Looking for a ‘leash-free’ place to bring your four-legged best friend in Fort Lauderdale? Here are 5 great spots to choose from in Broward County:
This is a 3-acre fenced in area designated for dogs to run leash-free. Located just west of Markham Park’s main entrance, this grassy dog park is a very popular place to bring your pup. Paved paths for walking or running, doggie drinking fountains, a dog washing area, and bags provided
16001 W. State Road, 84, Sunrise, FL
Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm | Info: (954) 357-8868
Park Admission: Weekdays Free, weekends and holidays $1 per hour parking, $5 daily maximum
The 92-acre Snyder Park has fenced off a large grassy area for dogs to run free. There are separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, hosing stations, drinking fountains for canines and humans and benches for dog owners. Bark Park is staffed with a supervisor for extra safety.
3299 S.W. 4th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL
Hours: 7:00 am – 7:00 pm (Closed Thursdays from 8:00 am – 11:00 pm) | Info: (954) 828-4341
Admission: $1 per hour parking, $5 max per day
Pompano Dog Park offers 2.6 acres of a large fenced in grassy area for large and small dogs to run leash-free, with very secure gates. There are separate areas for small and large dogs. The park is very clean and the city seems to take great pride in keeping it that way. Water bowls for your dog and doggy bag dispensers are provided. You now have to become a member of the park to enjoy the benefits, but it’s easy to join. Bring your drivers license, proof of rabies and a photo of your dog/s (right from your phone is fine), to the Pompano Park Aquatic Center sign in desk. Location: 820 NE 18th Ave. Pompano Beach, FL 33060. The fee is minimal (residents $30 per dog/ non-residents $60 per dog). The process is very easy, and you will receive a keychain FOB to enter the park upon completion of your membership.
1101 N Federal Hwy, Pompano Beach, FL 33062
Hours: Wednesday-Monday, sunrise to sunset | Info: (954) 786-4574
Note: The park is closed on Tuesday for routine maintenance
Admission: Membership Required
This neighborhood park has separate areas for large and small dogs to run leash-free and some dog agility equipment. There is not a lot of shade in this park, but dog owners and their pets seem to love it here.
9751 Johnson St, Pembroke Pines
Hours: 8:00 am – Dusk | Info:(954) 435-6525
Admission: Free
3900 SW100th Avenue, Davie, FL
Hours: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm | Info: (954)357-5130
Park Admission: Weekdays Free, Weekends and Holidays $1.50 per person ages 6 and up
All dogs should be up to date with shots and health check-ups before visiting the parks. Temperaments are very important as well. If your dog is prone to aggression don’t take any chances!
If you have a new pup, a dog park can be quite an overwhelming experience. Move slowly by making sure you have socialized your pet in a less intimidating environment before launching him/her into a frenzy of animals that are already well acquainted with park protocol. For example, find a few friends who have dogs, and then take your babies to a contained fenced-in area (maybe your back yard, or theirs?) to let them play a bit. Watch how your dog interacts, this will give you an idea of how ready or not the animal is. Over time you will know when it’s a good fit and off you’ll go with your camera in hand to record the wonders of dog land!
There are lots more Fort Lauderdale dog parks and dog-friendly outdoor areas that aren't 'leash-free'. For a complete list, visit Broward's online park resource or Humane Society's great dog park list that includes neighboring counties.