When we adopted our dog four years ago we knew he liked to run and play catch. However, because he is an extra large Border Collie we did not expect him to enjoy swimming but we were surprised when he took a dip while walking along the Chagrin River one hot day in October. Since that day we have explored other swimming options for our dog and found several in the Cleveland area and lucky for us his favorite spots are free!
Bow Wow Beach – The ultimate dog park located in the Silver Springs Park in Stow, Ohio Bow Wow Beach has seven and a half acres of land dedicated solely to dogs including a three-acre lake and beach. The entire park is enclosed so dogs can run and swim with out the worry of running off. Tennis balls are supplied but you can always bring your own toys to give your dogs additional exercise. A beautiful park like setting with grassy areas and picnic tables to enjoy a basket of food with your family and four legged friend and have a leisurely day. A hose and water supply is provided near the exit to give your dog a rinse before leaving. Please provide your own towels. This park is rated as one of the five best dog parks nationally by Pedigree. Address: 5027 Stow Rd., Stow, OH.
Fairport Harbor – Located on Lake Erie in Lake County Ohio Fairport Harbor Park is a beautiful beach for a true family swimming experience. The eastern most stretch of the beach is reserved for dogs to swim with their owners. Admission to the beach is free however, there is a $2 parking fee for Lake County residents and $3 for non-residents. Address: 301 Huntington Beach Dr., Fairport Harbor, Ohio
Chagrin River – The Cleveland Metro Parks System has several beautiful trails to walk, jog and bike ride through out the area however the trails along Chagrin River Road provide some nice areas to take your dog for a walk and swim in the waters. Our favorite place to take our dog is the Jackson Landing area. Park the car and walk through the horse back riding trails to the river and enjoy watching your dog swim and play in the running waters.
Our city’s swimming pool has a doggy dip day at the end of the season where dogs can swim in the pool with their owners and enjoy a doggy buffet and fun for two hours. There is a charge for dogs and their owners and while it is a fun day it is not our dog’s favorite place to go for a swim preferring natural waters to a concrete pool but it is an option for canine swimming in the Cleveland, Ohio area.
http://www.dogparkusa.com/ohio/bow-wow-beach-dog-park-silver-springs-park-stow
http://www.lakemetroparks.com/select-park/fairport.shtml
