While Central Park and Prospect Park are big perks for dog owners, the city’s many neighborhoods offer plenty of dedicated play space for your pup.

Over 90% of NYC apartment buildings actually do allow pets, though some only allow cats and others have size limits. Some, like the Georgica at 305 East 85th Street, advertise themselves as pet-friendly, and Cassa at 70 West 45th Street even offers in-house pet care services. Co-ops will often require that your dog get the thumbs-up from the board just like any other resident. Once your furry friend is home, getting outside becomes a top priority.

Upper West Side
Riverside Park Central Promenade Dog Run, West 105th Street
Paved with crushed granite, this run is soft on paws and easy to maintain. Major renovations are taking place this summer. Also: Elegant benches, a wrought-iron fence, a fountain and a dog-friendly outdoor café nearby.

Upper East Side
Carl Schurz Park, East 86th Street at East End Avenue
Enjoy a lovely view of the East River and the 59th Street Bridge.

Midtown West
Dewitt Clinton Park, West 52nd Street and Eleventh Avenue
This run features a small swimming pool for summer splashing.

Flatiron/Union Square
Madison Square Park, East 24th Street at Fifth Avenue
This recently renovated run is clean and uncrowded, and its human population is known to be well-mannered.

Chelsea
Thomas Smith Park/Chelsea Waterside Park, Eleventh Avenue and West 24th Street
You’ll find rock formations and a fallen tree bridge at this unique riverside run.

Greenwich Village
Washington Square Dog Run, West 4th Street at Thompson Street
Crowded on weekends, but since it’s one of the city's most active runs, the interesting mix of dogs and people can be fun. Recently resurfaced and a dog bath was installed.

East Village
Tompkins Square Park, East Ninth Street at Avenue B
The first dog run in New York City. The community is very active here–a don’t miss event: The annual Halloween costume party for dogs. You’ll also find a small dog run, picnic tables, a water fountain, a dog memorial, and young, attractive regulars reading serious books and making serious eyes.

Financial District
Fishbridge Park, Dover Street at Pearl Street, just south of the Brooklyn Bridge
Small but well-maintained, and there’s community garden next door.