It's bright and sunny outside, your dog's been staring at you wondering why you aren't already on the way to the park. Don't worry we'll help you out. We're going to show you the best dog parks in and around Edmonton as well as brush over why they're awesome! From vast meadows perfect for those energetic fetch sessions to serene trails ideal for a peaceful walk with your furry friend perfect for off-leash experiences , our comprehensive guide is meticulously crafted to help you pinpoint the best dog park for you and your pet's needs.
The Best Dog Parks in Edmonton
Separate Area for Small/Shy Dogs
- Lauderdale Dog Park: Fully enclosed with a separate area for small and shy dogs.
- Paisley Dog Park: Features a separate area for small dogs along with agility equipment.
Fenced
- Lauderdale Dog Park: Fully enclosed with 1.2m tall fencing.
- Paisley Dog Park: Not fully enclosed but offers a safe environment with some fenced areas.
- Braithwaite Park Dog Park: Beautifully fenced in, providing a secure environment.
Not Fenced
- Terwillegar Off-Leash Dog Park: No fencing, more natural setting.
- Buena Vista Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Not fully enclosed, open environment.
- Mill Creek Ravine South Off-Leash Dog Park: No fencing, natural setting.
- Jackie Parker Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Ample open space, not enclosed.
-
Hermitage Park Off-Leash Area: Not fenced, natural wetland setting.
Many others listed are also not fully fenced.
Scenic Views
- Buena Vista Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Stunning views, serene atmosphere.
- Gold Bar Park Off-Leash Area: Beautiful trail along the river.
- Kennedale Ravine Off Leash Area: Offers scenic walking paths.
River Access for Swimming
-
Terwillegar Off-Leash Dog Park: Access to the river for swimming.
Hermitage Park Off-Leash Area: River access for dogs.
Wooded Trail
- Mill Creek Ravine South Off-Leash Dog Park: Extensive walking trail system along the river valley.
- Jackie Parker Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Trails through the woods.
- Callingwood Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Charming pathway meandering through the woods.
Large Open Field
- Lauderdale Dog Park: One of the busiest parks in Edmonton, fully enclosed.
-
Klarvatten Off-Leash Area: Large open field for play and running.
Sweet Grass Off-Leash Area: Simple and open walking trail.
Facilities (Bathroom, Picnic Tables)
- Jackie Parker Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Adjacent play park and pond with bathroom facilities and picnic tables.
- Dawson Park Off-Leash Dog Park: Serene picnic areas, scenic trails, and restroom facilities.
- Larkspur Off-Leash Dog Park: Paved walkways for a secure experience.
1. Terwillegar Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 10 Rabbit Hill Rd NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks: One of Edmonton's most spacious dog parks.
- Offers a mix of open fields and wooded trails
- Access to the river for swimming
- Ideal for long walks or hikes with your dog.
- The park is not fenced, providing a more natural setting but requires good voice control over pets.
2. Buena Vista Park Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 7823 131 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Features scenic views and serene atmosphere
- Ideal for relaxation
- The park includes both gravel and paved paths and has water access
- It's not fully fenced, offering a natural, open environment.
3. Mill Creek Ravine South Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 76 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Known for its extensive walking trail system along the river valley
- The park is perfect for off-leash exploration in a natural setting
- Lacks fencing
4. Jackie Parker Park Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 50 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Offers ample open space for dogs to roam
- Adjacent to a delightful play park and pond.
- Facilities like bathrooms and picnic tables for convenience.
- The area is not enclosed
5. Hermitage Park Off-Leash Area
Location: 2115 Hermitage Rd NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- A great escape from the city with plenty of wildlife and natural scenery around the wetlands
- Includes river access
- Is not fenced
6. Lauderdale Dog Park
Location: 127 avenue and 113 A Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Fully enclosed with a separate area for small and shy dogs
- The park has undergone recent improvements and is one of the busiest parks in Edmonton.
7. Paisley Dog Park
Location: 3051 Paisley Green SW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Features agility equipment a gravel path, and a separate area for small dogs.
- The park is not fully enclosed but offers a safe and enjoyable environment for all dogs.
8. Gold Bar Park Off-Leash Area
Location: 10955 50 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Beautiful trail along the river perfect for off-leash hiking
- The park is not fully enclosed but offers a scenic environment for pets and owners.
9. Wellington Off-Leash Area
Location: 13315 137 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Offers a spacious grassy area for play
- Part of the park is fenced, providing a mix of open space and safety.
10. Callingwood Park Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 7420 172 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Open fields and a pathway through the woods, great for off-leash walks.
- The park is not fully enclosed, blending natural terrain with gravel paths.
11. Larkspur Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 11740 121 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Popular hiking trail with paved walkways, ensuring a safe experience. The park has one-sided fencing.
12. Dawson Park Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 10298 89 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Riverfront park with serene picnic areas, scenic trails
- Not a fully enclosed off-leash area.
13. Hawrelak Trail Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: Near University of Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Offers leisurely walks through woods and along the water
- The trail is a mix of granular and natural paths
- Not enclosed.
14. Paisley Off-Leash Dog Park
Location: 3051 Paisley Green SW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Double-gated entrance
- Agility features
- Designated area for small dogs
- Not fully enclosed but offers a safe environment.
15. Sweet Grass Off-Leash Area
Location: 11403 31 Ave NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Simple and paved walking trail
- Not fully enclosed
- Perfect for neighborhood strolls.
16. Bearspaw Off-Leash Area
Location: 105 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Located near South Common shopping center
- Offers walks through a grove of trees
- Not fully enclosed.
17. Fraser Off-Leash Area
Location: 14311 20 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Small grassy area in a residential setting
- Connects with North Hermitage park
- Not fully enclosed.
18. Kennedale Ravine Off Leash Dog Park
Location: 13023 40 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Unfenced off-leash area
- Paved paths
- Suitable for fetch and walks
19. Orval Allen Park Off-Leash Area
Location: 15859 127 St NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Open spaces
- Fenced boundarie
- Partial lighting and snow clearing, ideal for various activities.
20. Klarvatten Off-Leash Area
Location: Klarvatten Rd NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks: Features a large open field for play and running, along with waste disposal bins.
21. Braithwaite Park Dog Park
Location: University Avenue and 112 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta
Hours: 5:00 am to 11:00 pm
Perks:
- Beautifully fenced in, offers a secure environment for dogs to run around freely.
- Features modern and visually appealing seating areas.
Edmonton Dog Park Safety Tips
Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience at Edmonton's dog parks, be it permanent or pop-up, requires adherence to certain safety guidelines. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- Know your dog's temperament: Before deciding to visit a dog park, understand your dog's behavior around other people and dogs. If your dog hasn't been socialized yet or tends to be aggressive, a dog park may not be the best options just yet.
- Vaccinations and Health: Ensure your dog's vaccinations are up to date. This can help the spread of illness to other dogs or your own!
- Keep Collars On: Dogs should wear collars and ID tags at all times in a dog park. This is crucial for the safety of your dog in the case that they get lost.
- Leash Etiquette: Keep your dog leashed until you're inside the off-leash area. Once inside, it's recommended that you remove the leash to avoid tangling with other dogs!
- Clean Up After Your Dog: To make sure that everyone enjoys there time at the park, ensure you clean up after your own. That way, nobody has to drive home with the windows down!
- Bring Water and Snacks: Especially in hotter months, bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration and treats to avoid exhaustion.
- Don't Brings Toys: Bringing toys to the dog park can cause bark offs between dogs and its best to avoid conflict!
Introduction to Pop-Up Dog Parks
Pop-up dog parks are innovative, temporary spaces where dogs can play and socialize safely. These parks, often set up in urban areas, provide a fenced and secure environment for dogs and their owners. They are a fantastic solution for communities without permanent dog parks, offering flexibility and convenience. Typically, these pop-up parks operate for a limited time, usually during warmer months, and their success can influence the development of permanent dog-friendly spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions on Pop-Up Dog Parks
What is a pop-up dog park?
A pop-up dog park is a temporary, fenced space approved by the city where dogs can play and interact safely. These parks are usually operational for a part of the year, like from May to November, and offer a unique space for dog owners and their pets.
Are pop-up dog parks safe?
Yes, they are designed with safety in mind. However, it's important for owners to supervise their dogs and be vigilant about their surroundings. Ensuring your dog responds to recall commands can further enhance safety.
How do pop-up dog parks benefit the community?
Pop-up dog parks are a great way for communities to test the need and location preferences for permanent dog parks. They provide insight into the community's interest and engagement in dog-friendly spaces
Where can I find a pop-up dog park?
Locations vary by city. In many cities, such as Edmonton, pop-up dog parks are spread throughout different neighborhoods. Local news sources or city websites often have lists of current locations.
What should I bring to a pop-up dog park?
Essentials include a leash, water for you and your dog, waste bags, and your dog's favorite toys. Treats can also be useful, especially for reinforcing good behavior and recall training.
Can pop-up dog parks become permanent?
Yes, based on community feedback and usage, some pop-up dog parks may transition into permanent spaces. Local authorities assess the popularity and impact of these parks in making such decisions.
