You love your dog. You love to play with him, or her. But sometimes taking them to dog parks in San Jose can give them a better romp and help them develop better social skills, too.
It’s important to bear in mind that not all dogs are cut out for the dog park experience. More “advanced” parks have separate areas for the little guys and the big boys, so your pug doesn’t inadvertently get mowed over by a boxer. But many parks are an all-in-one configuration. Some dogs are too aggressive, and sensitive dogs can be overwhelmed by crowding and chaos.
So before you head off to dog parks in San Jose, check out these recommendations from the
Association of Pet Dog Trainers:
- Never take intact males or females in heat to a dog park.
- Make sure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on their vaccines.
- Watch other dogs for signs of behavioral or health problems, and remove your dog if you (or they) feel uncomfortable.
- Remove your dog if they are aren’t “playing nice” with others.
- Observe your dog to be sure he’s having fun, whether he is racing around on his own, interacting with others or just having a sniff-fest off by himself.
- Don’t give your dog toys or treats at the park.
- Always bring water and a dish of some kind, because not every dog park provides water on site.
- Pick up after your dog. Always carry poop-scooping materials with you, because not every dog park provides them, either.
Where are the best dog parks in San Jose?
This is not a comprehensive list of every dog park in the area, but these are these parks offer a great variety of amenities and they are located all around the San Jose area:
Miyuki Dog Park
Located on Miyuki Drive off Santa Teresa Blvd.
This is the original of all dog parks in San Jose, so it has history but it’s not the largest or most “civilized” by any means. Amenities:
- Double-gated entry
- Small dirt play area
- Bench
- Waste collection
Hellyer County Park
Located in southern San Jose, this park includes a 2-acre designated “off-leash” area. The park is closed on Wednesdays, and although the dog area is free the park itself charges a fee. Amenities:
- 6’ perimeter fence
- Benches
- Shade trees
- Grass play area
- Fountain
Butcher Dog Park
Inside Butcher Park at Camden Avenue Lancaster Drive
This park is so popular it draws pets and their owners from well beyond San Jose. Although the leashing/unleashing area is common, there are separate play areas for large and small dogs. Amenities:
- Double-gated fencing
- 4’ perimeter fence
- 60’ x 80’ small dog area
- 80’ x 180’ large dog area
- Pet fountains in each area
- Artificial turf and sandy play areas
- Waste collection
- Shade trees
Delmas Dog Park
This is a stand-alone park at the corner of Park Avenue and Delmas Avenue. Amenities:
17,000 square foot play area with bark/mulch
- Fenced
- Double-gated
- Fountains and dog bowls
- Tables and benches
- Good security lighting
Olinder Dog Park
Inside Selma Olinder Park at 18th Street and East William Street, with parking designated specifically for dog park patrons
Amenities:
- ¾ acre play area that can accommodate 20-30 dogs
- Separate areas for large and small dogs
- Double-gated entry
- Fencing
- Benches
- Shade trees
Raleigh Linear Dog Park
Inside Raleigh Linear Park, near Raleigh Road southwest of Charlotte Road
Amenities:
- Fenced
- Artificial turf and dissolved granite play areas
- Benches
- Tables
Saratoga Creek Dog Park
Located at Doyle Road and Lassen Avenue. Amenities:
- Artificial turf play area
- Fountain
- Benches
Whichever dog parks in San Jose you choose to patronize, you’ll be glad you did when you see the canines offering one another a friendly play bow and a chance to zip around together. Choosing a dog park with artificial turf will make your pup's experience even better.
Looking for fun ideas for your dog in San Jose? Just follow the link!