5 Best Dog Parks in Houston, TX

You and your barking buddy are sure to have an out-of-this-world experience while exploring Houston. Space City boasts some superb dog parks, as well as "pawlenty" of pet-friendly bars and restaurants. Along with the likes of Austin and Dallas, Houston is one of the most pet-friendly cities in Texas. 

Searching for somewhere in H-Town where your hound can stretch their legs? Luckily, you'll find several sprawling dog parks in Houston where you and your canine compadre can escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. Check out these 5 best dog parks in Houston, TX!

Neighborhood: Upper Kirby

Danny Jackson Family Bark Park is one of the best places to walk your woofer in the heart of Houston. Located in the trendy Upper Kirby neighborhood, Danny Jackson Family Bark Park encompasses a 2.76-acre strip along Westpark Drive. This park is well equipped with 0.4 miles of wooded trails, separate areas for small and large doggos, and even two dog lakes where pups can cool off in the Texas sun. 

Covered shelters, water fountains, and picnic benches mean you can make the most of Danny Jackson Family Bark Park, regardless of the weather. And, a dog wash area means no muddy paws on your car seats! You'll find few places better for your canine to burn some energy in Houston than Danny Jackson Family Bark Park.

Neighborhood: George Bush Park/Eldridge

Surrounded by Houston's 7,800-acre George Bush Park is the popular Millie Bush Dog Park. Once ranked by Dog Fancy Magazine as the best dog park in the US, Millie Bush Dog Park boasts 8.68 acres of off-leash space that Luna will love. This spacious park is split into areas for large and small dogs, with double gates for added safety. 

One of the best features of Millie Bush Dog Park is its huge dog lakes, where small and large doggos can make a significant splash. Open green spaces and walking trails make Millie Bush Dog Park the "pawfect" place to wear out your woofer. There's no shortage of amenities, either — shaded picnic areas, fake fire hydrants, and dog waste bins make this park convenient and comfortable for canines and their pet parents.

Neighborhood: Montrose

Nestled along the Buffalo Bayou just outside downtown Houston is Johnny Steele Dog Park. One of Houston's newest dog parks, Johnny Steele Dog Park has quickly become a popular spot for pet parents looking for somewhere to walk their doggos downtown. 

Despite its small size, Johnny Steele Dog Park has no shortage of amenities. You'll find a dog pond, doggy drinking fountains, paved trails, and shaded seating, all thoughtfully laid out to make the most of the park's limited space. You and Charlie are sure to have a doggone good time in downtown Houston when visiting Johnny Steele Dog Park.

Neighborhood: Northwest Houston

Pet parents looking to escape the city for the day with their doggo by their side should plan a visit to Congressman Bill Archer Dog Park. Located in Northwest Houston, Congressman Bill Archer Dog Park encompasses 17 acres of off-leash green space, with a 3-acre area for small dogs and a 15-acre area for large dogs. 

You'll find several dusty wooded trails for you and Fido to explore. After taking a shady stroll, Scoob can cool off in one of the park's unique bone-shaped dog ponds! Or, test your dog's training on the park's agility obstacles. Spacious and full of activities for your mutt, Congressman Bill Archer Dog Park is easily one of the best dog parks in Houston.

Neighborhood: Westbridge

Westwillow Dog Park is ideal for doggos living north of downtown Houston. This beautifully designed dog park is split into two areas for small and large dogs with pristine lawns and paved trails. At the center of each off-leash area is an adorable paved path in the shape of a paw. Double gates make life difficult for any canine escape artists. 

While Westwillow Dog Park is relatively small, it's jam-packed with activities and amenities, including fake fire hydrants and shaded picnic areas. The best feature of this dog park is its agility equipment, which includes everything from weave poles to ramps to jumping hoops. Be sure to check out this "woofderful" dog park next time you're north of Houston.

As with all major cities across the US, Houston has strict rules for its dog parks that pet parents must follow. These rules may differ slightly from park to park and county to county, so check out the park's website before visiting. Common rules and petiquette at dog parks in Houston include:

• Dogs must be wearing up-to-date license tags

• Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies and free of parasites
  

• Dogs must stay on a leash at all times when entering and leaving an off-leash area

• Dogs must be at least 4 months old to enter any Houston dog park

• Dogs must be under the control of someone who is at least 16 years old

• Handlers are responsible for their dog's actions at all times