When is the dog park open?
The dog park has the same hours as Horner Park, 6am – 11pm.
What does it cost to use the dog park?
The Chicago Park District requires a permit in the form of a dog tag to use any Dog-Friendly Areas (DFAs) in Chicago parks. The annual cost of the permit is $10 and can be obtained at participating veterinarians. The permit ensures that all dogs visiting the park are properly vaccinated and parasite-free.
Is the rest of the park off limits to dogs?
Dogs are allowed in the rest of the park but must be on-leash. Please note that the Chicago Park District does not allow dogs on playgrounds or tennis courts. Enforcement of these ordinances is the responsibility of Chicago Police; neither the Chicago Park District nor the Dog-Friendly Area Committee (DFAC) can issue tickets.
Who is responsible for cleaning and maintaining the dog park?
The DFAC and park users have an ongoing responsibilities to assist in the maintenance and cleanup of the DFA. The DFAC is a volunteer organization and relies on all park users to help keep it in good shape for all. Dog owners are still responsible for picking up after their pets within the dog park. The first Saturday of every month from 9-11am has been designated as clean up day. All are welcome and encouraged to pitch in!
Are dog toys allowed in the park?
Toys are allowed, but please be sure to take them with you when you go. Left behind/broken toys will be discarded during cleanups as they are a hazard to some dogs. If you see an abandoned toy in bad shape, please throw it out!
Why aren’t there any trash cans inside the park?
The Chicago Park District will NOT empty any trash bins within the confines of the dog park. Trash bins are located as close to the park entrance as possible.
What if I don’t have a poop bag?
There’s a bag holder located near the inside gate of the large dog area. It’s not closely monitored but the DFAC, though we do try to keep it full. Please feel free to restock it if you have extra grocery bags!
Can I smoke in the park?
The Chicago Park District does not allow smoking on any Chicago Park District property, including this dog park.
Can I bring food into the park?
No. Human food and doggo food are both prohibited to avoid any conflict between dogs. Please give your dog treats outside the park.
Can I bring kiddos to the park?
Children under 12 are not allowed in the DFA without a parent or guardian and younger children must be very closely supervised. We do not recommend bringing small children into to the dog park as not all dogs are comfortable with them.
What’s up with the broken glass?
At one point in time, what is now Horner Park was the site of a factory. When the ground was disturbed during construction, glass fragments and other debris were exposed. The Chicago Park District is aware of the situation and is working on cleaning up the surface glass within the dog park and the greater Horner Park as well. Please help by picking up any glass you see and throwing it away.
Is there a separate area for small doggos?
Yes there is! The small dog area is intended for dogs under 30 pounds. If your dog is bigger than that, please use the large dog area. Smaller dogs are permitted in the big dog area.
Are all dogs allowed in the park?
All dog breeds are allowed in the park. However, any dog with a known history of aggression or that exhibits dangerous behavior is prohibited from using the park. Also, if your otherwise-friendly dog has a conflict with another dog, please leave the park to ensure nobody gets hurt. If an incident occurs and the owner of the aggressive dog won’t leave, you can call 911 to report it.
Do dogs need to be neutered or spayed?
No. Intact male and female dogs are allowed to use the park. One exception: female dogs in heat are prohibited from using the park.
Can puppies use the park?
Puppies 4 months and older are allowed to use the park if properly vaccinated. Please keep an extra eye on puppies as they are still learning commands and socialization skills.
How many dogs can I bring to the park?
There is a strict limit of three dogs per adult, even for experienced professional dog walkers.
What if there is an incident that needs to be reported?
Please contact the Chicago Police Department at 911 to report any incidents, aggressive dogs, violation of City ordinances or criminal behavior. Chicago Park District Security can be reached at 312.747.2193. The Cook County Department of Animal and Rabies Control is in charge of enforcing DFA Rules and Regulations and can be reached at 708.974.6140. For non-emergency reports you can also call 311.
How can I get involved?
If you would like to join the Dog Friendly Area Committee or volunteer to help with one of our events, please contact: info@hornerparkdogpark.org. We are a 100% volunteer-run committee and need as many hands as possible to continue the funding for the build out and for the upkeep of the park.
How can I make a donation to the dog park?
- Click here and choose “Dog Friendly Area” from the menu and follow the instructions.
- Venmo (confirmation #7360) Please note that the donation is for the dog park.
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Mail a Check to:
Horner Park Dog Friendly Area Committee
4439 N. Mozart Ave
Chicago, IL 60625
(Make check payable to Horner Park Advisory Council with “Dog Friendly Area” in the memo line.)
The Horner Park Advisory Council is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization so your contribution will be tax deductible. In addition, we run MANY fundraisers throughout the year including the very popular Doggie Egg Hunt, our annual online auction, Howl-o-Ween event and many more. By participating and contributing to these events, your money is going directly to the future build out of the park.
Please be mindful that we are in the middle of a long process. The information provided here is subject to change in response to comments and concerns from the Park District and/or the community as we move forward. We will do our best to keep you updated.
Horner Park Dog Park 