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Dog Parks in Madison, WI

Yes, it’s true. Madison is going to the dogs. And the dogs are going to the parks! Under a warm February forecast, the local ice rinks are closing for the season, so what better way to spend time outdoors than to take your four‑legged friend out for a stroll? You won’t be alone.

Consider this: Madison’s population is 233,209 as of 2017. That translates to 102,516 occupied homes in Madison. And according to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there is an average of just over 1.5 dogs per each U.S household. So, the question is this — how many dogs are going to the park? The correct answer? A lot.

And when you include the population of Madison’s greater metropolitan area, along with the number of both dogs and dog parks there, well, this is a match made in heaven. Most area residents are aware of Madison’s great reputation when it comes to bikes and bike trails, but just ask one of the many area dog owners and you’ll soon find out that Madison is pretty doggone pet-friendly too.

While the Dane County Farmer’s Market prohibits dogs for many understandable reasons — the crowds, the kids, the food and the pet owner’s control (or lack thereof) — dogs are welcome at many “regular” parks. And of course, there are numerous dog parks created just with dogs and dog owners in mind.

Whether you’re a biker, jogger, dog owner or parent, if you’ve ever been to one of the local Madison area parks, you might assume that dogs are welcome in all of them. Guess what? That wasn’t always the case. Until recently, there were just 12 local parks that allowed dogs on leashes to be on or within 6 feet of paved park paths. In fact, it was just this month (yes, February, 2017) that the Madison City Council created a committee to review an ordinance that would add 14 more parks to this original list.

If you were unaware or confused about this policy, you aren’t alone. The rules were rarely strictly enforced — and over the past 16 months a pilot program did allow dogs on park paths on a trial basis. Dog parents — especially those that have been using these parks unaware, or in spite of, the policy — will be happy to know that 77% of dog owners obeyed the leash laws, resulting in 84% of park users surveyed indicating their support of making the additional parks official.

These parks are great for taking a nice walk with Fido — and the dogs you pass look pretty content. But for real doggy fun, there are plenty of actual dog parks where dogs can run free, chase balls, catch freebees and sniff out a few new friends. In fact, with 8 dog parks right here in Madison, the city ranks 4th in the country for the number of dog parks per resident. And that doesn’t even count those in the neighboring communities. Just so you know, you’ll need both a dog license and a dog park permit to enjoy a day at the dog park with your furry friend. Check out the details here: Madison’s Dog Off-Leash Parks

So, if you have a dog — or 2 or 3 — here are a few places where you both just might feel right at home. Dog lovers are a special breed and you’re both sure to make a few new friends. Just don’t forget to pick up anything your dog may have left behind.

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How to Choose the Right Neighborhood

In real estate, they say that it’s all about location, location, location. And there’s definitely some truth to that. A house is much more than the four walls that hold it together. In fact, your dream home may be nothing but an ordinary house if it were located somewhere else.

…your dream home may be nothing but an ordinary house if it were located somewhere else.

The Madison Area Builders Association’s Annual Parade of Homes is a good example. If you’ve ever taken the tour, you’ve probably noticed a sign or brochure (usually on the kitchen counter) stating that the house can be built “on your lot” for a specified price. But would it be the same?

The answer is unequivocally, no. To be clear, we’re not saying that this house wouldn’t be as nice if it were located somewhere else. Only that it would be different. The truth is, you might like the Parade house even more at a site of your own choosing — because it would incorporate not only the basic elements of the house, but everything that surrounds it as well. That means the setting — and the neighborhood.

We can’t say it enough. Whether you’re buying or building, it’s all about the neighborhood, neighborhood, neighborhood. So how on earth do you know which one to choose?

Start with Your Realtor

Real estate agents have experience working with various neighborhoods all the time. They know the amenities. They can tell you the school district. They’re familiar with the crime reports, bike trails and nearby parks. Most of all, they know the neighborhood “vibe.”

What’s Most Important to You?

It’s easy to find out which neighborhoods are the trendiest. Just look at the ones getting their asking price (or more) with the fewest days on the market. But while a trendy neighborhood may be popular with the masses, that doesn’t mean it’s right for you — for a variety of reasons. The price might be more than you can afford. Maybe it’s too far from work. Or these homes could be too old — or too new — to suit your tastes.

Is There a Sense of Community?

Find out if there’s a homeowner’s association. What about a men’s or women’s club? Meeting your new neighbors and getting involved are great ways to get acclimated to your new home.

Is the Neighborhood Kid-Friendly?

If you have children, you might want to know if there’s a neighborhood park. Parks are great gathering places for moms and dads as well as the little ones. Parents can meet other parents while the kids play. A school within walking distance is a great perk, but bus information could be important too. If they’ll be riding a bus, how close is the stop? How long is the ride? If your child is a first-grader, will he or she be riding with high-schoolers?

What About Safety?

Have there been any recent crimes in the neighborhood? Any burglaries or known drug or gang activity? How close is this neighborhood to other less safe areas?

Safety isn’t all about crime. Are there busy streets to cross? Bike paths? Unfinished construction? Train tracks, steep hills or fast-moving streams that could be dangerous for kids?

Is the Neighborhood Attractive?

Keep in mind that when it comes to homes — and neighborhoods — beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Do you like mature trees or would you prefer not to rake? Are you attracted to brand new construction or homes with “character?” How big are the yards? Do multiple cars and toys clutter the streets and driveways? Are the yards nicely landscaped and the homes well-maintained?

Resident Age Range

The best neighborhoods may be those with residents that span the generations. But it’s also a good idea to be aware of the typical age. For instance, neighborhoods that were once teaming with young kids may have “aged out” of the kid zone once those toddlers headed off to college making them perfect for other empty-nesters, but not the best choice for young parents.

Consider Affordability

All the other items on your wish list become irrelevant if you can’t afford a house in the neighborhood. Talk to your realtor about the price range of homes in various areas and find out in advance the loan amount you qualify for. Then limit your search to neighborhoods you can afford.

Consider the proximity to places you frequent. Is the neighborhood convenient to work, church, grocery stores, restaurants, your family and your friends?

The Bottom Line?

Find out all you can about possible neighborhoods before you make any offers. Talk to your realtor. Search online for more information about the areas you may be interested in. Drive through the neighborhood at various times of the day to see if there are any red flags such as more traffic after school or at rush hour, late night parties, train whistles, and local bar or restaurant parking or noise. And finally, consider talking to the people who live there. Park your car and take a stroll. If there are walkers or people working in their yards, stop and ask them what they like most about the neighborhood.

Careful consideration and a little homework will help you choose the neighborhood that’s best for you. If chosen wisely, your new neighborhood may be all it takes to turn a nice house into the home of your dreams.

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