6 Boston dog parks to visit this winter

It’s nearly impossible to walk down a Boston street these days without spotting a French Bulldog strutting its stuff. No matter the breed, Boston is a town for dog-loving city dwellers. But with urban living comes a lack of wide-open yards for Fido to spread his paws and fly, so we’ve gathered some of Boston’s best dog parks for your furry friends to enjoy.

South End: Peters Park

1277 Washington St.

Possibly the most popular dog park in the city, Peters Park has two sections, divided for large and smaller pets. Dogs can leap up on climbing structures in a safe, double-gated environment, and tackle each other ‘til the cows come home. Plus, there’s even a water fountain for your pup, as well as another to wash your hands. Best of all, there’s plenty of benches for owners to take a load off.

North End: Richmond Street Dog Park

Richmond St. at North St.

In the already-congested North End, owning a dog can be a bit of a challenge. But in this hidden spot on Richmond Street, owners can feel free to let their dogs off-leash without the neighborhood’s bustling atmosphere getting in the way. It’s by no means the largest park in Boston, but it’s a vital spot for locals looking to let their dogs run free for a bit.

Downtown: Boston Common

6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.

While dogs are welcome 24/7 on the Common if they’re leashed, it’s impossible to miss the nightly cluster of Downtown residents who take advantage of the off-leash hours. Located smack-dab in the center of the park by the entrance to the Boston Common Parking Garage, there’s plenty of space for throwing a Frisbee or playing with the other furry friends who come by nightly.

Southie: South Boston Bark Park

1280 Columbia Road

6 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Located near Castle Island, the Bark Park is a gravel-based spot complete with tunnels and rocks for your dog to play on. Maintained by a local neighborhood organization, the Bark Park is so popular that regulars host a Halloween party, complete with pups dressed as lobsters and Batman.

Back Bay: Carleton Court Dog Park

99 Carleton St.

Wide open spaces are hard to come by in Back Bay, which is why the gated Carleton Court is a favorite for dogs who live in the St. Botolph neighborhood of Back Bay, and surrounding the Prudential Center. Pre and post-workday hours tend to get a bit crowded at the Court, but come by in the early-afternoon and your dog can be king of the castle.

Cambridge: Fresh Pond Reservation Dog Park

200 Fresh Pond Parkway

Your dog can splish, splash and take bath at the Reservation, which goes far beyond the typical dog park realm. There’s fenced in areas for off-leash play, as well as long trails for you to take your pup on-leash. Best of all, dogs can cool off in the summer months with a swim in one of two ponds. Beware: your pup needs to be licensed in the City of Cambridge to enjoy this spot.