Pet‑Friendly Living in Maplewood, New Jersey: Homes Near Dog Parks, Trails & Pet Services

Moving to a new home with a pet in tow? You’re not alone – many homebuyers today consider their pets as part of the family and look for communities that welcome furry friends. In Maplewood, New Jersey, pet owners will find a warm, pet-friendly atmosphere. From leafy neighborhoods with yards and sidewalks to expansive parks and trails, Maplewood offers an idyllic setting for you and your pets to live, play, and explore. Every member of our real estate team has a dog at home, so we understand exactly what pet-friendly living really means.  In this guide, we’re sharing the parks, neighborhoods, and local spots that make Maplewood a great place for pets and their people.

Wherever You Land in Maplewood, Your Pet Will Feel at Home

Maplewood is known for its charming neighborhoods and community-oriented vibe. For pet owners, certain areas of town offer particular advantages like proximity to parks or pet services. Here are a few of Maplewood’s neighborhoods popular with pet lovers:

• Tuscan Neighborhood: The Tuscan section of Maplewood features quiet, tree-lined residential streets and homes with backyards – a bonus for pets who love outdoor space. This area is adjacent to Maplecrest Park, a “lesser-known gem tucked into the Tuscan neighborhood” with walking trails and wide grassy areas. Locals often take their dogs for on-leash walks in Maplecrest Park’s open fields and shady paths, making Tuscan especially appealing to dog owners.

• Hilton Neighborhood: Maplewood’s Hilton area, on the town’s eastern side, is a diverse and community-spirited neighborhood. Pet owners here enjoy being within walking distance of small parks and pet amenities along Springfield Avenue. DeHart Park, the largest in the Hilton neighborhood, offers ample green space, sports fields, and a playground—perfect for casual on-leash strolls or weekend picnics with the family. On the other side of the neighborhood, Orchard Park provides a quieter experience with a small playground and peaceful grounds, ideal for a relaxed walk with your pup on a quiet afternoon.

• Maplewood Village (Downtown): If you love a walkable lifestyle, Maplewood Village – the town’s downtown core – offers shops, dining, and Maplewood Memorial Park all in one area. Many Maplewood residents enjoy strolling through the Village with their dogs, grabbing a coffee at a sidewalk café (outdoor seating is often pet-friendly), and then heading to Memorial Park for some green space. The Village is also home to New Earth Pet Services, a modern grooming and wellness spa offering everything from baths and haircuts to aromatherapy, reiki, hydromassage, and even dog-safe color treatments. They also provide dog walking, in-home visits, and boarding. Homes around the Village include charming historic houses as well as some pet-friendly apartments, giving options for different budgets.

Each of these neighborhoods blends community charm with pet-friendly convenience. Whether you prioritize a big backyard or the ability to walk to parks and shops, Maplewood’s variety of sections ensure you and your four-legged friend can feel right at home.

Pet-Friendly Parks and Trails in Maplewood

• Memorial Park: Known as the heart of Maplewood, this 25-acre Olmsted-designed park features wide paths, open lawns, and shaded areas—great for on-leash dog walks. It's centrally located and close to cafés and shops in Maplewood Village.

• Maplecrest Park: A quieter, neighborhood park with open fields and walking paths. Popular for on-leash walks and casual play, especially for residents in the Tuscan and Hilton neighborhoods.

• Orchard Park: A small, peaceful park ideal for low-key strolls with smaller or older dogs. Located in a residential area, it offers shaded benches and a quiet atmosphere.

• South Mountain Reservation: Just outside Maplewood, this 2,100-acre nature preserve features miles of trails, streams, and Hemlock Falls. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the on-site South Mountain Dog Park offers fenced, off-leash areas for both large and small breeds.

Local Pet Services and Amenities

Beyond parks, Maplewood ensures that pet owners have all the essential services nearby. Taking care of your pet – from vet checkups to grooming to picking up a new bag of kibble – is convenient when you live in this community. Here are some of the pet-friendly amenities Maplewood offers:

Veterinarians: Your pet’s health is a priority, and Maplewood has reputable veterinary clinics in town and just beyond. For example, Maplewood Animal Hospital on Springfield Avenue is a full-service vet practice that provides everything from check-ups and vaccinations to surgery and dental care. There’s also Valley Veterinary Hospital on Millburn Avenue and other nearby animal hospitals, so you won’t have to travel far to find quality care for your dog or cat. Many of these clinics pride themselves on treating your pet like family and offer modern medical services along with that friendly “hometown vet” feel.

Groomers & Pet Spas: Maplewood pets can be pampered, too! The town has several grooming salons and pet spas ready to keep Fido looking his best. In fact, Maplewood Village recently welcomed a new pet spa that offers grooming, bathing, and even specialty services like pet massage and aromatherapy. You can also find independent groomers and mobile grooming services around the area. Whether your dog needs a simple nail trim or a full haircut and shampoo, it’s easy to schedule a spa day.

Pet Supply Stores: No need to drive to a big-box chain for pet food – nearby towns offer great local options. Pet Wants in South Orange and Millburn Pet Shop in Millburn are two well-loved, locally owned stores offering high-quality pet food, treats, toys, and supplies. Both are just a short drive from Maplewood and offer friendly service along with carefully curated products. Of course, if you need something specific, larger pet retailers (Petco, PetSmart, etc.) are also nearby—but many Maplewood pet owners prefer supporting these local favorites in neighboring towns.

Doggy Daycare & Boarding: For those times when you’re at work all day or traveling out of town, Maplewood offers reliable options to care for your pet. Doggy daycare services are available, ranging from smaller in-home daycare providers to a larger professional facility. One local business even bills itself as an “all-inclusive resort for dogs,” providing daycare, boarding, grooming, and spa services on a one-acre property in Maplewood. (Learn More)

Dog Walking Services: For busy pet owners, Maplewood is well-served by a number of reliable dog walking services. Whether you need a quick midday walk, a long adventure through South Mountain Reservation, or vacation coverage, you'll find experienced, trustworthy professionals ready to help. Many local walkers offer flexible scheduling, personalized care, and even app-based updates so you can track your pup’s outing in real time.

As a pet owner, having these services nearby means less stress and more convenience – you spend less time driving around and more time with your beloved animal. Don’t be surprised if, while running errands, you bump into other pet owners and end up swapping recommendations for the best groomer or the nicest hiking trail – it’s all part of the pet-friendly community spirit here.

Ready to Find Your Pet-Friendly Home in Maplewood?

As local real estate agents—and dog owners ourselves—we understand what matters most when finding a truly pet-friendly home. Whether you're dreaming of a fenced yard near Maplecrest Park or a walkable condo by Maplewood Village, we’re here to help. Let’s connect and find a Maplewood home that fits your lifestyle—and your pet’s.