Dog park

Dog parks have varying features, although they typically offer a 4-to-6-foot (1.2 to 1.8 m) fence, separate double-gated entry and exit points, adequate drainage, benches for humans, shade for hot days, parking close to the site, water, pooper-scooper to pick up and dispose of animal waste in covered trash cans, and regular maintenance and cleaning of the grounds.

[6][7] Dog parks began as a reaction to decreased public space, urban development, and leash laws.

Calgary, AB has the highest per capita in North America, with 15.9 dog parks for every 100,000 residents.

Similarly, a dog run is a smaller fenced area, created for the same use, that is often located within an existing park.

Some public dog parks have vaccination requirements but are not typically staffed or enforced unless there is some kind of incident which is reported to animal control.

Some municipalities designate portions of public beaches, or entire coastal areas, for the use of dogs off-leash.

Private dog parks are most commonly membership based and run as a for-profit business.

Private dog parks can also be run as part of an apartment complex or community center.

[20] According to Dan Emerson of DogChannel.com, proponents of dog parks cite the following benefits: "They promote responsible pet ownership and the enforcement of dog-control laws; give dogs a place to exercise safely, thus reducing barking and other problem behaviors; provide seniors and disabled owners with an accessible place to exercise their companions; and provide an area for community-building socializing.

[31] It has also been noted that establishing a dog park may create contention within a community when residents worry about noise, smell, and traffic.