The best pet-friendly parks in Australia

Exercise and socialisation are crucial for a dog’s health and well-being. Whether your pooch is old or young, big or small, make sure they’re getting a daily or weekly run and social catch-up at a pet-friendly park near you.

Darwin

Darwin residents are lucky to have many dog-friendly nature parks and reserves. With the exception of East Point Reserve, most community parks, beaches and reserves are open for dogs to roam around. If you’re taking your dog to an off-leash dog exercise area, it’s understood that it will be well behaved towards other humans and their dogs.

Brisbane

Brisbane’s Tuckeroo Park is the epitome of large, fenced-off doggy heaven. Few other places can outrank its swimming spot and its ‘Doggy World’ obstacle course. Even though this space has become dog domain, off-leash park rules still apply. Make sure you keep a close eye on your furry friend at all times and keep a poop bag at the ready.

Sydney

154 hectares of manicured lawn in the heart of the Sydney CBD is a luxury even for Sydneysiders, so you can imagine how their dogs must feel! Centennial Parklands is Sydney’s premier dog park. With 43% of the park reserved just for dogs, off-leash roaming is encouraged for all breeds. Poop bag dispensers are available on site, but it’s recommended to BYO.

Melbourne

Healthy dogs equal happy dogs, which is why the City of Melbourne encourages off-leash dog walking at many community parks and gardens. Caulfield Park is one of the more popular dog parks in the Melbourne CBD, with an expansive lawn for dogs to run and tumble on, and an on-leash circular running track for the four-legged athletes.

Adelaide

Off-leash dog walking and socialising is strongly encouraged in Adelaide, which is why many local parks and gardens are dog-friendly. The most well-known dog park in Adelaide is the Wright Road Dog Park in the Adelaide Hills. Provided by the Adelaide Hills Council, the park features two acres of leash-free roaming, dog agility equipment, a water play area and even a separate puppy/small dog area.

Perth

While there are countless dog-friendly parks and dedicated play areas just outside of Perth, Wellington Square is the only dog-friendly park in the CBD. Located in East Perth, Wellington Square is an accommodating community park for pets and their owners. Make sure you return the accommodation by taking your own poop bag and cleaning up after your dog.

Now you know where the best parks for your pooch are around the country get out there and go for a run.