Taking a strong dog to Minnesota parks
State parks welcome leashed dogs, but beaches and buildings are closed to them.
State parks
The Minnesota DNR state park rules say pets are welcome in state parks if kept on a leash of six feet or shorter or restrained by a portable enclosure, and that pets must be personally attended at all times. Minnesota Rule 6100.1100 sets the same standard and keeps pets out of buildings.
County parks
The Olmsted County parks rules allow pets only on a leash not over six feet and only in designated areas, and bar dangerous dogs from the parks. Rochester's own rule differs: its Rochester notice on pet rules in parks says leashes, chains or cables may not exceed 10 feet in on-leash areas.
What it says about the dog
A dog that stays calm around joggers, bikes and other dogs is the dog every park will accept. Ask any provider to show that in public, not only at a training field.
Living in Minnesota and ready to ask about a dog?
Share your Minnesota ZIP code and what the dog would protect. A partner company that places protection dogs follows up.
Request a protection dog