Does your Seattle sniffer need more social time or the chance for off-leash exploration in a safe space? Why not take her to a dog park?
From small to large, these Rover rec spots are the bee’s knees for barkin’ fun in the sun (or, more often, clouds, in Seattle’s case).
Below, we’ll share the best dog parks in Seattle, explain what separates the best dog parks from the rest, and run through dog park etiquette 101.
16 Best Dog Parks in Seattle
Seattle’s a unique city of coastal coves, mountain retreats, and heaps of forest, making it the perfect city for some out-of-this-world dog parks. We’ve wrangled the best dog parks in Seattle in one place, so let’s get after them!
1. Blue Dog Pond
About: Nestled within Sam Smith Park, Blue Dog Pond (which does not appear to actually have a pond) is a fully fenced doggy hangout marked by a giant blue dog statue. The nearby grounds also feature several sculptures to take in beyond the dog park gates while enjoying a leashed walk through trails for sniffing enrichment.
Info:
- Area: Central Seattle
- Address: 1520 26th Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98144
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/blue-dog-pond
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: 1.7 acres
Special notes:
- Natural grass and dirt terrain with slopes to climb and explore
- It can get muddy, so always pack towels for cleanup
- Running water available for hydrating your hound
- Lots of brush and trees, so do a thorough tick check after each visit
- All visiting dogs must be vaccinated and licensed
- Limited bench seating is available
- Walking trails within the off-leash section for enjoying mini hikes with your pup
2. Golden Gardens Park Off-Leash Dog Park
About: Found within the northern portion of the greater Golden Gardens Park, this off-leash canine hangout has the rugged feel you love about the area, plus incredible views to enjoy as your pup plays. It’s best suited for well-trained woofs or small dogs who won’t try to scale fencing.
Info:
- Area: Ballard
- Address: 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, WA, US, 98117
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/golden-gardens-park
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: 1 acre
Special notes:
- The mix of chain link and wood-and-chicken-wire fencing is not tall or secure enough for escape artists
- Woodchip and dirt terrain can get muddy (also not ideal if your dog eats things he shouldn’t!)
- Separate small and large dog sections
- Plenty of seating from tables and benches
- Small covered area to hide from the sun or passing showers
- Agility course offers added canine enrichment
- Running water and water bowls are available
- Poop bags and waste bins on site
- Dogs aren’t allowed on the beach or children’s play areas (even leashed!)
3. Denny Park Off-Leash Dog Area
About: Seattle’s oldest park is home to this Rover romp, offering a basic space for off-leash exploration. While it doesn’t provide the bells and whistles of other parks, this humble hound hideaway still gives city-slicking sniffers a chance to run and play with furry friends.
Info:
- Area: South Lake Union
- Address: 100 Dexter Ave N Seattle, WA 98109
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/denny-park
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: Less than ¼ acre
Special notes:
- Fully enclosed by a 4-foot chain link fence (but it may not suit escape artist doggos who jump over fences!)
- No separate sections for small and large dogs
- Graveled terrain offers better drainage than other parks in Seattle’s wet climate
- Double-gated entrance for added sniffer safety
- Wheelchair accessible
- Well-shaded by trees
- Several benches for human visitors to rest
- Onsite poop bag dispensers (we still recommend packing your own!)
- Paved trails outside the dog run for leashed walks
4. Genesee Dog Park
About: With a mix of real grass, gravel, and dirt, this off-leash dog run offers rough-and-tumble fun within a fenced area of Genesee Park and Playfield. It can get muddier than your standard pup park after rain, so we recommend packing towels and other canine cleanup gear.
Info:
- Area: Lakewood
- Address: 4316 S Genesee St., Seattle, WA 98118
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/genesee-park-and-playfield
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: 2.5 acres
Special notes:
- Double-gated entrance keeps canines safer
- Surrounded by standard chain link fencing (may be too short for dogs who jump fences!)
- Onsite water spigots and drinking bowls
- No puppies under four months are allowed
- Plenty of trees for shade, sniffing, and woofer “watering”
- Multiple benches for sitting while your pup plays
- All dogs must be vaccinated and licensed
- Pooper scoopers, trash cans, and poop bags are available onsite
5. Kinnear Park Off-Leash Area
About: Located in the western portion of Kinnear Park, this scenic sniffer stomping ground isn’t the biggest, but it’s still a nice little area that lets city-living woofs enjoy free time. Unfortunately, this park lacks many onsite amenities, such as running water, so plan and pack accordingly.
Info:
- Area: West Queen Anne
- Address: 899 W Olympic Pl., Seattle, WA 98119
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/kinnear-park
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Size: 5400 square feet
Special notes:
- No separate space for small dogs and seniors
- Fully enclosed by 4-foot high wood fencing
- Double-gated entry points
- Logs, rocks, and other natural landscaping for dogs to explore
- Grass, gravel, and dirt terrain (bring a towel for cleanup; it can get messy!)
- Not much seating, so wear comfy shoes!
- Trashcan and poop bags available at the park, but pack extra to be safe
- Nearby nature trails are great for a leashed walk after park play
6. Magnolia Manor Park Off-Leash Area
About: With a designated “Chuck It” zone for fetch-happy four-footers, this open running space for dogs offers straightforward off-leash fun and freedom. Onsite, it also offers dog water fountains, poop bags, and trash cans for waste disposal.
Info:
- Area: Magnolia
- Address: 3500 28th Ave W, Seattle, WA 98199
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/magnolia-manor-park
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: 21,000 square feet
Special notes:
- Waist-height wood and wire fencing fully encloses the park (climbable and jumpable for escape experts!)
- The mix of gravel, woodchip, grass, and dirt terrain can get muddy
- Lack of shade and benches compared to other dog parks
- Small and large dog areas are separated
- Double-gated entry at the main “large” dog play area
- Some natural obstacles made of logs for dogs to check out within the runs
7. Magnuson Park Off-Leash Area
About: Have a water-loving woof who adores splashing as he sniffs? Check out this massive mutt play zone featuring the only water access among dog parks within the Seattle city limits!
Info:
- Area: View Ridge
- Address: 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/magnuson-park/off-leash-area
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: 8.6 acres
Special notes:
- Features gravel, dirt, water, and grass terrains (pack towels and other cleanup gear!)
- Water access is to Lake Washington, a freshwater source (if you aren’t sure of your pup’s swimming skills, a dog life vest is recommended!)
- Has a small and shy dog area sectioned away from the main mutt play space
- Limited benches and tree cover in some areas of the park
- Multiple trails to explore with your floof
8. Northacres Park Off-Leash Area
About: Entirely fenced with standard chain link, this forested floof space is a great place to escape the city’s hustle for some off-leash fun. Running water and drinking bowls are available onsite, along with benches and plenty of coverage from trees to keep you cozy as your canine plays.
Info:
- Area: Haller Lake
- Address: 12718 1st Ave. NE, Seattle, WA 98125
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/northacres-park
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Size: 1.6 acres
Special notes:
- One play space with no designated little dog zone
- Woodchip, gravel, and dirt terrain gets messy in Seattle’s rain
- Shrouded in tall trees, brush, and other greenery (make sure your dog’s tick prevention is up-to-date!)
- Doesn’t have as much open ground as some other dog parks, so it could be hard to enjoy rounds of fetch
- Poop bags and trash cans are stationed around for cleanup
- Built-in natural obstacles like log steps for dogs to play on
9. Plymouth Pillars Park Off-Leash Area
About: Small but mighty for the mutts who use it, Plymouth Pillars Park Off-Leash Area is a narrow strip of urban fun for dogs needing space to run free. Fenced entirely in chain-link fencing, it also has onsite trash cans for convenient waste disposal. Generally speaking, it is well-maintained, according to most pet parents who’ve visited.
Info:
- Area: Capitol Hill
- Address: 1050 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98101
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/plymouth-pillars-park
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Size: 0.2 acres
Special notes:
- Crushed rock terrain promotes drainage, keeping messes at bay in Seattle’s famous rainy weather
- No separate space for small dogs or seniors
- Watering stations for humans and dogs are available seasonally
- Stone landscaping offers varied terrain and obstacles for dogs to investigate
- Nearby murals offer a one-of-a-kind ambiance for a dog park
- Great lighting for those early morning and twilight play breaks
10. Regrade Park Off-Leash Area
About: With a colorful canine mural and several large, concrete obstacles, this off-leash dog zone is an urban oasis for apartment-dwelling doggos needing a chance to stretch muscles and minds. Concrete, gravel, and woodchips make up most of the terrain, while onsite poop bag dispensers and waste bins make cleanup easier.
Info:
- Area: Belltown
- Address: 2251 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/regrade-park
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Size: 0.3 acres
Special notes:
- Entirely enclosed by five-foot-high chain-link fencing
- Double-gated entrances
- All dogs must be vaccinated and licensed to visit
- Running water is available for hydrating your hound (packing a dog water bottle is recommended just in case bowls aren’t accessible)
- Several trees offer shade and sniffing opportunities
- Nearby traffic can be too noisy for some dogs
11. Westcrest Park Off-Leash Area
About: Reopened with improved drainage to combat the city’s ever-present rain, this ample off-leash space has heaps of nooks and crannies for your dog to explore, including under logs and around agility equipment. As the city’s second-largest fur fun zone, it’s one to add to your visit list.
Info:
- Area: West Seattle
- Address: 9000 8th Ave. SW, Seattle, WA 98106
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/westcrest-park
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Size: 8.4 acres
Special notes:
- Enclosed in chain-link fencing (not the best for escape artists!)
- A separate play area for small, shy dogs is available
- Woodchips, grass, and gravel terrain gets messy in Seattle’s wet climate
- Plenty of seating for pet parents while pups play
- An environment rich in shrubs and trees to wander through and sniff
- Good lighting for safer morning and evening play sessions
- Dog drinking fountain stationed onsite
- Some covered areas that provide refuge during passing showers
- Plenty of open space for playing fetch
- Forested walking trails close by for leashed hikes
12. Woodland Park Off-Leash Area
About: Canopied by soaring trees, this dog park is rich in northwestern scenery and fully housed in chain-link fencing. A separate area for small and older dogs keeps everyone comfortable, while natural staircases and other obstacles tire canine brains and bodies.
Info:
- Area: Woodland Park
- Address: 1000 N 50th St, Seattle, WA 98103
- Website: https://www.seattle.gov/parks/allparks/woodland-park
- Open hours: 4:00 AM to 11:30 PM
- Size: 1 acre
Special notes:
- Sand, dirt, and gravel terrain can get messy
- Sloped terrain in portions with loads of exposed roots, so watch your step!
- Onsite running water and several water bowls
- Poop bag dispensers and trash bins readily available for guests
- Several benches for unwinding while your woof zooms around
13. Off Leash Area Edmonds
About: Despite being technically outside Seattle’s borders, this off-leash mutt mecca is well worth the thirty-minute drive north for some open-air fun. Fencing discourages dogs from wandering off, but the area isn’t fully-enclosed, especially at low tide, so this isn’t the place for escape artists or dogs without good recall.
Info:
- Area: Edmonds
- Address: 498 Admiral Way, Edmonds, WA 98020
- Website: https://www.olae.org/
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Size: 2 acres
Special notes:
- Gravel and sand terrain
- Small dog section available that’s isolated from bigger barkers
- Dog rinsing station to wash away salt water
- Double-gated entrance
- All visiting dogs must be licensed and vaccinated
- Pinch and choke collars are not permitted within the dog run
- Females in heat and puppies under 4 months aren’t allowed
- Dogs aren’t allowed in nearby Marina Beach Park (even leashed dogs!)
- Maintained by a team of volunteers
- Agility equipment available in the sandy portion of the park
- Visiting dogs have water access to Puget Sound
Dog parks are full of creepy crawlies. Fleas are an obvious one, making a great flea preventative a must before entry, while ticks are an often-overlooked foe to be wary of. Tick prevention comes in many forms, from topicals to tick collars.
Lastly, there are heartworms spread through mosquitoes. Heartworm prevention is essential in keeping your canine safe every day of the year (not just during summer!)
14. Marymoor Off-Leash Dog Area
About: An open-gated dog park, Marymoor is designed for well-trained pups with great recall, so if your floof fits the bill, head to this natural pupper paradise forty minutes east of Seattle. With fields, slopes, and water sources, it’s a one-of-a-kind destination for a day of doggy adventures.
Info:
- Area: King County
- Address: 6046 West Lake Sammamish Pkwy NE, Redmond, WA 98052
- Website: https://www.soda.org/about-marymoor/
- Open hours: 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM
- Size: 40 acres
Special notes:
- Variety of terrain, from gravel to dirt to grass and water for swimming
- The only source of water is from the Sammamish River (pack a dog water dish and supply if you’re not keen on your canine drinking this)
- Human restrooms for pet parents
- If your dog doesn’t have great recall, try walking him on a long leash
- Poop bags and waste baskets available onsite
- Walking trails to venture down with your doggo
- $1.00 parking fee
15. Grandview Off-Leash Dog Park
About: Traveling 35 minutes south of the city’s lights, you’ll find this mega-sized park for off-leash fun with incredible mountain views, winding paths, and open fields for rounds of fetch with your fur kid. This expansive space is entirely funded by donations and maintained by volunteers, so consider lending a helping hand (or donating a few bucks) to keep it pristine for puppers.
Info:
- Area: Seatac
- Address: 3600 S 228th St, SeaTac, WA 98198
- Website: https://grandviewoffleash.org/
- Open hours: Dawn to dusk
- Size: 34 acres
Special notes:
- Off-leash area fenced in wood-and-wire barriers (not escape-proof!)
- Combination of dirt, gravel, and grass terrain
- Onsite agility equipment to test your dog’s skills
- Human and dog water fountains are available in some seasons
- In winter, a rainwater runoff barrel of water supplies sniffers water
- Plastic poop bags and trash cans provided for convenient cleanup
- Dogs must be leashed outside of the off-leash area
- All dogs must be current on vaccinations and licensing
- Bicycles aren’t permitted in the park
- Due to the park’s sheer size, it may be best to keep your dog on a long lead if he doesn’t come when called
16. Dogwood Play Park
About: Bring your pooch to this innovative doggy play setup for a mere $15 per dog. Watch him run around with other Rovers while you enjoy a cold adult beverage at the bar or sip spirits outside under the sun.
Info:
- Area: Lake City
- Address: 12568 33rd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125
- Website: https://www.dogwoodplaypark.com/
- Open hours: Monday to Friday 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, Saturday 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Sunday 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- Size: 8000 square feet (2000 square feet sectioned for small, calm dogs)
Special notes:
- All guests must be 21 or older
- Astroturf and hardwood
- Electronic, prong, and choke collars aren’t allowed
- Pet parents must clean up after their canines
- No excessive barking is permitted
- Toys and treats aren’t allowed
- Calm and active play zones keep canines safer and more comfortable during visits
- All owners must provide proof of their dog’s up-to-date vaccinations before visiting (rabies, distemper, and Bordetella)
- Dogs over 1 year must be spayed or neutered
- You can save with monthly memberships, multi-dog discounts, frequent flier punch cards, and more
- Seating and covered areas are open for pet parents to watch dogs play
- “Day Stay” also available Monday to Friday for doggy daycare-like service
- Loads of play equipment cycled seasonally, like splash pools and tires
Need dinner or drinks with your doggo? You’re in luck! There are several dog-friendly bars and dog-friendly restaurants in Seattle!
What To Look for in a Dog Park?
Dog parks come in a variety of vibes and layouts. Some pet parents love the go-with-the-flow nature of some public parks, while others prefer structured, members-only areas. What’s most important is identifying what works best for you and finding the right match.
When browsing potential dog parks, pay attention to the following:
- Size: Your dog needs space to do her thing, especially if she’s a fan of sprinting or is known for epic zoomies. Some dog parks (particularly in cities like Seattle) are less than an acre, leading to capacity problems and a lack of room for sniffers to run. At the same time, parks that are too large can be a headache if your dog doesn’t come when called.
- Fencing: Adequate fence height keeps playtime safe. Fences that are 6-feet-tall are ideal, but some parks have 3- or 4-foot-tall fencing, which may not mesh with your dog’s needs. It’s also vital to consider fence material. Chain-link is common but climbable. Similarly, slatted fences may have gaps that small dogs slip between to escape.
- Separate spaces: Canines with high prey drives shouldn’t be around small dogs, as you don’t want to risk predatory aggression. Similarly, large, bouncy barkers can accidentally hurt a smaller or older floof during play. Many dog parks avoid these problems by having a designated section for small or senior sniffers.
- Entrance/exit styles: Double-gated entry and exit points offer added security as new people flow in and out of the dog play area, as there’s a second, smaller area that houses any escaped pooches that may slip through the first gate behind someone.
- Access: Most dog parks are public, but members-only ones exist too. Public parks are almost always free and have general rules to follow, while private parks generally charge a membership fee and ask for proof of vaccination and altering at signup.
- Terrain: Most dog parks are grass, but artificial turf and gravel are popular too. In a wet climate like Seattle, woodchip, dirt, and grass parks often become mud pits, transforming visiting dogs into dirty disasters.
- Onsite water access: Doggos need to stay hydrated during play, and many dog parks make the task easier with built-in water spigots and fountains. If they’re unavailable, you should pack your bowl and water source to ensure your pup’s thirst is quenched and he doesn’t overheat.
- Waste disposal stations: At a bare minimum, you want a dog park with ample trash cans for disposing of your pup’s poops. Some dog parks also have onsite dog poop bag dispensers or poop scoopers to make the task easier.
- Enrichment: Agility equipment and natural obstacles like fallen logs are fun for dogs to explore, whether your pup climbs over, sniffs, or rolls around on them. These add more fun than the standard bare patch of open space seen in off-leash dog parks.
- Hours: Many dog parks are open from sunrise to sunset, but some have specific hours or designated days they’re closed down for maintenance. Avoid a headache by looking these up in advance.
- Human goodies: Benches and covered areas are a pet parent’s best friend at the dog park, especially in a city with as much rain as Seattle. Some dog parks also have bathrooms, which is always a win.
- Breed restrictions: Some dog parks don’t allow bully breeds like pit bulls to join the fun. Others may restrict multiple large, strong breeds, like Rottweilers and German shepherds. Just research these things in advance before visiting any dog park.
Following Dog Park Manners
Understanding and following dog park etiquette ensures Fido fun zones won’t become the wild west of the woof kingdom. These social norms keep the fun flowing as it should, plus they help the park stay nice for your next visit.
Whenever you visit a dog park, always:
- Clean up poop: It’s plain old rude to leave your pup’s poops laying around, and it’s an easy way to earn the ire of other owners. Not only is dog poop gross but also a potential health hazard. We know it isn’t fun, but the best practice is to remove every pile of forgotten poop to ensure the dog park stays clean.
- Watch your dog: The dog park isn’t your doggy daycare. You must monitor your dog as he runs around, ensuring he doesn’t escape, pester other dogs, or harass humans.
- Correct problematic behaviors: Humping, excessive biting, and jumping are just some rude behaviors dogs inflict on one another. Prevent canine quarrels by stopping and redirecting your dog immediately.
- Leave food and treats at home: We know your dog loves her Snausages, but other dogs may be less keen on sharing, leading to food aggression issues at the park. Some dogs may even be allergic to your dog’s treats. Just leave the food at home and focus on the fun for now.
- Take responsibility for your dog: As an owner, you’re liable for whatever damage your dog inflicts, whether he hurts another dog during rowdy play or chews through and damages fencing.
- Return the park to how you found it: If your dog digs a hole, fill it in. If he shreds a paper bag that happens to float by, clean it up. A dog park community can only stay fun and well-kept if visitors work to keep it that way.
- Be kind: The dog park isn’t where you debate politics or argue about sports. You’re visiting to let your dog stretch his legs and have fun. None of that involves being rude or snappy with another human. Even if a strange dog’s jumping on you or being a jerk, there’s no need to be snappy. A quick “Hey, can you get your dog?” with a laugh should suffice.
Have you visited any of our picks for the best dog parks in Seattle? Is there one we missed that you frequent with your floof? Share with us in the comments. We’d love to hear about it!
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