Dog walking in South Amboy

Raritan Bay

Right on the border of South Amboy and Sayerville, Raritan Bay Waterfront Park is a real mutts-visit! This gorgeous park boasts over 137 acres of expansive green space, perfect for some on-leash exercise with your buddy. A paved pedestrian path meanders right by the bay, and the spectacular sunsets over the water need to be seen to be believed. Just remember to bring your own bags and water! After you and your pooch have walked up an appetite, you two can chow down at South Amboy Pizza, a local favorite that caters to canine customers outside.

Cheesequake

Cheesequake State Park is a haven for New Jersey residents looking to get some fresh air. The dog-friendly hiking trails in this park are pawsitively beautiful, with wooded wonderland separating two marshes that look untouched by human life. There’s a trail here for every age and ability. If you and your four-legged friend are looking for a challenge, check out the green trail, a 3.5-mile trek with lots of steep stairs . Be sure to bring insect repellent -- the marshes attract all sorts of biting little critters, so spray up or prepare to scratch all the way home!

Pleasant Plains

The dog run at Wolfe Pond Park in Pleasant Plains is a fantastic spot to let your furry friend run free! Both the large and small dog areas are a decent size, so there’s plenty of space for your pooch to leap about and tire themselves out in. Water and bags are provided, so all you need to do is bring some toys and prepare to play! It’s also well worth exploring the wider Wolfe Pond Park. While the trails in the park are fairly short, leashed dogs are allowed on the beach, so you and your pup can enjoy a long, seaside stroll.

Great Kills

The Beggin Dog Bakery in Great Kills on Staten Island is a seriously special store. The knowledgeable staff here are always on hand to help you pick out the right treats to get your dog drooling. Their peanut butter treats in particular are a favorite of local pooches! Afterwards, you two can burn it all off with a walk in Great Kills Park. This furrific park has a trail and several beaches ideal for leashed walks, and on a clear day, you can see all the way from Brooklyn to Sandy Hook.

Lawrence Brook Manor

You’d need to be barking mad not to bring your buddy to the East Brunswick Dog Park! The park is huge, with a good-sized separate small dog area, so your pooch has space to socialize and play no matter their size. The park is also well-shaded, so you can let your pup run around during the summer months without worrying about them overheating. Bags and water are provided, but be warned -- much of the terrain is grass, so you might want to bring a towel in case your buddy gets muddy!