They say a tired dog is a good dog. Luckily, Madison’s dog parks were basically made to turn a fuzzy ball of energy into a sleepy car ride home.
Be warned: you’ll have to study up (just a little) to make the most of a fun, safe trip with your dog. Let’s blitz through some basic etiquette:
🐾 Madison Parks has nine off-leash dog parks, and Dane County Parks has eight. You’ll need a dog park permit + dog license to access them. Apply via each office’s website (Madison + Dane County).
🐾 Make sure your pup is up on vaccinations.
🐾 Bring your own water to avoid disease transmission.
🐾 Always clean up after Fido — just think of the nice white shoes they could ruin.
🐾 Watch your dog: stay with them at all times.
🐾 Know the signs of heat stroke, such as excessive panting, excessive drooling, and dehydration. Make sure you know where to find shade + water.
Now you’re ready for a howling good time.
Prairie Moraine
6679 Wesner Rd., Verona
5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
🐕 The two-mile loop is perfect for an early morning dog hike. Watch out for stumps + rocky ground.
Quann Park
Goodman Park Facilities building + Expo Way (Parking)
🐩 With access to Wingra Creek + a reservable tennis complex, Quann is the perfect all-day outing. Check the City website for days the main dog park is closed for events at Alliant Energy Center.
MRD Dog Exercise Area
5209 County Highway Q
8 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
🦮 A $5 visitors permit gives you access to mowed trails, a shade shelter, and a fenced agility course.
Picnic Point
2000 University Bay Dr., Madison
Sunrise-sunset daily
🐕🦺 Dogs are permitted on-leash along the hiking trails.
Viking County Park
1583 County Hwy. N, Stoughton
5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily
🐩 Situated on a peninsula with two dog beaches along the Yahara River, plus a reservable picnic area.
