Dog parks are great at providing a safe space to let your pup exercise. Socializing is also important in keeping a dog mentally healthy, and dog parks always have other pups ready to play. Most of the dog parks in Tucson are run by the city and have rules that must be followed. Some of the rules include:
No puppies under 4 months.No aggressive dogs in the park.Dogs who are ill or in heat are not permitted in the park.All dogs must be licensed and fully vaccinated.Owners are responsible for their dogs and must clean up after them.
Different dog parks bring with them different experiences, but all of them are designed to give your dog a fun area to play in. Poop bags and water are usually provided, but it is always best to bring your own when visiting any dog park. Let’s take a look at 7 of the best dog parks in Tucson, so you can find one worth visiting when in the area.
1. Udall Dog Park
Udall dog park is a 1-acre site for dogs to roam off-leash. One section of the dog park is large and spacious, with another smaller area for little breeds to run. The surfacing of the park is done with dirt and gravel, and in the wet seasons, the ground easily gets muddy. At night the area is well lit with street lights for when it gets dark. Udall dog park has plenty of running space for any dog, but the ground may make your pooch get dusty. The evening and morning are when Udall dog park is at its busiest, and if you go at night you may get the park to yourself. Morris K. Udall Park is where the dog park can be found. Along with the dog park, there are also a variety of other amenities like sports fields, trails, and playgrounds. The off-leash area is the only place where dogs do not have to be leashed, and it provides room for them to run their hearts out.
2. Anza Dog Park
Anza dog park is a 1-acre area made so you can release your pup from its leash. It is fully fenced off, with both a small and large dog area. The ground of this dog park is grass and dirt, with concrete around the perimeters so dogs don’t dig their way out. A fairly new addition to the Tucson area, Anza dog park first opened in September of 2021. The dog park has a water fountain for both humans and dogs, and benches around to sit. It is just one of the many features of Anza park, which also has other amenities to enjoy found around the park.
3. Northwest Community Dog Park
Northwest Community dog park is a medium-sized area that is fully fenced off. A simple dog park, the area is flat with sandy surfacing. Wide and open, there is plenty of space to exercise your pup. This dog park has a smaller section that is fenced off for smaller, or more timid pups. Northwest dog park is located in Ann Day Community Park and must be on a leash when not in the area. The dog park is just one of the attractions in the area, as Ann Day Community park has a variety of other things to do. Ann Day Community Park has a friendly dog park, but other amenities like:
PlaygroundPicnic tables and grillsSports fields Restrooms Walking paths
The Northwest Community dog park is spacious, but trees are spread around the park giving ample shade. A water faucet and bucket are also in there for when your pup gets thirsty. Free poop bags and trash cans are placed around to help pick up after your pet. The area is great for taking your dog on walks while on a leash, as well as letting your dog get out all its energy in the dog park.
4. North Sixth Avenue Dog Park
North Sixth Avenue dog park is a 1.3-acre off-leash area, found on the corner of Mansfield’s Park. In this dog park, there is no separate area for smaller breeds, and all dogs play together in an open space. The North Sixth Avenue Dog park has shade, water, and even toys for your pooch to play with. There is some shade for when it gets hot, and plenty of seating to watch your pup have fun. A very simple dog park, it does a great job at providing room for exercise, and friendly pooches regularly visit ready to play.
5. Smiling Dog Ranch Dog Park
Found right next to Rillito River park trail, Smiling Dog Ranch Dog Park is an off-leash area located in George Mehl Family Foothills Park. This dog park is a large open space for all sizes of dogs to interact with each other. The open space has plenty of trees for shade, and seating is spread about. The surface is mostly dirt and after playing it is common for the pups to be dusty. Smiling Dog Ranch Dog Park is well maintained, and clean. An agility course with tunnels is in this park so they can get out all their energy. Water and poop bags are provided to help take care of your pup. This dog park is great for socialization, but it is best if your dog is capable of safely playing with breeds of all sizes.
6. Miko’s Corner Playground Dog Park
Miko’s Corner playground dog park is a 2 acres off-leash area for your pup, named after the Police dog Miko who died in the line of duty. This dog park is split into two areas, keeping larger and smaller breeds separate. A fully fenced-off park, the entrance is double gated and secure. All the needed dog park necessities like water fountains, poop bags, and benches are found in the area. Trees are spread around for shade, and being so open you can exercise the most active of pooches. Most of the surface is gravel and dirt, but a concrete path takes you around the park. Tennis balls are provided at the park, and plenty of room makes it fun to play fetch. The dog park is located in Reid Park, which has other things to enjoy in the area like a garden, pond, sports field, playground, and picnic area.
7. Ivan’s Spot Dog Park
Ivan Spot dog park is located in Purple Heart Park and is dedicated to the Tucson Police Department Police dog Ivan, who sadly lost its life in the line of duty. Fully fenced off, this dog park is separated into two areas, with one being for smaller dogs. Ivans spot dog park is circular shaped and has a sand and gravel surfacing. Going around the park is a paved path, with trees planted around for shade. Drinking fountains and poop bags are free at the park. A wide-open area, the dog park is around 1 acre altogether. Ivan’s spot is found at the back of Purple Heart park, which is a large community park of around 37.2 acres. The dog park is just one of the amenities nearby, as there are also sports fields, a skate park, playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking paths.
