NEXT PLACE TO BRING YOUR DOG

Doggone good parks in the Doggone good parks in the SOUTHWEST METRO SOUTHWEST METRO

Dogs socialize at the Cleary Lake Dog Park in Prior Lake.

Roundup of local dog parks to check out with your pooch

BY LYDIA CHRISTIANSON

On a beautiful summer day, nothing beats playing fetch with your furry friend at a dog park. Luckily, the southwest metro area is home to a vast array of dog parks to visit.

The following are a roundup of dog parks to try this summer.

SCOTT COUNTY

Cleary Lake Dog Park

at 19011 Highview Ct., Prior Lake is a 28-acre off-leash area located at Cleary Lake Regional Park. The dog-friendly area is fenced in and has a wetland pond that dogs are sure to love. Make sure to bring a towel along.

Southbridge Community

Dog Park at 7101 Southbridge Parkway, Shakopee is a park for dogs big and small. The off-leash park has a 10-acre allbreed park area and a half-acre area for small dogs only. The small dog area is limited to dogs that weigh no more than 25 pounds and are no taller than 13 inches at the shoulder. It also includes trails and a water station.

Sand Creek Dog Park at 103 Sawmill Rd., Jordan is a one and a half acre haven for dogs to play and socialize. The area is fenced in and includes two doggie bag dispensers. A trail under Highway 21 links Sand Creek Dog Park to Hillside Drive and leads to Lagoon Park.

Savage Dog Park at 12425 Xenwood Ave., Savage is a space with over two acres of fenced open space for dogs and their owners to roam free. The dog park has trees for shade and benches to sit at after a long day of playing fetch.

Murphy-Hanrehan Dog

Off-Leash Area at 15501 Murphy Lake Blvd, Savage is a three-acre area for dogs to run off-leash at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve. The exercise and socialization a dog gets during off-leash play time helps maintain its mental and physical health, according to the Three Rivers Park District.

CARVER COUNTY

Lions Park Off-Leash Dog

Area at 1300 Crosstown Blvd, Chaska is a fenced-in space for dogs to play and explore. It is approximately a one-third acre park, which includes a drinking and wash station.

Lake Minnewashta Regional Park Off-Leash

Area at 6900 Hazeltine Blvd., Chanhassen is a beautiful sanctuary for dogs and their owners alike. The park has nearly a mile of walking trails, a fenced pond, two open spaces for dogs to play, a water fountain for people and pets and a separate area for small dogs under 25 pounds. The park is a great place to take your dog on a hot summer day since it is well shaded by a forest of tall trees.

Carver Park Reserve Off-

Leash Dog Park at 7200 Park Dr., Victoria is a great place for dogs to run, play and meet new furry friends. The park is 27 acres, which is more than enough room for dogs to explore and get out their energy. The area is fenced in and also includes a separate play space for small or frail dogs.

FILE PHOTO

FILE PHOTO BY MARK W. OLSON

Nugget greets a visitor at Chaska’s dog park.