Taking your dogs swimming can be a great opportunity for them to have a lot of fun. Many dog breeds love to play in the water, and it can be a good way of cooling them down after a day of summer activities.
But in New York City, it isn’t immediately obvious where you could take your dogs swimming. However, there are some fantastic spots throughout the city for those who know where to find them!
In this article, we’re going to take a quick look at five of the best swimming spots for dogs in NYC.
Water4Dogs
Water4Dogs is a popular rehabilitation center for dogs in NYC, that uses swimming and underwater treadmill training to help keep dogs fit and happy.
While there is a focus on therapy, with resources in place to help dogs that are sufferers from health conditions or old age, you may be surprised to know that fully healthy dogs are also completely welcome and really do benefit from the fun in the pool!
Their address and opening hours can be found here.
Prospect Park Dog Beach
If you’re looking for a big day out with your dog, you can’t go wrong with visiting Prospect Park in Brooklyn.
Not only does this area have plenty of scenic open space for your dogs to explore, but it also features a beautiful dog beach bordering a safe and enclosed small lake.
Here your dog’s can swim to their heart’s content, a perfect way to end a day of exploring the park.
Keep in mind that dogs are only allowed off the leash at 5AM-9AM and 9PM-1PM each day at the Long Meadow (except ballfields), Nethermead, and Peninsula. Dog’s must be kept out of the water during on-leash hours.
Francis Lewis Park
A little-known spot, this area can be a great place for families and dogs who would like a quiet place to swim.
Located just off the Bronx-Whitestone bridge on the Queens side, this unassuming strip of land can be a lovely place for your family to unwind while your dog has some fun in the naturally enclosed water.
Valentino Pier
If you’re looking for a more expansive body of water for your athletic dogs to have a swim, the pier at Louis Valentino Junior Park hides a small beach from which your dogs can enjoy the Upper New York Bay.
Just remember that the water here is rougher than a lake or a swimming pool, with waves and all! Ensure your dog is an accomplished swimmer before trying this area.
Larchmont Doggie Beach
If you’re able to travel a little out of the way, the Larchmont Doggie Beach is a picturesque spot for dogs to swim, located just a 30-minute drive north of the city.
The beach makes just as good a place to play as the water, so there’s a lot for dogs and humans to enjoy.
Dog Swimming Safety
We hope you and your dogs have a fantastic time swimming at these beautiful locations spread throughout New York.
However, it is very important to remember to never leave your dog in the water unsupervised. More difficult options such as the Valentino Pier should be left to accomplished swimmers only.
Water4Dogs can be a great place for novice swimmers to enjoy the natural fun of water safely.
Finally, keep in mind that not all dogs make for good swimmers; dogs with a heavy chest, flat-face, and/or short stumpy legs can struggle. Ensure your dog can take well to the water before bringing them to any of the places above!
