NDPA Certification Program
A Pledge to a Safe, Clean and Maintained Dog Park
An Easy Standard Any Dog Park Can Achieve
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The NDPA Certification Program and signage, inform visitors that your dog park adheres to fundamental safety, sanitation, and maintenance standards, demonstrating your commitment to their well-being. The NDPA acknowledges your commitment and supports your efforts.
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NDPA is not a regulatory organization. Dog parks are self-evaluated and maintained.
By participating in the NDPA Certification Program, dog park directors, managers and owners are agreeing they have tried to provide a safe, clean and regularly maintained environment for pets and owners. Not all hazards may be apparent or noted on signage or information materials. Certification DOES NOT guarantee an area is free from all hazards. It is pet owners’ responsibility to check an area BEFORE entering themselves or allowing their pets to enter an area.
The management of the dog park aims to create a safe, clean environment. To aid in their pledge, visitors are encouraged to reach out to a park representative to report any concerns. If you see something, say something.
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🚧 Dog parks can pose hazards that may be dangerous or deadly for both pets and owners. 🚧
🚧 Caution should be exercised at all times at a park. 🚧
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On the honor system, an applicant is certifying their dog
park or space. The applicant is confirming they believe their
property is safe, sanitary and free of defective dog equipment.
The applicant is pledging to check the area on a regular
basis. This pledge is to the National Dog Park Association
and to your park guests.
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HOW long does a certification last?
Certifications are valid for one calendar year, requiring annual renewal. We encourage certified dog parks to maintain their standards throughout the year, not just prior to re-certification.
WHO can certify?
Any park can achieve NDPA certification if the applicant confirms that it meets three primary criteria:
1. The dog park or space is deemed safe by the applicant, with signage indicating known hazards and warnings.
2. The park is kept sanitary and well-maintained throughout the year.
3. Defective dog park equipment is promptly repaired, removed or replaced as needed.
Most dog parks generally uphold a higher standard of care than these basic requirements.
However basic this level seems, sadly some parks fail to meet it.
Remember, if you see something, say something—be kind and alert someone.
Regardless of size, whether it’s a private backyard dog space or park, a huge community-maintained park, roadside rest area, or expansive free-roaming forest, the National Dog Park Association's Certification Program aims to acknowledge all efforts in providing safe clean spaces for dog activities.
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For certification opportunities, please us at nationaldogpark@gmail.com. *Each location requires independent evaluation by the local dog park administrator for the certification application.
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90% of certification fees collected are dedicated to promoting safe, clean dog parks.
10% goes into an Edward Jones Legacy Fund as seed money for sustainable future animal welfare use.
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Public Dog Parks
Municipal Operated Parks
Private Dog Parks
Owner or Commercial Operated
Hybrid Dog Parks
Association or Group Operated
Commercial
Dog Space
Commercial Provided Space
We acknowledge these fundamental standards, but dog park consulting specialists can provide numerous recommendations to enhance your park's user-friendliness and improve overall experience. They can help transform your dog park into a sought-after destination, attracting visitors and fostering a lively community atmosphere.
NDPA Certification Development
The NDPA Certification Program draws from the National Wildlife Federation's Certified Wildlife Habitat initiative. Applicants certify their property using an honor system. Similarly, visitors to dog parks also rely on this honor system to clean up after their dogs, and in general, dog owners tend to act responsibly.
