dog days in the park

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I, myself, do not have a dog. I'm a bird person. I have pet birds. But I have friends and family that have dogs in their families. And I meet plenty of folks with dogs on the trails and in the parks.  So, I know that it's important to them to have places in nature to visit with their pups. And the pups, of course, love it!

There are lots of places in our local and county parks, in our state parks and nature trails, to walk with your dog.  And lots of spaces made especially for dogs, so they can run free and play. Swim, even.

I try to include information on location web pages (when possible) regarding whether or not dogs are permitted.  But I thought a short guide would be helpful.  If you know of a great location I haven't included, drop me an email and I'll add it.  
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FOLLOW THE RULES

Always be sure to follow the posted rules and petiquette for dog parks.
When walking your dog in local parks or on nature trails, the rule of thumb is
to keep them on-leash of no more than 6 feet. 

Always clean up pet waste and dispose of it properly.  Most parks and trails have waste disposal bins. If not, take it with you and dispose of it at home.
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MILWAUKEE COUNTY PARKS & TRAILS

Most county parks tend to permit dogs on leash,
and ask that you clean up after your pet. In addition,
there are over 100 miles of trails within the parks system,
that allow pets on leash as well.  

The only place they are not allowed is within the sensitive
nature trails at Wehr Nature Center.  More Info...
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MILWAUKEE COUNTY OFF-LEASH DOG PARKS

There are seven off-leash dog parks within the county park system. They do require a yearly membership pass.  Visit their website for further details and park rules.  The dog parks are as follows:

Bay View Dog Park, Currie Park Dog Park, Estabrook Dog Park,
Warnimont Park Dog Park, Granville Dog Exercise Area, and Roverwest Dog Park.
Most municipalities have at least one dog park, or at least parks that permit dogs.  Check with your local parks and recreation department for details on designated pet-friendly areas, rules and regulations.
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WISCONSIN STATE PARK SYSTEM

Pets are permitted in most campgrounds, roads, trails, and outlying areas of the parks.  
Pets must be leashed, at no longer than 8 feet at all times.
Pets must be under control at all times.
All pet waste must be properly removed.
There are some areas where pets are not allowed. 
Some of the parks have designated pet swim and picnic areas.

Visit the Wisconsin DNR Website for more details on how to enjoy our State Parks with your pet.