Top 4 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Cooper City, FL

During the dog days of Summer, there is nothing better than spending time in the sand and surf. What could make it even better? It would be great if you could enjoy a dog beach day with your furry friend.

What You Should Keep in Mind Before Going to a Dog Beach Near Cooper City, FL

Before you pack towel and sunscreen and head to a dog-friendly beach, there few things you should consider:

Make Sure the Beach is Dog-Friendly

Some beaches near Cooper City do not allow dogs, or only allow them during certain hours. If the beach you’re wanting to go to has a website, or a place where you can check what their rules are, make sure you do so before you decide to bring your dog with you.

Be Confident in Your Dog’s Swimming Ability

Some dogs take to the water naturally, but before you head to the beach you want make sure your dog is athletic enough to handle the water.

Provide Fresh Water and Shade

Ensuring your dog is hydrated and not too hot is critical. If you are planning to be in the sun for a while, be sure to pack some fresh water and some type of shade to keep your dog from becoming dehydrated and/or overheated.

Find Calm Water

Rough water might be a frightening experience for you and your dog. Stay clear of areas with large waves, or where watercraft, such as boats or jet skis, pass by as they can be scary. You may also consider investing in a dog life vest to keep your pup safe.

Limit Salt Water

While it is bound to happen, do your best to limit the amount of salt water your dog gulps down. Salt water can be hard on a dog’s stomach, and may lead to symptoms such as diarrhea later.

Stay on Wet Sand

Have you ever walked through hot, dry sand on the beach? If so, you know that it can be very painful. The same is true for dogs. If the sand is too hot it can burn the pads of their paws.

Keep a close eye on their feet, and consider carrying smaller dogs to wetter sand and placing some kind of covering over larger dogs’ feet until the sand is a safer temperature.

Protect Them from the Sun

As you are putting on sunscreen, keep your dog in mind. Like humans, dogs can experience sunburns, especially if they are lighter in color.

Dogs, like humans, can also get skin cancers. Plan on visiting the dog beach when the sun is less intense, and if you are in the sun for a while, make sure you have protection for their ears and nose.

Dog Beaches Near Cooper City, FL to Try with Your Pet

Now that you are prepared for your outing to the beach with your best friend, let’s look at some of the best dog-friendly beaches near Cooper City, Florida.

Performance Pups Freshwater Dog Beach

You can experience what they say is the cleanest freshwater dog lake in Broward County at Performance Pups Freshwater Dog Beach. Located at 580 Gulfstream Way in Dania Beach, this dog beach is fenced in for dogs to swim and play without a leash.

As much as you may want to dive with your dog, note that it is not allowed. Walking or wading in the water is ok, but city ordinances do not permit swimming for humans. There is a fee: $5.00 per dog, and $7.00 to use the dock. Only cash is accepted.

Haulover Beach Park

If you are enjoying the beach scene in Miami, and want to take your dog along for the adventure, be sure to check out the Haulover Beach Park. It’s located at 10800 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach and is near the south picnic area.

In addition to beach access, there are two fenced-in areas – one for small dogs and one for large dogs. There, dogs can find shaded trees to cool off, as well as drinking fountains for both pets and people, and picnic tables.

The park is open every day from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm. The designated beach area is directly across from the bark park. Keep in mind, your dog must be leashed unless they are within the designated beach area.

Dog Beach of Hollywood

Want to include your dog in family time at the beach? The Dog Beach of Hollywood encourages you to bring the whole litter out to enjoy some sand and sun.

Located at 4900 N. Surf Road in Hollywood, FL, the Dog Beach of Hollywood is open all year-round on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

However, there are certain hours designated for dogs – from November to May you can visit with your dog between the hours of 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm, and from April through October dogs are allowed on the beach from 5:00 pm until 9:00 pm.

This beach is monitored by a park ranger, but make sure you follow all the normal etiquette of a dog park or beach.

Bark Beach at North Shore Open Space Park

Located at 8232 Collins Avenue in Miami Beach, the Bark Beach at North Shore Open Space Park is part of a wonderful, pet-friendly area. The park is next to an eight-block section of oceanfront national area.

There, you and your dog can go for a run on the jogging trails, make use of the exercise stations, or picnic areas. However, the park is only available to dogs on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays between the hours of 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm.

The nearby North Shore also provides a great stroll to dry off after a dip in the water, and you may even find a dog-friendly restaurant as you stroll.

To gain access to Bark Beach at North Shore Open Park Space, there is a $5.00 admission fee for residents, and a $25.00 fee for non-residents. You must also provide current proof of vaccinations.

Make Sure Your Dog is Ready to Go to the Beach Near Cooper City, FL

Knowing the rules of the beach you’re wanting to go to is very important, but it’s also essential to make sure your dog is ready to handle that kind of trip and social setting. Making sure your dog is up to date on their vaccinations and that they have all the necessary supplies to remain hydrated and safe in the sun can help ensure a fun and safe experience for you and your pet.

If you have any questions about whether or not your dog is ready to go to the beach, or if you want additional advice, don’t hesitate to call our team at Embassy Lakes Animal Hospital at (954) 432-5811. Your pet’s health and safety are very important to our veterinarians in Cooper City, FL, and we’re happy to be your partner in determining what’s best for your pet so they can enjoy a fun day at the beach with you.