Chicago's dog beaches vary in breed

Moraine Park Dog Beach

Address: 2501 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park



Area: A lush park that was once part of the erstwhile Hotel Moraine's grounds, Moraine Park is home to wildlife such as white-tailed deer as well as Highland Park s 300-foot-long dog beach.



Cleanliness: Everything -- from the long path to reach the beach, to the sand, to the water -- is well-maintained, thanks in part to the use of ever-present waste bags throughout the park.



Congestion: With only 250 dogs registered to use the beach last year, the dogs generally have ample room to roam.



Nearest temptation: National chain Pet Supplies Plus, 1634 Deerfield Rd., Highland Park, sells a slew of affordable toys, food and grooming products.



Admission: Every dog is required to have a permit, which is $40 a dog for Highland Park residents and $140 a dog for non-residents. Before getting a permit, which is sold at the Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd., Highland Park, owners must show proof that the dog is vaccinated and in good health.



(Photo: Elisabeth Stone pets her dog Louis, a standard poodle, at the Moraine Park Dog Beach.)