Dogs need regular exercise, and letting them off their leash is a proven way to get out their energy for the day. Socialization is also important in keeping a pup stimulated, and the other dogs you can find at a dog park can make for a friendly playmate. St Louis, Missouri, has a variety of things to do, like eating at restaurants, sightseeing, and visiting museums, but the dog parks are one of the most dog-friendly areas in the city. For the next time you are in the city, let’s take a look at 9 of the best dog parks in St. Louis.
What Rules Should I Know About At A Dog Park?
Before visiting any dog park, making sure your pup is well-trained and following the rules of the park is indispensable and gives your dog and the others that visit a great time. The rules at each dog park are different and can usually be found on a sign posted right outside the off-leash park. When visiting any dog park, be sure to check out and follow the rules put in place. Common rules you can find at the dog parks in St. Louis include:
No small children in the off-leash parkAggressive dogs are not permitted Dogs must have current vaccinations Sick or in-heat dogs are not allowedNo smoking or alcohol in the dog park Owners are responsible for the dogs they bringClean up after your dogNo puppies under 6 months
Knowing that you know some of the rules that may be in place at the dog parks, here are the 10 best in St. Louis that you may want to consider checking out if in the area with your pup.
1. French town Dog Park
A membership-only dog park for St. Louis residents and visitors, the Frenchtown Dog Park is an off-leash park that is around 0.74 acres large. There are two different sections at this dog park, both fully fenced in. One of the sections of this dog park is for larger dogs, and the other is for the small breeds that visit. Frenchtown dog park is open and flat, with a dirt and grass surface. Large trees are spread around the park for shade, and there are a few benches for seating. This off-leash park has a few agility structures like a tunnel and ramp to stimulate your pup’s brain as well as muscles.
2. Benton Park West Dog Park
The Benton Park West Dog Park is a members-only dog park that is run by the volunteers of those that visit it in St. Louis. The dog park has a yearly membership for those that visit, and it costs an additional amount for each dog you plan to bring. The daily membership for a dog is only $10. This dog park is not the largest but is a small space for dogs to run and play. Having a copy of your veterinary records, and getting your dog registered, is required for your dog to become a member and visit the park. Benton Park West Dog Park is run by volunteers of the area, and the memberships have made improvements to the dog park.
3. SLU Dog Park & Sculpture Garden
The SLU Dog Park and Sculpture Garden is one of the few dog parks in St. Louis that is free to visit. This off-leash area has a grass surface and is fully fenced in. The dog park is a sculptor park that is dog friendly and is run by the University of St. Louis. This dog park is very open and great for dogs who love to run, but be sure to watch your dog since the fence around that park has a small gap where small dogs can fit under. In the rainy season, this dog park gets wet easily, and on some days, the park is closed for maintenance or other reasons. Water fountains are located nearby when your pup gets thirsty. This large grassy dog park is good for dogs who love to run and are nearby the park.
4. Laclede’s Landing Dog Park
Found in the bustling downtown region of St. Louis, Laclede’s Landing Dog Park is a large place for dogs to run off their leash. The dog park is under a bridge, so even on the hottest days, there is plenty of shade. It is fully fenced in and has a large grassy field for frolicking. Laclede’s Landing Dog Park has benches to watch your pup sit and water fountains for dogs to drink out of. Kiddie pools are also in the dog park for dogs who enjoy getting wet to cool off on hot days. The park is free to visit, but the parking nearby costs to use.
5. Treecourt Unleashed Dog Adventure Park
A very spacious park for dogs, Treecourt Unleashed Dog Adventure Park gives your pooch an exciting day with multiple things to enjoy. This dog park is for members only. A temperament test is also required to be taken by dogs that visit. This dog park is extremely large and is around 9 acres large. This dog park has more requirements than the other parks in St. Louis, and they can be found on the dog park’s website. Large spaces for your dog to play, water stations, benches, and walking trails are things you can expect at this dog park. With ample space that gets out the energy of the most active breeds, this dog park is worth a visit if you do not mind the membership fee.
6. The Doghaus
Not your average dog park, The Doghaus is also a bar and place to socialize with others. To get into the off-leash park, a pass is required, which costs around $10, but if you plan on coming to this dog park regularly, a yearly membership is available. The dog park serves a variety of alcoholic beverages and even has a TV for upcoming games. The Doghaus is good for dogs who love to socialize and relax with other local pups, but it has limited space compared to larger parks.
7. Tails & Trails Dog Park at Queeny Park
Everything you need, like poop bags, water stations, and even agility structures, are provided for you and your pup at the Tails and Trails Dog Park at Queeny Park. As a membership-only park, a key fob is needed to access the off-leash section. This dog park is around 5 acres large and has two separate areas. One of the sections is for smaller dogs, and another area with the agility equipment is for the larger ones. If you just want to check out what this dog park has to offer, a $ 5-day pass is a variable. The Tails and Trails Dog Park is a very spacious and flat field perfect for games like fetch. It is well-maintained and kept clean for all the pooches that visit.
8. Bar K St. Louis
The Bar K St. Louis is one of the few dog parks in the city that caters to both humans and hounds. Membership is required for your dog to visit, which starts at $35 per dog, and different plans are available to fit your needs best. A guest pass for this dog bar is also available starting at $10, and it lets you get a taste of the experience the park offers. The entry fees and requirements for your dog can be found on its website. This dog park has both an indoor and outdoor section for your dog to have fun. Along with the space, you can find agility equipment and other friendly pups at this dog bar. The bar/restaurant/coffee house has a variety of options on the menu, making it easy to have a good time at this dog park, even if you don’t have a dog.
9. St. Johns Community Dog Park
One of the few free dog parks in St. Louis, the St. Johns Community Dog Park is a popular off-leash park in its area. This dog park is split into two sections to keep large and smaller breeds separate. This dog park is fenced in with a chain link fence and has a natural grass landscape. Benches are abundant in the dog park, with large trees around for shade. St. Johns Community Dog Park is a simple place for dogs to play, but some may think the off-leash park is too small with little to do. Dogs will enjoy getting off their leash in this park, as there is plenty of space for them to run. Poop bags and trash cans are spread around the park to help keep the park clean. In St. Louis, this dog park is a good choice if you’re looking for somewhere free and secure for your pup to play.
