UPDATE: Since this article was written Austin’s lakes, creeks and waterways have developed a toxic algae that can be deadly to dogs. This algae is most common in warmer months, but swimming in or drinking from Ladybird Lake should be avoided at all times.
Before allowing your dog to be in any water in Austin check the City of Austin’s algae report. Even if algae isn’t present on the test samples doesn’t mean it isn’t in the water.
Check out these lists from DO512 and Tomlinsons for ideas on where to take your dog swimming, buy a kiddie pool for the backyard, walk before sunrise and after sunset where the air and pavement is coolest and make sure you explore Austin’s many greenbelts and trails to find the shadiest spot near you.
Here are some great spots we love:
Commons Ford is my favorite place to swim. The ramp into the water, while slippery, makes it easy to lead hesitant pups in and I love that you can stand while your dog paddles around you, allowing you to help support their torso if needed. They also know where the ramp to exit is if they get tired or nervous.
Red Bud is a great place to wade in the water at and have your pup swim out to you. There is a good woodsy spot downhill to the left from the big flat play area if you are facing the tip of the isle.
The Lake has a few parks with easier parking and less people, although some are rocky or have a small fee, they can be worth exploring when you are feeling adventurous.
Secret Beach, which you can now find on Google Maps, is a great place to wade if you time it right with the dam opening. Sometimes the current can be so strong it will sweep a dog away, other times it's so low you can only sit in it. Be prepared to run into quite a few others with off leash dogs. Either way, it is still a wonderful spot.
While the creeks are running, we like the damn at Bull Creek just north of the Lakewood or Laurelwood Dr entrances.
Lost Creek is my my favorite spot on the Greenbelt, while not legally off-leash, it can also be a fun place to swim,
Extra tips:
Do your best to beware of glass or food that has been thrown on the trail, especially any bones.
For good karma, bring a plastic bag to pick up trash or forgotten poo bags.
On busy times like the weekend, be careful! Unfortunately there are a ton of bad dogs out in the wild whose owners don't know better.
Keep your dog in your sight so he doesn't bother anyone, steal food or get into a bad spot with other pups.
Be ready to jump up and step in, shooing other dogs away who are showing tense body language, chasing too intensely or barking.
If needed, take a break by going back on leash for a bit. If it's a bad scene or too crowded, move on down the creek to a quieter spot.