About the Dog Run
Two dog run areas were installed on the north end Maria Hernandez Park, along Irving Avenue, near the Willoughby Avenue gate in November of 2012.
DOG RUN RULES
Below are the official rules issued by the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation.
WELCOME
Please be courteous and respectful to others. Dog runs are solely for the recreation of dogs. Use of this facility as at your own risk.
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RULES OF THE RUN
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Dog owners are responsible for their dogs' actions.
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Monitor and control your dog at all times, particularly non-neutered males as other males may react aggressively toward them.
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Remain alert.
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No aggressive dogs.
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Dogs involved in a fight must be removed from the run.
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No dogs in heat.
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Discourage excessive barking, especially in the early morning and late evening.
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Dogs must be licensed, vaccinated against rabies, and free from all communicable diseases.
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No people without dogs; no dogs without people.
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A maximum of three dogs per person is allowed.
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Children under the age of 12 must be supervised by an adult.
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You must clean up after your dog and place in trash receptacle.
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Dog must wear a harness or collar while in the run.
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No prong, choke, or spike collars.
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Dogs must be leashed when exiting the dog run.
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No littering, smoking, barbecuing, open flame, or consumption of alcohol.
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No vending, amplified sound, demonstrations or events over 20 people, except by permit.
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No glass containers or food, except dog treats.
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Do not leave personal property in the run.
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To avoid injuries, fill in any holes.
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For questions about Parks or to report an incident,
please call 311 or visit nyc.gov/parks.
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PLEASE NOTE:
The Small Dogs side is designated for dogs under 25 pounds (+ short & stocky breeds like pugs, french bulldogs, etc.) and the Large Dog side is for 25 pounds and above.
BENEFITS OF A DOG RUN
Dog runs are fenced in areas that allow dogs to safely be off leash in NYC Parks. This is the best way for dogs in urban environments to exercise and socialize, which are two key elements for nurturing and sustaining better behaved dogs.
There’s a saying in the dog world that a ‘tired pup is a happy pup.’ Dogs who misbehave and bark usually do so when they are bored, anxious, or poorly socialized. Such behavior can be amplified by an excess of pent up energy. Because of this, it’s important for dogs to receive proper exercise on a daily basis.
Dog runs are a great way to exercise dogs in the city. When dogs are able to receive ample amounts of exercise, they are more receptive to training, which helps dogs become better behaved. Additionally, dog runs help pups socialize and that allows them learn to be more comfortable with other dogs, people and city life.
Another benefit of dog runs are the community environment they help create. Much like parents at their local playground, dog owners socialize at the dog park, allowing them to meet and connect with their neighbors daily. Dog runs are a great way to meet new residents, introduce them to the neighborhood and get them involved with the community at large.
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How do dog runs benefit non-dog owners?
By providing a designated space for dogs to exercise in the city, we are able to greatly reduce the number of pet owners illegally unleashing their dogs in non-designated areas such as the lawns of the park, playgrounds, athletic courts, and ballfields. This also can help reduce the wear and tear on these areas of city property, thereby extending their longevity and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
With fewer unleashed dogs in the area, non-dog owners in the community, especially children, are able safely enjoy the rest of the areas in the park.
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Because dogs need daily exercise, regardless of the weather, dog owners are often routinely walking around at various times every day. This makes dog owners a great security resource for communities, providing an extra set of eyes on the streets and parks.