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Best Dog Runs In The Bay Area

(credit: Kim White/Getty Images)

With an over abundance of sunny days and never-ending gorgeous weather, the Bay Area provides the perfect home to numerous dog runs. With options ranging from open space and shore-lined, to enclosed and shaded, dog owners have a multitude of places to take a furry friend. Here is a list of some of the best Bay Area dog parks. For more ideas, check out a few of San Francisco's best dog parks.

Fort Funston
Fort Mason
San Francisco, CA 94118
(415) 561-4700
www.nps.gov/fortfunston

Positioned near the southern end of Ocean Beach, Fort Funston is home to one of San Francisco's premier doggy hangouts. With over 35 acres of sand dunes, trails and beach, Fido will have plenty of room to stretch those legs. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to run off-leash. Many folks make a day of it, exploring the varied terrain and expansive Bay views. Several watering areas are available for both dog and human.

Point Isabel Regional Shoreline
2701 Isabel St.
Richmond, CA 94804
(888) 327-2757
www.ebparks.org/ptisabel

Another excellent off-leash park with water access, Point Isabel is located along the Richmond shoreline. Frequently referred to by locals as "Doggy Disneyland," Point Isabel receives over 500,000 furry four-legged visitors each year. In addition to the amazing bird-watching, picnicking, and fishing opportunities, at the end of the day, owners have the opportunity to treat tired pets at Mudpuppy's Tub and Scrub. This one-stop-shop offers everything from doggy-centric shopping and baths, to a café that serves both people and pooches. Plenty of bag stations are available for cleaning up after pets, and don't forget to bring a towel to dry off the water-loving dogs.

Seal Point Dog Park
1801 E. 3rd Ave.
San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 522-7400
www.cityofsanmateo.org

The Seal Point Dog Park in San Mateo is located near the bay shore and has large designated spots for both large and small dogs. Although there is little shade in this spacious area, there are water fountains, bowls for the dogs as well as a hose. Locals frequently leave behind old tennis balls, so between the vast space for running, loads of other dogs and loose balls, Fido will always have plenty with which to keep busy. Bathrooms are on-site and make sure to bring sunscreen on warm days.

Foster City Dog Park
Foster City Blvd. and Bounty Drive
Foster City, CA 94404
(650) 286-3553
www.fostercity.org/dogpark

Similar to Seal Point, the Foster City Dog Park has separate enclosed areas for larger and smaller breed dogs. However, unlike Seal Point, the Foster City park has plenty of shaded space, and is a better bet on those blistering hot summer days. There is plenty of seating available for humans, including picnic tables and spots under umbrellas. For the more playful pup, bring toys from home. Owners might also want to consider portable water bowls and lightweight jackets in case the wind picks up.

Max Baer Dog Park
1310 Murdell Lane
Livermore, CA 94550
(925) 373-5700
www.larpd.org

Livermore's Max Baer Dog Park holds one expansive 28,000 square foot enclosed, off-leash space, where both large and small dogs alike can frolic together. The park has a spigot for water, but it's wise to bring a bowl to fill from home. Although on the more rustic side, the park has plenty of amenities such as seating, shade, portable toilets and waste bags. With plenty of mature trees and grassy areas, the Max Baer Dog Park is the perfect spot to spend a few hours on a sunny Livermore day.

Joanna Metheny is a freelance writer covering all things South Bay. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.


 

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