Dog walking in Merchantville

Pennsauken Township

A short distance north of Merchantville, you’ll find Pennsauken Township, a welcoming little neighborhood that still maintains the general air of peace away from the busy city of Philadelphia. If your dog is the shy sort, it would be a grrreat opportunity to bring your canine companion to Bow Wow Park. With two fenced-in areas for both small and large breeds, all you’ll need to bring along for your trip is your trusty collapsible water bowl, some fresh drinking water, and doggy waste bags to pick up after puppy. Your pooch will think you’re pawesome for this little day trip!

North Park Drive

Make your way south of Merchantville and follow along North Park Drive to find a well-kept secret in the local area: Cooper River Dog Park. With two large areas fenced off for large and small breed dogs, you’ll find everything you need in this park: a water fountain for you to fill your pup’s bowl, a waste bag dispenser and bin, as well as some nice benches situated in the shade where you can watch your rover run themselves silly. Bring your pup’s favorite plaything, and the two of you are sure to have a real (tennis) ball!

Battleship

If your wily woofer is more willing to explore a bit, cross the bridge to Battleship, New Jersey. Though it's just south of Philadelphia, the trip is worth it to spend the day near the Battleship. While there, make time to stop in to Columbus Square Dog Park. A small park that isn’t terribly busy on most days, it’s the perfect way to ease your dog into a bit more excitement. During their time here, they can run off-leash in the fenced in area. Bring some water, as well as waste bags, and this trip simply can’t be beat.

Schuylkill River Park

Stay in Philly a while and spend some time at Schuylkill River Park, an aptly named park just off the -- you guessed it -- Schuylkill River. The park is home to a fenced-in dog run with plenty of water fountains and lots of pals for your pup to play with. There is also a separate small dog area, so if your dog is intimidated by larger breeds, never fear! Be sure to bring waste bags, and plenty of toys for your furry tot to play with. With the beautiful and scenic views in this park, you really can’t go wrong.

Kingsessing

If you’ve already crossed state lines, you may as well enjoy more time in the Philadelphia area. After all, there so much to see, and it’s only a short distance from Merchantville, after all. Kingsessing, a small neighborhood in the midst of the chaos, is where you’ll find Chester Avenue Dog Park. A well-maintained and beautiful park, this fenced-in area is large enough for your pup to stretch its paws, and also contains beautiful shade trees for you to relax beneath. While this park is membership based, the beauty and pristine nature of this area make it well worth the price.