Willis Tucker Dog Park

One of the best off-leash dog parks in Snohomish County, WA is at the Willis Tucker County Park. There are over 10 acres of fully fenced areas for dogs and their people to enjoy. The dog park is divided into 3 separate areas each with its own unique characteristics. Choose from the Open Meadow, the Wooded Trail or the Senior-Shy Dog-Low Impact area or try all three. Some renovations and Willis Tucker County Park were recently completed, including new roads and paved parking lot including a handicapped accessible parking lot right next to the dog park.

You and your dog can spend a whole day exploring the off-leash dog area at Willis Tucker Snohomish County Park!

All photos by the author.

Willis Tucker County Park is located in Snohomish County, Washington about 20 miles north of Seattle.

This parking lot was added for disabled dog owners in 2012. It is a very short distance from all three of the off-leash dog areas, making it much easier for people with mobility problems to take their dogs to the Willis Tucker Dog Park.

This area was designed for dogs with mobility problems or those that are intimidated by the presence of numerous other dogs. It provides a place where they can play off-leash in a smaller, less challenging environment. It is considered courteous park etiquette to ask before bringing your dog into this area if it is already in use in case the dog or dogs inside the area need some off-leash time away from other dogs.

This is probably my favorite area of the off leash park. It is a series of looping trails through a large forested area with large old evergreen trees and shrub understory. It is a relaxing place and makes me feel like I am hiking in the forest. I usually see several species of forest birds and it is away from the noise and high energy level of all of the dogs in the meadow area. It is also a good place for dogs to release some energy before going into the meadow area to make sure they are calmer before making introductions with several other dogs.

The open meadow area is the most popular off leash dog area in the park. It has a varied terrain with hills, areas of bark, areas of bare dirt, areas with trees and shrubs. It has a large enough area that there is usually a corner where a dog and his person can play fetch without much interference from other dogs. It even features an agility area where dogs can be introduced to or practice agility skills.

Although the dog park normally has a supply of bags in the meadow area, you still must travel from your car to the off leash area and it seems like my dogs always want to go before we get to where the bags are, so I carry my own.

At this time, Willis Tucker Dog Park does not have a water faucet and dogs get thirsty when running and playing, so bringing some water along for your dog is important.

Time to go back home!

The park was named after the first county executive of Snohomish County, Willis Tucker. But it is fitting that you can get your dog "Tuckered out" at Willis Tucker County Park Off-Leash Dog area! Finally Skye laid down in a pile of bark, too tired to play anymore. Time to take my tired dogs home.

Dog parks are great - just not for every dog, every time. Taking your dog to a dog park is a great way to exercise and socialize your canine companion. Dog parks offer fresh air, open space, and freedom - a chance for your dog to be a dog. But not all dogs enjoy the experience and not all dog parks are safe for your dog. Learn Practical skills: Evaluate your dog's temperament to decide if he's dog park ready. What design features a well-planned dog park should have. Teach your dog four simple behaviors to make him dog park safe. How to read canine body language to avoid problems. Dog park etiquette for both dogs and humans.

If your dog is ready for a trip to a dog park, this book is a great resources to help you find one. I find it particularly helpful when traveling with my dogs. After being cooped up in the car on a road trip, it makes it easy to find a place for some off-leash exercise.