An exclusive area to exercise little dogs in Dunedin has been officially opened.
Small-dog owner Deborah Mills, who instigated the area being built in Shand Park, said small-dog owners, nervous about exercising their animals among bigger breeds, now had a safe option available.
The fenced area within the Green Island dog park was about 40m by 50m.
Ten small dogs and their owners attended the official opening on Sunday.
''It was joyous seeing the little dogs playing together ... there is no worry about them being monstered by a big dog having a bad day.''
She was ''humbled'' by Dunedin City Council help to open the park.
The weights of the dog at the opening ranged between 1.7kg and 8kg.
The park was designed for small breeds, such as chihuahuas and miniature poodles.
Medium-sized breeds, such as Staffordshire bull terriers, still have the use of the large-dog park.
Many small breeds could escape through fencing at other Dunedin dog parks but the new area had rabbit-proof fencing to contain dogs.
