Van Cortlandt Dog Park

Van Cortlandt Park is over 1,000 acres of land dedicated to preserving the native land of the Bronx. The park developers didn't forget about the neighborhood dogs and included the Canine Court at Van Cortlandt Park. The Van Cortlandt Park features three dog parks, but you can access Canine Court at Broadway and 252nd street. 

The dog park is fenced-in by a black chain link and your dog can go off-leash and run around. The ground is primarily grass with patches of dirt, and the park includes agility equipment for your dog to run up and over ramps, sneak through tunnels, and jump through frames and over hurdles. There's also plenty of space for you to throw a ball for Fido.

There are some trees throughout the small park and some benches as well. There are two sections, with the agility equipment on one side and open space on the other side, but no officially designated areas for large and small dogs. There are garbage pails, but be sure to bring your own waste bags to clean up after your pup. Also, bring your own water so he doesn't get thirsty and dehydrated. 

When you bring your pup to the park, make sure he is wearing his collar with ID tag and license proving his rabies vaccinations. Keep your dog up-to-date on his vaccinations and make sure he is healthy when he goes out to play with other pups. Keep your dog on a six foot or shorter leash when you're not in the dog run, and make sure he is only off-leash in the fenced-in dog park. 

In addition, aggressive dogs will not be tolerated, so make sure he can play well with others. If he's never been to an off-leash dog park, take him during a slow time to see how he interacts with other four-legged friends. Do not bring a dog to the park if she is in heat.