Big dogs and little dogs get their own spaces at this North KC dog park

The sudden closing of Bar K, the popular bar/dog park near the River Market shocked its patrons and left a void in Kansas City’s off-leash opportunities.

But plenty of dog parks still dot the metro. All have fences, but they differ considerably in size, topography and the amenities they offer.

To learn more, we tromped around several of them during the “dog days of August,” including a cleverly-named North KC off-leash area.

Waggin’ Trail Dog Park (not to be confused with the Waggin’ Tails Dog Park in Leavenworth.) is run by North Kansas City Parks and Recreation in conjunction with Kansas City Parks & Rec.

Unlike nearby Waterworks Park, this green space is flat as a pancake with very few trees.

But even on a hot and sunny weekday afternoon, a steady stream of pups passed through its gates. (There’s one for large dogs, and another for those under 30 pounds.)

As soon as the leash came off nearly all were running, barking and doing their business with glee. Or as Logan, the owner of two good-sized Huskies explained, running “until they can’t run anymore.”

Fran Mattox told us she lives closer to Parkville, but comes to the Waggin’ Trail because of the paved path that winds through it. Benji, her miniature Aussie, can join her for a walk, stop at an agility station or bolt off to greet the newest arrival.

“I’m a dog mom,” she laughed, “And you do what they want to do.”

Benji also likes to hang with his pal Bogey, whose owner, Joe Savage comes to Waggin’ Trail twice a day. He was chatting under the only shelter in sight with another of the park’s “regulars,” Chris Campos.

“The dogs get along.,” Campos said “Especially in the small dog park. Every once in awhile, you might get a growl here and there, but we very seldom see any big commotion.”

“We could use a little more shade though,” Savage addded with a grin.

Special note: Our “Take Me Out to the Dog Park” video from “Waggin’ Trail” includes footage shot on the Pug Cam worn by Monty Davis’ dog, Louie.

Waggin’ Trail Dog Park

Address: 432 E. 32nd Avenue, North Kansas City

Hours: 6:00 AM to sunset. (not lighted)

Size: 4.7 acres

Features: Paved trail in both large and small dog park, agility equipment, water fountains, covered shelter in each park