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What To Do If You See an
Off-Leash Dog in Tower Grove Park

Report Off-Leash Dogs to the Tower Grove Park Ranger

📞 314-771-4042

Tower Grove Park asks visitors to report disruptive behavior and safety concerns to Park Rangers. If you repeatedly see off-leash dogs in the park, reporting helps park staff identify problem areas and improve compliance

Tower Grove Park Leash Rules

Dogs are required to remain on leash in Tower Grove Park. The park follows City of St. Louis leash laws, and park regulations specify that dogs must be controlled by a handheld leash.

Leashes help protect:

  • Dogs

  • Children

  • Wildlife

  • Service dogs

  • Reactive dogs

  • Other park visitors

Watch: What To Do If an Off Leash Dog Approaches

Even when leash laws are followed, loose dogs can happen. In this video, Cait shares practical strategies that can help you create space, keep your dog safe, and navigate an unexpected off-leash dog encounter.

Use a Treat Bomb

Scatter a handful of high-value treats on the ground toward the approaching dog.
 

This can interrupt the dog's approach and buy valuable time while you move away safely.

Use a Windmill or Umbrella

Create a visual and physical barrier between your dog and the approaching dog.

Swing your leash in a "windmill" motion to create space

Alternatively, open an umbrella between the dogs
Continue moving away whenever possible

Consider Safety Tools

Some people choose to carry additional tools, including:

  • Citronella-based deterrent spray

  • Pet Corrector (compressed air)

These tools are intended to interrupt an approach and create an opportunity to safely leave the area.

Why Leash Laws Matter

Not every dog wants to say hello.
 

Leash laws protect:

  • Dogs in training

  • Fearful dogs

  • Reactive dogs

  • Senior dogs

  • Service dogs

  • Children

  • Wildlife
     

Even friendly dogs can create dangerous situations when they approach unfamiliar dogs or people.

Looking for Safe Off-Leash Alternatives?

Many dog families want a safe place for their dogs to run, sniff, and explore without the unpredictability of an off-leash public space.
 

Consider:
 

  • SniffSpot rentals

  • Long-line enrichment walks

  • Private playdates with known dogs

  • Secure fenced yards

  • Enrichment activities and training games


     

What is SniffSpot?


SniffSpot is often described as "Airbnb for dogs." Dog families can rent private fenced yards, fields, and other dog-friendly properties by the hour, giving their dogs a safe place to run, sniff, and explore without unexpected encounters with unfamiliar dogs or people.
 

Private spaces like SniffSpot can be a great option for dogs in training, reactive dogs, nervous dogs, senior dogs, or dogs who simply prefer more space and fewer surprises than a public dog park can provide.
 

The goal isn't just exercise. It's giving dogs the freedom to move, explore, and enjoy being dogs in an environment that feels safe for everyone involved.

Help Keep Tower Grove Park Safe

If you see repeated off-leash dogs in Tower Grove Park, report it to a Park Ranger.
 

📞 314-771-4042
 

The more reports Park Rangers receive, the easier it is to identify recurring issues and improve compliance throughout the park.

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