0 spots found
Ghent
Historic, walkable area with mature trees and the popular Bea McLoughlin park.
City spotlight
Dog Parks in Norfolk, VA
Explore the vibrant coastal pet culture of Norfolk, featuring seasonal beach access at Ocean View and pet-friendly commutes on the Elizabeth River Ferry.
Norfolk, Virginia, offers a vibrant coastal lifestyle for pet owners, blending historic charm with modern, dog-friendly amenities. The city is anchored by the Elizabeth River Trail (ERT), a 10.5-mile multi-use path that serves as a social hub for local pups and their humans. Along this trail, the Chelsea district stands out with its pet-welcoming atmosphere, where spots like Smartmouth Brewing often host "Pints and Pups" events. For those seeking off-leash play, the Bea McLoughlin Dog Park in the Ghent neighborhood is a local treasure, prized for its mature leafy canopy that provides critical shade during Virginia’s humid summers. This urban sanctuary is just one of many facilities maintained by Norfolk Parks & Recreation, ensuring that whether you are a military family near Naval Station Norfolk or a professional in a downtown loft, there is a dedicated space for your dog to socialize safely.
Navigating local regulations and unique transit options is key to a seamless Norfolk experience. One of the city’s most distinctive features is the pet-friendly Elizabeth River Ferry, allowing leashed dogs to enjoy a scenic water commute between downtown and Olde Towne Portsmouth. Beach lovers should head to Ocean View, where dogs are granted freedom on 7.3 miles of shoreline during the off-season (Labor Day through Memorial Day). To maintain this high standard of pet culture, the city requires all dogs over 4 months old to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. For those looking to open new pet facilities, our owner resources provide data-backed insights on Norfolk’s growing demand for premium services. From "Bark in the Park" nights at Harbor Park with the Norfolk Tides to quiet sunset walks along the Hague, Norfolk remains a premier destination for Virginia’s active canine community.
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Premium parks in Norfolk
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Local Districts
Where to play in Norfolk
The best dog-friendly spots and parks, organized by neighborhood.
0 spots found
Ocean View
Chesapeake Bay shoreline with seasonal beach access for leashed pets.
0 spots found
Chelsea
Industrial-chic district along the ERT with many dog-friendly breweries.
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City directory
All dog parks in Norfolk
Filter-ready cards with ratings, amenities, and quick actions. Use the chips to jump between sections.
What Norfolk is known for:
Best for onsite services
Best for indoor facilities
Best for professional staff
Best for climate controlled
Average Pricing in Norfolk
Day Pass
$10 - $25
Per dog, per visit
Monthly Membership
$30 - $60
Unlimited visits + perks
Vaccinations
Required
Rabies, Bordetella, DHPP
* Prices vary by facility. Please check individual park listings for exact pricing and vaccination requirements.
Dog Parks in Norfolk
33 locations · 4.7 average rating
9 Tails Pet Grooming salon
Closed
Opens tomorrow at 8:30 AM
Norfolk, VA
Pet parents in the area rave about 9 Tails Pet Grooming salon. What makes this dog facility special is its spacious, clean, safe. spacious indoor play areas Located in a safe area, This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 857-5414.
Bayview Pet Salon
Closed
Opens tomorrow at 8:30 AM
Norfolk, VA
Pet parents in the area rave about Bayview Pet Salon. What makes this dog facility special is its clean, friendly, caring. The staff's dedication to creating a positive experience for both dogs and their owners is evident in every visit. clean and well-maintained facilities This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 639-3004.
Bea Arthur Dog Park
Closed
Opens tomorrow at 8:00 AM
Norfolk, VA
Bea Arthur Dog Park has become a favorite among the area residents. What makes this dog facility special is its great, attentive, knowledgeable. The staff's dedication to creating a positive experience for both dogs and their owners is evident in every visit. great place for my dog Located in a safe area, This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 622-7382. Visit their website at https://spotlight.peta.org/petadogpark/ to learn more about their services and pricing.
Bennett Dog Business
unknown
Hours vary by season
Norfolk, VA
Bennett Dog Business has become a favorite among the area residents. What makes this dog facility special is its spacious, clean, attentive. The staff's dedication to creating a positive experience for both dogs and their owners is evident in every visit. spacious indoor play areas This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 949-8433. Visit their website at https://bennettdogbusiness.com/ to learn more about their services and pricing.
Cambridge Crescent Dog Park
unknown
Hours vary by season
Norfolk, VA
Cambridge Crescent Dog Park has become a favorite among the area residents. What makes this dog facility special is its attentive, knowledgeable, spacious. The staff's dedication to creating a positive experience for both dogs and their owners is evident in every visit. knowledgeable and attentive staff This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 575-5240.
Citizen K9 Dog Training And Agility
Closed
Opens tomorrow at 9:00 AM
Norfolk, VA
Pet parents in the area rave about Citizen K9 Dog Training And Agility. What makes this dog facility special is its great, excellent, spacious. The staff's dedication to creating a positive experience for both dogs and their owners is evident in every visit. great place for my dog This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 904-1633. Visit their website at http://www.citizenk9dogtraining.com/ to learn more about their services and pricing.
Claudia's Dogs - Doggy Daycare & Boarding
Closed
Opens tomorrow at 8:00 AM
Norfolk, VA
Pet parents in the area rave about Claudia's Dogs - Doggy Daycare & Boarding. What makes this dog facility special is its great, safe, spacious. great place for my dog Located in a safe area, This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services. For more information, call (757) 354-5351. Visit their website at https://www.claudias-dogs-doggy-daycare-boarding.com/ to learn more about their services and pricing.
Colonial Place Dog Park
Closed
Opens tomorrow at 6:00 AM
Norfolk, VA
Pet parents in the area rave about Colonial Place Dog Park. What makes this dog facility special is its excellent, professional, reliable. The staff's dedication to creating a positive experience for both dogs and their owners is evident in every visit. excellent customer service This facility specializes in Pet care and Professional services.
Explore the region
Cities near Norfolk
Worth the drive? Check out top-rated indoor parks in neighboring cities.
Are dogs allowed on beaches in Norfolk, VA?
Yes—leashed dogs are welcome on all 7.3 miles of Norfolk’s public beaches, including Ocean View and Willoughby Spit, during the off-season (Labor Day through Memorial Day). During the summer season, pets are restricted to before 10 AM and after 6 PM to ensure safety during peak swimming hours.
Can I take my dog on the Elizabeth River Ferry?
Absolutely. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) allows leashed dogs on the Elizabeth River Ferry, which connects downtown Norfolk to Olde Towne Portsmouth. It’s a unique, pet-friendly way to commute across the water while enjoying skyline views.
What are the main dog licensing rules in Norfolk?
All dogs over 4 months old must be licensed with the City of Norfolk and have proof of rabies vaccination. Licenses are $10 for spayed/neutered pets and $15 otherwise. Note that the city also has a specific ordinance limiting households to no more than four dogs.
Which parks in Norfolk offer the most shade?
Bea McLoughlin Dog Park in Ghent is a local favorite specifically for its heavy tree canopy, providing essential relief during Virginia’s humid summers. Most other regional parks like Maplewood or Winona are also well-maintained by Norfolk Parks & Recreation.
Have any other questions ?
Don't hesitate to send us an email with your enquiry or statement at:
media@indoordogpark.org
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