Where Are Dogs Allowed In Melbourne?

Walking Your Dog

Unless in an off-leash part of a park, all dogs must be on leashes in the City of Melbourne.

Controlled by Voice or Hand

A chain, cable, or leash must always be in hand when exercising a dog off-leash. Dogs must also be under effective voice and hand control and can quickly attach a chain, cable, or leash no longer than three metres if necessary.

Dogs in off-leash places must be supervised and never permitted to harass or threaten any person or animal.

Picking Up Dog Waste

You must pick up and properly dispose of your dog's waste in public. You should always have a pooper-scooper or other means to dispose of your dog's faeces on you.

Several parks and gardens have poop bags and garbage cans to dispose of canine faeces in leash-restricted and off-leash zones.

Regulations for the Use of a Leash

A chain, cable, or leash no more than 3 metres in length is required to keep your dog under control.

• Dogs must be on a leash within 20 metres of playgrounds and permanent grilling and picnic spots.
• Any time a dog is near a body of water like a fountain, pond, or lake, it must always be on a leash and under close control. Therefore, they are not allowed near the recycling wetland within Royal Park, known as Trin Warren Tam-bourse.

Off-Leash And Banned Places

In the City of Melbourne, residents can take their dogs to one of the 38 acres of off-leash parkland. Also, the following eight parks all feature off-leash dog areas:

• Yarra Park
• North Melbourne Recreation Reserve
• Clayton Reserve
• J.J. Holland Park
• Gosch's Paddock
• Royal Park
• Fawkner Park
• Princes Park

Consider Other Park Users

Although they are designated for dogs to run free, off-leash zones are nonetheless open to the public.

Some individuals are even scared of small dogs running up to them, while others don't like dogs. Thus, it would be best never to allow your dog to jump up on people.

Think About The People Around You And Their Pets

Do not let your dog run up to other dogs to play when off-leash, as the other dogs may become fearful. Always ask fellow dog owners if letting your dog approach their pet is safe. Never let your dog off leash if it does not come back when called or if you cannot keep it under control around other dogs.

Think about enrolling your dog in obedience classes so it can run around unleashed.

Some of Melbourne's Best Dog-Friendly Parks

This lists some of the country's best dog-friendly parks and beaches.

The Albert Park Area

Albert Park is a dog's best friend for many reasons than just those who want to exercise outside with their human companions. Located just three kilometres from the city's heart, this large precinct features numerous walking paths, picnic places, open spaces, water fountains, and the eponymous lake for which it is named. You and your canine companion can roam the park on and off-leash sections. Not to mention, the cityscape and the lakeside forest create a regal setting.

The Memorial Gardens in Honor of Alfred Nicholas

Sherbrooke is situated 45 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district.

The Dandenong Police Paddocks Natural Park

Address: 32 kilometres southeast of Melbourne's central business district (CBD), in Endeavour Hills.

• The park's picnic area and Woodland Walk are two spots where leashed canines are welcome.
• The two ovals adjacent to Brady Road are designated as off-leash dog areas.

To the Park of Emerald Lake

Emerald is situated 50 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

Park Fawkner

South Yarra is situated 3 kilometres south of Melbourne's central business district.

• The western portion of the park and the area south of Cordner Oval are leash-free dog zones.
• Dogs are required to be on a leash in all public spaces.
• The park's northeastern section between Toorak Avenue & Pasley Street is dog-free.

The George Tindale Memorial Gardens

Positioned 46 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district, in Sherbrooke.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

The Greenvale Park Reservoir

Located in Greenvale, 25 kilometres north of Melbourne's central business district

A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

Jells Park

Jells Park inside the Dandenong Creek River provides local dog owners & their pawed buddies with 127 hectares of on-leash sniffing and exploring. A picturesque journey with plenty to keep even the most curious dogs occupied awaits at this tourist hotspot. If you and your dog want to make a day of it, many picnic areas are spread over the park. However, avoid taking Fido to any of the designated nature preserves.

Wheelers Hill is situated 24 kilometres southeast of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.
• The conservation areas behind the lake and other marked wilderness zones are pet-free.

This is Karkarook Park.

Locale: Heatherton, 19 km S.E. of Melbourne's Central Business District

• Dogs are allowed off-leash in a designated area near Fairchild Street but must always be kept under strict voice control.
• Dogs are required to be on a leash in all public spaces.

Lake Lilydale

It's in Lilydale, which is east of Melbourne by about 39 kilometres.

• There are two off-leash areas: one along the wetlands and another by the lake wall at Olinda Creek.
• Dogs are required to be leashed in all public spaces.

The Park at Maroondah Reservoir

Healesville is situated 65 kilometres northeast of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.
• Kiosk Picnic Area and the Maroondah Dam wall are no-dog zones.

The Park at Mullum Mullum

Donvale and Mitcham may be found 26 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

Historical Park of Point Gellibrand

Site: Williamstown, 16 km south-west of Melbourne's central business district

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

R.J. Hamer Arboretum

Olinda is located east of Melbourne by 49 kilometres.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

The Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens

Site: 2 kilometres south of Melbourne's central business district

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.
• Ian Potter Foundation Child's Garden, visitor centre, licenced cafes, and garden shop are all dog-free zones.

Royal Park

Parkville is located three kilometres north of Melbourne's central business district.

• Poplar Oval in McPherson Field is an off-leash dog area that borders the native grasslands in the field's middle region.
• Dogs are required to be on a leash in all public spaces.
• The Australian Natural Garden, the billabong alongside Flemington Road, and the Ross Straw Field wetlands are dog-free zones.

The Park at Silvan Reservoir

Silvan is situated 49 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district.

A leash must restrain dogs at all times.
Instead of hiking trails through the woods, picnic spots are the only places dogs are allowed.

Park of Wattles

Burwood is positioned 13 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.
• To maintain a high standard of play, dogs are not allowed on the golf course.

The Werribee River Park

Cocoroc is situated 34.2 km southwest of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.
• To protect wildlife, dogs are not allowed in these areas.

Located at Westerfolds Park

Templestowe, 20 kilometres north-east of Melbourne's central business district

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

Park in Westgate

Located in Port Melbourne, 6 kilometres south-west of Melbourne's central business district

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

The Park at the Yan Yean Reservoir

Yan Yean is situated 36.2 kilometres northeast of Melbourne's central business district.

• A leash must restrain dogs at all times.

In the Yarra Bend Park

Kew and Fairfield are located 5 kilometres northeast of Melbourne's central business district.

• Off-leash dog parks can be found along the northern side of an Eastern Freeway and in the Westerfield Picnic Area, located close to Deep Rock.
• Dogs can safely enter the Yarra River just below Deep Rock.
• Dogs are required to be on a leash in all public spaces.
• Bushland conservation areas are dog-free zones.

Aside from the Top Dog-Friendly Parks and Beaches in Melbourne, There Are Many More

A dog's tail will wag, and its eyes will light up with gratitude after a trip to the park. Being in the great outdoors with your dog is like nothing else. Metro, regional, and reservoir parks in Victoria are ideal dog-walking destinations. Several parks permit leashed dogs, so you and Fido may go for a stroll, picnic, or check out the sights. Always research before time, online and via the park's official signs. To be clear, some parks have designated dog-friendly areas while others do not.

Merri Creek Trail

The Merri Creek Trail, stretching from Dights Falls to the Western Ring Road, is a 21-kilometre inner-city trek that feels detached from the activity of the Capital. In addition, numerous off-leash places are scattered along its length, making it a hit with the wet-nosed, four-legged kind of tourist. Of course, keeping your dog on a leash is mandatory while on the shared trail (for the safety of the local fauna), but there's enough to look at and smell. In addition, your puppy will likely enjoy meeting all the other canine travellers along the way.

North Melbourne's Clayton Reserve.

Clayton Reserve is a tiny but inviting fenced-in dog park conveniently accessible for dog owners living on the north side. You and Rufus are sure to make new friends anytime you visit because of the welcoming atmosphere there. In addition, having so many different kinds of guests guarantees a never-ending supply of pats. Other perks consist of the following:

• A watering hole for canines.
• Dumpsters and trash bags aplenty.
• A few chairs at a convenient location, perfect for people travelling with hyperactive dogs.

Sandown Beach, Brighton

Enjoy the waves, the sand, and your dog's undivided attention at this fenced-in section of the beach between Bay & Sandown streets. Puppies can run free here all year round, unlike at several other local locations. Activities for explorers include tearing down dunes, searching around bushes, and paddling furiously in the water. Owners don't miss out, either; taking a stroll along the marina is relaxing and offers a great perspective of the city centre.

Caulfield Park, Caulfield North

Caulfield Park boasts plenty of lush, well-maintained terrain perfect for dogs to explore off-leash at their leisure, in addition to its many human-friendly amenities (barbeques, covered picnic places, and a plethora of sports facilities). You can take Rover on a more organised trip along a lovely walking track, where the two of you can watch birds, let Rover sniff about, and feed the ducks, although Rover will need to be re-leashed for this segment. Leashes are also required in the precinct's Park Crescent and Hawthorn Road ends and within 20 metres of any sporting event.

Citizens Park, Richmond.

Every dog in Richmond will tell you Citizens Park is where it's at to frolic in the grass and play on the sports fields near Bridge Road. Dogs are welcome to use the footy oval whenever it is not used for practice or a game. Thus the field is usually swarmed by canine residents who view the emerald grass as their piece of canine paradise. Thus, I hope your day isn't too great. However, your mood will instantly improve after coming here and receiving several hundred parts. And if you want to make an afternoon of it, the dog-friendly craft beer pub Uitgang is a short walk up Bridge Road.

Sir Zelman Cowen Park in Kooyong

Sir Zelman Cowen Park (previously Kooyong Park) has many amenities that dogs and cats will enjoy. The park has plenty of off-leash space, water fountains for dogs, extensive, well-kept greenery and the lovely Gardiners Creek that runs through its heart. Owners, meantime, may take advantage of the abundance of reusable bag stations and no parking fees. All parties involved benefit.

Port Melbourne Dog Beach

Take your dog for a walk along the waterfront of Port Melbourne, which connects Station and Lagoon piers, and you'll be near the city without leaving the dog behind. All year long in the southern part and from April 1 through October 31 in the northern half, dogs can run around without their owners tethering them. Along with being adjacent to the lively section of Bay Street, where dog-friendly establishments like Italian restaurant Bella Cucina can be found, the beach is a fantastic spot to view the Spirit of Tasmania set sail.

Dog Beach in Mentone, Victoria, Australia

Following a successful trial period in 2015, the Mentone beach between Charman and Plummer Roads is now an off-leash area for dogs around the clock. It's a beautiful place to meet other dogs, play on the beach, and even chase a seagull, but it may get crowded with furry bodies at peak times. There are plenty of trash cans for getting rid of your dog's waste, and you can get on the Bay Trail if you want to exercise after a day at the beach. Keep your dog on a leash right up until you reach the beach.

The Elwood Beach, Elwood

Elwood Beach is a favourite hangout for canine companions year-round, especially when the temperature drops because dogs can run and play off-leash anytime. From the beginning of April until the very end of October, they can roam the sandy section between the beach access ramp on Normandy Road and the rock groyne south of Point Ormond. Dogs are not allowed on any part of the beach from November through March. However, the northern section is leash-free from 5:30 to 9:30 in the morning.

Conclusion

All canines in Melbourne must always be under voice or hand command. Dogs need constant oversight and should never be allowed to bother or endanger other people or animals. Playgrounds, permanent grilling and picnic areas, and any body of water (fountain, pond, or lake) within 20 metres require that dogs be on a leash. There are other parkgoers, 38 acres of off-leash parkland, eight parks, and additional off-leash areas. It's considerate to consider the people and pets in your immediate vicinity and to enquire from other dog owners as to whether or not it's okay to let your dog approach their pet.

Albert Park Area, Cardinia Reservoir Park, Dandenong Police Paddocks Natural Park, Park Fawkner South Yarra, Greenvale Park Reservoir, Jells Park, and the George Tindale Memorial Gardens in Sherbrooke are all on our list of top dog-friendly parks and beaches in Australia. Pets must always be on a leash when visiting these parks. The proximity to the city centre, the abundance of walking routes, picnic areas, open spaces, water fountains, and the lake named after the park make Albert Park a dog's best buddy.

The most critical information presented here is the specific sites in Melbourne where dogs are permitted to run free off-leash along Fairchild Street but must be kept under strict voice control at all other times. Dogs are not permitted in the Park at Silvan Reservoir, which is located 49 kilometres east of Melbourne's Central Business District; Lake Lilydale; Healesville; Maroondah Reservoir; Mullum Mullum; Donvale and Mitcham; the Historical Park of Point Gellibrand; the R.J. Hamer Arboretum; Royal Park; the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens; the Australian Natural Garden; the billabong alongside Flemington Road; or the Ross Straw Poplar Oval in McPherson Field borders the native grasslands in the field's midsection, and Parkville is three kilometres north of Melbourne's central business district. In addition, dogs must be kept on a leash in the Park of Wattles, located 13 kilometres east of the central business district.

Yan Yean Reservoir, Yarra Bend Park, Merri Creek Trail, and Clayton Reserve are some of Melbourne's best dog-friendly parks and beaches. Dogs must always remain on a leash in these parks; while some allow them, others do not. Moreover, dogs are not allowed in Bushland conservation areas. These parks are perfect for taking your dog for a walk, picnicking, or sightseeing. They also supply a place for dogs to drink, trash cans, and other useful facilities.

Between Bay and Sandown streets is the fenced-in Port Melbourne Dog Beach, where canines are welcome year-round. Exploration includes tearing down dunes, rummaging through vegetation, and paddling hard in the water. Walk the marina boardwalk and take advantage of the free parking and reusable bag kiosks. Caulfield Park in Caulfield North is a large, well-kept park with lots of space for off-leash canine exploration and services for their human companions (barbeques, covered picnic places, and many sports facilities). Finally, to run about off-leash and let off some steam, bring your dog to Richmond's Citizens Park, where they can run around on the sports fields and in the grass by Bridge Road.

Dogs and cats alike will appreciate Kooyong's Sir Zelman Cowen Park, which features dog water fountains, plenty of grassy areas, and the picturesque Gardiners Creek. Up Bridge Road is where you'll find Uitgang. Everyone wins in this situation. Dogs are free to roam the Port Melbourne waterfront in Victoria, Australia, without being restrained by their owners 365 days a year. It's close to the action on Bay Street, where you'll find places like the Italian restaurant Bella Cucina that welcome dogs, and it's an excellent vantage point for seeing the Spirit of Tasmania leave port.

Dogs are welcome on the northern side of Elwood Beach, Elwood, without leashes from April 1 through October 31 every year. Trash cans are conveniently located for disposing of dog waste, and those who want to exercise after a day at the beach can do so along the Bay Trail. From November 1 through March 31, only the northern half of the beach is open to dogs between 5:30 and 9:30 in the morning.

Content Summary

• You and Your Dog on a Stroll In the City of Melbourne, all dogs must be on leashes unless in an off-leash park area.
• It would be best if you never were without a chain, cable, or leash when exercising a dog off-leash.
• As an added safety measure, dog owners should be able to immediately attach a chain, cable, or leash no longer than three metres to their pet and use it to keep the animal within a three-meter radius at all times.
• If you take your dog to an off-leash area, always keep an eye on it and never let it bother or threaten another person or animal.
• When walking your dog in a public area, it is your responsibility to pick up after it up and appropriately dispose of the waste.
• Always be prepared to dispose of your dog's waste by carrying a pooper-scooper or other suitable container.
• In both leash-required and off-leash areas, dog faeces can be properly disposed of using poop bags and trash cans provided by many parks and gardens.
• Your dog must always be controlled using a chain, cable, or leash no more than three metres in length.
• Dogs are not allowed within 20 metres of playgrounds or permanent grilling and picnic areas outside their owner's immediate control.
• Dogs must be kept on leashes and closely supervised whenever they are near any body of water, including fountains, ponds, and lakes.
• They are not permitted near Trin Warren Tam-bourse, a recycling wetland located within Royal Park.
• There are 38 acres of off-leash parkland in Melbourne where locals can take their dogs.
• Moreover, off-leash dog spaces can be found in the following eight parks:
• It may come as a surprise, but some people are afraid of even the smallest dogs approaching them.
• This is why never teaching your dog to jump up on humans is crucial.
• Please keep your dog from approaching other dogs when off-leash for the risk of frightening them.
• If you're looking for a dog-friendly park or beach, these are five of the greatest in the country.
• Albert Park is a must-visit for more than just dog owners looking for a place to take their pups for a walk.
• This huge precinct is only three kilometres from the city's centre. It contains several amenities, including walking pathways, picnic areas, open spaces, water fountains, and the lake for which it is named.
• There are both leash-required and leash-free zones within the park for you and your dog to explore.
• Also, the combination of the urban landscape and the woodland along the lake makes for a stately background.
• The Memorial Gardens Honoring Alfred Nicholas Sherbrooke may be found 45 kilometres east of Melbourne's central business district.
• An open space known as Cardinia Reservoir Park may be found in the area.
• Located at Endeavour Hills, 32 kilometres southeast of Melbourne's CBD.
• Dogs on leashes are permitted at the park's picnic area and along the Woodland Walk.
• The two ovals on either side of Brady Road are off-leash dog zones.
• Located 50 km east of Melbourne's CBD, Emerald is easily accessible.
• Just three kilometres south of Melbourne's CBD is the neighbourhood of South Yarra.
• Dogs can run free without restraint in the park's western half and in the region south of Cordner Oval.
• In any public place, canine companions must always be restrained by their leash.
• Dogs are not allowed in the parking area northeast of Toorak Avenue and between Pasley Street.
• Located in Sherbrooke, which is around 46 kilometres east of Melbourne's downtown.
• Greenvale is situated 25 km north of Melbourne's CBD.
• Dogs should always be on a leash.
• Jells Park, located along the banks of the Dandenong Creek River, is 127 hectares of off-leash fun for local dog owners and their four-legged friends.
• Heatherton is located 19 kilometres southeast of Melbourne's central business district.
• There is an off-leash area near Fairchild Street where dogs are welcome, but they must always be under their owners' immediate vocal control.
• In any public place, canine companions must always be restrained by their leash.
• It's located near Lilydale, roughly 39 kilometres east of Melbourne.
• Olinda Creek, which runs alongside a lake, and the wetland regions nearby are both leash-free zones.
• Everywhere a leash is needed, dogs are prohibited.
• Healesville can be found 65 kilometres northeast of Melbourne's CBD.
• Williamstown is 16 kilometres southwest of Melbourne's core business centre.
• Olinda is situated 49 kilometres east of Melbourne.
• There Is a Foundation Named After Ian Potter Dogs are not permitted in the Child's Garden, the tourist centre, the licenced cafes, or the garden shop.
• Three kilometres north of Melbourne's CBD is where you'll find Parkville.
• The native grasses in the middle of McPherson Field are bordered by an off-leash dog park called Poplar Oval.
• In any public place, canine companions must always be restrained by their leash.
• All dogs must be leashed or on a leash and under control at all times when visiting the Australian Natural Garden, the billabong along Flemington Road, or the wetlands in Ross Straw Field.
• Silvan is located in eastern Melbourne, 49 kilometres from the CBD.
• Located 36.2% northeast of Melbourne's CBD, Yan Yean is a great place to stay.
• Kew and Fairfield areas may be around 5 km northeast of Melbourne's CBD.
• The Westerfield Picnic Park north of Deep Rock and a section of an Eastern Freeway is designated off-leash dog areas.
• The Yarra River is shallow enough for dogs to swim in just downstream from Deep Rock.
• In any public place, canine companions must always be restrained by their leash.
• Dogs are not allowed in protected areas of bushland.
• In addition to Melbourne's most popular dog-friendly parks and beaches, the city has many others.
• After enjoying time at the park, a dog's tail will wag, and its eyes will shine with appreciation.
• Outside time with your dog is unlike anything else.
• Victoria's reservoirs, regional parks, and metro parks make fantastic dog-walking opportunities.
• Dogs on leashes are welcome in several local parks, so Fido and you can enjoy a day out together sightseeing or taking a stroll.
• Before visiting a park, visitors should familiarise themselves with it via official signs and the internet.
• It's important to note that while some parks allow dogs, others do not.
• The 21-kilometer-long Merri Creek Trail, which begins at Dights Falls and ends at the Western Ring Road, offers a quiet, secluded alternative to the bustling daily life of the nation's Capital.
• Many off-leash areas along its length also contribute to its popularity among wet-nosed, four-legged vacationers.
• Keeping your dog on a leash is required on the shared trail (to protect the local wildlife), but there's much to see and smell along the way.
• Also, your puppy will have a blast playing with the other dogs on the road.
• Dog owners in the northern part of the city will appreciate the accessibility to Clayton Reserve, a small but friendly fenced-in dog park.
• Any time you and Rufus go there, you'll quickly find a group of people who want to have you and your dog as guests.
• A fenced-in beach area between Bay and Sandown streets is perfect for you and your dog to relax and play in the sand without worrying about cars or other distractions.
• In contrast to other areas, puppies can roam free here all year.
• Exploration includes tearing down dunes, rummaging through vegetation, and paddling hard in the water.
• Even homeowners can enjoy the marina; a stroll there is calming and provides a fantastic view of the city centre.
• In addition to its many services for humans, Caulfield Park features a large expanse of verdant, well-maintained landscape that is ideal for canine off-leash exploration (barbeques, covered picnic places, and a plethora of sports facilities).
• There is a nice walking trail where you and Rover may watch birds, let Rover sniff about, and feed the ducks on a more structured outing; however, you will need to re-leash Rover for this part of the journey.
• In addition to the areas around the Park Crescent and Hawthorn Road entrances and the closest twenty metres to any sporting event, leashes are necessary throughout the whole complex.
• Every dog in Richmond knows Citizens Park on Bridge Road is the best place to run around on the grass and play on the sports fields.
• Dogs are free to run about if the football field is not utilised for a game or practice.
• Because of this, the area is typically overrun by local dogs who consider the lush green grass to be their paradise.
• After going here and receiving several hundred pieces, though, your disposition will immediately improve.
• Make an afternoon of it by stopping at Uitgang, a dog-friendly craft beer tavern just a few blocks up Bridge Road.
• Sir Zelman Cowen Park (formerly Kooyong Park) has various dog and cat-friendly features.
• Plenty of off-leash areas, dog water fountains, a large amount of well-maintained vegetation, and the picturesque Gardiners Creek can all be found in this spacious park.
• Meanwhile, residents can take advantage of the many locations to refill reusable bags and the absence of parking costs.
• You can be close to the city without leaving your dog behind by strolling along the waterfront of Port Melbourne, which runs between Station and Lagoon piers.
• Dogs are free to roam without leashes at all times in the southern half and from April 1st through October 31st in the northern half of the state.
• The beach is a great place to watch the Spirit of Tasmania set sail, and it's close to the action on Bay Street, where you'll find dog-friendly places like Bella Cucina, an Italian restaurant.
• Australia's Mentone, Victoria, has a dog-friendly beach.
• The stretch of Mentone beach between Charman and Plummer Roads is now an off-leash dog zone permanently after a successful trial period in 2015.
• It's a great area to socialise with other canines, run on the beach, and even chase a seagull, although it may get busy with furry bodies at peak times.
• You can exercise after a day at the beach by walking on the Bay Trail, and there are plenty of trash cans to dispose of your dog's waste.
• Don't let your dog off leash until you're on the beach.
• Because dogs are allowed to run and play off-leash at Elwood Beach 24/7, it is a popular place for dog owners to take their pets all year, especially when the weather cools down.
• From early April until late October, they can explore the sandy area between the Normandy Road beach access ramp and the rock groyne south of Point Ormond.
• From November through March, canine companions are not permitted on the beach.
• The northern part, however, is leash-free only between 5:30 and 9:30 in the morning.