Photo credit: Sherrie Stille

Meet Walter, today’s Dog of the Day, and quite possibly Boulder’s most enthusiastic swimmer. With his signature yellow and blue toy proudly clenched in his mouth and a sparkle in his eyes, Walter can be spotted bounding into the water with pure joy—his tail wagging like a flag in the wind.

Walter’s favorite spots? He’s loyal to Coot Lake, where the water is calm and dog-friendly, and he also loves making waves at Boulder Reservoir, especially in the designated off-leash swim area on the west side. These places aren’t just cooling-off zones—they’re Walter’s playground, workout zone, and happy place all rolled into one.

Coot Lake, Boulder, Colorado – Elevation 5,167 ft: A top destination for dogs, Coot Lake offers off-leash freedom, scenic views, and the perfect spot for a refreshing swim.

But Walter isn’t alone. Boulder is a dog’s paradise, especially when it comes to water. Other pup-approved splash spots include:

• Howard Heuston Park, with its peaceful creek access

• East Boulder Dog Park, where dogs have their own pond

• Twin Lakes, another local favorite with a quieter, natural vibe

Why do dogs love swimming so much?
Turns out, it’s not just about staying cool. Swimming is a full-body workout that’s easy on their joints. It taps into their natural instincts—many breeds are descendants of water-loving ancestors. Plus, swimming releases feel-good endorphins, just like it does for humans. For dogs like Walter, that grin on his face is more than cute—it’s real happiness.

In Boulder, where outdoor living is part of the lifestyle, it’s no surprise that our dogs get to enjoy nature as much as we do. From trails to lakes, this town rolls out the welcome mat for four-legged adventurers.

So today, we celebrate Walter: swimmer, fetch champion, and joy ambassador. If you’re out by the lake and see a splash followed by a flash of yellow and blue—chances are, that’s Walter doing what he loves most.

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