From Chelsea to Tribeca, the Lower West Side is home to some of NYC’s best dog parks — if you know where to look. Whether your pup needs off-leash time, structured socialization, or just a shady spot to sniff, here are the dog runs local walkers actually use (and why they work).

Chelsea’s mix of riverside parks, quiet blocks, and city energy makes it one of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan for dog walking — but only if your walker knows the terrain. From route suggestions to what to look for in a great local walker, here’s how to make the most of walking your pup in Chelsea.