While not all dogs love water, for those who do, swimming is a fun activity. It’s not only a great exercise for them but it can be a fun summer activity to check out dog-friendly beaches and parks with water access. So if you’re looking for dog-friendly places (beyond your backyard) for your furry BFF to splash around, then check out some of the best spots to take your dog swimming near Milwaukee this summer.

Bay View Dog Park-  Part of Milwaukee County’s Off-Leash Dog Parks. The park includes fenced areas with separate space for small and large dogs to play as well as access to the lake to play. 

Caledonia Dog Park (Racine)- Allows dogs to enjoy a quick dip or swim in the park’s swimming ponds along the Root River. 

Estabrook Park-  Part of Milwaukee County’s Off-Leash Dog Parks. The park has a designated small and large dog fenced exercise area with access to the river where dogs can swim. 

Fox Brook Park (Brookfield)– Part of the  Waukesha County Parks system with designated dog swim area. 

Granville Dog Exercise Area (Milwaukee)– Part of Milwaukee County’s Off-Leash Dog Parks. Enjoy a walk along the beach or your dog can enjoy a splashing around in the water. Great option for dogs that aren’t 100% sure about water. 

HAWS Schallock Private Dock (Delafield)- This fenced private dock is perfect for the dog that likes to swim without other dogs around. You do need to reserve a private time-slot in advance. 

McKinley Beach – Although dogs are not allowed on the main beach at McKinley Park, there is a separate dog beach located just to the south of the main beach where dogs can swim and play in Lake Michigan.

Menomonee Park Beach (Menomonee Falls)– Part of the  Waukesha County Parks system with designated dog swim area. 

Minooka Park (Waukesha)– Part of the Waukesha County Parks system. Dogs can swim on the beach during Swim at Your Own Risk hours. 

Muskego Park (Muskego)– Part of the Waukesha County Parks system. Dogs can swim on the beach during Swim at Your Own Risk hours. 

Mukwonago Park (Mukwonago)– Part of the Waukesha County Parks system. Dogs can swim on the beach during Swim at Your Own Risk hours. 

Ottawa Lake (Ottawa)- Part of  Kettle Moraine State Forest with a swim area for dogs near the boat launch. 

Pike Lake Beach (Hartford) – Part of Kettle Moraine State Forest with a dog beach for swimming. 

Remember to check the specific rules and regulations of the park or beach before visiting, as some may have seasonal restrictions or require permits. It’s also important to keep an eye on your dog’s at all times. If your dog hasn’t been around water much (excluding bath time), introduce them to the water gradually- not all dogs are natural swimmers. You might consider using a doggie life jacket. Even if your dog is a confident swimmer, a doggie life jacket can provide an extra layer of safety by helping keep your dog afloat. Pay attention to signs of fatigue and take breaks…even when they don’t want to take a break, it’s a great opportunity to keep them hydrated so that they can continue with the fun. 

All of these parks are great locations for a dog portrait session with Unleashed with Love. Interested? Schedule a complimentary, no-obligation call to learn more.