If you love dogs as much as we do, then having a proper place for your pup to play in the company of like-minded canine friends is probably high on your priority list. And if it’s not, consider it an added bonus when you find your new home for sale in pet-friendly San Jose.

Having a well-socialized dog is not only good for them, but also for you and your neighborhood. Get out and play with your four-legged pal and see the benefits for yourself. Here are 5 dog parks worth visiting in San Jose.

1. Roy M. Butcher Dog Park

3950 Camden Ave
San Jose, CA 95124
Ok, so the name is a little harsh. (Butcher. Yikes.) But, this is actually one of the best dog parks in all of San Jose. The park, located on Camden Avenue, caters to both large and small dogs-large being 40 pounds or more, and small being 40 pounds or less. And as far as the freebies go, Butcher provides water, clean-up bags, a little shade, and a good amount of seating and parking which has been just remodeled by local contractors you can hire if you click here.

The dogs run around on spacious turf, dirt and sidewalk here, and the humans enjoy a nearby children’s park, donated chairs and dog park benches. Dog-specific meet-ups occur regularly at Butcher as well, so find a friend and make a date for your pup to come back and play again.

2. Saratoga Creek Dog Park

Graves Ave. and Greene Drive
San Jose, CA 95129
Little ones might be a little intimidated by Saratoga Creek Dog Park at first glance. The park isn’t separated into small and large like some others, which means all the pups play together no matter their size. Fortunately, friendly owners do well to monitor their bigger pets, which makes playtime safe and fun for all.

You can find the park right off Lawrence Expressway. Water fountains are on either side of the long stretch of turf, and clean-up bag dispensers and chairs are available to keep the park clean and comfortable. You will have to pay for parking here, (currently $6), so bear that in mind as you make your way over.

3. Jeffrey Fontana Dog Park

Golden Oak Way & McAbee Rd
San Jose, CA 95120
If your dog doesn’t mind getting down and dirty, then Jeffrey Fontana Dog Park in Almaden is the perfect destination. This is a quiet, all dirt park, separated into large and small breed areas with plenty of friendly visitors to have some fun with. While you’re here, grab a provided tennis ball (and a pooper-scooper) and get ready to play all afternoon long.

There’s also plenty of grass outside the fences to walk your pup on-leash-and it may be a welcomed escape for those bothered by the obvious, and sometimes noisy, power lines and towers.

4. Hellyer Park Dog Enclosure

995 Hellyer Ave
San Jose, CA 95109
In south side San Jose, off the 101 Freeway, is where you’ll find Hellyer Park. The dog park is an enclosure on the premises, which are more popularly known to host barbecues and other parties. Dogs will appreciate this off-leash location where they can get away from the crowd and just cut loose.

The dog enclosure, like the park itself, is a great size-especially for big dogs. There are two areas, but one is much nicer and most of the pups play there. Because of this, be sure to keep an eye on your smaller pup as the bigs are known to take over. Hellyer Park is a pay to park spot, but free parking is available on the streets if you don’t mind the walk.

5. Delmas Dog Park

400 Park Ave.
San Jose, CA 95110
We’d be remiss if we didn’t include a city option. Downtown San Jose is home to a growing number of puppies and dogs all looking for the same relief as their suburban and rural counterparts. If you live in a condominium or any other plot of real estate with minimal yard space, then Delmas Dog Park is your convenient solution.

This isn’t a separated space, just one long run for all dogs to share. The ambiance is urban (light rail tracks are on the other side of the fence lining the park), but tall trees, dirt and leaves make it a small break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There’s water provided but be sure to bring your own bags for clean up.

Honorable Mentions

Watson Dog Park

1099 Houghton Ct
San Jose, CA 95112
Divides for littles and bigs, real grass, tucked away, recently remediated, and BYOB. Yes, Bring Your Own Bags. There are pooper-scoopers here, but bags may be the better way to go. Be sure to clean up after your dog.

Ryland Dog Park

N San Pedro St & Ryland St
San Jose, CA 95110
Downtown and convenient, but small in area. This park is tucked under a freeway overpass, so there’s plenty of shade. There are no fountains here though, so don’t forget to bring some water.

What do you think? Would you add any others to our list? Let us know how you feel about dog parks, and if they impact your decision to purchase a home for sale in the area.

You may also read about how a buyers agent helps; read on to learn more about it.

-By Dan Pfister

2 Responses to “San Jose: 5 Dog Parks Worth Visiting”

Jessica • September 5th, 2012 at 4:47 am

This is super helpful!

Bay Area Homes For Sale • September 24th, 2012 at 1:00 am

Great to hear.