The best dog parks in Melbourne

Just because you and your four-legged friend live in the city, that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve your own patch of lawn for your dog to roam free in. Aside from being a great social practice for dogs, daily and weekly exercise outings are important for their overall health and longevity.

Introduce your dog to the benefits of exercise and catching up with friends at one of these recommendeded pet-friendly parks in Melbourne.

Clayton Reserve

One of the most popular off-leash dog parks in the Melbourne CBD, Clayton Reserve in North Melbourne is a friendly and welcoming spot for well-behaved dogs. The fenced-off dog park is the perfect environment for dogs to play and run and meet other pooches.

Ruffey Lake Park

Ruffey Lake Park in Doncaster, or ‘Ruffeys’ as the locals call it, is paradise for dogs and their owners. Surrounded by native and exotic trees as well as picnic areas and views of Ruffey Lake, Ruffeys is one of the best dog parks in Melbourne.

Fawkner Park

Aside from being a stunning scenic outing for pet owners, Fawkner Park also delivers a picture-perfect setting for dogs to run and tumble in. It has a designated off-leash area for pouncing pooches well away from dangerous main roads.

Yarra Bend Park

Yarra Bend Park is one of the largest areas of natural bushland near the heart of the Melbourne CBD and one of the largest multi-zone parks in the city. Dogs are allowed to roam without a leash in most areas of the park, though some spots are strictly leashed zones.

Princes Park

Princes Park in Caulfield South is another great spot for energetic dogs. Features of the park include fenced areas for stress-free dog playing, water taps and bowls, car parking facilities and seating. Off-leash playing is permitted for well-behaved dogs.

Always remember to be respectful of Melbourne’s natural parks when heading out with your dog. Even if you’re at a leash-free park, taking a leash is essential, as is your own supply of poop bags. Go out and enjoy the freedom with your puppy in Melbourne.