Lakewood Dog Parks: A Guide for Pawsome Fun

Lakewood, Colorado, is a dog-loving city, and thankfully, it offers some great options for your furry friends to socialize, exercise, and simply enjoy the great outdoors off-leash. Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, understanding the dog park landscape will help you and your canine companion have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Key Dog Parks in Lakewood

While Lakewood doesn’t have a vast number of dedicated dog parks, it utilizes multi-use parks that often include designated off-leash areas (OLAs). It’s crucial to be aware of the specific rules and boundaries of each area. Here are a few to consider:

Addenbrooke Park

Often considered *the* Lakewood dog park, Addenbrooke Park offers a sizable fenced off-leash area. This makes it popular and sometimes crowded, but it’s a great place for energetic dogs to run and play. The area is mostly flat and grassy, providing ample space for chasing balls and greeting other pups. It features separate small and large dog areas. Be sure to bring your own water, especially during warmer months.

Belmar Park

This expansive park has a large green space with an off-leash area that’s partially fenced and has open access to the surrounding park which is not specifically for dogs. This isn’t a fully enclosed area, so dogs should have reliable recall before being let off-leash. The open space is ideal for dogs who enjoy exploring and covering ground. Owners must be vigilant and respectful of other park users.

Carmody Recreation Center

There is a very small fenced dog park at the Carmody Recreation Center. It is a good option for people looking for a quieter, more contained area but is not appropriate for high energy dogs that need to run.

Things to Know Before You Go

Before heading to any Lakewood dog park or OLA, keep these points in mind:

• Vaccinations and Licensing: Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all required vaccinations, including rabies, and that they are properly licensed according to Lakewood city ordinances.
• Leash Laws: Remember that dogs must be leashed in all areas of Lakewood except within designated off-leash areas. Be prepared to leash your dog promptly when leaving the OLA.
• Clean Up After Your Dog: This is a must! Always bring waste bags and dispose of your dog’s waste properly in designated receptacles.
• Supervision is Key: Never leave your dog unattended. Pay close attention to their behavior and interactions with other dogs to prevent conflicts.
• Respect Others: Be mindful of other park users, both human and canine. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, so keep yours under control.
• Water: Especially during the warmer months, bring plenty of water for your dog. Some parks may have water fountains, but it’s always best to be prepared.

Conclusion

Lakewood’s dog parks and off-leash areas offer valuable spaces for dogs to exercise and socialize. By following the rules and being a responsible owner, you can contribute to a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone.