Millie’s column: why your dog needs off-lead space and how to find a dog park

Updated: November 2026

A dog that gets to run, sniff and play every day is a calmer, happier dog.
In Spanish towns, where many people live in flats and most streets require a lead, a fenced dog park is often the only place where that can happen safely.
This guide explains why off-lead space matters, what a good dog park looks like, where to find one, and what to do if your neighbourhood does not have one yet.

Why off-lead time matters for your dog

A walk on the lead is good, but it rarely lets a dog move at its own speed.
Free running burns energy, keeps joints and muscles in shape, and helps young and active breeds settle at home.
Meeting other dogs teaches social skills, and a dog that knows how to greet and play is easier to live with.
Sniffing and exploring also tire a dog out mentally, which is just as important as physical exercise.

A bored dog that never gets to let off steam is more likely to bark, chew or pull on the lead.
A few regular visits to a dog park each week can make a real difference, both for the dog and for your neighbours.

What makes a good dog park

• A full fence and a double gate, so a dog cannot slip out when someone comes in.
• Drinking water, which is essential in the Spanish summer.
• Shade from trees or sails, so dogs can rest out of the sun.
• A separate area for small or shy dogs, so they can play without being run over by bigger dogs.
• Bins and bag dispensers, and a surface that is easy to keep clean.
• Benches and lighting, so owners can stay a while and use the park after work.

Where to find dog parks on the Costa del Sol

Most town halls on the coast now have at least one fenced dog area, often called a parque canino, pipicán or zona de esparcimiento canino.
Málaga city alone runs 21 municipal dog parks and dog areas, according to the council’s open data.
11 of them have a separate area for small dogs, and most have drinking water.
You can see the full list with addresses on our Pets in Spain page.

For other towns, search for “parque canino” plus the name of your town, or ask at the town hall.
Many parks are also marked on Google Maps, and other dog owners in your area usually know the best ones.
Opening hours vary from park to park, so check the sign at the entrance.

Looking for sand instead of grass? See our guide to dog beaches on the Costa del Sol.

No dog park near you? Here is how to ask for one

New dog parks are usually built because residents ask for them.
If your neighbourhood has none, these steps give your request the best chance.

1. Find other dog owners. A request from a group carries more weight than one from a single person. Talk to people on your usual walks or in local Facebook and WhatsApp groups.
2. Contact your neighbours’ association. The asociación de vecinos often has direct contact with the district council and knows how requests are handled.
3. Write to the town hall. Send a written request through the town hall’s online office (sede electrónica) or the registry, addressed to the department for parks and gardens or the environment. Suggest a concrete place, such as an unused green area.
4. Use participatory budgets. Some town halls let residents propose and vote on small projects each year. A dog park is a typical project.
5. Follow up. Keep your registration number and ask for an update after a few months. Polite, regular follow-up works better than one angry message.

Dog park etiquette

• Only bring a dog that is microchipped, vaccinated and treated against parasites.
• Wait until a puppy has finished its vaccinations. Your vet will tell you when.
• Keep an eye on your dog the whole time, and put your phone away.
• Pick up after your dog, also on the grass.
• Do not bring a female in heat.
• Leave toys and treats at home if your dog guards them.
• If play gets too rough or a dog looks stressed, call your dog back and take a break, or come back later.

Heat, caterpillars and other risks

In summer, go early in the morning or late in the evening, when the ground is cooler, and always bring water.
Dark asphalt and sand can burn paws in the middle of the day.
In late winter and spring, watch out for processionary caterpillars under pine trees. They are very dangerous for dogs. Read more in our guide to processionary caterpillars.

Your dog’s welfare is also the law

Spain’s animal welfare law, Ley 7/2023, sets minimum standards for how pets are kept.
For example, a dog may not be left without supervision for more than 24 consecutive hours.
See our guide to Spain’s animal welfare law for the full rules.

Thinking of adopting?

Shelters on the Costa del Sol always have dogs looking for a home, and many also need volunteers to walk them.
Read our guide to adopting a dog or cat in Spain, and find shelters near you on our Pets in Spain page.

See you on the next walk – Millie 🐾

This article is general information. Rules, parks and opening hours change, so check with your town hall.