5 Dog-friendly destinations in Australia

There’s no denying that Australians love their pets, making it a popular destination for pet owners and sitters alike. Whether you’re a pet owner yourself or you simply have the joy of house sitting in Australia, the good news is there are lots of dog-friendly places to visit and activities to do that both man and dog can enjoy. 

But where to begin? Don’t worry, we’ve got that covered. We’re taking a look at the top most dog-friendly destinations in Australia to visit with your pooch in tow...

Melbourne

There are more dog-friendly places in Melbourne than you (or your dog) could shake a stick at. Most state parks in Melbourne will welcome your furry friend on a lead, but there are plenty of beautiful walking spots that provide off-leash areas, too. These can be found in Fawkner Park, Princes Park and Yarra Bend Park. Mindful pooches can also while away an afternoon at Melbourne’s Botanic Gardens, where dogs are welcome on a lead. 

There are also many dog-friendly beaches to visit in Melbourne, such as Marengo Beach or Johanna Beach. Brighton Beach, with it’s colourful, beach-box lined shore also provides the perfect backdrop for taking photos with your dog. 

Gold Coast

With endless miles of white sandy beaches, many of which welcome dogs, Australia's iconic Gold Coast is a destination both you and your dog can enjoy. And where to begin? At The Spit, of course, Australia’s go-to, off-leash dog beach. With lots of sand to dig and open space to explore, this is a must on any dog (or dog lover’s) itinerary. 

In ultra pet-friendly fashion, you can even go for a spot of yoga (also known as ‘Doga’) with your dog. Yes, really! Currently taking place online, Hot Tropical Yoga’s 'Doga' classes involve doggie meditation, dog tricks and obedience with stretching. All you need is a space to stretch, a towel, a yoga mat — and not forgetting your dog, of course!

Canberra

Stretch your legs and explore one of Canberra’s many walking trails. With 5km of lakeside footpaths, Canberra’s Bridge-to-Bridge loop, which loops between the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and Kings Avenue Bridge, is a popular and picturesque trail that’ll definitely help you get your four-legged steps in for the day. 

Finally, why not check out one of the city's many dog friendly restaurants? Teddy Pickers on Constitution Ave is a spot frequented by the dog-loving locals, with Little Bird and The Pedlar two other popular choices. You can also check out one of Canberra’s many dog-friendly wineries, such as Murrumbateman Winery or Surveyors Hill Vineyards. 

Perth 

Unsure what to do this weekend? Go chasing waterfalls at Perth’s Noble Falls, the perfect dog-friendly spot for whiling away a summer’s afternoon. As well as providing the perfect opportunity for your pooch to cool off, there is also a walking trail and picnic area, not to mention truly breathtaking views. 

Australia is known for its beautiful beaches, and Perth is no exception. Hillary’s Animal Exercise Beach is a great spot, with plenty of space for your dog to run around in, enjoy a swim, and feel the sand beneath his paws. It’s a true dog paradise, so give it a go — we promise your pooch will thank you for it!

Adelaide

Adelaide has miles of beautiful coastline to enjoy, and better still, many of them are dog-friendly! Glenelg is a popular choice, where dogs can freely frolic off-leash before 10am and after 8pm (during daylight savings). Outside of these hours, dogs on a lead can still enjoy the soft white sands, not to mention Glenelg’s many dog-friendly dining options.

If you feel like taking some time to rebalance, head to Himeji Garden, Adelaide’s hidden gem. With lots of foliage and tranquil water features to enjoy, this traditionally styled Japanese garden is the perfect spot to spend a few peaceful hours. Dogs are more than welcome too — providing they are well behaved and leashed! 

Know a great spot you'd recommend?

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