by gender, breed, and state to discover the most adorable, original, and imaginative names for your beloved Golden Retriever.
  • Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names thumbnail

    Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names

    Welcome to our Labrador Retriever dog names page! Here you can browse through filterable lists of names for your beloved furry friend, ranging from cute and classic to unique and creative options. Our database of hundreds of thousands of Sniffspot users ensures you'll find the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, whether you're seeking a name for a male or female, based on breed or state.