Sniffspot's private dog parks are the best way to exercise your dog. We have the best variety and the best priced dog parks anywhere!
Sniffspot's private dog parks are the best way to exercise your dog. We have the best variety and the best priced dog parks anywhere!
Features | Sniffspot | Public dog park |
---|---|---|
No encounters with stranger dogs | ||
Rentable by the hour | ||
Off leash options | ||
Very large and/or fully fenced options | ||
Pricing | $5 - $15 per dog per hour | Free |
Sniffspot has different types of private dog parks to allow any dog to find their ideal spot!
Dog water parks
Many hosts have added water features like pools and/or are nearby lakes or rivers.
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Dog hiking trails
Some of our best spots have hiking trails in wonderful natural settings.
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Indoor dog parks
A good alternative to do activities with your dogs on a rainy day and unpleasant weather in general.
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Fully fenced dog parks
Very popular choice, perfect to contain your dogs if they are escape artists or if they are not good at recall.
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Dog beaches
Some spots are conveniently located by the sea or have sand and other beach features.
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Dog agility parks
Some hosts have implemented full agility courses to train your dogs in a private environment.
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Dog fields
Many of the listed spots are large pastures, fields and have farm animals that can be sighted.
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Small dog parks
Dog parks that specifically work for the needs of dogs that are smaller in size.
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Dog swimming pools
Many spots feature private swimming pools, perfect for dogs to enjoy and play.
Explore
IMPORTANT: all prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD Barks and Recreation is a private-use dog park which donates all proceeds to charity (Thandanani Children's Home, Kingsway School and Randburg SPCA). The park was designed by a behaviourist and features a variety of enrichment and play equipment, as well as plenty of space to run and play. Opening hours: Summer: 6am - 6pm Winter: 7am - 5pm Important to note: 1. The park is fenced with palisade fencing, so small dogs may need to be kept on leash. 2. Feral rabbits and chickens sometimes pass through the park - please be aware of this if your dog has a high prey drive. 3. Please bring fresh water with for your dogs NOTE FOR BOOKING: We charge per hour, NOT per dog. SniffSpot only allows us to show our pricing per dog, not per hour. Please only book and pay for one dog, even if you visit with multiple. PLEASE ONLY VISIT OUR PARK WITH HEALTHY, FULLY VACCINATED DOGS! NO DOGS ARE TO BE LEFT ON THE PROPERTY UNATTENDED!
****IMPORTANT: all prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD*** Available for use is approximately one acre of grass (short and long) with a small section of young native trees. The property is well fenced with 1.5m deer fencing all round. After heavy rains there is sometimes a large pond at the lowest point which is great fun for the dogs. There is a hose and water bowl for you to use. When parking, please park on the gravel pad next to the gate only, please don’t park on the grass or block the driveway. Rules - Parking on the gravel pad next to the gate only, please don’t park on the grass or block the driveway - Please pick up any dog poop - Please keep your dogs on lead until inside the fenced area - Do not park blocking the shared driveway - Please be respectful to neighbours and their stock - Please turn off the hose at the tap when finished
This little oasis has a small pond for splashing and plentiful shade for us hoomans. The SwiftPaws lure coursing will be offered again soon, we hope. Unfortunately, it’s out for repair.
IMPORTANT: all prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD Private area, slightly more than an acre, fully fenced with 5 foot high fencing. Natural area with small ponds , a small creek, some marshland, some dry areas, trees, and brush to run and sniff through. There is a shelter with a bench and a couple other benches on the acre. Parking is conveniently in front of the Sniff Spot.
Almost an acre of pastureland overlooking Jacoby Creek Valley for dogs to sniff, roam, play, and most of all be off leash and in nature. Come with your dog alone or bring some friends and dog pals (up to 6 total) to romp and chase and play while you relax. There are some toys and obstacles, water, and lots to dig. Please bring your own balls. There may be cattle in the adjoining field below, occasionally deer though rarely in the daytime. Chairs are set for a pastoral view, particularly lovely at sunset. People and cars may go by on the driveway. The spot is all yours when you are there and with respect to reactive dogs, I won't greet you unless we set that up in advance. I want the dogs to feel that this is their space and we won't intrude. If your plans change you can cancel or reschedule up to 2 hours prior to your reservation through the app but it does not allow changes after that. The new picnic table is meant for your use, please keep dogs with muddy paws off the table. Please no smoking or using while visiting. Enjoy!
Located about ten minutes from downtown Bend, we are in the country - you’ll see cows, sheep and horses, as well as deer, bald eagles, red tailed hawks and other wildlife, on your way to us! Once you arrive you’ll have full use of our fully fenced, mainly flat grassy dog area bordered by trees and landscaping. We have lawn seating for guests and you’re even welcome to see our porch if you need to work or stay longer. Fast WiFi available. Please let me know what questions you have!
15 acres available on part of our farm - these are rented privately & it is just you & your dog/s on the walk. PLEASE ONLY STAY IN PADDOCKS COLOURED YELLOW, ORANGE, BLACK, HOT PINK, PURPLE. DO NOT ACCESS OTHER PADDOCKS. Peaceful & serene it is the perfect place for offleash zoomies & exploring. This spot offers a true outdoor adventure type of walk, expect your dog to go home content & ready for a snooze. The place offers wide open spaces, gentle contour which keeps things interesting, a small creek that fills via tap & rain water, water troughs to dip in, plenty of space to explore. A hose is available to clean your dog off after their adventure at the front of the stables (dogs will need to be leashed), gated entry with a dog waste bin by the entry gate. Note - you will still need some control of your dogs as the area is large. PLEASE ONLY STAY IN PADDOCKS COLOURED YELLOW, ORANGE, BLACK, HOT PINK, PURPLE. DO NOT ACCESS OTHER PADDOCKS Please note there are other dogs living on the property but if you stick to sniffspot areas you won't have any issues as they are at the front of the property & dog park is at the back. **IMPORTANT prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD. **
Welcome to the all new Doggy Pool Paradise! 🐶💦 The spot was started in honor of my sweet Bailey who just passed away Easter weekend only 1 month shy of her 12th birthday. 💔 She was my soul dog and the primary reason I bought a house with a pool. Now I just want to see other dogs using it and having fun. 🐾🥰 This is a completely fenced area with deck, patio, sunroom and 18x36 in ground pool. Let your dog swim safely and securely in the salt water pool (no harsh chlorine). Kiddie pool is also available for dogs who are unsure about the "Big" pool - set up, fresh water, and cleaning afterwards for a small fee choose this in the Extras section. . Doggy life jackets in Small, Medium, Large, and XL are available. Plenty of seating and shade available. Mini fridge with cold bottled water for only $1 each located in the sunroom (choose this in the Extras section ). Brand new fun Dog water toys, dog towels, large blue dog pool float "Woof", water bowls and pool ramp available to use at no extra charge. Please bring your own sunscreen. NOTE: Sorry, no bathroom will be available for humans. Dogs must be current on Rabies and other vaccines and be on some sort of flea & tick preventative!! These must be sent to the host before your visit. Screenshots are accepted. Poop bags & clean-up station provided near the gated entrance. All owners must pick up after their dogs in and out of the pool area!! Violators will not be allowed to return. There are security cameras on the premises. Max of two people (adults) per dog unless otherwise arranged with Host. If You are bringing more than one dog, they must already know each other and get along! It is highly recommended that you brush your dog before your visit. If excessive fur in the filter becomes a problem then this sniff spot will unfortunately no longer be available. Help keep it clean for everyone.
This is a purpose built "dog run" exclusively for Sniffspot guests. This Sniffspot is truly unique and gorgeous, with lush 360 degree sweeping views of towering Redwoods and mowed Perennial Rye grass. In addition the "mirco climate" is more ideal with less fog and more blue sky days than downtown Eureka or Arcata. Not only will your dog enjoy this large open space, we're adding a seating area and shade awning to keep you comfortable during your visit (coming soon). This location is very ideal when visiting the Headwaters Forest Reserve just one minute up the road! Some guests like to come first to exercise their dogs before taking them on leash into Headwaters. Opening July 6th!
Welcome to our private beach on the Buffalo River - the ultimate summer SniffSpot! The river is slow moving, shallow and all sand. It is about 1-2 feet deep near our beach, and deeper on the opposite side of the river. In heavy rain, it ebbs and flows in depths. You will park and walk to the beach on wooded trails about 600 feet to the beach. The SniffSpot availability is limited to the beach only, and not the rest of our property.
**Note: Sniffspot App uses USD at moment (not ideal). US$10 is about NZ$17** | If you wish to use NZ$ please use: https://goodwood.setmore.com Takapu valley's a quiet hidden rural gem just off SH1 at Tawa, only 15mins from Wellington CBD - a secret spot not many know. The winding road follows the stream up this scenic historic valley bringing you back to the present moment before you arrive at our peaceful spot beside Takapu Stream. Take your time meandering up and you'll feel a change of focus and mood. Take a deep breath, you're now ready to spend time with your canine best mate - they will feel your mood lift & respond to it. We hope you enjoy the time. Our river flat creates a large natural flat area to run, with a variety of terrain, & a couple of small swimming holes to explore along the stream (bring some raw meat if you’d like to try luring up a tame eel). If your dog has a scenting nose, there is heaps to occupy them - especially hunting through the flax/banks for rabbit smells & being a wolf. It’s super cool watching our dogs roam and explore freely. Maybe bring a picnic/thermos and find a quiet spot or picnic table for yourself beside the stream and just unwind. On a sunny day there are some idyllic private spots, esp in the bottom corner across the stream under the small bluff. Keep an eye out for wild mint, healthy watercress, & other stuff you're welcome to forage. ** EXCESSIVE BARKING ** Dogs that constantly bark can’t be here. Some barking is understandable, but endless barking is not OK for my neighbours and this space. Dog breeds can be very different, and also if they're alone or herding their mates, so there are options. We'll send you some tips on booking. This is important. * FOLLOW & LIKE us for updates & Tag: ‘Goodwood Private Dog Park’ on FB, or Goodwood_Dogs in Instagram. * FENCING: standard 8 wire stock fencing and forms the perfect natural play area. Good for most dogs, but keep a long lead on if you have doubts. * PARKING: park INSIDE our road gate to the left, off the driveway. Leads must be on before exiting vehicle until you're inside the paddock. Be stock safe. Ideally only 1 car, 2 at most. * STOCK SAFETY: There won't intentionally be stock in the dog area unless the gate was left open (they pounce on the grass there). We do farm, so as a bonus our beautiful Speckle Park steers like to visit the carpark area but they’re placid, inquisitive and very safe. Walking towards them, or driving slowly forward, will push them away (esp if you raise your arms or make a tssh tssh tssh sound). They’re cool animals to just hang out near in their own right. You probably won’t see our sheep, they're extra chicken. Across the road are horses, if your dog reacts to these you can’t be here in a rural space either, I don’t want my neighbours loosing sleep. I reserve the right to ask anyone to leave if we get complaints. Pitbull types or aggressive dogs aren’t very appropriate here. If unsure, use a long lead initially (or some put muzzles on) and monitor your dog as they become familiar here. NZ law is super clear about dogs worrying stock. I wouldn’t want anyone to be in this position. We very rarely put the cattle in to trim the grass, so there may be a bit of cattle pooh about sometimes. Most dogs love this experience (& many use as a probiotic for gut health), but the stream is handy for a wash if they get overly happy! * NATURE CALLING: Sometimes you just need to go - all the water flowing past, or a cool day. So you're welcome to do human ‘bush’ wee's if urgent, but if it's discrete, not in the river or where others would stand. Definitely no human waste or number 2's unless you can bag it yourself lol. * CELL COVERAGE: there's a black spot in the lower valley as you drive up, but there's coverage at our location. * SAFE TIME BUFFER: No need to worry about meeting other dogs when leaving because we have a minimum 30 minute buffer period between bookings to remove this risk. So please use all your time. Please don't come early and wait. * NEW MEMBER DISCOUNT link: https://www.sniffspot.com/to/8a0jz * FIRST VISIT information is sent several hours before your visit with all the info you'll need. ** Winter update. Bring outdoor footwear like gumboots. It’s not very muddy but water can pool after rain. We're doing this having recently learned how many dogs and people don't feel safe, or have been traumatised, in public dog areas. Please respect sharing our space and be mindful of my neighbours. Fortunately most dog people are decent folk and we're keen to support. If there's anything we can do to improve or add to help, we're all ears, please let us know. Thank you, Enjoy!
IMPORTANT: all prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD Barks and Recreation is a private-use dog park which donates all proceeds to charity (Thandanani Children's Home, Kingsway School and Randburg SPCA). The park was designed by a behaviourist and features a variety of enrichment and play equipment, as well as plenty of space to run and play. Opening hours: Summer: 6am - 6pm Winter: 7am - 5pm Important to note: 1. The park is fenced with palisade fencing, so small dogs may need to be kept on leash. 2. Feral rabbits and chickens sometimes pass through the park - please be aware of this if your dog has a high prey drive. 3. Please bring fresh water with for your dogs NOTE FOR BOOKING: We charge per hour, NOT per dog. SniffSpot only allows us to show our pricing per dog, not per hour. Please only book and pay for one dog, even if you visit with multiple. PLEASE ONLY VISIT OUR PARK WITH HEALTHY, FULLY VACCINATED DOGS! NO DOGS ARE TO BE LEFT ON THE PROPERTY UNATTENDED!
****IMPORTANT: all prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD*** Available for use is approximately one acre of grass (short and long) with a small section of young native trees. The property is well fenced with 1.5m deer fencing all round. After heavy rains there is sometimes a large pond at the lowest point which is great fun for the dogs. There is a hose and water bowl for you to use. When parking, please park on the gravel pad next to the gate only, please don’t park on the grass or block the driveway. Rules - Parking on the gravel pad next to the gate only, please don’t park on the grass or block the driveway - Please pick up any dog poop - Please keep your dogs on lead until inside the fenced area - Do not park blocking the shared driveway - Please be respectful to neighbours and their stock - Please turn off the hose at the tap when finished
This little oasis has a small pond for splashing and plentiful shade for us hoomans. The SwiftPaws lure coursing will be offered again soon, we hope. Unfortunately, it’s out for repair.
IMPORTANT: all prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD Private area, slightly more than an acre, fully fenced with 5 foot high fencing. Natural area with small ponds , a small creek, some marshland, some dry areas, trees, and brush to run and sniff through. There is a shelter with a bench and a couple other benches on the acre. Parking is conveniently in front of the Sniff Spot.
Almost an acre of pastureland overlooking Jacoby Creek Valley for dogs to sniff, roam, play, and most of all be off leash and in nature. Come with your dog alone or bring some friends and dog pals (up to 6 total) to romp and chase and play while you relax. There are some toys and obstacles, water, and lots to dig. Please bring your own balls. There may be cattle in the adjoining field below, occasionally deer though rarely in the daytime. Chairs are set for a pastoral view, particularly lovely at sunset. People and cars may go by on the driveway. The spot is all yours when you are there and with respect to reactive dogs, I won't greet you unless we set that up in advance. I want the dogs to feel that this is their space and we won't intrude. If your plans change you can cancel or reschedule up to 2 hours prior to your reservation through the app but it does not allow changes after that. The new picnic table is meant for your use, please keep dogs with muddy paws off the table. Please no smoking or using while visiting. Enjoy!
Located about ten minutes from downtown Bend, we are in the country - you’ll see cows, sheep and horses, as well as deer, bald eagles, red tailed hawks and other wildlife, on your way to us! Once you arrive you’ll have full use of our fully fenced, mainly flat grassy dog area bordered by trees and landscaping. We have lawn seating for guests and you’re even welcome to see our porch if you need to work or stay longer. Fast WiFi available. Please let me know what questions you have!
15 acres available on part of our farm - these are rented privately & it is just you & your dog/s on the walk. PLEASE ONLY STAY IN PADDOCKS COLOURED YELLOW, ORANGE, BLACK, HOT PINK, PURPLE. DO NOT ACCESS OTHER PADDOCKS. Peaceful & serene it is the perfect place for offleash zoomies & exploring. This spot offers a true outdoor adventure type of walk, expect your dog to go home content & ready for a snooze. The place offers wide open spaces, gentle contour which keeps things interesting, a small creek that fills via tap & rain water, water troughs to dip in, plenty of space to explore. A hose is available to clean your dog off after their adventure at the front of the stables (dogs will need to be leashed), gated entry with a dog waste bin by the entry gate. Note - you will still need some control of your dogs as the area is large. PLEASE ONLY STAY IN PADDOCKS COLOURED YELLOW, ORANGE, BLACK, HOT PINK, PURPLE. DO NOT ACCESS OTHER PADDOCKS Please note there are other dogs living on the property but if you stick to sniffspot areas you won't have any issues as they are at the front of the property & dog park is at the back. **IMPORTANT prices listed are in USD and guests will be charged in USD. **
Welcome to the all new Doggy Pool Paradise! 🐶💦 The spot was started in honor of my sweet Bailey who just passed away Easter weekend only 1 month shy of her 12th birthday. 💔 She was my soul dog and the primary reason I bought a house with a pool. Now I just want to see other dogs using it and having fun. 🐾🥰 This is a completely fenced area with deck, patio, sunroom and 18x36 in ground pool. Let your dog swim safely and securely in the salt water pool (no harsh chlorine). Kiddie pool is also available for dogs who are unsure about the "Big" pool - set up, fresh water, and cleaning afterwards for a small fee choose this in the Extras section. . Doggy life jackets in Small, Medium, Large, and XL are available. Plenty of seating and shade available. Mini fridge with cold bottled water for only $1 each located in the sunroom (choose this in the Extras section ). Brand new fun Dog water toys, dog towels, large blue dog pool float "Woof", water bowls and pool ramp available to use at no extra charge. Please bring your own sunscreen. NOTE: Sorry, no bathroom will be available for humans. Dogs must be current on Rabies and other vaccines and be on some sort of flea & tick preventative!! These must be sent to the host before your visit. Screenshots are accepted. Poop bags & clean-up station provided near the gated entrance. All owners must pick up after their dogs in and out of the pool area!! Violators will not be allowed to return. There are security cameras on the premises. Max of two people (adults) per dog unless otherwise arranged with Host. If You are bringing more than one dog, they must already know each other and get along! It is highly recommended that you brush your dog before your visit. If excessive fur in the filter becomes a problem then this sniff spot will unfortunately no longer be available. Help keep it clean for everyone.
This is a purpose built "dog run" exclusively for Sniffspot guests. This Sniffspot is truly unique and gorgeous, with lush 360 degree sweeping views of towering Redwoods and mowed Perennial Rye grass. In addition the "mirco climate" is more ideal with less fog and more blue sky days than downtown Eureka or Arcata. Not only will your dog enjoy this large open space, we're adding a seating area and shade awning to keep you comfortable during your visit (coming soon). This location is very ideal when visiting the Headwaters Forest Reserve just one minute up the road! Some guests like to come first to exercise their dogs before taking them on leash into Headwaters. Opening July 6th!
Welcome to our private beach on the Buffalo River - the ultimate summer SniffSpot! The river is slow moving, shallow and all sand. It is about 1-2 feet deep near our beach, and deeper on the opposite side of the river. In heavy rain, it ebbs and flows in depths. You will park and walk to the beach on wooded trails about 600 feet to the beach. The SniffSpot availability is limited to the beach only, and not the rest of our property.
**Note: Sniffspot App uses USD at moment (not ideal). US$10 is about NZ$17** | If you wish to use NZ$ please use: https://goodwood.setmore.com Takapu valley's a quiet hidden rural gem just off SH1 at Tawa, only 15mins from Wellington CBD - a secret spot not many know. The winding road follows the stream up this scenic historic valley bringing you back to the present moment before you arrive at our peaceful spot beside Takapu Stream. Take your time meandering up and you'll feel a change of focus and mood. Take a deep breath, you're now ready to spend time with your canine best mate - they will feel your mood lift & respond to it. We hope you enjoy the time. Our river flat creates a large natural flat area to run, with a variety of terrain, & a couple of small swimming holes to explore along the stream (bring some raw meat if you’d like to try luring up a tame eel). If your dog has a scenting nose, there is heaps to occupy them - especially hunting through the flax/banks for rabbit smells & being a wolf. It’s super cool watching our dogs roam and explore freely. Maybe bring a picnic/thermos and find a quiet spot or picnic table for yourself beside the stream and just unwind. On a sunny day there are some idyllic private spots, esp in the bottom corner across the stream under the small bluff. Keep an eye out for wild mint, healthy watercress, & other stuff you're welcome to forage. ** EXCESSIVE BARKING ** Dogs that constantly bark can’t be here. Some barking is understandable, but endless barking is not OK for my neighbours and this space. Dog breeds can be very different, and also if they're alone or herding their mates, so there are options. We'll send you some tips on booking. This is important. * FOLLOW & LIKE us for updates & Tag: ‘Goodwood Private Dog Park’ on FB, or Goodwood_Dogs in Instagram. * FENCING: standard 8 wire stock fencing and forms the perfect natural play area. Good for most dogs, but keep a long lead on if you have doubts. * PARKING: park INSIDE our road gate to the left, off the driveway. Leads must be on before exiting vehicle until you're inside the paddock. Be stock safe. Ideally only 1 car, 2 at most. * STOCK SAFETY: There won't intentionally be stock in the dog area unless the gate was left open (they pounce on the grass there). We do farm, so as a bonus our beautiful Speckle Park steers like to visit the carpark area but they’re placid, inquisitive and very safe. Walking towards them, or driving slowly forward, will push them away (esp if you raise your arms or make a tssh tssh tssh sound). They’re cool animals to just hang out near in their own right. You probably won’t see our sheep, they're extra chicken. Across the road are horses, if your dog reacts to these you can’t be here in a rural space either, I don’t want my neighbours loosing sleep. I reserve the right to ask anyone to leave if we get complaints. Pitbull types or aggressive dogs aren’t very appropriate here. If unsure, use a long lead initially (or some put muzzles on) and monitor your dog as they become familiar here. NZ law is super clear about dogs worrying stock. I wouldn’t want anyone to be in this position. We very rarely put the cattle in to trim the grass, so there may be a bit of cattle pooh about sometimes. Most dogs love this experience (& many use as a probiotic for gut health), but the stream is handy for a wash if they get overly happy! * NATURE CALLING: Sometimes you just need to go - all the water flowing past, or a cool day. So you're welcome to do human ‘bush’ wee's if urgent, but if it's discrete, not in the river or where others would stand. Definitely no human waste or number 2's unless you can bag it yourself lol. * CELL COVERAGE: there's a black spot in the lower valley as you drive up, but there's coverage at our location. * SAFE TIME BUFFER: No need to worry about meeting other dogs when leaving because we have a minimum 30 minute buffer period between bookings to remove this risk. So please use all your time. Please don't come early and wait. * NEW MEMBER DISCOUNT link: https://www.sniffspot.com/to/8a0jz * FIRST VISIT information is sent several hours before your visit with all the info you'll need. ** Winter update. Bring outdoor footwear like gumboots. It’s not very muddy but water can pool after rain. We're doing this having recently learned how many dogs and people don't feel safe, or have been traumatised, in public dog areas. Please respect sharing our space and be mindful of my neighbours. Fortunately most dog people are decent folk and we're keen to support. If there's anything we can do to improve or add to help, we're all ears, please let us know. Thank you, Enjoy!
It is important for most dogs to have off-leash exercise and plenty of opportunities to explore. Engaging in natural behaviors like sniffing and running is valuable for your pet's mental health! Since letting dogs off leash in city parks can be dangerous for the surrounding community and wildlife — not to mention can lead to issues with animal control or park authority departments — public dog parks are a legal way to let dogs have off leash exercise.
But the free and open nature of public dog parks can have drawbacks. 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:
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 — because our private dog parks only allow one guest to book at a time and are not open to the public. This solves the above issues!
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:
Ultimately: It's perfectly normal for our dogs to not want to play with other pets outside of our families. Sniffspot was actually inspired by a dog-selective rescue who wasn't able to get any time off leash in a city environment, making it difficult to meet his basic needs amongst the hustle and bustle.
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.
Public dog parks also increase the chances of pets sustaining injury or developing infection.
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.
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.
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.
Dogs enjoy Sniffspot dog parks for all kinds of different reasons — spanning from physical exercise to behavior modification training to agility or other dog sports practice and more. Whatever your primary goals, there is a Sniffspot dog park for you!
There are many different types of private dog parks available. Sniffspot hosts offer locations like designated training yards; expansive fields; large, fully-fenced off-leash dog parks; indoor facilities with lights and other amenities; dog sports courses complete with agility equipment; pools and natural water features; and more. Some even have niche amenities, such as a park splash pad and dog-friendly potable water fountains.
You can filter Sniffspot dog parks by size, fencing, and distractions that might be present via our dog park locator. If your dog doesn't have a good recall, you can visit one of our fully fenced 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! Each listing includes the park hours of operation — and by reading reviews you can understand the status of condition, for example, if a section of the fence is in poor condition or there are any park maintenance issues.
While public dog parks have a number of safety issues, such as aggressive dogs, disease transmission, and general cleanliness (often as much an issue with the person in charge as with their dog) Sniffspot dog parks are much safer environments to let your dog express their natural behaviors.
With Sniffspot, all bookings are private — the only park users at a given time are the dog owners who signed up and dogs they bring with them in their own group. Additionally, we require all dogs to be vaccinated (or have equivalent titers). Hosts are in charge of keeping their park areas clean, and many go out of their way to provide visitors with exceptional experiences. It's a win-win for everyone in the community!
Perhaps most helpful to know exactly what you're getting into: Sniffspot dog park locations are vetted and reviewed by guests, so you can find the perfect place for you and your dog — whether they have behavioral struggles, special needs, or any other specific considerations. 93% of reviews on Sniffspot visits are 5 stars and many spots have been reviewed hundreds of times.
As always, make sure to check weather conditions before visiting.
Yes. Many Sniffspot dog parks are designed to be a designated off-leash area! That said: Not every Sniffspot private dog park location is completely fenced in.
All dogs are different, and we expect our guests to be safe and responsible — especially if their dogs do not have strong recall to be able to remain under voice control. Off leash dogs should always stay within the designated off-leash dog park property. This is important to have an enjoyable time and be respectful to the hosts, neighbors, and community as a whole!
No, there will not. Sniffspot only allows one booking at a time — and any host dogs are required to be kept away from the spot during visits.
We also enforce buffers between bookings to ensure you aren't arriving or leaving at the same time another park user is present.
You can browse all of our Sniffspots here using our dog park locator. You can easily view information about the spots, including open times, park entrance details, and current conditions.
Each host sets their own price, so you can check the cost per hour on the specific Sniffspot dog park listing. Most are between $5 - $15 per dog per hour.
Prices vary based on size, fencing and amenities, such as water or drinking fountains for dogs, park benches, WiFi accessibility, and so on.
We require that all dogs have basic vaccinations or equivalent titers. We require rabies vaccination, the equivalent of current rabies tags.
We do not allow dogs with a bite history.
We do not have limits for dogs per owner or dogs per adult handler, though some individual park hosts set person per visit limits.
Adult supervision is required at all times.
Dog owners are responsible for picking up pet waste to keep park areas clean (many Sniffspot private dog parks provide pet waste stations).
We require that guests sign our waiver and agree to follow park rules and policies before visiting park sites.
You can learn more about how you can earn up to $3,000 per month sharing your land here. It is just as lucrative as dog boarding or other dog services — with less work for you! Park planning can be as simple as opening up your existing yard.
Being a Sniffspot host can be incredibly rewarding both financially and personally.
We love dogs — but our modern world is built for us humans, not for our canine companions. Tightly packed cities, small public dog parks, and less time in nature have increased the rates of problem behaviors like leash reactivity, fear aggression, and anxiety in our pets. Sniffspot is a way to combat this mental and physical health crisis! By providing a safe environment, you can enable local dogs and owners to breathe a collective sigh of relief as they get to engage in natural behaviors (like sniffing, running, and playing) in a private space free of potential dangers they can't escape at city parks or on the sidewalk.