The City of Boise is extremely dog friendly, but there are places to go with your furry best friend that are better suited to them for playtime.
PARKS IN CITY LIMITS
There are seven off-leash parks in city limits that offer grass, mulch or sand as surface material. Together Treasure Valley Dog Island at Ann Morrison Park, Bowler Park, Mariposa Park, Military Reserve Dog Park, Molenaar Park, Morris Hill Park and Pine Grove Park.
Other parks, like Manitou Park and Redwood Park, have off-leash areas in them where your dog can play and run around.
You can read more about city parks that are good for your dogs to go here.
RIDGE TO RIVERS TRAILS
If you have dogs that have more energy, taking them with you on a hike is a great idea. However, it is important to know the leash rules for the trails you are on.
It is also encouraged to carry a grocery bag or mutt mitt to pick up after your pet and throw it away in a trash can. Your pet should be under control enough to keep it from messing around with other trail users or causing erosion by digging on hillsides or stream banks.
And of course, bring enough water and snacks for both you and your pets! It does get hot this time of year and it is best to be overprepared and keep yourself and your dog safe in the heat.
Ridge to Rivers has more tips for dogs in the foothills on its website.
DOWNTOWN BOISE
Believe it or not, there is also a lot for you and your pup to do in the downtown area of Boise. You can take your dog through Freak Alley, check out Cecil D. Andrus Park by the Capitol Building, and explore the Capital City Farmers Market on Saturday.
If you want to bring your dog to dinner or drinks, Eureka! and Meriwether Cider have pet-friendly patios. There are plenty more restaurants in the downtown area that allow dogs, especially on 8th Street, just call ahead and ask before heading out.
THE BOISE RIVER
It is the time of year when people are out floating the river every weekend, and you will see dogs both floating the river and on the sides jumping in every once in a while.
Right now, the river is going pretty fast and strong, so make sure your dog is a good enough swimmer if it wants to get in the water. It is also recommended to have a doggy life vest if you are bringing your dog on the water, whether that is in a raft or on your paddleboard.
It is also smart to make sure your dog is not bothering other people if you are playing fetch with it anywhere alongside the river. The river and beaches are popular places during the summer, and there will be lots of people and other dogs around looking to cool off.
If you ever have any questions about the ever-changing marketplace or know someone looking to buy or sell, please do not hesitate to reach out!