Celebrate National Dog Month By Taking Your Pup to Downtown’s Dog Park

By Olivia Miller

August is National Dog Month which means it's time to pamper your pooch. Rather than buying them a new bone, delectable treat, or colorful collar or bandana, take them on a relaxing walk to Downtown Pittsburgh’s dog park.

The park, which is the only place where dogs can be legally off-leash in The Golden Triangle, is located at the base of the Rachel Carson Bridge. This grassy area is a great way not only for your dog to get some exercise but also for you and your dog to socialize with your Downtown neighbors alongside picturesque views of the North Shore.

The dog park was first introduced to Downtown in 2017, after Downtown Neighbors Alliance executive director John Valentine saw the residents’ need for a relaxing place to let their dogs get out some energy. In fact, they ranked a dog park their second most wanted amenity next to a grocery store. The DNA then partnered with the City to begin planning a space that could accommodate the estimated 400 dogs that live in the Golden Triangle.

Since then, pooches have been playing, walking, and just relaxing with their owners and new doggy friends at the park. Before bringing your pet, it is important to note that only dogs weighing up to 30 pounds are permitted in the park because of the small size of the park. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.