There are many great options for dog parks and dog friendly venues in the Fort Lauderdale area. Whether you have a Maltese or a Rottweiler there is something for everyone. When deciding where to take your canine side kick you may want to take into consideration a few things. If you are a small dog owner a park with a gated small dog area may be right for you. If your canine is an avid swimmer there are even a couple beaches and parks with swim areas. The list compiled below are some of the best parks for your pooch in the area.

 

Considerations before you go

Each facility will have their own set of rules that should be reviewed before you head out the door. In general, a Rabies vaccination is required in most states for public health purposes, but there may be others that are required. Many parks will only allow pets that have been spayed or neutered and often a license though the city is required. Having a copy of your pet’s vaccine records and license on your phone is a good idea in the unfortunate event of a dog fight. It may be best to avoid taking your new puppy out without their full set of shots, your veterinarian can give you the best guidance on this.

 

Take your pet’s personality into consideration. An anxious dog with limited socialization skills may want to start off in a more controlled and quieter situation with few other dogs, instead of the sometimes free for all at a large dog park. If you have a small dog, you may want to take them to a park with a small dog only section. If you’re not sure how your dog will do, you can always take them to the dog park and keep on them on the leash at first to see how they react. There may be poop bags and water bowls available but having your own supply is prudent, since you never know when they will run out.

Best Dog Parks in Fort Lauderdale Include:

Bark Park at Snyder Park

Located near the airport, this versatile park is a wonderland for you and your pet. With incredible amenities for human and animal alike, this oasis should not be missed. Lush nature trails and boardwalks wind around the crown jewel, a dog only gated swim area. A beautiful afternoon in the unique butterfly garden could be followed by a picnic and a round of disc golf. Local programs in the park are also available in this lush setting. To see the full amenities, rules, and parking costs, check out their website.

 

Barkyard n’ Brews

If you’re looking for an atmosphere different than the typical dog park, Barkyard n’ Brews is for you. This combination of off leash dog park and beer garden is a brew toting dog enthusiasts’ dream. It has a feel of a block party in a gated dog park with a lush lawn. Pet parents can relax in the outdoor seating and watch their fur-babies hop around the splash pad and agility course. “Wooferies,” experienced dog minders are present to help keep the peace between your pooches. This experience is accessed by paying for a membership with daily, monthly, and yearly rates.

 

Happy Tails Dog Park

Located on the outskirts of Fort Lauderdale in Plantation, Happy Tails is a large traditional dog park with separate large and small dog areas. If your pup loves to run free in the grass and trees, this is the place for you. There are restrooms, covered pavilions to keep you shaded, and ample parking available.

 

Performance Pups Inc.

Looking for a clean freshwater lake for your pet swim to their heart’s delight? This privately owned park, centered around a lake can be rented out for private events or you can buy passes for one or multiple days. With shaded water view seating for you and a dock available, you can choose to be part of the action or watch from a distance. Reservations are required. To check out pricing and availability on their website.

 

Woofing Waters Dog Park and Marina.

For those not opposed to a short drive north, Woofing waters is a haven for pet owners that want a beautiful water view as they watch their pet romp around an expansive lawn complete with agility equipment and a splash pad. There are convenient small and large dog areas, so your small friend can feel a little more comfortable. It is a private establishment with an entrance fee.

 

Canine Beach

For all the beach bums out there, a swath of Fort Lauderdale Beach named “Canine Beach” has been sectioned off for you and your furry friend. It is only available in the afternoons Friday to Sunday and there is a fee. Annual permits can be bought for $30 for residents, $45 for non-residents or $7 for one weekend through Parks and Rec. You will have to bring proof of residency and your dog’s vaccine records. There is no gated area since it’s part of the public beach, so you should feel comfortable with your dog off leash on a busy beach with a road behind you.

 

Holiday Park

Last but not least, Holiday Park is a 90-acre park with a newer dog area opened in 2017. The shaded large and small pet areas are in a gated section in the center of the park. The surrounding area has baseball and soccer fields, a gymnasium, pickle ball courts, a roller hockey rink, and the War Memorial Auditorium. Public concerts and events are given here each summer put on by the town. A hub of outdoor fun, the Jimmy Evert Tennis Center is located within the grounds as well. A park that truly has almost everything you and your pet needs, aside from a water feature.

 

Conclusion

There are many great options in the Fort Lauderdale area for both you and your pet to explore. Those listed in this article are noted as some of the best in the area, but don’t limit yourself. Check out some of these and if you enjoy them look around for options that may excite you.