At Brookline Homes, we believe a house only truly feels like home when every member of the family is included, tail-waggers very much included! (And if you’ve stopped by our office or scrolled through our social media feed, you already know some of our favorite team members walk on four legs.)

For us, building a community goes far beyond brick and mortar. It’s about creating spaces where neighbors can connect and pups can run free. That’s why we’re so thrilled about our dog-friendly neighborhood amenities, including our newest dog park taking shape at Ruby Dixon Crossing in Gastonia.

Featuring plenty of room to run, planned comfortable bench seating for pet parents, and a fresh play area, it’s designed to be the ultimate neighborhood hangout all year long.

Of course, a great community dog park calls for a little structure to keep every outing fun and safe. Whether you're heading out for an early morning stroll or an evening playdate, here are five simple ways to keep your dog happy, healthy, and ready for action:

Pace the Play: Energetic pups rarely know when to call it quits on their own. Pause the fetch session every 10 to 15 minutes to let your dog catch their breath, grab a drink, and reset.

Prioritize Hydration: Always pack a collapsible bowl and fresh water. Offer small, frequent hydration breaks throughout your outing rather than letting your dog gulp large amounts all at once after heavy exercise.

Protect the Paws: Rough terrain and hot asphalt can irritate sensitive paws. Stick to grassy paths, covered trails, or freshly mulched areas whenever possible, and check their pads after every walk.

Master Park Etiquette: Keep outings stress-free by keeping your dog on-leash until you're inside designated off-leash areas. Always monitor body language closely during greetings to make sure every interaction stays friendly.

Know Their Signals: Every dog communicates when they've had enough. Watch for signs of fatigue like sudden sluggishness, heavy panting, or lack of interest in play, and head home for some cozy indoor downtime.

Building Homes With the Whole Family in Mind

Our community dog park at Ruby Dixon Crossing is a direct extension of our human approach to homebuilding. We believe that great neighborhoods are built around shared experiences, and our furry residents play a huge role in bringing people together. 

This new park offers a gathering spot where neighbors easily become friends, conversations flow naturally, and wagging tails are always part of the greeting.

 From early morning playdates to evening wind-downs, it provides a safe, dedicated space for dogs to run free while homeowners build lasting bonds.



Explore our dog-friendly Brookline communities today and discover where you and your pup belong!