Photo via City of Toronto
Everyone likes to unwind a little differently. For you, it might be a nice bubble bath and streaming your favourite shows. For your pup, it’s probably running free and showing off their speedster skills at one of Toronto’s off-leash dog parks.
If you’re a pup parent in Toronto, we’re sure you already have a routine. But if you’re feeling adventurous, Toronto has over 75 designated off-leash areas, and we have a few on our list that you may not know about.
Here are 6 of our top off-leash dog parks in Toronto, from the big names to the hidden gems. You and your dog might just discover a new favourite.
Okay, so you probably know about this one already, but we can’t do a round-up of the top off-leash dog parks in Toronto without mentioning High Park. The biggest park in Toronto has a lot going for it, from winding nature trails that will make you forget you’re in the city altogether to the spacious off-leash area between Grenadier Restaurant and the High Park Animal Display. It’s great for a day out, but keep in mind that this off-leash area isn’t fully fenced, so keep a close eye on your pooch while you’re there.
Pro tip: consider walking, biking or taking the TTC to High Park and Cherry Beach, as parking is limited.
There’s nothing like a beachside stroll in the summer. Cherry Beach Dog Park has the perfect mix of soft sand, walking trails, and – of course – some water for your pup to cool off in! When you’re not enjoying the beach, there’s a nice off-leash area that’ll give your dog the freedom to run, play, and make the most of the summer.
Ramsden Park is a perfect green escape right in the heart of the city. There are on-leash walking trails as well as a partially fenced off-leash area for your dog to run around and play. This park is also great for those who love smaller breeds. There is a dedicated off-leash area for small dogs so that every pup can feel happy and safe.
If you and your dog prefer big trees, lengthy walking trails, and a quieter ambiance, then you’ll love Sherwood Park in North York. Tucked outside of the downtown core, this park has lots of wooded areas, trails to travel, and a couple of wading pools to cool off on a hot day. The off-leash area is also fully fenced, so you don’t have to worry about your dog getting curious and wandering off.
Can you really miss out on the chance to enjoy a park with a name this cute? This park located in the downtown core is brand spanking new – and it even has a small off-leash area for small dogs! It may not be a large park with sprawling green vistas and towering trees, but it’s got an adorable heart-shaped pond, and it’s smack in the middle of everything. Grab a coffee and settle in for some grade-A people-watching while your little guy runslaps.
Orphan’s Green has a large off-leash dog park that’s fully fenced and available for pups of all sizes. The up-and-coming neighbourhood of Corktown is moving and shaking, with lots of new developments and amenities opening nearby. The off-leash area is mulch-covered for sprinters, runners, and go-fetchers, with several picnic benches and shady spots to sit and enjoy the day.
Dog days are the best days, but we know that sometimes things can get a little hairy. If your pup is having an off day, or maybe another dog at the park isn’t feeling quite right, here are a few tips to keep you and your little guy safe.
Avoiding approaching dogs in any way that may come off as aggressive or threatening. Let them come to you and approach calmly – this is especially important to teach to children.
If you feel threatened by a dog for any reason, stop all movement, avoid eye contact, turn sideways, and speak to the dog in a calm and friendly voice.
Always keep an eye on your pup outdoors, especially in an off-leash situation, to make sure they are safe, playing well with others, and not eating anything that could make them sick.
Keep your dog leashed outside of off-leash areas. Most incidents involving dogs in Toronto could have been avoided if the dog was leashed. Keep your best friend safe and consider others when you’re both out exploring.
If you’re looking for more useful dog info, check out this article:
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