Dog walking in Utica

North Charter Township of Shelby

The closest place that you can take your pup to get some exercise if you're staying or living in Utica is the Stony Creek Metro Park. This park is located just 6 miles away from Utica in North Charter Township of Shelby. Your doggie is welcome here as long as he's properly leashed and well-behaved. The good news is that, even though dogs are not allowed on the sandy main beach, there are many places where you can let your pooch have a little fun cooling off in the lake. In the rest of the park, there are plenty of hiking trails that you can explore together with your canine friend.

Central Royal Oak

Another place that is fairly close to Utica is the Wagner Park Dog Run. This park is the pawfect place to let your pup play off-leash and sniff out some new buddies. The park is located in Central Royal Oak, which is around 14 miles from Utica. If you decide to visit, you should know that the area is not fenced, so if your pup has trouble following voice commands, this park might not be the right choice for you. The area is set back away from the street, so it's pretty safe. Make sure you bring some drinking water with you.

Central Orion Charter Township

Orion Oaks Dog Park is 21 miles away from Utica. What this park has that the previous parks don't is a securely fenced area, so you won't have to worry about your pup slipping out of the fence or running away. The 14 acres of fenced area include two separate zones for large and small dogs. This park provides drinking water, but you'll need to bring your own waste bags. You'll also find wooded trails that you can explore together as long as your dog is leashed. The best part is that the park even has designated swimming areas just for doggies! Sounds like doggie heaven, right?

Cidermill Village

A really pawesome place that you can visit with both the two- and four-legged family members is Bloomer Park. This park is just 5 miles away from Utica, and the short drive is well worth it for all the fun you'll have here! Doggies must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, but the mesmerizing nature and the beautiful Clinton River will make you forget about the daily grind as you fill your lungs with fresh air and your hearts with un-fur-gettable memories. There are plenty of open fields and trails that you can explore, and you can also enjoy a picnic. If your dog needs a challenge, there are many hilly areas to tire him out!

North Mt Clemens

Nine miles east of Utica, you'll find Behnke Memorial Dog Park, a free dog park that doesn't require a membership. If you need a separate area for your small dog, this might not be the right place for you since all dogs play in one area here. The park offers fresh drinking water and a hose for rinsing off Fido's paws. Plenty of seating is provided for the dog owners, and there are a lot of toys and tires that will keep your pooch entertained. Pit bulls have to be muzzled in order to play at this park. Be sure to bring some waste baggies with you.