The fact is that opportunities will need to be used wherever they are available, especially in existing built-up areas. The secret is to select the right combination of components to suit local needs and constraints. The following guidelines list some of the features to be considered when planning to accommodate the needs of dogs and their owners. . It is a fairly simple exercise to work out the catchments for parks and identify any gaps in provision for dogs. Accessibility is not determined by radius but by walking distance which is in turn determined by the nature of the street network.
Accessibility is reduced by barriers such as major road crossings and railways.
The size of park is generally less important than its location and suitability for dogs' use. In reality, authorities will need to make the best use of what is available. Similarly, there is no ideal shape and configuration although linear parks are ideal for walking dogs. In selecting linear parks Councils should be wary of possible conflicts with other parks users such as cyclists and horse riders. It may be possible to create two parallel tracks, one for pedestrians and dogs and the other for cyclists and horse riders.