The 6 Best Dog Parks in Pittsburgh

Nicholson St. & Beechwood Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15219

Frick Park is a huge, historical multiuse park stretching 644 acres and filled with valleys, slopes, and woodland, making it a popular place for hikers and daytrippers. There are two fully fenced-in off-leash dog areas. These spaces are large enough for your animals to get the exercise they need, so you can tire them out before returning to your hotel room at the end of the night.

This is one of the most dog-friendly areas of the city, with shelters, benches, water stations, and waste stations, and it’s extra convenient if you’ve got children as both off-leash parks are located near a playground.

40th St. Lawrenceville Triangle, Pittsburgh, PA 15201

At the Bernard Dog Run, your pup can enjoy the freedom of being off-leash while you enjoy the security of knowing the area is fully fenced in. Let your guard down and let your dog play in this half-acre area.

If you have a small breed, worry not, as there are separated spaces for small and large dogs, allowing your little guy to frolic without fear of being accidentally stepped on by bigger breeds. Water and waste bags are not supplied at Bernard, so make sure you’re prepared with everything your dog needs.

North Ave & Cedar Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212

Allegheny Commons Park West is the city’s oldest park and features a variety of activities for you and your dog to enjoy. There are large mature trees to lounge underneath on a hot day, you can take in the scenic lake views on a hike together, or you can bring your dog to the off-leash area.

What makes this one of the best dog parks Pittsburgh has to offer is its natural beauty and its history. You’ll certainly enjoy a day exploring the public art alongside Lake Elizabeth.

1 Riverview Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15214

Riverview Dog Park has a thick, natural woodland area, hills and valleys, and beautiful trails to enjoy, as well as a full two-acre fenced-in park where your dog can safely run and explore unencumbered.

Whether you choose to take your dog on the two-mile Riverview Loop walk on-leash, or just sip a coffee and let them enjoy the off-leash park, you’ll love the wild feel Riverview has to offer.

Pittsburgh, PA 15206

Created in the late 1800s, this historical park was built around a gorgeous reservoir, and is home to the Pittsburgh Zoo, the PPG Aquarium, the Victorian-style Entry Garden, and an excellent off-leash dog park.

Your pup will love the entire park experience, from traipsing through marshlands and along walking paths, enjoying the gorgeous park views, and playing with other dogs in the small or large dog park areas. With soft, mulchy ground and grass to frolic on and plenty of trees for shade, Highland Park is the perfect place for your dog to get the zoomies out.

Olympia St. & Virginia Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15211

Olympia Park may be last on our list but it’s not certainly the least. This park has it all, including a fully penned-in off-leash area and multiple on-leash trails. You can choose between flat walking paths or hiking the rolling hills. Bring the whole family to shoot some hoops, or take some time to yourself as you exercise the pup on a peaceful stroll.

Each of these spots was chosen by the city as a year-round off-leash dog park because they’re relatively flat, away from residential homes, sensitive environmental habitats, and watersheds. They have on-site or nearby parking, they’re near pathways or parklands and are either fenced in or located within a larger park area, away from the street for the animals’ safety.

If you’re looking for a more low-key, controlled on-leash or indoor dog park experience, you may also want to check out:

● Mellon Park - This historic park features gorgeous gardens, walking paths, and art installations. It’s a beautiful walk for you and your canine to enjoy together.

● Sheraden Park - With historic trees, sports facilities, and easy access through multiple neighborhoods, it’s no wonder Sheraden Park is a community favorite.

● Lucky Paws Dog Park - If you have a water-loving dog, this is the place to bring them. There are indoor and outdoor areas, a swimming pool, and even rodeo dog, training, diving, and swimming lessons available for all skill levels! Check their website for seasonal availability and prices.

● Sniffspot - If you have a nervous or reactive dog, or simply want to find a small quiet space for you and your buddy you can rent them their very own private dog park, outdoor space, or fully fenced-in yard to play in while you’re in town. These are rentable by the hour and designed for private playtime.

● The Indoor Dog Park - While technically in Cranberry, this indoor space is worth a visit. It features a climate-controlled environment, 20,000 square feet of turf, dog toilets, hydration stations, an indoor pool, agility equipment, toys, and more.

Traveling to Pittsburgh? Book a room at one of our affordable, pet-friendly hotels.