A perfectly-sized dog park tucked behind the Norman sports complex of fields near the Disc Golf, Sutton walking trail, soccer fields. Entrance is marked by a small green sign "Norman Community Dog Park" on the west side of NE 12th Avenue, just north of Robinson.
This park has big trees with a few benches, double-entry gate for safety, water supply (off in winter), pick-up bags, and is maintained by the dog-park community, the City of Norman, and a little bit of community-service hours (I've been told). The park is divided into Over-30 Pounds, and Under-30 Pounds (or geriatric, handicapped, etc). The surface in the small dog side is very grassy, while the much-worn surface in the big dog side is partly grass and partly wood-chip on hard dirt. It has good drainage and is not muddy even after rains.
Unlike OKC Paw Park, the Norman dog park is small enough that you can keep track of your dog(s), and there is not a lake inside the fenced zones so your dog stays dry. The people are much more respectful of others at the Norman park than I have found at the OKC dog park. There is a manageable number of dogs even at the busiest hours in Norman. It's not the Ritz of dog parks like you will find in long-developed parks such as in Seattle or San Diego, but it is comfortable and clean.
One down-side to the Norman dog park is that the humans tend to ignore some basic rules, which are designed for the safety of both humans and dogs. First, a lot of people bring toddlers and very young kids in, which is foolishly dangerous. There also seems to be a lack of ability (at both OKC and Norman dog parks) for some people to master the simplicity and importance of the two-gate entry. Never open one gate if the another is open. So, keep an eye on your dog when people are coming and going.
Give it a try, and you and your dog can develop a few more social skills. Your dog will be a much happier dog if he or she gets some play time with other canines. There are always several frisbees and tennis balls around if you don't bring your own. read more