The Dog Fight Dividing A Brooklyn Park

BED-STUY, NY— At Herbert Von King Park in Bedford-Stuyvesant, some parkgoers said unleashed dogs have damaged grass, created safety concerns and made some families uncomfortable.

The debate centers on a rule posted throughout the lawn: No pets.

Adjacent to the lawn, the park’s dog run gives owners a place where dogs can leave their leashes, socialize and exercise.

“You want to have your dog on a leash and sit on a blanket, but putting your dog on the lawn and tearing it up so people can't sit there," Morgan, a Bed-Stuy resident told Patch. "You have to respect that this park is for children as well and family."

Complaints about dogs running loose have increased across the City.

According to City data, the number of monthly complaints about dogs being off their leashes more than doubled between 2019 and 2024.

Council Member Chi Ossé responded to concerns from residents who said dogs are using areas where pets are prohibited.

In a video from Herbert Von King Park, Osse pointed to a sign stating that pets are not allowed on the lawn.

“What does that sign say?” Ossé asked. “The sign says no pets.”

Ossé said residents have contacted his office about people sitting in dog waste and feeling uncomfortable around dogs.

“Listen, my family has a dog. I have nothing against dogs,” Ossé said.

The City allocated more than $1 million for renovations to the park’s dog run, Osse said.

Why Do Some Dog Owners Oppose The Rule?

Daniel, a Bed-Stuy resident, said dogs are important companions for many residents, but acknowledged that owners must manage their animals.

“Dogs are a part of our life, so they’re company,” Daniel said. “They’re as much a company for some people as a person can be.”

He said restrictions should create a balance between allowing dogs in public spaces and protecting other park users.

“Dogs have to respect what dogs are capable of messing up too,” he said.

He said the City should focus on rules that require owners to pick up waste and keep dogs under control while preserving access to public space.

Chanterelle, a dog owner, said she has not experienced problems because the rules are rarely enforced.

“It’s not well enforced so I’ve never had a problem with it,” she said.

She said she supports keeping dogs on leashes outside designated areas.

How Are The Rules Enforced?

Enforcement typically relies on City agencies and officials responding to complaints, educating residents and issuing violations when applicable.

But limited staff presence and competing demands in public parks can make consistent enforcement difficult.

That leaves residents relying heavily on individual responsibility.

“All we can do is try to be good neighbors to one another,” Ossé said. “No pets on the lawn.”