The best dog parks and dog beaches in Melbourne

Dog parks and dog beaches are a paradise for dogs that live in cities like Melbourne. Every dog needs a large area of grass or sand where they can exercise and play safely. 

Here is a list of the best dog parks and dog beaches in Melbourne’s north, south, east and west:

Best dog parks and dog beaches in Melbourne's North

Victoria Park, Abbotsford

Victoria Park in Abbotsford used to be the home ground of the Collingwood Football Club. It now serves as a dog park where dogs are allowed to be off-leash on the fenced football oval when it's not being used for sport. The park features picnic tables, bins, toilets, and water taps with bowls. If the park is occupied, there is an alternative dog park nearby called Richmond's Citizens Park that has your dog’s need for speed covered. 

Green Gully Reserve, Keilor Downs

The Green Gully Reserve dog park in Keilor Downs is a great place for dogs to play and exercise. It features an agility course that includes tunnels, agility poles, ramps, and platforms for dogs to run and jump. It may be just what you’re looking for if your dog needs to lose weight. The dog park is an 80-metre square space that is fully fenced off from the rest of the reserve, ensuring that dogs can play safely and without interruption. There is a water tap, bin and playground equipment, as well as bench seats for dog owners to relax on while their pets enjoy the park.

Alf Pearce Dog Park, Strathmore

The Alf Pearce Dog Park in Strathmore provides an all-inclusive experience for dogs, with a range of features that cater to their needs. The park has an agility zone where dogs can test their skills, as well as a time-out space for dogs that need a break. The park has dog drink fountains to keep pets hydrated, a run-around area where dogs can play, and a rocky mound for them to climb. Owners can sit back and relax thanks to the seating that’s available.

Best dog parks and dog beaches in Melbourne's South

Mentone Dog Beach, Mentone

Mentone Dog Beach is a popular dog-friendly beach in Melbourne that is home to the Mentone Lifesaving Club. It has a car park, toilets, and BBQ facilities for visitors. The grassed areas and water taps provide a comfortable and convenient space for both dogs and their owners. The western part of the beach is a designated 24-hour off-lead zone for dogs, so owners can allow their furry friends to run freely without worrying about restrictions. 

Brighton Dog Beach, Brighton 

Brighton Dog Beach, also known as Sandown Street Beach, is a popular destination for dog owners in Melbourne. From April to October, dogs are allowed to roam off-leash 24/7, and from November to March, they are allowed in the evenings and early mornings. The beach features a fully fenced and gated area for dogs, as well as nearby cafes where dog owners can relax and grab a bite to eat. After you have refuelled, you can continue your adventure on the Bay Trail.

Kevin Hayes Reserve, Mordialloc

The Kevin Hayes Reserve dog park in Mordialloc is a spacious and well-equipped park for dogs and owners alike. The park is surrounded by gum trees and is fully fenced, making it a safe and secure space for dogs to play and exercise. The park features a shelter with tables where owners can relax and watch their pets. If you’re looking for more dog enrichment ideas, this reserve’s agility course may be the answer. With six sets of equipment, it has room for everyone. The park also has a water tap where dogs can rehydrate after running around. 

Best dog parks and dog beaches in Melbourne's East

Tirhatuan Park, Dandenong North 

Tirhatuan Park dog park in Dandenong North boasts a spacious fenced area with lush green grass, ideal for dogs to run and play. The park is well-equipped with a water tap, bowl, and bin for dog owners' convenience. There's also a shelter and a table for people to rest and socialise while their furry friends play. The park has a playground and outdoor gym equipment for those who want to exercise with their dogs. Visitors can also enjoy a BBQ or picnic and use the park's toilet facilities.

Gardiners Reserve, Burwood

Gardiners Reserve in Burwood is a spacious dog-friendly park that neighbours Deakin University's Burwood campus. It is fenceless, featuring open grassy spaces and a creek where dogs can cool off on hot days. Walking paths and trail options along Gardiners Creek make it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll with your furry companion. The park is surrounded by gum trees, and there's a dog-friendly cafe called Dosage located nearby, providing a great opportunity for owners to grab a bite while their pets rest.

Best dog parks and dog beaches in Melbourne's West

Altona Dog Beach, Altona

The Altona Dog Beach in Altona is a great destination for dog owners looking for a fun and unique beach experience. The beach has ankle-deep water, making it perfect for dogs to splash around in and cool off during the hot summer months. Bordering Burns Reserve and featuring a shipwreck, the beach is off-leash and has ample space for dogs to run and play on the long stretches of sand. Bins and dog bags are available at the entrance, and there's a shower and water bowl for dogs to rinse off and rehydrate. The beach is conveniently located next to the Altona Sports Club, where there is plenty of parking available.

Brooklyn Reserve, Brooklyn

The Brooklyn Reserve is a well-maintained dog park in Melbourne that features a water tap with a bowl, as well as a box where dog toys can be kept safe for your next visit. The park has seating and tables, making it a great spot for owners to relax and watch their pets. The park's agility course is a standout feature, including weave poles, logs, hurdles and ramps for dogs to explore. 

How to keep your dog safe at a dog park

Taking your dog to a dog park can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also be dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Dog parks are communal spaces where dogs of all sizes and temperaments can interact, which can lead to fights and injuries. Additionally, dogs can be exposed to diseases and parasites that can be spread through contact with other dogs.

To keep your dog safe at the dog park, it is important to follow some basic guidelines.

First, make sure your dog is up-to-date on all of its dog vaccinations and is free of parasites before going to the park.

Second, supervise your dog at all times and be prepared to intervene if it shows signs of aggression or if another dog is being aggressive.

Third, make sure your dog is trained to come when called and can respond to basic commands. Finally, be aware of the park rules and follow them, including cleaning up after your dog and not bringing in food or toys that could cause conflict among dogs.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your dog has a safe and enjoyable experience at the dog park.

Have you just adopted a dog or recently relocated to the Melbourne area with your furry friend? If so, it’s important to find a Melbourne vet who you can trust with everything from dog park and beach suggestions to vet check-ups. Get in touch with our team at Doncaster Vet in Melbourne today.