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The Best Seattle, Washington Dog Parks

Haley Young photo

Haley Young

June 29, 2024

City Dog Parks

The Best Seattle, Washington Dog Parks thumbnail

Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Seattle? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the Pacific Northwest's Emerald City.

This post includes public and private dog parks

This page is about public city dog parks and also includes Sniffspot private dog parks.

What is Sniffspot? Think of it like Airbnb for off-leash play spaces. 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 in Seattle!

Know Before You Go: Public Dog Park Checklist

What to bring with you to a dog park in Seattle

Here are a few things to bring with you when visiting a dog park in the Seattle, Washington area.

Always pack some 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, too. This will make the environment safer for everyone who visits.

Cleaning up after your dog is particularly important in rainy climates like the pacific northwest, where bacteria can easily pollute rivers, ponds, and groundwater.

It's a good idea to bring your own clean water

Some public dog parks in Seattle 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! We know the misty climate can make it feel like your pup won’t overheat — but dogs still get dehydrated in the Seattle area.

As a bonus, packing your own water will help your dog avoid exposure to germs and parasites on shared drinking surfaces.

Have your dog wear 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. Seattle requires all dogs to be licensed with the city.

Bring a leash along, even if you're visiting an off-leash spot

Along with a collar or harness, bring a leash, 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 can read more about Seattle's dog leash regulations here.

You might also consider packing an extra leash in case you need to grab hold of another dog or intervene if a conflict arises.

What to do before going into a Seattle public dog park

Check the weather

Seattle is notorious for being a rainy, misty city. Many dogs don’t mind the mud — and there’s no reason you can’t still play with your pup if you’re okay with the cleanup afterwards! — but it’s important to make sure you’re dressed accordingly and pay attention to slipping risks. Wet grass can increase the chance of your dog pulling or even tearing a muscle.

Research the park ahead of time

Read reviews and be on the lookout for any common issues, like unruly dogs or left-behind waste. It can be hard to find reliable information about some public parks (one reason Sniffspot’s private listings might be a better option) — so 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.

How do Washington dog parks compare to other areas of the country?

Sniffspot conducted a 2022 survey of dog owners across the country to better understand the state of public dog parks. The west’s public dog parks (including those in the Seattle area) unfortunately came in last place on our survey:


  • 18% of respondents say their dog has been attacked at a public dog park. This is remarkably high — that’s almost one in five owners who have experienced an altercation in a space designated as a safe exercise area.
  • 17% feel their local public dog parks are unsafe.
  • 20% say they are dirty.
  • 30% say they are crowded.

Unfortunately, other options for dog exercise are limited in the West as well:


  • 29% of respondents say that local dog owners are generally irresponsible, limiting their ability to feel safe out and about.
  • 34% report often being approached by off-leash dogs outside of a public dog park context.
  • 35% report that their dog has been attacked in general.

The Best Dog Parks in Seattle, Washington

In Seattle, dogs are welcome in all public parks on a leash — and there are 14 designated off-leash areas where they can roam freely! The Parks Department continues to work to improve the off-leash experience for pets and their people.

Below are some of the top Seattle dog parks, which are usually open from before dawn until after dark unless otherwise noted. You can read more about Seattle’s rules for dogs in parks here.

Westcrest Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 9000 8th Ave SW, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 6 am to 10 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking, running, picnicking
  • Entrance fee? No

Located on a hill, Westcrest Park is a large off-leash area at 8.4 acres with open spaces, paths, plenty of shade, and a dog drinking fountain. It’s one of Seattle’s most popular dog parks thanks to its ample size and amenities that enable canines to interact in more natural ways without feeling the pressure of a smaller space.

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 and 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 a winding gravel trail to walk on as well as an open, flat play area — ultimately making Magnuson one of Washington’s top dog park destinations.

Blue Dog Pond Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 1520 26th Ave S, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking, art viewing
  • Entrance fee? No

Blue Dog Pond is in southeast Seattle. This 1.7 acre park is a wide rectangle that’s no frills but provides a place to throw toys and engage with your dog. The field is sloped, offering extra exercise for your pup’s muscles — and also means it gets quite muddy during the rainy season as a catchment area for excess water.

Blue Dog Pond’s most interesting feature? The park is filled with interesting art sculptures that make it a unique spot to visit, including the giant “blue dog” right at the entrance. (Be sure to snap a picture!)

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.

Denny Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 100 Dexter Ave. N., Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, picnicking
  • Entrance fee? No

This small but functional off-leash area is located in north central Denny Park, which is the oldest park in all of Seattle. It’s wheelchair accessible and near careful landscaping with trees, benches, and newly updated lighting along with a children’s play area. The off-leash spot is surfaced with granolithic gravel to prevent excess mud during Seattle’s rainy season.

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.

Dr. Jose Rizal Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 1007 12th Ave S, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, hiking, biking
  • Entrance fee? No

Dr. Jose Rizal Park’s off-leash area is 4 acres, making it larger than many of Seattle’s dog parks. You and your pup can enjoy spectacular views of Puget Sound and the downtown city skyline. The fenced area is ADA accessible from a popular bicycle trail and features its own compacted gravel trail for you and your pup to hike together.

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.

Genesee Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 4316 S Genesee St, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking
  • Entrance fee? No

This 2.7 acre off-leash area is completely fenced with two double-gated entrances for safety and ease of access. It’s a flat, secure area that’s especially simple to supervise — great for busy dog owners of social pets who want to give their pets some time to run. The entire off-leash area at Genesee Park is covered in gravel to stay free of mud even in the winter. A dog drinking fountain is also present.

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.

Golden Gardens Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 10 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play
  • Entrance fee? No

Golden Gardens off-leash area is a single acre space in the northern portion of the park. It’s covered in wood chips for playing and running, creating a soft gentle surface that still helps minimize mud during Seattle’s rain. The park has plenty of trees that provide some shade, as well as tables, benches, and a covered area in case the weather gets bad while you’re there.

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.

I-5 Colonnade Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 1701 Lakeview Blvd E, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play
  • Entrance fee? No

This unique off-leash dog park is located on a steep slope under the I-5 freeway north of downtown Seattle. It’s a half acre that can be a great spot to exercise your dog if they aren’t afraid of traffic noise and are prepared to run up and down the hill. The surface is crushed gravel to keep your pup’s paws from getting too muddy — plus it’s covered by the highway itself so things stay dry — and the park also has benches and drinking water.

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.

Kinnear Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 899 W Olympic Pl, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 6 am to 10 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking
  • Entrance fee? No

The west section of Kinnear Park boasts this gently inclined off-leash area beneath a tall forest. Past the site runs a steep nature trail with breathtaking views of Elliot Bay.

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.

Magnolia Manor Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 3500 28th Ave W, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking, picnicking, biking
  • Entrance fee? No

Magnolia Manor Park is known for its spectacular views. The off-leash dog park here is just under a half acre with pace to play fetch or simply run around. It also has a dog drinking fountain so your pup stays hydrated.

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.

Northacres Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 12718 1st Ave NE, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 6 am to 10 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play, walking, picnicking
  • Entrance fee? No

Northacres combines open field spaces, walking trails, and shade from several trees into its 1.6 acre area. It’s near restrooms, children’s play areas, and picnic areas, too, making it a common destination for the entire family to visit together.

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.

Plymouth Pillars Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 1050 Pike St, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 6 am to 10 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play
  • Entrance fee? No

This small dog park offers a scenic view of downtown Seattle atop a crushed rock surface to keep your dog from getting dirty in the rain.

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.

Regrade Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 2251 3rd Ave, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 6 am to 10 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play
  • Entrance fee? No

Regrade Park offers another small yet functional off-leash area in downtown Seattle. It’s near heavy street traffic, so make sure your pup is calm and confident before visiting. On the bright side, it’s wheelchair accessible and features running water to keep your dog cool.

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.

Woodland Park Off-Leash Area (public dog park)


  • Address: 1000 N 50th St, Seattle, Washington
  • Hours: 4 am to 11:30 pm
  • Off leash? Yes
  • Activities: Off-leash play
  • Entrance fee? No

This one acre dog park gently slopes, providing additional exercise opportunities for your pet. It features benches for owners to sit on as well as a dog drinking fountain, and the off-leash area also has a separate small dog space to try to minimize the risk of prey drive related incidents as pets chase each other.

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.

Maple Valley Romp-N-Roam (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Maple Valley, Washington
  • Size: 1.25 acres
  • Fenced: Yes

Maple Valley Romp-N-Roam is a 1.25 acre private dog park. The completely fenced property perimeter gives you peace of mind that your pups are safe and secure as you let them play and explore freely! With a gently sloping pasture for running and trees and stumps for exploring, your canine best friend is sure to find something that sparks their interest.  

Chelsey’s Private Dog Park (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Issaquah, Washington
  • Size: 0.5 acres
  • Fenced: Yes

This fully fenced private dog park in Issaquah, Washington, features agility equipment for your pup to enjoy. That’s a great way to build their confidence! Soft wood chips make running, jumping, and chasing toys extra safe for your pup’s joints.

Shamba Horse Farm (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Issaquah, Washington
  • Size: 3 acres
  • Fenced: Yes

Shamba Horse Farm is a beautiful, hilly private dog park featuring both open play areas and woods to walk through. The uneven terrain provides an excellent exercise opportunity for both you and your pup! Enjoy the rural pasture, rocks, and tufts of natural grass. 

Emerald Field (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Bothell, Washington
  • Size: 1 acre
  • Fenced: Yes

Emerald Field has very secure fencing that’s 8 feet all the way around, making it the perfect private dog park for high-energy pups still working on their recall training. It is relatively flat which makes it easy for your dog to sprint to their heart’s desire and explore the entire area! Wide-open space encourages running, sniffing, and digging. The field has quite a bit of shade to one side for any of Seattle’s rare (but hot) sunny days.

Creekside Ranch (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Redmond, Washington
  • Size: 2 acres
  • Fenced: Yes

Creekside Ranch’s whole property expands over 11 acres and is very park-like. The picturesque environment is perfect for city dwelling dogs who are looking to spend some time in nature.

The private Sniffspot consists of two side-by-side, enclosed pastures. These fenced-in areas are approximately 2 acres in length — perfect for playdates and training sessions! The hosts are also happy to have you throw a party on site, even offering chair and table rentals along with plenty of parking.

Willow Pond Dog Retreat (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Coupeville, Washington
  • Size: 18 acres
  • Fenced: No

Willow Pond Dog Retreat is a little slice of paradise awaiting you and your dog in Coupeville, Washington. Enjoy an eight acre meadow with plenty of space for a game of fetch, chase, or to just relax and enjoy Mt. Baker views. There are trails around a lake where your pups will enjoy plenty of sniffing! You may even see eagles, geese, ducks, otters, and more interesting wildlife.

The private dog park also features a small dog run (50x100) with some agility equipment to work your pup’s brain and body.

Doggy Play Land (private Sniffspot dog park)


  • Location: Sammamish, Washington
  • Size: 0.36 acres
  • Fenced: Yes

Doggy Play Land is just under a half acre fenced back yard hosted by a dog-loving family. It includes a large two level deck that you can relax on while watching your dog run and play! The back deck is also covered, making it perfect for winter visits, especially when Seattle gets its usual rain or even the occasional snow flurry.

The private dog park is equipped with balls, a water bowl, and dog waste bags.

FAQ About Public Dog Parks in Seattle, Washington

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 in Seattle?

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. Seattle also has some of the best force-free professional trainers in the country you can team up with to plan a visit!
  • 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 in Seattle?

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? (This is common, especially in small fenced parks in Seattle’s main city area.) 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 Seattle, Washington

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 dog parks in Seattle. This also protects your pet from any other animals who might try to approach them.
  • 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 with any questions.

Does Seattle have any fully fenced private dog parks?

Sniffspot has fully fenced dog parks in and near the Seattle, Washington area. You can filter through all options by their fencing status (and even height) at this link!

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

There are plenty of Sniffspot fields in or near Seattle where dogs can be off leash. Take a look at listings and filter by size at this link.

Are there private dog agility courses for rent in Seattle?

Yes, Sniffspot has dog parks with agility equipment and/or dog obstacles in or near Seattle! One of the most popular agility options is called the Coolest Yard in Seattle. You can filter all Seattle listings by the presence of agility equipment here.

Haley Young photo

Haley Young

June 29, 2024

City Dog Parks

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    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.

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    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. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.

  • 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 popular 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. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.

  • 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 distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.

  • 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, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.

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.

Top dog rescues in the US