Melbourne boasts several parks that are ideal settings for dog walking. With scenic trails, spacious off-leash areas, and opportunities for socialization, Melbourne has them all. 

Melbourne also provides a variety of selections of dog-friendly activities for you and your dog to enjoy. From dog-friendly restaurants and cafés, to pet-friendly hiking trails and beaches, there are a lot of ways to bond with your dog while outside enjoying the city. 

Grab your dog’s leash, pack some food and water, and have a great few hours outside, training and playing! 

Table of Contents

• Footscray Park, Footscray

• Albert Park Reserve, Albert Park

• Fawkner Park, South Yarra

• Royal Park, Parkville 

• Yarra Bend Park, Yarra Bend Rd

• Princes Park, Carlton North

• Caulfield Park, Caulfield North

• Elsternwick Park, Brighton

• Altona Dog Beach, Altona

• Brighton Dog Beach, Brighton

• Ruffey Lake Park, Templestowe

• Westgate Park, Port Melbourne

• Clayton Reserve, North Melbourne

• Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs

• Fritsch Holzer Park, Hawthorn East

• Victoria Park, Abbotsford

• Gardiners Reserve, Burwood

• Egan Reserve, Thornbury

• Mentone Dog Beach, Mentone

Top Dog Parks in Melbourne

1. Footscray Park, Footscray

Footscray Park is an Edwardian-themed period park with well-groomed lawns, botanical exhibits, barbecue facilities, picnic shelters, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.

A wide off-leash area is also available towards the Victoria University section of the park. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk that leads to a dog-friendly café, Rudimentary, or you can choose to extend your stroll along the cycling trail beside the Maribyrnong River. 

2. Albert Park Reserve, Albert Park

Albert Park Reserve offers a variety of recreational activities amidst its relaxing surroundings. This park has both on-leash and off-leash areas, making it a great place for both dogs and owners to unwind. Perfect escape for both locals and visitors, this park features wide green spaces, picnic spots, and stunning views of the city skyline. 

3. Fawkner Park, South Yarra

Fawkner Park in South Yarra is a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. A perfect setting for a peaceful stroll, a leisurely picnic, or a game of fetch with your dog. This park is the best place for walking or jogging, while its designated off-leash areas allow your dog to roam and play freely with other owners’ dogs. 

4. Royal Park, Parkville 

Royal Park in Parkville has scenic trails and lakes, perfect for nature lovers. It’s a favourite spot for outdoor activities such as jogging, cycling, and picnicking. Located near Melbourne’s city centre, it is easily accessible by public transport for everyone and a must-visit destination for all dog owners. 

5. Yarra Bend Park, Yarra Bend Rd

Yarra Bend Park is a scenic sanctuary that provides a relaxing escape from the urban hustle. This park is popular among nature lovers, joggers, and dog owners. A haven for both owners and pets that features designated off-leash areas to roam freely and explore. The park has picnic spots, barbecue facilities, and stunning views of the city skyline making it the perfect destination for a walk. Unwind and reconnect with nature together with your dog in Yarra Bend Park. 

6. Princes Park, Carlton North

Princes Park in Carlton North offers wide-open lawns, shady trees, and well-maintained walking paths, a perfect destination for locals and visitors. Known for its beautiful surroundings, making it a perfect spot for a day of relaxation and recreation. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy a stroll with your dog, have a picnic with friends and family, or engage in outdoor activities like soccer, this is a must-visit location in Melbourne. 

7. Caulfield Park, Caulfield North

Caulfield Park in Caulfield North is an urban oasis that provides a serene retreat from the city hustle, with its lush green spaces, shady trees, and relaxing atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll and relax on the grassy lawns with your dog. This park also features playgrounds for children, sports facilities, and also a scenic lake where ducks and other wildlife are spotted. Popular place for locals and visitors to unwind and enjoy nature. 

8. Elsternwick Park, Brighton

Elsternwick Park in Brighton is a recreational hub for both locals and tourists, offering a safe space for outdoor leisure and relaxation with its green spaces, and shaded picnic areas. This park also provides a variety of amenities such as playgrounds, walking paths, and sports facilities. Simply unwind or enjoy a peaceful nature walk with your dog in Elsternwick Park. 

9. Altona Dog Beach, Altona 

Altona Dog Beach is the perfect haven for both you and your dog. With calm waters and beautiful views, it’s a special place for dogs to splash around and have fun. This beach also provides facilities such as bins for dog waste and taps for fresh water, ensuring a clean and enjoyable visit for everyone. Altona Dog Beach is a great addition for dog owners looking for a fun day out with your dogs.

10. Brighton Dog Beach, Brighton

Brighton Dog Beach is a unique spot where dogs can run and play off-leash on the sandy beach while owners enjoy breathtaking views of the bay. This beach has everything you need for a great day out with dogs including dog waste bins and fresh water taps. Take note of seasonal restrictions, it’s recommended to double-check signage before visiting and bonding with your dog. 

11. Ruffey Lake Park, Templestowe

Ruffey Lake Park in Templestowe is a spacious and serene place for people of all ages to enjoy. Perfect for picnics, relaxed strolls, or spending time outdoors. This park also has playgrounds, sports fields, and barbecue spots, making it a great spot for enjoying a quiet day in nature or some activities to have fun. 

12. Westgate Park, Port Melbourne

Westgate Park in Port Melbourne is known for its pink lake. Fantastic spot for you and your dog to enjoy outdoor activities such as birdwatching, taking photos, and picnicking. Your dog can play and socialize with other dogs safely in the off-leash areas. Take a moment to enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and the West Gate Bridge to relax and bond with your dog.

13. Clayton Reserve, North Melbourne

Clayton Reserve in North Melbourne offers a peaceful escape with open spaces, shaded trees, and a playground. The fenced off-leash area at this reserve allows your dog to exercise and socialize safely with other dogs.  If you’re looking for a spot to relax with a book, enjoy a game of frisbee with your dog, or simply soak in the sunshine, Clayton Reserve is the special place for you to visit. 

14. Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs

Green Gully Reserve in Keilor Downs is a scenic outdoor space where you and your dog can enjoy nature and have fun. This park is an ideal place to relax, take a stroll, play a game, and enjoy the scenery. Known for its beautiful surroundings and sports facilities, makes it an ideal destination for both dogs and their owners.

15. Fritsch Holzer Park, Hawthorn East

Fritsch Holzer Park in Hawthorn East provides a range of recreational activities for all ages. This park features playgrounds, walking paths, and open grassy areas, providing activities like picnics, leisurely strolls, and outdoor play. A peaceful ambiance and well-maintained activities, making a popular destination for both dogs and their owners. Enjoy a quiet afternoon watching the sunset or simply take a break from the daily grind. 

16. Victoria Park, Abbotsford

Victoria Park in Abbotsford has a spacious green lawn, shady trees, and walking paths that provide a welcoming environment for picnics, strolls, and outdoor activities. Popular among fitness enthusiasts and sports teams, this park features sports facilities such as tennis courts and sports fields. Victoria Park hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, making it the perfect place for everyone to enjoy. 

17. Gardiners Reserve, Burwood

Gardiners Reserve in Burwood features open grassy areas, walking trails, and a creek for your dog to splash about in. This reserve is a great spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or unwinding in nature. It is not fenced but has wide lawns, and shady gum trees great for seeking solitude or quality time with your dog.

18. Egan Reserve, Thornbury

Egan Reserve in Thornbury has green lawns, shady trees, and walking trails making it a great spot for enjoying quality time with your dog or also for individuals looking to unwind in nature. You can visit Merri Creek since it’s nearby for your dog to paddle in. 

19. Mentone Dog Beach, Mentone

Mentone Dog Beach is a special spot for dog owners and for dogs to run and play off-leash on the sandy shore. This beach has calm waters and relaxing views, so your dog can swim and enjoy the water. Bins for waste and taps for water are also available on this beach. A must-visit destination for you and your dog to relax and bond on a sunny morning. 

Closing Thoughts

From the serene lakeside paths of Albert Park to the sandy shores of Altona and Mentone dog beaches, Melbourne offers plenty of options for outdoor fun with your dog. Whether you prefer an easy stroll with your senior dog at Royal Park or an all-out playful run in Yarra Bend Park’s off-leash areas for your high-energy pups, Melbourne has them all for you. You can even go to the dog beaches for seaside fun with your baby. 

Ensure your dog’s safety by keeping them hydrated and following dog park rules. Build stronger connections and have fun with your dog in Melbourne dog parks. Start exploring Melbourne’s best dog parks today.