Dog Rules at Purgatory

The City of Minnetonka restricted its dog policy. Off-leash dogs are only allowed in designated areas. In Purgatory Park, off-leash dogs are allowed in the southern wooded area. There is one off-leash dog trail that goes from Excelsior Blvd parking lot to the southern section of the park. Check the park map at the gate. Note that parking on Stodola Road has also been restricted.

It can be difficult to interpret the new dog rules and rumors of conflicts with off-leash dogs are increasing. After speaking with Minnetonka Police, we learned the dogs causing problems in parks are not aggressive, but rather overly excited and friendly. They run up to people or leashed dogs and cause conflict. The city is actively collecting dog complaints via QR codes in the park and that data will be used to influence future dog policy.

Please respect other park users by following the below guidelines. If you can’t follow the below guidelines – try a fully fenced in dog park, like Minnewashta. If complaints become more frequent, we risk loosing off-leash access.

ALWAYS LEASH YOUR DOG:

• In parking lots

• When walking on any gravel or paved trail

• When crossing a paved or gravel trail

• If your dog is not under voice command or doesn’t come when called (even if they are friendly)

• If your dog ignores you when tempted by people or other dogs

• Your dog is aggressive or reactive around other dogs or people

LEASH DOG