Dog Park Equipment

The kind of dog park agility equipment chosen will affect user safety, how much maintenance is required, how long the equipment will last, and the overall quality of the user experience.

Here are some important considerations when choosing dog park equipment for your space:

Safety

Safety should be your highest priority; avoid extremely steep or tall equipment over 3’ that could injure an inexperienced dog (or child) if they fell from it. Also, avoid dog park equipment that has perforations which can easily catch and tear a dog’s nail. All surfaces need to be extremely slip resistant, so steer clear of components made with plastic or plywood sheets which do not provide traction. It’s also important to note that children’s playground equipment is not appropriate or safe for use in dog parks, so make sure the tunnels aren’t just slippery playground tubes.

Durable Materials

Dog parks are highly corrosive environments, so be sure to select products that are made with heavy gauge, reinforced aluminum. Unlike steel, aluminum cannot rust and is better suited to outdoor use. The support posts should have a powder coat finish for protection and all hardware should be vandal resistant stainless steel. Avoid products made with wood which can rot and products made with PVC pipe which is brittle and easily broken in a public setting.

Adjustable Challenges

Because dogs have such a wide range of sizes and abilities, look for components that can be adjusted to accommodate size and skill level. Does the manufacturer also offer products made specifically for small dog areas within the dog park? Dog parks are unique in that they provide multi-generational recreation, so make sure the equipment adjusts easily so everyone, both two and four legged, can enjoy it.

Dog Park Furnishings

Dog parks are extremely popular places and provide great opportunities for both people and dogs to socialize. Seating should be comfortable, shaded, and arranged to encourage conversations between park users. Consider adding accessories like bulletin boards and signage at the park entrance, fire hydrants, and pick-up bag dispensers to help keep the park clean.

Dog Watering and Cooling Stations

Dogs (and people) quickly work up a thirst during exercise, so it is critical to provide water. Pet fountains should be mandatory and constructed from stainless steel to prevent rusting and corrosion. Consider providing an ADA accessible human fountain with wash down faucets for maintenance staff as well. Spray features can help keep dogs cool on hot days, but choose products with a timed, low flow valve to discourage unwanted bathing and water waste.

Supplier’s Focus

Unfortunately some dog park equipment suppliers are really in the playground or campground business and only make a few dog park products on the side to increase sales volume. Have their products developed with the help of veterinarians, structural engineers, agility experts and dog people? Choose a company who manufactures the equipment themselves, and who understands and specializes exclusively in dog parks.

Warranty

Reputable manufacturers will offer comprehensive warranties that stand behind the quality of the products for 5 years and also offer a lifetime warranty against rust.