The Triangle isn’t just a great place for people, it’s also great for dogs! An abundance of greenspace gives dogs throughout the area a place to get out and move. Many have dog-specific areas that dogs can romp and play off leash. Further, many establishments in the area are pet friendly, and we have some of the best veterinarians in the country thanks to NC State’s top veterinary school.
Several of the area’s pet organizations put on special dog-themed events throughout the year. Below, I’ve added some of the fun upcoming ones in our area, and at the bottom I’ve also put a list of many of the dog parks in the area.
Dog Events and Activities
In-person and virtual running race to raise money for canine causes Sept. 14 in Cary
An architecture and design contest to raise money for local foster and rescue operations. Contestants compete to design the best custom pet architecture that’s then auctioned off on Oct. 5
Lafayette Village in North Raleigh puts on Pet-A-Palooza, an event centered around helping animals get adopted. There will also be plenty of pet-friendly vendors, activities and more. Your pet is invited! Oct. 26
Triangle Beagle Rescue of NC is putting on the event that will have a raffle, dog photography, dog contests (costume and more) and much more. Oct 12 at Lonerider Brewing Company Hideout in Wake Forest
Paws for Life 5K and 1-Mile Dog Walk
Paws for Life is a great local organization that rescues animals from high-kill shelters and runs a foster program. They will be holding a 5K race and a 1-mile dog walk in Wake Forest on Oct 5.
West Street Dog Monday Night Trivia
West Street Dog is an amazing place that combines a bar (for people) with an off-leash dog park. They hold regular dog trivia nights every Monday.
Bark in the Park with Durham Bulls
Your furry friends are invited to join you at Durham Bulls games on August 29 and September 12. Dogs require tickets
The Raleigh Kennel Club’s next show will be on September 1 and the NC State Fairground in Raleigh.
2025 Triangle Dog of the Year Calendar
Charley’s K9 Rescue is celebrating the launch of its 2025 calendar with a party a Bull City Ciderworks in Durham. There will be a raffle, shop for pet items, pets up for adoption and much more.
Durham Parks and Recreation, and Beyond Fences are teaming up to bring you and your dog an afternoon of fun. The event will feature a music performance, dog costume contest, photo booth and raffle to win great pet prizes (all proceeds go to charity). Oct 26 at Durham Central Park
Get your pet a picture with Santa! Plus plenty of other pet activities including a pet ugly sweater contest. December 6 at Durham Armory
Dog Parks:
Raleigh
Baileywick Park Dog Park
Buffalo Road Dog Park
Carolina Pines Dog Park
Millbrook Exchange Dog Park
Oakwood Dog Park
Dorothea Dix Dog Park
Jaycee Dog Run
Kiwanis Dog Park
Roberts Park Dog Run
Cary
Backyard at Downtown Cary Park
Godbold Park
Jack Smith Park
Durham
Downtown Durham Dog Park
Northgate Dog Park
Petsafe Dog Park at Duke Park
Piney Wood Dog Park
Rock Quarry Dog Park
Chapel Hill
Homestead Dog Park
Southern Community Dog Park
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