At a glance
- Rating
- 4.2 (Google)
- Mud factor
- 2/5 — usually clean
- Fencing
- Fully fenced
- Water access
- Yes
- Parking
- On-site
- Small dogs
- Separate area
- Access
- Open to the public
Plan your visit
Ground conditions
Mud factor
2 / 5
Minimal
Perfect for keeping your pup clean
Meet the regulars at Dog Run Park at Carlyle
This park is more than a place to run — it's a local hangout. Check in to let others know you're here, host or join a meetup, and connect with the dogs (and people) who come back week after week.
The field guide
About this park
Dog Run Park at Carlyle is a hidden gem nestled in the Carlyle neighborhood, offering a spacious and secure environment for dogs to play. The park features two distinct sections for different-sized dogs, with a unique gate system that allows the areas to be combined. Owners will appreciate the thoughtful layout, which includes a small walking trail circling the larger run, perfect for getting a little extra movement while your pup socializes. While the park offers beautiful views of the surrounding area and sits conveniently next to local tennis courts, visitors should come prepared. The footing is a mix of gravel and sand designed for drainage, though some visitors have noted that the sand can become messy if not recently maintained. With its proximity to Old Town Alexandria's cafes and restaurants, it’s an ideal spot for a quick weekday visit or a weekend outing followed by a neighborhood stroll.
Locals' guide
What locals know about Dog Run Park at Carlyle
Dog Run Park at Carlyle is an off-leash dog park in Alexandria, VA (City of Alexandria). Community mud reports rate it 2/5, and regulars point to fully fenced and shade trees as what keeps them coming back. The park sits inside Northern Virginia's network of off-leash spots.
Best time to visit Dog Run Park at Carlyle
Weekday mornings before 9am and after 6pm on weekdays are the calmest windows. Saturday mornings between 9–11am are the busiest — expect a full parking lot and 20+ dogs. If your pup is on the reactive side or still learning play cues, aim for weekday visits or Sunday evenings.
Moving to Alexandria?
The neighborhood around Dog Run Park at Carlyle, in one paragraph
Thinking about relocating to Alexandria? Dog owners here tend to cluster around Westgrove Dog Park and Utah Dog Park. The area has City of Alexandria is one of the more walkable, pet-friendly corners of the DMV area. If you're weighing neighborhoods before you sign a lease or buy, the mix of parks, sidewalks, and off-leash culture here is a real plus.
Talk to a dog-friendly DMV realtorMore dog parks near Alexandria
Nearby dog parks worth knowing
Dog Run Park at Carlyle — frequently asked questions
Is Dog Run Park at Carlyle fully fenced?
Yes — Dog Run Park at Carlyle is fully fenced, which makes it a safe off-leash spot for recall training and reactive dogs.
Does Dog Run Park at Carlyle have water access for dogs?
Dog Run Park at Carlyle does not have on-site water. Bring water and a bowl, especially May through September.
How muddy does Dog Run Park at Carlyle get?
Community mud reports rate Dog Run Park at Carlyle at 2/5 — mostly dry ground. Reports are updated by locals and refresh throughout the season.
Is Dog Run Park at Carlyle good for small dogs?
Dog Run Park at Carlyle is a shared off-leash area with no small-dog section. Small dogs do well here during quieter windows — weekday mornings are usually the calmest.
Where's the best parking at Dog Run Park at Carlyle?
Dog Run Park at Carlyle relies on street parking nearby. It's usually easy on weekdays but tight on weekend mornings — a weekday visit is the smoother option.
Where is Dog Run Park at Carlyle located?
Dog Run Park at Carlyle is located at 450 Andrews Ln, Alexandria, VA 22314 in City of Alexandria. It's part of the Northern Virginia dog-park network on DMV Paws & Parks.
On the grounds
Amenities
- Fully Fenced
- small_dog_area
- Double Gate Entry
- Grass Surface
- Gravel Surface
- Benches
- Shade Trees
- street_parking
Curated intelligence
Expert insights
What people love
- Spacious layout with a walking trail inside the large dog area
- Double-gated entries for added safety and security
- Separate areas for small and large dogs that can be joined together
Things to know
- Lack of provided waste bags; must bring your own
- Sand footing can become messy or feel neglected if not maintained
Best For
- Local residents looking for a quick neighborhood stop
- Dogs who enjoy a mix of socializing and light walking on the interior trail
- Owners who prefer double-gated security entry points
Pro tips
- Always bring your own poop bags as the dispensers are often empty or not provided.
- Be prepared to pay for parking, though it is generally described as reasonably priced.
AI insights from 9/16/2026
After the park
Treats & Eats Nearby
Great spots to visit after your park adventure:
