Where are the Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in Melbourne

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Sometimes your city dog just needs to roam free like the inner-wolf s/he really is. Melbourne's dog owners are spoilt for choice with generous off-leash areas in almost all parks, and councils understanding the importance of exercise equalling happy dog and healthy owner.

The best and most current source of information about where your dogs can roam off-leash is your local council. A quick search on their website will usually take you to detailed maps and information.

For those who have an i-phone, there is (of course) an app you can get which allows you to search for off-leash parks in Melbourne. Access it here for just 0.99c.

Lots of off-leash parks have a definite doggy 'culture' to them, and I am sure your dog won't mind you trying them all out until you find the owners and dogs that work for you.

One of my dog's favourites is the eastern end of Caulfield Park - there are huge expanses of well kept grounds and ovals for your dog to socialise with the always friendly crowd of pooches there. There is also an on-lead circular running track around the perimeter of the park. In the same area, Elsternwick Park remains very popular for good reason.


If you need to have a fenced area for your roaming friend, #clayton ">Clayton Reserve in North Melbourne, opposite the Lost Dogs Home, gets favourable reviews for the friendly and welcoming crowd. The Gardiner Creek Reserve , in West Burwood, while not fenced, is extensive and popular for those whose dogs enjoy a paddle in the creek.

In the East, Ruffey Lake Park in Doncaster has wide open spaces which are nearly all off-lead. In the west, try Green Gully Reserve in Keilor Downs.

While roaming wild, do remember that dogs cannot be off-lead within 20-50 metres (depending on local by-laws) of a children's playground, and ensure you don't allow your enthusiastically roaming dog to rush at or jump on anyone. They must remain under effective voice control at all times. You also need to keep an eagle eye out so you can still clean up after your dog, and help ensure off-lead areas remain so for years to come.

Where are your (and your dog's) favourite off-leash parks in Melbourne? What do you like most about them? What features are most important for you and your dog? Where would you recommend for people who need fenced areas for their dogs?

#dog_friendly
#outdoor
#parks
#walks
%wnmelbourne