The South Bay Area is filled with dog lovers, and most of us like to include our canine family members in as many activities as we can. Fortunately for dog lovers in San Jose, there is no shortage of fun things to do.
Here are some ideas that might work for you and your dog, whether your idea of a good time is a lengthy hike, a romp with the gang or a quiet cup of espresso with Rex the Wonder Dog by your side.
1. Dog Parks
The multitude of playgrounds constructed especially for dogs is a testament to the number of dog lovers in San Jose. Here are just some of the higher-rated dog parks, where off-leash fun is at its best:
- Miyuki Dog Park
- Roy M. Butcher Dog Park
- Saratoga Creek Dog Park
- Jeffrey Fontana Dog Park
- Hellyer Dog Park
- Selma Olinder Dog Park
- Ryland Dog Park
- Delmas Dog Park
2. Activities
These places are fun for you as well as your dog, but in most cases leashes are required:
- Bark in the Park San Jose is a major annual festival organizers call the “premier event for dog lovers and their pets.” Mark your calendar -- it’s scheduled to return on September 19, 2015.
- Sirius Puppy & Dog Training offers regularly scheduled “puppy socials,” with separate time slots for active pups and shy pups.
- Almaden Quicksilver County Park offers hillside hiking and a chance to learn about California’s rich mining history.
- Almaden Lake Park is a lovely, quiet San Jose city park.
- Coyote Creek Trail is part of the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, with lots of room to roam.
- Waterford Park is very pet-friendly and even has specialized exercise areas (for people).
- Parma Park is a neighborhood park that includes a playground and restrooms.
3. Shopping & Dining
These dog-friendly businesses encourage you to bring your pup to share the fun:
- Pet Food Express – this Beast of the Bay award winner is a great place to shop for all of Fido’s favorite goodies, and they give out free treats, too.
- Philz Coffee House is another Beast of the Bay winner.
- Santana Row.
- Downtown San Jose Farmers’ Market.
What makes a great dog park?
Only you and your dog can know which details matter most to you, but reviewers say they look for:
- Plenty of shade.
- Variety of dogs to play with.
- Separation for smallest dogs.
- Picnic tables and/or places to sit.
- Vigilant owners.
- Synthetic grass, because it’s cleaner.
- Plenty of water.
What favorite places would you recommend to other dog lovers in San Jose? Leave some comments below!
