Dog parks can be a lot of fun for many dogs and their owners, but not all dogs are suited for off-leash activity. Do not take your dog to a dog park if he or she has shown aggressive tendencies toward people or other dogs.
Most dog parks have rules and restrictions, including a minimum age requirement for dogs (typically over 4 months), vaccination and licensing requirements. Not all dog parks provide poop bags, so bring along a couple of bags and some water for your dog just in case. And you might want to bring a towel since dogs can get dirty. Always supervise your pet and follow all park rules. And don’t forget to have fun!
La Paws Dog Park: 25100 Felipe Road, Mission Viejo
Opened in 2014, this 6-acre park includes 3 acres of slopes with a walking trail and sitting areas. Three dog-play areas make up the other 3 acres – including a space for large dogs, one for small dogs and a third for one owner to use at a time. While the dogs play, owners are treated to some great mountain views. Open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. It is closed on Thursdays from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. for weekly turf maintenance. It may also be closed because of weather or as needed.
Central Bark Dog Park: 6405 Oak Canyon Road, Irvine
With nearly 3 acres of field for some serious off-leash playtime, Central Bark includes two sections: a main area for large dogs and a separate section for small or frail dogs. It also offers covered seating areas for pet parents and is well-lit. There is water for dogs and even some communal toys. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. It is closed for maintenance on Wednesdays.
Laguna Beach Dog Park: 20672 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Open since 1992, Laguna Beach Dog Park provides expansive grassy areas and a strong connection to nature. It’s hidden between the hills of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and the Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. The more than 2 acres are divided into small and large dog areas. Though the park is owned and operated by the city, Friends of Laguna Beach Dog Park is a nonprofit that formed to help preserve and enhance the beloved dog park. Open daily from dawn to dusk, except Wednesdays, when it is closed for maintenance. It is closed during and after rainy days.
Wildcatters Dog Park: 3450 E. Santa Fe Road, Brea
Constructed by Shea Homes as part of a housing community, the park is owned by the city and includes a third of an acre for small dogs and an area nearly the size of a football field for large dogs. Expect a lot of area for dogs to run, a decent amount of seating for dog owners and a friendly atmosphere among pet parents. Open daily from 7 a.m. to dusk, and closed Thursdays from 7 a.m. to noon for maintenance, on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The dog park may be closed due to weather.
Olive Hills Dog Park: 700 S. Nohl Canyon Road, Anaheim
This park is a doggie oasis, with a picturesque design, including artificial turf and drought-tolerant plants, separate areas for small and large dogs, a doggie water fountain, canine agility equipment and a bronze monument in honor of the Anaheim Police Department’s police K-9 unit. Open daily from dawn to dusk.
