Dog parks in Nashville

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Overview

Nashville may rank amongst the most dog-friendly cities in the country, and its dog parks contribute to that ranking. From city-run Metro Parks to private-run parks, there are plenty of spaces where your dog can run around and play. This is especially important if you live in an apartment or have a small backyard where your dog can’t get enough exercise. Here is a list of some of the best dog parks here in Nashville.

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Please note: The following information was correct at the time of publication but may have recently changed. We recommend contacting the business you are interested in visiting to ensure your pet can be accommodated.

1. Centennial Dog Park


Amenities
Off leash Drinking water available Dedicated areas Double entry and exit gates Water feature

Centennial Dog Park is one of Nashville’s most popular dog parks, and for good reason. There are wire baskets attached to trees filled with tennis balls that you can use to play with your dogs. The playground’s gently sloping terrain is also great for exercise. Amenities are great for owners, too. There are waste baskets all over the park, with large trees offering shade. You can also take your dog outside of the park to walk them on park trails. Note that it may be hard to find the park. Check for its entrance across 31st Avenue North on Parthenon Avenue.

2. Edwin Warner Dog Park


Amenities
Off leash Drinking water available Double entry and exit gates Water feature

Edwin Warner Park is smaller than its Percy Warner Park counterpart, but it is often less crowded. This dog park is about one acre, and with less foot traffic, it’s perfect for dogs that love running around. However, this park doesn’t have a lot of shade so it’s best to go early in the morning or after sundown. Also, note that grass is sparse and can get muddy, so dress accordingly and bring a towel for your dog.

3. Shelby Dog Park


Amenities
Off leash Drinking water available Double entry and exit gates Water feature

Shelby Dog Park is a popular spot among locals, located behind the Shelby Park Community Center. It has a lot of open space for your pup to run around. There is also plenty of shade from large trees, and benches for doggy owners to sit on. There is a doggy water fountain where your dog can drink. Poop bags are also provided. For those who want more action, leashed dogs are also allowed on the park trails. Make sure to vaccinate your dog before going, and make sure that they have proper ID tags.

4. Two Rivers Dog Park


Amenities
Off leash Drinking water available Water feature Double entry and exit gates

Two Rivers Dog Park is often lauded as one of the best dog parks in Nashville. This seven-acre dog park is well-maintained and has essential amenities. Aside from drinking water and waste stations, this park also has lots of benches and ample shade for doggy owners. There are lots of spaces to rest, like gazebos and picnic pavilions. If you go here, make sure that your pup has good recall training. This park is so big that it’s easy for your dog to run out of sight.

5. William A. Pitts Dog Park


Amenities
Off leash Drinking water available Water feature Double entry and exit gates

Also known as Pitts Dog Park, this two-acre park is known for being spacious and well-maintained. There is a doggy water fountain, waste bag stations, and benches shaded with large trees. Its ground material is a mix of dirt and grass so your pup can run and roll around the park. While there is no separate area for smaller dogs, there is a separate area for an off-leash nature trail. This half-mile trail is fully-fenced in, spanning four acres of wooded nature.

The best of Nashville’s dog parks


Because of the Metro Parks initiative, there are plenty of dog parks here in Nashville. From the sprawling fields of the Two Rivers Dog Park to the nature trails of Pitts Park, there’s something for everyone. Before heading to any of these parks, make sure to read up on their pet policies. Most importantly, make sure that your dog’s vaccinations are complete and up-to-date. To do that, book a virtual vet appointment through Vetster to connect with a veterinarian.

Frequently Asked Questions


Nashville is a pet-friendly city. Aside from dog parks, there are plenty of dog-friendly places where you can take your dog for a walk. Popular, pet-friendly tourist spots include Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage and the Smith Springs Recreational Area. Some trails to check out include the trails at Fontanel and the Shelby Bottoms Greenway.
Not all parks in Nashville are dog-friendly, but all the parks run by the Metropolitan Board of Parks and Recreation have dog-friendly policies in place. These Metro Parks include the parks listed above, but also other parks including the Fair Park Dog Park and the Riverfront Dog Park.
It’s important to prepare your dog before their first time at a dog park. One, make sure that you have your dog trained in recall. Recall includes simple commands like “come” and “stay.” Second, make sure that your dog has been socialized. It’s good to know how your dog will react to other dogs and people, and a whole park of strangers can be overwhelming. Lastly, make sure that your pup is fully vaccinated and that you follow other park rules.

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