Parks & Recreation Department

Jake Coates enjoys the Durham Dog Park

Canine Recreation

Contact: Lorita Dudus (919) 560-4355, ext. 27220, durhamdogpark@durhamnc.gov

Dog Parks

Check out what every dog's been barking about!

Dog owners represent a large (and growing!) segment of the community. And while regular leash walks provide a level of exercise that promotes good dog health, access to open space for off-leash play and socialization is equally important. The Durham Dog Parks are multifunctional facilities designed to offer a safe and controlled environment for dogs and their owners.

Enjoy the parks!

Pineywood Park:

One Park, four separate fenced in areas!

Pineywood Park is located at the intersection of Woodcroft Parkway and Woodlake Drive. The park consists of more than three acres of land.

The four enclosed areas are:

  • Small dog area: For dogs 15 inches and smaller, 30 pounds and under
  • Large dog area: For dogs 15 inches and taller, 30 pounds and over
  • Program area: This area is open to all, but also can be used for special playgroups or an organized activity. For information, call 560-4355, ext 27220
  • Lagniappe (Cajun for something extra): A smaller version of the program area where a dog(s) can be taken if they need a ‘time out’ or one on one time is needed with him/her. This area is open to all.

Amenities:

  • Water fountains
  • Mutt mitt dispensers/waste receptacles
  • Benches
  • Kiosk

Northgate Park:

Northgate Park is located off of Lavender Ave. (the old Jaycee ball field)

Two enclosed areas:

  • "BIG Dog Field": The original ball field: Fenced in area for big dogs 15 inches and taller, 30 pounds and over
  • "PUP Pen": A fenced in area specifically for small dogs, 15 inches and smaller, 30 pounds and under

Amenities:

  • Water fountains
  • Mutt mitt dispensers/waste receptacles
  • Benches
  • Kiosk

The DPR Ambassador

Canine Obedience Classes

Puppy Class - Age(s): 12 weeks - 6 months

6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Class limit of six for fall session
Class limit of eight for winter, spring and summer sessions

This class will introduce your pet to basic skills and the importance of house training, socialization and an introduction to basic commands.
Immunization requirements: two Distemper/Parvo, Bordetella and Rabies

Basic Beginner - Age(s): Dogs 6 months and older

7 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Class limit of six for fall session
Class limit of eight for winter, spring and summer sessions

This class will reinforce your pet to controlled walking and basic commands such as "Sit," "Down," "Stay," "Come," and "Don’t jump."
Immunization requirements: two Distemper/Parvo, Bordetella and Rabies

Dogs with aggression problems are not accepted (Call 560-4355, ext. 220, for consultation).

Please note the first class is a combined lecture course. The lecture will review techniques and answer questions pertaining to both Puppy and Basic Obedience classes. The lecture is approximately two hours in duration. Please do not bring your dog to this class.

Advanced Obedience Class (fall and spring sessions only)

8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Class limit of six for fall session
Class limit of eight for spring session

In this class, you'll build upon basic obedience skills to learn more solid staying, heeling and recalls in a distracting environment. Although the focus will not be on the Canine Good Citizen test, some of the class exercises, activities and games will help prepare dogs and handlers for that test.

Prerequisites: Your dog should be able to reliably perform the sit, down, stay, heel and come commands in a non-distracting environment. Training collars and treats can be used during class.

Canine Good Citizen (winter and summer sessions only)

8 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Class limit of six for winter and summer sessions

The CGC is a certification program administered by the American Kennel Club. It is designed to reward dogs who have good manners at home and in the community. All dogs who pass the 10-step CGC test receive a certificate from the AKC.

Prerequisite: This is an advanced obedience class so your dog should be able to reliably perform the sit, down, stay, heel and come commands before you attend the first class. Training collars and treats can be used during class but are not allowed during the CGC test.

Please note: The CGC test is performed by an outside source. There is a separate $10 fee that will need to be paid directly to the evaluator. Please do not add this amount to the course fee. The first class is a lecture class - no dogs. The class will review techniques and answer questions. The lecture is approximately one hour.

Please note that class dates subject to change.

 

Class Schedule

Classes resume September 2009; Schedule will be posted August 2009