I love my dog. Romeo is a 10-year old miniature poodle. He is cute, cuddly, energetic, crazy talkative and not always great with other dogs. Over the past two years, my husband and I have taken different tactics to help him socialize.
My husband tried training through the Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County. Romeo learned new tricks (he can choose between blue and yellow plates!) and some self control, but his ability to manage himself with other dogs didn’t change.
I decided to use more discipline during our five-mile weekend walks with friends. We don’t always see other dogs, but when we did, I started giving him small treats to encourage “good boy” behavior. The treats seemed to work. Romeo was increasingly well-behaved and looked for reasons to be a “good boy” on our walks. Even so, I was hesitant to try the ultimate test, a dog park.
Luckily, two of our walking friends became new dog owners. Note to the reader: if you want to know anything vital about dogs, walk five miles with a new dog owner; you will be a pro!
During one walk, I learned about several dog parks in Memphis, including those which require payment, ones with separate small and large dog areas and which parks our friends preferred.
Recently, armed with our new knowledge, Romeo and I tested his social skills with our walking friends and their dogs at Sea Isle Dog Park. This is a great park with varied terrain and water for dogs and humans. After loudly greeting his friends, Romeo behaved surprisingly well - with dogs known and new. I was so proud.
If you haven’t visited a park with your dog, below are details on the 13 parks in and around Memphis. General rules for all parks as follows:
- Dogs must be leashed when entering or exiting;
- Doors or gates must be closed behind you;
- Your dog must be vaccinated (the most important are rabies, distemper and bordatella);
- Dogs should be 4-6 months old;
- Cleaning up after your pet is required; no one likes to step in excrement!
Dog Parks in Memphis
1. Central Bark (539 S Front St)
Previously a vacant lot, this park includes two fenced spaces: one for dogs 25 lbs or less and one for dogs 25 lbs and up. There is a water fountain on site.
2. Edge Triangle Hound Dog Dog Park (Triangle Park)
This fenced park has several agility structures for dogs. There are spaces for both large and small dogs, along with a splash pad for cooling off.
3. Greenbelt Park on Mud Island (830 Island Dr)
The Mud Island Park includes two fenced grassy spaces including one for dogs 25 lbs or less and one for dogs 25 lbs and up. Water is available in the park.
4. Overton Bark - Overton Park (1930 Poplar Ave)
The Overton Bark is a 1.3 acre park and includes two fenced spaces, one for dogs 25 lbs or less and one for dogs 25 lbs and up. Water fountains and clean-up stations are available.
5. Sea Isle Park (5220 Sea Isle Rd)
A fenced park with one open space for all dogs, the terrain is varied for maximum enjoyment. Water fountains are available, along with an awning.
6. Shelby Farms Outback - Shelby Farms Park
This multi-use area has more than 100 acres of fields, ponds, and unpaved trails. Accessible via gates 11, 12 and 13 on Trinity and Raleigh-Lagrange Roads on the northeastern side of the park. It includes a water fountain with a dog bowl and wash station. There are no fences, so make certain your dog is well trained!
7. The Barking Lot Dog Park (100 Jefferson Ave)
This small, urban dog park includes a fenced area and seating. One space for all dog sizes.
8. Tobey Dog Park - Tobey Park (2599 Avery Ave)
Includes fenced spaces for dogs 25 lbs or less and one for dogs 25 lbs and up. There are small pools that can be filled with water during the summer months.
Dog Parks Outside Memphis
9. Forgey Dog Park (Germantown)
This locked park requires a Pooch Pass registration with yearly fees for both residents ($40) and non-residents ($60). There is a water bar and agility equipment.
10. Bartlett Dog Park (Bartlett)
This is the only place in Bartlett where unleashing your dog is allowed. The fenced space includes separate areas for small and large dogs, as well as kiddie pools for keeping cool.
11. Suggs Dog Park (Collierville)
This fenced park has an area for small and large dogs. Includes a splash pad to beat the heat.
12. Zadie E. Kuehl Memorial Park Dog Park (Lakeland)
With fenced spaces for large and small dogs, this park has a friendly atmosphere. The water fountains are cold and toys are available for everyone's enjoyment.
13. Olive Bark Dog Park - Olive Branch City Park (Olive Branch, MS)
The fenced park has space for both large and small dogs.
Some things to consider when going out with your dog:
- How frequently is the park mowed? Does your dog have flea and tick protection?
- If your dog enjoys pup cups, choose a park near places for a treat after play.
- Some doggie daycares have rules about visiting dog parks prior to attending; make sure you know them before visiting a park.
- A few retailers are dog friendly. Lowe’s, Home Depot and Hollywood Feed stores are great outings on a stormy or cold day.
Visit Downtown Memphis Commission’s website (www.downtownmemphis.com) to learn more. Happy fetching!