Is Edmonton Dog Friendly? Dog Parks & Dog Friendly Patios in Edmonton

There are many things to consider before relocating to a new community. Those with young students will need to think about the school systems in an area, and workers must research career opportunities. However, not all cities offer dog-friendly amenities, so dog owners should select an area dedicated to pet-friendly options. Read on to learn about dog-friendly fun in the city of Edmonton, from dog parks to dog-friendly shopping, restaurants, and more.

Best Neighbourhood Dog Parks in Edmonton

Dog parks offer an excellent opportunity for dogs to frolic and play freely. Fortunately, Edmonton provides several options for fresh air frivolity. Using City of Edmonton off-leash dog areas means following a few general rules:

• Owners are always responsible for the actions of their dogs
• Owners must carry scoops or bags to remove any dog waste
• Failure to remove or properly dispose of such waste can result in a fine of $100
• The Animal Care & Control Centre must license all dogs in off-leash areas

Terwillegar Park

Southwest of downtown Edmonton, Terwillegar Park offers humans a footbridge and several paved trails with great views of the North Saskatchewan River.The park has one of the largest off-leash areas within the community. Dogs can enjoy running through green spaces with trees, trails, and energy-burning hills. Because it is open year-round, dogs will enjoy different experiences during each season. For example, it is possible to swim through the river and play on the shore during summer.

There are no limitations on the size of the dogs as long as they are registered and friendly. However, pet owners with dogs that tire easily may want a backup plan for tired legs. Strollers or wagons may be helpful to provide rides back to the car.

Mill Creek Ravine South

Mill Creek Ravine South is another large green space with paved and gravel paths. Picnic areas and portable toilets are available, and dogs will enjoy sniffing out experiences along several trails, providing alternatives for return trips. The park also contains several footbridges, serving as lookout areas.

Mill Creek Ravine South is an excellent Edmonton park to pick out a trail and exercise. The ravine itself flows into the North Saskatchewan River, making relaxing background noises for the trip.

Jackie Parker Park

Jackie Parker Park is a playground that features five reservable picnic areas that visitors enjoy using during summer. With multiple tables, wood camp stoves, and fire pits, this park is excellent for relaxing gatherings. Golfers may also love the opportunity to sneak over to Mill Woods Golf Course for a few holes, one of the best golf courses in Edmonton.

The off-leash area features open spaces where dogs can run together or play with their owners. There are also a few wooded trails and bridges for adventurous dogs who wish to follow their noses.

Hermitage Park

Hermitage Park is a long stretch of intermittent green space running alongside the North Saskatchewan River. Just over 20 minutes northeast of downtown Edmonton, the area is near several other parks, Rundle Park Golf Course, and Sunridge Ski Area. Hermitage features fishing and non-engine boating during the summer and plenty of sites for picnics.

Near the center of the greenery, the dog park has plenty of paved trails for companion journeys, making it easier for those with wheelchairs or strollers to travel alongside their dogs. Biking is another popular activity with tons of twisting paths for scenic views. Best of all, the off-leash area has river and pond access for cooling off after a few rounds of fetch.

Lacombe Lake Dog Park

Among the smallest parks on this list, Lacombe Lake Park is an open space surrounding the small body of water in the center. The facilities include a heated washroom, pavilion, and nearby parking lot. Group activities can include fishing and picnics in summer to ice skating in winter. Dogs are allowed throughout the park on leash, and swimming is popular in an area designated for canine water fun.

The most popular dog feature is a fenced-in area, a great place for owners who don't want to risk losing their dogs in wider spaces. Those with smaller animals may also prefer this park, as it is limited to dogs weighing 11 kg or less.

Dog-Friendly Activities in Edmonton

While there is no substitute for fresh air activities, dog parks are not the only fun in town. Dogs, like humans, also occasionally crave unique experiences, and Edmonton has plenty of places where they can enjoy themselves.

One of the most popular annual events for dog lovers in Edmonton is Muttstock. Now in its seventh year, the occasion features live music, vendors, and various dog-friendly activities. Elmwood Park Community League offers a covered hall, stage, waterpark, and off-leash park as the host venue. Any money raised from charity booths, vendor fees, and donations supports the region's various animal rescues. Humans and canines alike will have an excellent time for an even better cause.

For a more organized approach to animal fitness, visit Sit Stay Squat. Dogs can benefit from strength training, core stability, cardiovascular conditioning, and body awareness training. These exercises can be especially vital to aging dogs or those who need to lose weight.

The Alberta Railway Museum boasts artifacts and collections related to trains. Many of the exhibits are outdoor spaces featuring interesting historical equipment and locomotives. It's possible to take a self-guided tour through the grounds or ride on vintage transportation equipment. Friendly dogs are welcome to join the tours as long as they stay on leash.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Edmonton

Dogs often enjoy new culinary experiences in unique environments. Because they also have a stronger sense of smell than people, dogs love spending time in eateries to sniff and taste delicious food. Dogs in Edmonton will find several popular restaurants with room at the table for wagging tails.

Doggy Style Deli is a dog cafe offering a revolving menu of specialty foods and unique tastes dogs love. Stop by to try out the Liver Brownie Iced Cake or fresh bison meatballs. The deli also has bags of take-home treats like pork tongues or jerkies. Humans can join in if they bring food from outside, but everything is made for dogs at the restaurant.

The Have Mercy Southern Table and Bar is a fantastic option for southern-style human food, including menu items from Creole and Texas cultures. Dogs are allowed to join at designated tables. For a dog-friendly alternative featuring barbecue, visit Montana's.

Beer lovers can enjoy the Arcadia Brewing Co. for craft brews as uniquely named as they are flavoured. All the while, dogs can join in on the fun on the patio.

Dog-Friendly Shopping in Edmonton

In addition to these dog-friendly activities, several local businesses and organizations are open to dogs. Shopping for pet supplies? Bring your dog along while visiting Petland or PetSmart. Take the guesswork out of selecting beds, toys, or treats by letting your dog pick what they will most enjoy.

Plenty of businesses outside the pet world also allow dogs. Canadian Tire sells a wide variety of items, including sporting goods, exercise equipment, and automotive amenities. They would love a visit from pets to walk through their aisles featuring animal care products. Hardware stores like Lowe's and Home Depot are known places where humans can wander for hours. Dogs can roam as well as they pick out beds and toys.

As the name indicates, Breathe Outdoors offers equipment and supplies for Edmonton outdoor activities and beyond. Furry athletes can also find outdoor dog beds, life jackets, harnesses, and backpacks. Everything dogs need to enjoy a day out on the trails is available inside those walls. Those who prefer the indoor environment may instead want to visit Michael's. As one of the most famous craft stores in North America, pet owners are free to walk through the store with their animals while they plan out free-time activities.

Pet-Friendly Lodging

Sometimes, it may be challenging for pet owners to find lodging where dogs are welcome. Fortunately, Edmonton has several dog-friendly hotel or motel outlets to provide a comfortable overnight stay.

Before confirming a stay at any of these hotels, it is necessary to ascertain the required fees or restrictions. Some facilities may have limitations on the pet's type or size. These rules, along with prices, can change at any time.

Candlewood Suites West Edmonton - Mall Area is an amazing hotel featuring an indoor pool and business center. They allow dogs under 36 kgs but charge an additional fee per night. Those with larger dogs may want to check for rooms at the Holiday Inn Express and Suites Edmonton South. A limited number of rooms are pet-friendly and open to dogs of any size.

The Radisson Hotel and Convention Center Edmonton is another pet-friendly hotel. This location is only miles away from the West Edmonton Mall and Casino Edmonton. For something off the beaten path, those with well-behaved dogs can try the Sage Door B&B offering nearby trails and an area for off-leash fun.

Enjoy Dog-Friendly Edmonton

Edmonton has plenty of outdoor and indoor fun for pets. These dog-friendly activities can help humans spend more time doing great activities with those they love.