You love the way your pooch is always there when you need them, so naturally, you want to spend as much time with them as you can. Luckily, Edmonton is a very dog-friendly town. You’ll be surprised by the large number of places that welcome dogs into the mix. Read on to learn some of our favourites.

1. Off-Leash Parks

Off-leash parks give your dog the chance to run as wild as they really want to. There are few places better than Terwillegar Park. You’ll find open space for playing fetch as well as beautiful scenery for you to enjoy. 

Dog lovers also tend to appreciate Buena Vista Park near the zoo. It has areas where dogs can easily access the river for a quick swim (just be sure to check the water conditions first). 

Besides these favourites, you’ll find many of the parks throughout Edmonton have off-leash areas, though some are larger than others. In fact, the city boasts over 40 off-leash parks, including spots at Hermitage Park, Patricia Ravine, and Callingwood Park. Check out the city’s website for the complete list.

2. Other Great Parks

On-leash dogs are welcome in most other parks throughout Edmonton, provided you stay away from playgrounds, golf courses, and sports fields. Hawrelak Park has plenty of walking trails and tends to host events when the weather is nice – including Pets in the Park every year. The Mill Creek Ravine offers fantastic scenery in each season.

3. Doggie Dining

All dogs love to eat and your pooch will be able to dine in style when you bring them to the Doggy Style Deli – a restaurant just for dogs. They serve a variety of dog food, including raw meat and delicacies like German Shepherd Pie and Hound Burger Helper. Once you order, your dog can enjoy the meal at a table. The place even offers grooming services, so your dog can really get the royal treatment.

4. Dog-Friendly People Restaurants

You don’t have to drop your dog off back home if you’re ready for a bite to eat yourself. Some of the restaurants throughout Edmonton are happy to allow dogs to sit with their owners – at least when the weather is nice enough for the outdoor patios to be open. 

For instance, Farrow Sandwiches has dog-friendly picnic tables out back and scrumptious sandwiches. The Pint Whyte Ave is a dog-friendly pub. Both places are happy to serve your pup a bowl of water to help them stay hydrated while you enjoy your food and drink.

There are also a number of Edmonton restaurants that have pet friendly patios such as: The Next Act Pub,  Duchess Bake Shop, Cafe Bicyclette, Blaze Pizza, Remedy Cafe & more!

5. Take Your Dog Shopping

In general, you don’t think of many retailers as being dog-friendly spaces, but there are a few boutique shops in Edmonton that will welcome your dog. At Urban Barn, you can shop for furniture with your dog. After all, you probably want to see if your dog likes the new couch your picking. The Shades of Grey Clothing Boutique also allows dogs to come into the shop with their owners. Of course, leashes are required.

Because dogs are a big part of many Edmontonians lives, it’s nice to know our city is a such a pup-friendly place. Be sure to check out some of these paws-itively awesome dog destinations.

Photo credits: Labrador puppy, pitbull, waiting dog