If you know me, you know I am a dog person.
As a proud dog parent and a Ward 7 resident, I know the joy our four-legged friends bring into our lives. They’re companions, family members, walking buddies — and often the reason we meet new neighbors.
At DPR, we currently have 20 designated dog parks across the District, giving residents in every ward safe, dedicated spaces where their dogs can run, play and socialize off-leash. These spaces are more than fenced-in areas for dogs. They’re gathering places for people, too.
Dog parks often become small communities within our larger ones. You see neighbors chatting while their dogs play. You meet someone who learns your dog’s name before they learn yours. You swap recommendations, share stories and sometimes make friendships simply because your dogs introduced you. That sense of community is important to us at DPR.
We’re especially excited about expanding opportunities for dog owners east of the river. In 2024, Texas Avenue Dog Park opened in Ward 7 as the District’s first official dog park east of the Anacostia River. The park includes separate areas for large and small dogs, along with seating, shade and grills that give dog parents a place to gather and enjoy the space together. And in July, we reopened Kingsman Dog Park in Ward 6 near RFK following a full renovation.
For me, the Texas Avenue opening was personal. As a Ward 7 resident and dog parent, I was proud to see a neighborhood amenity created for residents and their pets. It was another reminder that our investments should reflect the people — and pets — who live in our communities.
And we’re continuing that work.
As we improve and reopen dog-friendly spaces across the District, our goal is to make sure residents have safe, accessible places to exercise and socialize with their pets. We want our parks to be places where everyone can enjoy the outdoors, including our four-legged family members.
But with that opportunity comes responsibility.
Designated dog parks allow dogs to run free while also protecting the experience of other park users. There are important rules every dog owner should know: dogs must be leashed in all public spaces — sidewalks, streets and parks — unless they are inside a designated off-leash dog park. Dogs are not permitted in children’s play areas or on DPR athletic fields, even when leashed. Violations can result in fines ranging from $250 to $500, and failing to pick up after your dog carries a $100 fine. These rules aren’t about keeping dogs out, they’re about keeping parks safe, clean and welcoming for everyone.
And please — pick up after your dog.
Pet waste is more than an eyesore. It can spread bacteria and parasites, attract rats, damage grass and pollute waterways. Always carry waste bags and dispose of them properly. These simple actions help keep our parks cleaner and safer for everyone.
Responsible dog ownership also means remembering that not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Even friendly, well-trained dogs can behave unpredictably. Keeping dogs leashed where required and using designated dog parks for off-leash play helps prevent conflicts and ensures everyone can enjoy our public spaces.
There’s another way we’re celebrating our canine companions: Doggie Day Swim.
As summer winds down, we’re excited to give dogs a chance to enjoy some pool time of their own at participating DPR pools. It’s a fun way for our four-legged residents to cool off, get some exercise and splash around while their humans cheer them on. It’s taking place on Saturday, Sept. 12 at four pools. (https://doggiedayswimdc.splashthat.com/0)
At DPR, we talk a lot about creating recreation opportunities for everyone. That includes our youngest residents, our seniors, working adults, families—and yes, our dogs.
Our parks belong to all of us.
So grab the leash, bring the waste bags and find a DPR dog park near you. Let your dog make a new friend. Let yourself meet a new neighbor. Take a walk. Sit in the shade. Enjoy your community.
Because when we create spaces where people and their pets can gather, play and connect, we’re doing more than building dog parks.
We’re building community — one wagging tail at a time.
