Best Off-Leash Dog Parks in the City of Canada Bay: A Haven for Our Furry Friends

Willow's Mates Dog Walking Crew stand in unity to support the opening of new off-leash dog parks in the City of Canada Bay and Hunters Hill

Did you know that the City of Canada Bay is home to over 15,000 pet dogs? As Sydney’s population continues to grow, more and more people are calling apartments and townhouses home, which often means limited access to grassy areas or private backyards. In such a bustling urban environment, having local off-leash areas where dogs can run, play, and socialise becomes crucial for both pets and their owners.

That’s why the City of Canada Bay takes pride in offering a variety of off-leash dog parks, making it easier for dogs to enjoy the fresh air, exercise, and freedom they deserve. The importance of these spaces goes beyond just fun – they’re essential for the health and well-being of our four-legged companions, and also help strengthen the bond between pet and owner.

A Plan for Healthy, Happy Pups

In 2019, the City of Canada Bay introduced the Dogs in Public Places Strategy, a thoughtful initiative designed to ensure that dogs have safe, enjoyable spaces to exercise and socialize while balancing the needs of other park users. This strategy lays the groundwork for a variety of off-leash areas, as well as thoughtful management of those spaces to prevent overcrowding and promote safety.

The strategy’s goals are clear:

1. Providing safe off-leash spaces for dogs to run and play.

2. Encouraging responsible dog ownership through signage, clear rules, and educational programs.

3. Maintaining the balance between the needs of dogs and other park users, including families, joggers, and cyclists.

These carefully designed off-leash areas aim to promote positive interactions between pets, other park-goers, and the community, while ensuring that both pets and people enjoy public spaces in harmony.

Where to Find the best Off-Leash dog parks in Canada Bay

The City of Canada Bay offers several off-leash dog parks spread across the local area. These parks are well-equipped with safe fencing, ample space for your dog to roam, and often feature dog waste bags and bins for easy clean-up.

Here are a few popular spots to visit:

1. Five Dock Park Located near the waterfront, Five Dock Park is a local favourite, offering an expansive off-leash area for your dog to explore. With plenty of grass and open space, it’s the perfect spot for a game of fetch or a long walk along the bay.

2. Drummoyne Oval Drummoyne Oval has a designated off-leash area that allows dogs to run freely in a well-maintained environment. It’s a great option for those living in the nearby suburbs looking for a convenient and safe space to let their dogs roam.

3. Bayview Park (Concord) For those further west, Bayview Park provides a spacious off-leash area with a fantastic view of the nearby bay. It’s a quiet and peaceful location for dogs to exercise and socialise.

   
   

Here are some of our favourites:

1. Battersea Park (Abbotsford) You and your pup will love this picturesque park. The off leash section of Battersea Park is located at the western, Concord end of the park, closest to Hunter Street. If your dog loves swimming, then you're in luck, as this park also has a dog friendly beach.

   

   Our dogs love swimming on a hot summer's day at Battersea Park, Abbotsford

2. Majors Bay Reserve (Concord West) If your dog loves roaming free then Majors Bay Reserve is the place for you! The unfenced, off leash area is located at the northern end of the park near Dame Eadith Walker Estate. 

3. Off-leash Dog Parks managed by the Hunter's Hill Council

   You will find us frequently exploring the trails of Tarban Creek Reserve, Boronia Park, Clarkes Point, Riverglade Reserve (more details can be found here)

   
   

Why Off-Leash Parks Matter

Providing off-leash areas in urban spaces like Canada Bay is about more than just convenience. For dogs, regular exercise in an off-leash park helps burn off excess energy, reduces anxiety, and encourages positive social behaviour. Plus, it gives owners a chance to meet other pet lovers and build a stronger sense of community.

On the flip side, the strategy also helps manage the environmental and social impact of having dogs in public spaces. Clear rules, such as restrictions on off-leash hours or specific zones for pets, are designed to prevent conflicts with other park users. The idea is to create a space where everyone can enjoy themselves—whether they’re walking a dog or simply enjoying the outdoors.

Supporting Responsible Dog Ownership

As part of the Dogs in Public Places Strategy, the City of Canada Bay is also committed to educating dog owners about responsible pet care. This includes encouraging proper dog etiquette, like cleaning up after your pet, keeping dogs on leads when required, and respecting other park users.

Through initiatives like these, the city aims to foster a responsible and friendly dog-owning community, ensuring that public spaces are enjoyed by everyone.

The Future of Off-Leash Areas in Canada Bay

Looking ahead, the City of Canada Bay remains committed to further expanding and improving its off-leash areas. As the community grows and pet ownership becomes more prevalent, the need for these spaces will only increase. Future upgrades and additional parks are being considered to meet demand while ensuring that the needs of both pet owners and other park-goers are met.

If you’re a local dog owner or just visiting the area, take advantage of these fantastic spaces where your dog can exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're a seasoned dog parent or a first-time visitor, Canada Bay’s off-leash parks are a wonderful way to get outside, connect with other pet lovers, and let your furry friends enjoy some well-deserved playtime in some of the best off-leash parks around town.

Get out and explore! Your dog will thank you for it.

Regular exercise in an off-leash park helps burn off excess energy, reduces anxiety, and encourages positive social behaviour.