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Best Off-Leash Dog Areas In Orange County

(credit: TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images)

They love to run, circle and play fetch. Man's best friends are at their best when they can run free and enjoy the outdoors. When your feisty canine pal is begging for a good workout, consider visiting some of Orange County's best off-leash dog areas where pups go to play and burn off their extra energy.

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Huntington Dog Beach
100 Goldenwest St.
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
(714) 841-8644
www.dogbeach.org

You and your dog will love chasing Frisbees in the surf and sand of Huntington Dog Beach. Considered one of the best local beaches for dogs, you'll find canines of all shapes and sizes romping through the soft sand year-round. To avoid the crowds and snag a parking spot, hit the beach early in the morning. The stretch of beach is near a cliff so dogs are free to roam without being too close to cars and traffic. Dog waste stations are abundant, but be sure to watch where you step.

dog park
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Laguna Beach Dog Park
20668 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92652
www.lagunabeach.com

Laguna Beach Dog Park, located along Canyon Road leading towards downtown Laguna Beach, is open from dawn to dusk from Thursday to Tuesday. Dogs have plenty of room to run and get their energy out here. There are separate areas for large and small dogs and the runs are generally clean. While metered parking can be a hassle, the park is ideal for a quick stop on your way to the scenic downtown area.

Related: Best Hikes To Do With Your Dog In LA

(credit: TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images)

Irvine Central Bark Dog Park
6405 Oak Canyon Road
Irvine, CA 92618
(949) 724-7740
www.cityofirvine.org

This large dog park in Irvine opened in 2000 and offers three acres of open fields for off-leash play. Pamper your pet with the watering facilities and dog waste stations. The park consists of a main yard with a separate fenced area for small or frail canines. Enjoy the shaded seating while your pup plays. This facility is handicap accessible and has lighting for the evening hours. Open from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., this park is conveniently accessible whenever your dog is in the mood to play.

(credit:TIM SLOAN/AFP/Getty Images)

Fullerton Pooch Park
201 S. Basque Ave.
Fullerton, CA 92832
www.cityoffullerton.org

Fullerton Pooch Park is another leash-free facility that's great for canines of all sizes. Keep them separate in the small and large dog areas or let them mingle in a third wood chip area that is open to all dogs. It's a place where your furry friend can socialize and learn some doggie manners. This park has seating for pet parents and is lighted in the evenings. While water bowls and doggie bags are standard, the best part about this pooch park is the basket of dog toys at the entrance.

(credit: SAUL LOEB/AFP/Getty Images)

Costa Mesa Bark Park
890 Arlington Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(949) 733-4101
www.costamesabarkpark.com

Your dog will enjoy the cool ocean breeze as it races around this two-acre park. The Costa Mesa Bark Park is a fenced, off-leash dog park with a double-gated entrance to prevent any canine escapees. Your dog will love the open dirt fields, water dispensers and dog waste stations. You'll love the parking, shady trees, benches and restrooms. It's a fun day in the sun that will leave your dog begging for more.

Truc Dever is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.

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