Dog days: Where to take your pup in Middleton

Who’s got four paws and is excited for their next trip to Middleton? Dog lovers will find plenty of pet-friendly places to visit, whether looking for a refreshing craft beer or hard cider, a cozy hotel, or a place where your pooch can run and play. Here’s a look at some of the dog-friendly spots you’ll discover in Middleton.

Get out and play

As long as they’re on a leash, your dogs are welcome on all trails in city parks and conservation areas. (Find more information about Middleton’s parks here.)

There are also two off-leash dog exercise areas in the city. The MRD Dog Exercise Area, located on Highway Q north of Middleton, is a three-acre dog park that includes a fenced agility course. The park is open daily from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. year-round. Daily visitor permits are $5 and available at a self-registration station at the park. Here is a map of both dog parks.

Penni Klein Park is a 34-acre community park in northwestern Middleton with a six-acre fenced-in area that will allow Rover to, well, rove. Visitors can purchase the $5 daily pass at a self-registration station at the park, which also features a trail system that connects to downtown Middleton.

Dog park permitting

All dog owners utilizing Middleton dog parks are required to purchase a permit. There are daily and annual permits available for Middleton’s dog parks, purchased at the park (look for signage) or at Middleton City Hall. Dane County dog park permits do apply to Middleton dog parks. More information can be found on the Dane County Dog Park information page. 

Grab a beer or hard cider

Middleton is home to the award-winning Capital Brewery, which has crafted delicious ales, pilsners, lagers and more for more than 35 years. On sunny days, head on over for a visit with your pup — leashed dogs are welcome at Capital’s outdoor Bier Garten (though not on nights with live music).

Enjoy a glass of Wisconsin-grown apple hard cider with your doggo. Hidden Cave Cidery welcomes dogs, as long as they are on a leash and well-trained.

Take care of your dog

Need someone to look after your dog while you explore all that Middleton has to offer? Let Fido play with some canine companions at Happy Dogz, a doggy daycare that offers your pooch outdoor fun and an indoor playground. Dogtopia, located on the north side of Middleton, also provides daycare for your dog in addition to spa services if your pupper needs some pampering. You can also find grooming and boarding services at Tabby & Jack’s.

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Find a place to stay

If you’re staying overnight, don’t worry: Marriott Madison West, Residence Inn Madison West/Middleton, Staybridge Suites Middleton/Madison-West, Fairfield Inn & Suites and The Country Inn & Suites Madison West-Middleton are all pet-friendly, though additional fees may apply. The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Madison West-Middleton welcomes service animals. Mendota County Park & Campground also allows pets.