How do public dog parks in Los Angeles create an unnatural social environment for dogs?

Many owners are drawn to dog parks because they want to socialize their pets. We’re inundated with messages of the “perfect” friendly dog. Our social media feeds feature viral videos of animal best friends that echo the cutesy movies we loved as children — but they often show a false reality. While dogs are social mammals, it’s typically not natural for them to regularly engage in play with strangers. Dog sociability can be viewed as a sliding scale: Some dogs are truly dog social. This means they genuinely enjoy interaction with almost every dog they meet! We tend to think these dogs are more common than they really are — they’re the ones we most see out and about because they can handle the widest range of environments. Most dogs are dog tolerant or dog selective. They don’t often seek out new friends, but they can comfortably interact with other dogs when needed after a proper introduction process. (You can read more about properly introducing dogs who don’t know each other in this article.) Some dogs are dog aggressive. They might live with or know a few specific canine friends, but they don’t generally enjoy being around their own species. Ultimately: It’s perfectly normal for our dogs to not want to play with other pets outside of our families. Renting a private dog park just for your dog and a few trusted friends might be the best option.

How can I keep my dog safe at a public dog park in Los Angeles?

If choosing to use a public dog park, you can do a lot to manage your dog’s safety: Make an honest assessment of your dog’s sociability. Are they one of the small portion of dogs that gets along with all other animals? Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccines to protect them against any bugs that may be present in the park. Choose an appropriate public dog park. Make sure that it is large enough and free from obvious hazards. Assess the dog park and other owners before entering. Are there any maintenance issues in the park that could be a problem? Is it overly crowded? Are there owners that are not keeping a close eye on their dog? Are there dogs that could be an issue for your dog or others? Keep a close watch and be an active part of your dog’s play.

Rent safe and private dog parks hosted by locals

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Sniffspot Los Angeles: Best Dog Parks (Public & Private)

Sniffspot Los Angeles: Best Dog Parks (Public & Private)

David Adams

March 25, 2025

City Dog Parks

Sniffspot Los Angeles: Best Dog Parks (Public & Private) thumbnail

Finding the perfect place for your dog to play in Los Angeles can be tough. Crowded parks? Busy streets? Sometimes it feels like there's nowhere for your pup to just be a dog. But don't worry, this guide explores the best dog parks Los Angeles has to offer, from public parks to hidden gems and even Sniffspot Los Angeles--private dog parks designed for a safe, fun experience. We'll help you find the perfect spot, whether it's a public dog park near me or a personalized Sniffspot Los Angeles adventure.

Discover Los Angeles Dog Parks: Public & Private

This page is about public city dog parks and also includes Sniffspot private dog parks. Sniffspot is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world!

Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks are hosted by locals on private land with 100% private bookings to maximize safety for guests and their dogs. Sniffspot offers various types of dog parks, including fenced fields, water parks, indoor dog parks, dog beaches, and more.

Click here to learn more about Sniffspots in Los Angeles!

Key Takeaways

Prioritize your dog's safety and comfort: Consider private dog parks for a controlled environment, especially if your dog is reactive, anxious, or requires a cleaner space. Sniffspot offers a safe alternative to public parks, minimizing risks and maximizing peace of mind.
Tailor your dog park visits to your needs: From small, fenced-in areas to large open fields with water features, Sniffspot's diverse listings cater to various preferences and activity levels. Use their filters to find the perfect fit for your dog's play style and your budget.
Join the Sniffspot community: Whether you're looking for a safe place for your dog to play or considering hosting your own dog-friendly space, Sniffspot connects dog lovers and provides valuable resources, support, and earning potential for hosts.

Why Choose a Private Dog Park in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles offers a variety of options for dog parks, both public and private. While public parks have their perks, private dog parks provide distinct advantages, especially for dog owners seeking a more controlled and personalized experience. If you’re looking for a safer, cleaner, and more tailored experience for your furry friend, a private dog park might be the perfect fit.

Safety and Cleanliness

When it comes to your dog's safety, private dog parks offer a significant advantage. Sniffspot emphasizes safety and cleanliness, ensuring that only your group uses the rented space. This exclusive access minimizes the risk of encounters with unfamiliar dogs, reducing the potential for altercations or the spread of illness. Plus, with dedicated time slots, the park is well-maintained and clean for your furry friend. This focus on hygiene creates a healthier play environment, minimizing exposure to potential contaminants often found in busy public parks.

Controlled Environment for Reactive Dogs

For dogs that may be reactive or anxious in social settings, private parks provide a controlled environment. Renting these spaces by the hour allows you to enjoy guaranteed off-leash time without the unpredictability of a public park. This is especially beneficial for dogs that need a little extra space and fewer distractions to feel comfortable and confident. Private parks offer a safe haven for shy or reactive dogs to play and explore without the stress of unexpected encounters, helping them build confidence and enjoy valuable off-leash exercise.

Variety of Amenities and Sizes

Private dog parks in Los Angeles come in various sizes and often include a range of amenities to cater to different needs and preferences. Many parks are fully fenced for safety, providing peace of mind. You can find options ranging from small, intimate spaces (0.06 acres) to large, sprawling fields (1 acre or more), ensuring you find the perfect fit for your dog's energy level and play style. Amenities may include water bowls, hoses for rinsing muddy paws, and even fun extras like pools, toys, and treats, ensuring a delightful experience for both you and your dog. This variety allows you to customize your dog park experience, choosing a space that best suits your dog's size, activity level, and desired amenities.

Know Before You Go: Public Dog Park Checklist

What to bring with you to a Los Angeles dog park

Here are a few things to bring with you when visiting any dog park in the Los Angeles, California area.

Pack some dog waste bags

Keep your parks clean! Always pack a few extra poop bags in case you need to pick up after your pup — and consider scooping any left-behind piles you come across, too. This will make the environment safer for everyone who visits.

Cleaning up after your dog is particularly important in coastal climates with lots of porous surfaces. Here bacteria can easily pollute rivers, ponds, and groundwater.

Bring your own fresh, clean drinking water

Some public dog parks in Los Angeles offer water bowls or fountains for your dog, but it’s a good idea to pack some of your own just in case. Never leave your dog’s hydration up to chance, especially in California’s dry heat!

Packing your own water and bowls will also keep your dog safe from germs and parasites that can spread between pups on shared drinking surfaces.

Put your dog in a collar or harness with ID tags

If your dog will be playing with other dogs, it’s important to pay close attention to what they’re wearing. You don’t want anyone’s teeth or paws getting caught in loose fabric or buckles!

That said, it’s always a good idea to bring a well-fitted collar or harness along with your dog’s identification tags. Los Angeles requires all dogs to be licensed with the city.

Pack a leash or two

Along with a collar or harness, bring a leash, even if the dog park you’re visiting is a designated off-leash area. This way you can keep your dog under control while walking to and from the entrance. You might also consider packing an extra leash in case you need to grab hold of another dog or intervene if a conflict arises — and it’s a good idea to read up on leash laws in your local area before venturing out.

You can learn more about dog leash regulations in Los Angeles here.

What to do before going into a Los Angeles public dog park

Research the park ahead of time

Read reviews and be on the lookout for any common issues, like unruly dogs or left-behind waste. It can be hard to find reliable information about some public parks (one reason Sniffspot’s private listings might be a better option) — when in doubt, don’t risk it. Your dog’s safety and comfort are too important.

Watch the dog park for a few minutes before entering

Take inventory of the other dogs and owners.

Is everyone under control?
Are the dogs enjoying their play time?
Is the area large enough that dogs can take breaks and get space from their playmates if they start to feel overwhelmed? (Tight spaces can prevent your pet from engaging in natural social behavior.)
Ultimately, is there anything about the situation that makes you feel uncomfortable?

Make sure you have basic knowledge of dog body language

This will help you make sure your dog is enjoying their time and keep everyone safe! Know what signs might indicate that your pup is stressed or overwhelmed — and be ready to step in if needed.

You can read more about interpreting your dog’s body language in this article.

How do California dog parks compare to other areas of the country?

Sniffspot conducted a 2022 survey of dog owners across the country to better understand the state of public dog parks. The west’s public dog parks (including those in the Los Angeles area) unfortunately came in last place on our survey:

18% of respondents say their dog has been attacked at a public dog park. This is remarkably high — that’s almost one in five owners who have experienced an altercation in a space designated as a safe exercise area.
17% feel their local public dog parks are unsafe.
20% say they are dirty.
30% say they are crowded.

Unfortunately, other options for dog exercise are limited in the West as well:

29% of respondents say that local dog owners are generally irresponsible, limiting their ability to feel safe out and about.
34% report often being approached by off-leash dogs outside of a public dog park context.
35% report that their dog has been attacked in general.

The Best Dog Parks in Los Angeles, California

The Los Angeles Parks Department, along with a handful of other organizations, provide multiple off-leash areas and traditional fenced dog parks for your pup to play near California’s coast.

Here’s our round up of some of the top options!

Sniffspot: Your Go-To for Private Dog Parks in Los Angeles

What is Sniffspot?

Sniffspot is the largest network of private dog parks for rent in the world! It’s a great alternative to public dog parks, offering a safe, clean, and controlled environment for your furry friend to play and socialize. If you're looking for a more private and personalized dog park experience, Sniffspot is definitely worth checking out.

A Safer Alternative to Public Dog Parks

Each of the thousands of Sniffspot dog parks is hosted by locals on private land. Bookings are 100% private, maximizing safety for guests and their dogs. This means no unexpected encounters with unfamiliar dogs or worrying about overcrowding. You can relax and enjoy quality time with your pup knowing you have the entire space to yourselves.

How Sniffspot Works

Sniffspot offers a variety of dog parks to choose from, including fenced fields, water parks, indoor dog parks, and even dog beaches! You can find the perfect spot for your dog's needs and preferences, whether they love to swim, run, or just relax in a secure space.

Finding the Perfect Sniffspot in Los Angeles

Using the Sniffspot App and Website

Finding a Sniffspot is easy! You can browse listings on the Sniffspot website or download the Sniffspot app for easier booking on the go. The app makes it convenient to search for parks near you, read reviews, view photos, and manage your reservations.

Filtering for Your Dog's Needs

Sniffspot offers helpful filters to find a park that perfectly suits your dog's needs. Looking for a fully fenced park for your escape artist? Need a space without other dogs for your reactive pup? Want to find a park with agility equipment? Sniffspot's filters make it simple to find exactly what you're looking for.

Sniffspot Los Angeles: By the Numbers

Over 600 Dog Parks and Growing

With over 600 dog parks listed in Los Angeles, you're sure to find one near you. Sniffspot is constantly expanding, so keep an eye out for new locations popping up in your neighborhood. With so many options, you and your dog can explore new places and enjoy a variety of different environments.

Variety of Amenities: From Pools to Play Structures

Sniffspot hosts often provide a range of amenities to make your visit enjoyable. Many locations offer water bowls and hoses, and some even have pools for those hot summer days! You might also find toys, treats, and other fun extras to keep your dog entertained. Be sure to check the individual listing details to see what each park offers.

Affordable Options for Every Budget

Sniffspot offers options for every budget, with prices typically ranging from $5-$15 per dog per hour. While public parks are free, the peace of mind, personalized experience, and amenities offered by Sniffspot can be well worth the cost, especially if you have a dog with special needs or preferences.

Benefits of Choosing Sniffspot

Peace of Mind with Safety and Cleanliness

Private parks offer a more controlled and potentially less stressful environment for dogs, especially those who are anxious or reactive around other dogs. Knowing that only your group will be using the space can provide valuable peace of mind, allowing you and your dog to relax and enjoy your time together.

Ideal for Reactive Dogs

If your dog is reactive to other dogs, Sniffspot can be a game-changer. Because you have the entire park to yourselves, you can avoid stressful encounters and help your dog feel more comfortable and confident. This can be a great way to socialize your reactive dog in a safe and controlled setting.

Supporting Local Hosts

By using Sniffspot, you're supporting local dog lovers who are passionate about providing safe and enriching spaces for pups to play. Sniffspot hosts are known for being friendly, communicative, and helpful, ensuring a positive experience for everyone. They're often available to answer questions and provide recommendations for your visit.

Runyon Canyon Dog Park (public dog park)

Address: 2000 N. Fuller Ave., Los Angeles, California
Hours: 6 am to 12 am
Off leash? Yes, in designated area
Activities: Walking, running, hiking, wildlife spotting, sightseeing
Entrance fee? No

Runyon Canyon Park spans 160 acres in total, and a whopping 90 of them allow dogs off leash. Several hiking trails give you and your pet the opportunity to feel like you’re just out for a walk together as opposed to being crowded by other people and pets. There are dog waste stations located throughout the park to make cleanup easy.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Dog Area (public dog park)

Address: 17494 Victory Blvd, Encino, California
Hours: 6 am to 11 pm
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play
Entrance fee? No

Sepulveda is one of the Los Angeles area’s largest traditional fenced-in dog parks at just under seven acres in total. It has three separate areas to maximize the chance of safety as dogs of different sizes and temperaments play alongside, and with, each other. Sepulveda Basin Off-Leash Area also features some agility obstacles, drinking fountains, and benches for owners to rest on.

Bluff Creek Dog Park (public dog park)

Address: 12604 Bluff Creek Dr., Los Angeles, California
Hours: 7 am to 6 pm
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play
Entrance fee? No

Bluff Creek Dog Park is a fairly new addition to the Playa Vista community, just up the street from Oberrieder Park, which has long been known as a neighborhood destination. The off-leash dog area has separate fenced areas for small and large dogs to help reduce the risk of prey drive related incidents triggered by different-sized pets chasing each other. Each side has dog drinking fountains and water to play in to beat the heat as well.

Sociability note: This public dog park is small in size, which means your dog might not be able to make space from other pets if they aren’t interested in playing. You should only visit if you’re confident your pup is social and tolerant with unfamiliar dogs.

Polliwog Park Dog Run (public dog park)

Address: 1601 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, California
Hours: 6:30 am to dusk
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play
Entrance fee? No

Polliwog Dog Run is a small but functional dog park located within the much larger Polliwog Park, making it a popular destination for families who want to let the kids and dogs play all on the same trip.

Redondo Beach Dog Park (public dog park)

Address: Flagler Lane and 190th, Redondo Beach, California
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play, walking
Entrance fee? No

Redondo Beach Dog Park is three acres in size, separated into different areas for small and large dogs in an attempt to reduce the risk of prey drive incidents as pets play together. It also supplies water fountains for both people and their dogs, along with poop scoopers and waste disposal stations to make cleanup simple. The friends of the park are discussing adding some agility equipment and play obstacles in the future.

Sociability note: At three acres, this public dog park is still relatively small in size, which means your dog might not be able to make space from other pets if they aren’t interested in playing. You should only visit if you’re confident your pup is social and tolerant with unfamiliar dogs.

Alice’s Dog Park (public dog park)

Address: 3026 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, California
Hours: Dawn to dusk
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play
Entrance fee? No

Created by the Pasadena Pooch volunteer organization, Alice’s Dog Park is just under three acres completely covered in grass to protect your dog’s joints as they run around and help limit the mess once you get home. This off-leash area also offers water stations for both people and dogs, poop bag dispensers and waste disposal stations, a separate small dog and large dog area to encourage safe play, and some agility equipment like a tunnel.

Sociability note: This public dog park is relatively small in size, which means your dog might not be able to make space from other pets if they aren’t interested in playing. You should only visit if you’re confident your pup is social and tolerant with unfamiliar dogs.

Laurel Canyon Dog Park (public dog park)

Address: 8260 Mulholland Drive, Studio City, California
Hours: 6:30 am to 8:30 pm
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play, walking
Entrance fee? No

Laurel Canyon Dog Park was the first off-leash dog area in Los Angeles. It’s a popular spot for celebrities and everyday owners alike, providing three acres of space for pets to romp around. The dog park is divided into separate areas for small and large dogs in an attempt to help handlers safely match play styles.

Silver Lake Dog Park (public dog park)

Address: 1850 Silver Lake Drive, Los Angeles, California
Hours: 6 am to 10 pm
Off leash? Yes
Activities: Off-leash play
Entrance fee? No

Silver Lake Dog Park is located off of a busy street in a popular neighborhood. It doesn’t have much grass, making it dirtier in comparison to some of the fancier off-leash spots in the Los Angeles area — but it still hosts a crowd of people and their pets. Silver Lake provides water fountains, shade structures, and benches. Note that there is no parking lot, so you have to snag a spot on the street.

Lake Hollywood Park (public dog-friendly park)

Address: 3160 N. Canyon Drive, Los Angeles, California
Hours: 6:30 am to dusk
Off leash? No
Activities: Walking, sightseeing
Entrance fee? No

Lake Hollywood Park is a little different than the other spots on this list. It isn’t fenced in, and it’s not a dog off-leash area — but it is one of the most popular spots in the city for people to hang out beneath the famous Hollywood sign. While you’ll need to keep your pup on a leash as you play, it still bears mentioning here as a dog-friendly spot you can visit with your best friend.

Dog Park and Hiking Trails (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: Santa Clarita, California
Size: 1 acre
Fenced: Yes

This private dog park is set on 98 acres in total, a property dedicated to the host’s animal rescue, training, and boarding facility. Guests can choose to use the acre dog park, ¾ acre agility area, or hiking trails that offer flat or steep options. Tennis balls and other toys are available for you to enjoy.

Quail View Ranch (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: Thousand Oaks, California;
Size: 4 acres
Fenced: No

Quail View Ranch’s hosts offer approximately four acres of rolling hills, dirt paths, native plants, oak trees, and sniffing spots reserved just for you and your dogs during your visit.

Note that this area is not fenced, so you’ll want to make sure your dog has a solid recall before you visit.

North County Roam Zone (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: San Marcos, California
Size: 1 acre
Fenced: Yes

North County Roam Zone is fully fenced with tons to sniff, beautiful views, and a nice breeze. There are multiple seating areas to sit and watch your dogs roam. Water bowls, hoses, hand sanitizer, dog bags, and poop scooper are provided by the entrance. It emulates an off-leash hiking experience through a natural field.

The Circle G Ranch (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: Ramona, California
Size: 3 acres
Fenced: Yes

The Circle G Ranch private dog park provides a beautiful countryside experience offering a large open yard with lots of shade. Whether you are looking to exercise your dog, do some training, or you and your friends are looking for a fun afternoon having the pups run around, the 3 acre property is perfect and complete with a kiddie pool and running water to keep your dog cool on those hot California days.

Ranch Dog Ranch (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: Vista, California
Size: 3 acres
Fenced: Yes

Welcome to Ranch Dog Ranch! The hosts provide almost 5 acres total to explore, with 3+ acres completely free to run and play. Ranch Dog private dog park has sunny fields, spots of shade, and plenty of seating for owners to relax while their dogs enjoy running around in the open space.

Taylor Pond (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: Poway, California
Size: 5 acres
Fenced: Yes

Taylor Pond is a 5 acre pond located in the heart of Poway. The host’s amenities include a grass yard, yard in the back filled with wood chips, and a eucalyptus grove — as well the namesake pond!

Dali Dog’s Desert Oasis (private Sniffspot dog park)

Location: Escondido, California
Size: 1 acre
Fenced: Yes

Do you love hiking or walking your pup in a natural setting with loads of smells and places to explore? Dali Dog’s Desert Oasis might be just the spot. It’s a single acre in size but full of extra big boulders for the whole family to enjoy climbing along with places to rest and listen to the sounds of nature.

FAQ About Public Dog Parks in Los Angeles, California

Are Los Angeles public dog parks good for dogs?

It is important for dogs to have off-leash exercise and plenty of opportunities to explore. But the free and open nature of public dog parks can have drawbacks.

Many dog behaviorists discourage visiting public dog parks and recommend Sniffspot’s private dog parks. With Sniffspot, dogs can get their exercise safely — without worrying about other dogs, people, or potential disease transmission.

What are the biggest concerns with public dog parks in Los Angeles?

While the popularity of dog parks has been skyrocketing in the United States, so has the number of professional trainers who caution against their use. The top risks associated with public off-leash dog parks are that:

Dog parks can create an unnatural social environment
Busy dog parks can overwhelm shy or nervous dogs
Dog parks can exacerbate problem behaviors like leash reactivity
Bad experiences at a dog park can also create behavior problems in the first place
Public dog parks can lead to physical injuries and illnesses

(Thankfully, private dog parks don’t have these concerns. Learn more about Sniffspot listings in your area here!)

Some concerns with Los Angeles dog parks in specific are:

Being near the coast, many Los Angeles public dog parks also require owners to think carefully about water hazards and potential pollution.

How do public dog parks create an unnatural social environment for dogs?

Many owners are drawn to dog parks because they want to socialize their pets. We’re inundated with messages of the “perfect” friendly dog. Our social media feeds feature viral videos of animal best friends that echo the cutesy movies we loved as children — but they often show a false reality.

While dogs are social mammals, it’s typically not natural for them to regularly engage in play with strangers. Dog sociability can be viewed as a sliding scale:

Some dogs are truly dog social. This means they genuinely enjoy interaction with almost every dog they meet! We tend to think these dogs are more common than they really are — they’re the ones we most see out and about because they can handle the widest range of environments.
Most dogs are dog tolerant or dog selective. They don’t often seek out new friends, but they can comfortably interact with other dogs when needed after a proper introduction process. (You can read more about properly introducing dogs who don’t know each other in this article.)
Some dogs are dog aggressive. They might live with or know a few specific canine friends, but they don’t generally enjoy being around their own species.

Ultimately: It’s perfectly normal for our dogs to not want to play with other pets outside of our families. Renting a private dog park just for your dog and a few trusted friends might be the best option.

How can public dog parks overwhelm shy or nervous dogs?

Owners have great intentions when they bring their nervous dogs to the dog park in hopes of building social skills. Unfortunately, it doesn’t take much for that plan to backfire.

Because dog parks are often busy, chaotic environments, it can be difficult to ensure all interactions are positive. Uncertain dogs are easily overwhelmed by large packs — if the space is fenced-in without adequate space to flee, these pets can quickly feel trapped or resort to the “fight” option of fight-or-flight reactions.

After a few stressful experiences, previously shy dogs can lose trust in their owners and even become fear aggressive.

Sniffspot takes these risks seriously. That’s why all of our private dog park listings are carefully booked to make sure there’s ample time between arrivals and departures — and you can filter listings by whether or not your dog is likely to see any other animals at all, even from afar.

Do public dog parks exacerbate problem behaviors like leash reactivity?

It’s not just nervous dogs who can be harmed by dog park visits — exuberant dogs might struggle in these environments, too.

Many social dogs struggle with excitement-based leash reactivity. When they see another dog, they want to say hi! When the leash prevents them from doing so, they experience something called barrier frustration. Eventually this boils over into an aggressive-looking display that makes it difficult to go on walks or explore public spaces.

While playing with other dogs can be an important part of a social pet’s fulfillment, too much unstructured off-leash time can have unintended consequences when they routinely practice running up to other dogs.

These risks are especially high when owners take their dogs to the dog park with the intent of tiring them out. Pets often arrive in an amped-up, energetic state of mind that impairs good decision making.

Can one bad experience at a public dog park have a lasting effect on a dog?

Even a previously social dog might develop a behavior issue (like fear reactivity) due to a negative interaction with another dog at a public dog park. Perhaps they get subtly bullied, feel overwhelmed, or are even bit — and they decide to preemptively try to keep other dogs away from them. Now your social dog is selective or even aggressive toward others.

While some dogs seem to let those negative interactions roll off their back (especially if they’ve been well socialized since puppyhood) others are affected in lasting ways. Each dog and situation is different.

What are the risks of physical injuries and illnesses at public dog parks?

Public dog parks also increase the chances of pets sustaining injury or developing infection.

Dog park injuries

While many dog-dog injuries at dog parks are accidental — canines can be mismatched in size, inadvertently break skin while wrestling with untrimmed nails, or simply come on too strong without realizing — others are overtly aggressive.

Even friendly dogs can start fights by failing to recognize another pet’s signals of discomfort. Resource guarding over food and toys can turn into a dangerous scuffle. Sometimes heightened arousal from being in a large social group elevates even a typically clear-headed dog’s prey drive.

Dog park illnesses

No matter how hard a city works to keep their parks clean, it’s impossible to fully eliminate all infection risk. This is especially true in dog-designated spaces that see dozens, or perhaps hundreds, of different canines each week.

There’s no way to confirm that every dog entering an off-leash space has been fully vaccinated — and bacterial diseases like leptospirosis often thrive in wet, muddy terrain that’s been torn up by paws.

Young puppies and elderly dogs have the greatest chance of getting sick.

Are all public dog parks dangerous?

While dog parks certainly come with their risks, it would be unfair to claim they’re always a bad idea. Public dog parks do serve an important community service in cities like Los Angeles.

Some areas lend themselves to safe interactions better than others — large plots of land with acres to maneuver are less dangerous than fenced-in city runs, for example — and responsible owner involvement can make a world of difference.

What are public dog parks good for?

Well-maintained off-leash dog parks can provide dogs and owners with:

Biological fulfillment. At their best, dog parks provide an opportunity to fulfill our dogs’ natural canine instincts (running, sniffing, digging, etc.) without impacting others in shared spaces. This can be especially valuable if owners don’t have a yard of their own or walking trails nearby.
Playtime. While most dogs don’t want to play with strangers, some particularly outgoing canines might enjoy playing with brand-new friends. A small percentage of truly “dog social” dogs are good candidates for traditional dog parks.
Distraction training. Dog parks can be an ideal place to practice advanced training, like recalls, around the distractions of other dogs, people, and nature scents.
Owner connections. Many owners enjoy the human social aspect of the dog park — and public spaces enable those relationships without the costs commonly associated with formal group training classes or dog sports practices.

How can I keep my dog safe at a public dog park?

If choosing to use a public dog park, you can do a lot to manage your dog’s safety:

Make an honest assessment of your dog’s sociability. Are they one of the small portion of dogs that gets along with all other animals?
Make sure your dog is up to date on vaccines to protect them against any bugs that may be present in the park.
Choose an appropriate public dog park. Make sure that it is large enough and free from obvious hazards.
Assess the dog park and other owners before entering. Are there any maintenance issues in the park that could be a problem? Is it overly crowded? Are there owners that are not keeping a close eye on their dog? Are there dogs that could be an issue for your dog or others?
Keep a close watch and be an active part of your dog’s play.

Thinking of Hosting Your Own Dog Park on Sniffspot?

If you’ve been discouraged by public dog parks in Los Angeles, you might be thinking about other options for your dog. Maybe you’ve even considered creating a safe, private space of your own. If so, Sniffspot might be the perfect solution.

How to Become a Sniffspot Host

Becoming a Sniffspot host is surprisingly simple. Here’s how to get started:

Listing Your Space

Creating your Sniffspot listing is easy. You’ll provide some basic information about your space, including its size, features, and location. Clear photos are key—show potential guests exactly what their visit will be like. Highlight any unique amenities you offer, like agility equipment or a swimming area.

Setting Your Price

You’re in control of how much you charge guests. Sniffspot’s commission structure is straightforward: they take a percentage of each booking, not a flat fee. The total commission is usually 24.37% plus $0.22 per transaction. This allows you to keep the majority of your earnings while benefiting from Sniffspot’s platform and marketing.

Benefits of Hosting with Sniffspot

Beyond the satisfaction of providing a safe and fun environment for dogs, hosting with Sniffspot offers several perks:

Earning Potential

As a Sniffspot host, you can generate substantial income. Many hosts earn up to $3,000 per month, with some reporting even higher earnings. It’s a great way to create passive income, as you don’t need to be present during guest visits.

Insurance and Support

Sniffspot provides comprehensive insurance coverage for hosts, including $1 million in host protection insurance and $5,000 in damage protection. This gives you peace of mind knowing you’re protected in case of accidents or unexpected issues.

Sniffspot Host FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about becoming a Sniffspot host:

What Kind of Land is Suitable?

Sniffspot welcomes a variety of land types, from fenced yards and dog beaches to hiking trails and even indoor spaces. The key is to provide a safe and enriching environment for dogs to enjoy.

How Much Does Sniffspot Charge Hosts?

Sniffspot charges a commission on each booking, not a flat fee. The total commission is usually 24.37% plus $0.22 per transaction. This transparent pricing model makes it easy to understand your earnings and manage your finances.

FAQ About Private Dog Parks in Los Angeles, California

Are private dog parks safe?

While public dog parks have a number of safety issues, such as potentially aggressive dogs and disease transmission, Sniffspot dog parks are much safer.

Sniffspot bookings are private for just you and dogs you bring. We require every dog to be vaccinated (or have equivalent titers). All Sniffspot locations are vetted and reviewed by guests so you can find the perfect safe place for you and your dog.

How do I know if a Sniffspot private dog park works for my dog?

You can filter Sniffspot dog parks by fencing and distractions.

If your dog is still working on their recall, you can visit one of our fully fenced dog parks in Los Angeles.
If your dog is reactive to other dogs, you can visit one of our off-leash areas where there are no dogs audible or visible nearby. You can also filter locations to avoid other domestic animals and people.

We recommend reading reviews and reaching out to the host with any questions.

Does Los Angeles have any fully fenced private dog parks?

Sniffspot has fully fenced dog parks in and near the Los Angeles, California area. You can filter through all options by their fencing status (and even height) at this link!

Can I rent a private field for my dog to run near Los Angeles?

There are plenty of Sniffspot fields in or near Los Angeles where dogs can be off leash. Take a look at listings and filter by size and flat field space at this link.

Are there private dog agility courses for rent in Los Angeles?

Yes, Sniffspot has dog parks with agility equipment and/or dog obstacles in or near Los Angeles! You can filter all Los Angeles listings by the presence of agility equipment here.

Get safe exercise for your dog by renting a private dog park near you

David Adams

March 25, 2025

City Dog Parks

David Adams

About the author

David Adams is a man of many passions, but his love for dogs stands above all. He is not only a dog lover, but also the founder of an innovative platform called Sniffspot. This unique platform connects dog owners with private property owners who are willing to rent out their space for off-leash playtime. While the idea of Sniffspot was initially conceived by his wife, Rebecca, David has been the driving force behind its remarkable success, tirelessly overseeing its growth and development. David's dedication to providing safe and enjoyable spaces for dogs to play, explore, and socialize is evident in his unwavering commitment to Sniffspot. He strongly believes that dogs need ample space and opportunities to stretch their legs and have fun. As a result, he has worked tirelessly to build a network of private property owners across the country who share his vision and are willing to offer their space for the benefit of dogs and their owners. Despite his busy schedule, David always finds time to indulge in his passion for the great outdoors. He loves nothing more than exploring new hiking trails and embarking on thrilling outdoor adventures. Whenever he is not working on Sniffspot, he can often be found hiking or visiting multi-acre fenced sniffspots with his two beloved dogs, Soba and Toshii. He is an avid outdoorsman who enjoys the fresh air, breathtaking scenery, and the sense of freedom that comes with being in nature. David is based in Salem, MA.

About Sniffspot

Sniffspot is a community marketplace that enables anyone to rent land by-the-hour as a safe and private dog park.

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About Sniffspot

Sniffspot provides the best experiences and fun for you and your dog. Our dog parks are designed for the ultimate dog exercise. Our private spaces help you minimize distractions or triggers and maximize time with your dog. We provide off leash enrichment - exploration and activities you can't get anywhere else; wear your dog out for days. We make it easy to have playdates. Socialize your pup in a controlled, private spot - it's great exercise and it's fun for you and your dog.