Is there anything quite like spending a wholesome afternoon with mans best friend? 

Nobody likes closing the door as their pup stares longingly wondering when they’ll be back. 

Luckily, you don’t have to because Calgary is an inclusive and dog-friendly city! 

There are plenty of dog-friendly activities, patios and green spaces in the city where your dog can tag along instead of being left at home. 

Calgary has one of the largest numbers of off-leash spaces in all of North America, we’re talking 1145 hectares! Within those areas, you’ll find a total of 157 public off-leash parks, and the city is always working to add more. That’s a lot of open space for you and your dog to enjoy! Since the city is so welcoming for dogs, you aren’t just confined to parks either. There is a growing number of activities and services for pups popping up all the time. Not to mention a number of patios and shopping areas in town that allow canine visitors.

So keep on reading and we’ll dive into a list of the best dog parks and dog-friendly places in Calgary.

The best dog parks you have to check out in Calgary

Use our navigation guide below to jump to a commute you might need. 

Sue Higgins Park

Sue Higgins Park just so happens to be the mother of all dog parks in Calgary. It’s located along the banks of the Bow River and boasts some gorgeous trees, wildlife habitats, and grasslands. 

Even though Sue Higgins Park sprawls across an impressive 62 acres, it’s completely fenced off which is a dog owner's dream! You’ll never have to worry about the safety of your four-legged friend. If your dog loves to swim, you can access the Bow River from multiple areas.

Dog owners can enjoy extensive pathways and hiking trails, then take a rest and have a snack at one of the picnic tables sprinkled throughout the park. There is so much fun waiting to be had at Sue Higgins Park.

Edworthy Park

Edworthy Park sits in a valley along the Bow River in southwest Calgary. This diverse park is a lovely year-round destination. Explore the large dedicated off-leash area where your pup can run and jump around in. Make some fun memories with your pooch in this scenic city getaway surrounded by scattered trees and prairie vegetation. 

It’s perfect for walks, picnics, and all types of outdoor fun. Enjoy the endless parklands offering walking, hiking and cycling trails, picnic sites, gazebos, fire and BBQ pits, and playgrounds. Edworthy Park has some breathtaking views of the city that are sure to make for some pretty Instagram-worthy afternoons.

Nose Hill Park

Nose Hill Park is a natural environment park in northeast Calgary. Hiking trails, grasslands, and wildlife are all found within the sprawling 11 square kilometres of the park. The immense size of this park has made it recognized as the 4th largest urban park in all of Canada. 

With one-third of the park being off-leash areas, four-legged friends are bound to be entertained for hours and hours. There are plenty of benches to stop and relax as you unwind from city life. One of the best parts about this park is the stunning, picturesque mountain views.

McHugh Bluff Park

McHugh Bluff Park is located on a hillside in northwest Calgary providing plenty of green space and some stunning skyline views. Extensive pathways, trails, and a serene atmosphere make this park popular for commuters, joggers, and dog walkers. 

Spectacular views make this park a must-see dog park, but its foot traffic and uneven terrain don’t make it ideal for off-leash adventures.

River Park

River Park is located in southwest Calgary on the ridge above Sandy Beach. Dogs are able to roam free and enjoy the spacious 21 hectares of varied terrain. If you make your way to the center of the park you’ll find some human-friendly doggy fountains, so you’ll never have to worry about you or your pal getting thirsty. People from many different communities frequent the park so it's a great place for everyone to socialize.

Rotary Park

Rotary Park is situated on a hill north of Memorial Drive and east of Centre Street in northeast Calgary. The park has picnic tables, playgrounds, washrooms, water fountains, and tennis courts. 

Take your dog to the beautiful vantage point at the south end of the park for some special views. While it’s not as big as some of the other dog parks in Calgary, it’s a quiet and relaxing choice.

Connaught Park

Connaught Park is a new beautifully designed park with a fenced off-leash area. This charming downtown park even has a dedicated space for smaller dogs which is a unique feature you don’t see very often. 

Some amenities within the park include benches, picnic tables, and a water fountain. The park is conveniently located for those who live downtown and can’t easily access suburban dog parks. It’s within close proximity to restaurants, cafes, apartment buildings, and downtown businesses. 

Tom Campbell’s Hill

Tom Campbell’s Hill is located in northeast Calgary and overlooks the Bow River. The park occupies about 18 hectares and is the perfect way to experience nature in the city. Grasslands in the park are home to numerous species and ecosystems. Perched on a hilltop, this park has some world-class views of the city. Large off-leash areas and hiking trails provide hours of fun for you and your dog.

Bowmont Off-Leash Area

Bowmont is a natural environment multi-use park which spans 164 hectares and cradles the Bow River. Playgrounds, picnic tables, hiking trails, and sports fields provide fun for the whole family, but dogs are most excited by the multiple off-leash areas scattered around the park. 

Walks here will have you in awe of all the beautiful trees, wildlife, and even a waterfall. Doggy bag dispensers and garbage cans will have you wondering if this park was designed with canine adventures in mind. This feature makes Bowmont Off-Leash Area a must-see for Calgary dog owners.

Roxboro Off-Leash Park

Located in Calgary’s inner city, Roxboro Off-Leash Park is a spot you’ll definitely want to check out on those blazing summer days. There are plenty of trees that provide some much-needed shade while your four-legged friend is jumping around.

This popular doggy destination in Calgary offers plenty of open space and even has an access point to the Elbow River for swimming. Sit back and relax under a tree, but be sure to keep an eye on your dog since Roxboro is not fenced off.

 Dog-friendly patios in Calgary

Ranchman’s Cookhouse and Dancehall

Ranchman was one of the first eateries in Canada to offer furry friends a place to dine along with their owners. Dogs are allowed with their owners on the front patio as long as they are well-behaved and on a leash. Staff will even provide bowls for food and water so your dog can truly dine in style right along with you. Every Tuesday to Saturday from 4 pm is ‘Yappy Hour’ at Ranchmans, just don’t forget proof of vaccination for your pooch.

Cold Garden Beverage Company

Dog owners love grabbing an excellent beer and some grub at Cold Garden Beverage Company. This spot is extremely popular among local pet owners and has great vibes. Wedged between Smithbilt Hats and the train tracks, if you spot the teal roof you’ll know you’re there!

Regal Beagle Pub

Regal Beagle Pub has a spacious dog-friendly patio that is now heated. Stop by for a beer and check out their hefty list of wing and rib flavours. The best part of all? They’re open daily from 10:30 am to 11 pm so you can stop by with your furry friend morning, afternoon, or night!

One Night Stan’s

One Night Stan’s is the place to go if you want to unwind in a low-key, relaxed atmosphere. The food is indulgent and the drinks are sure to wet your whistle. Bring your pooch and chill out with some afternoon drinks on their dog-friendly patio. One Night Stan’s has been getting rave reviews from pet owners across the city.

Fionn MacCool’s

Fionn MacCool’s didn’t just stop after offering a dog-friendly patio, they also created a doggie menu too. Your dog can enjoy fresh water, grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or salmon filet. You and your pet can get your appetites satisfied with honest food, good vibes, and great company.  

Una Pizza + Wine

Una Pizza + Wine serves Californian-influenced thin-crust pizza and food, hand-picked wines, and local ingredients. The restaurant has an outdoor pet-friendly patio where dogs are always welcome. The staff are friendly and receptive to canine family members and have treats ready to go. 

Vin Room

Vin Room is Canada’s largest wine bar offering 109 wines by the glass. While your pooch can’t indulge in the wines with you, Vin Room has gone above and beyond to make sure your pet still feels like royalty. The restaurant offers a three-course tasting menu specially designed for dogs and a special ‘Pawsecco’ drink, all to be enjoyed while lounging on custom dog furniture. 

1918 Tap and Table

This contemporary-style restaurant is not only ideal for friends and family but four-legged friends too. The trendy atmosphere extends out onto their dog-friendly outdoor seating area. Staff are attentive and caring for canine family members and will bring a fresh bowl of water as soon as you’re seated.

Garage Sports Bar

Garage Sports Bar is a dog-friendly pub where furry friends are always welcome to join you at an outdoor table on the patio. Staff provides fresh water bowls and dog treats, while you can choose from an impressive craft beer selection. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ambiance while your dog stretches out on one of the comfy dog beds.

Dog-friendly shopping in Calgary

17th Avenue Retail District

This sprawling entertainment district is home to tons of local and diverse businesses ranging from award-winning restaurants to local boutiques, grocers and more. Dogs are allowed on leashes in common areas around this retail district. Many outdoor patios and stores allow dogs to come along and enjoy the ambiance.

Cabela’s Outdoor Outfitters

Cabela’s has a detailed dog policy which outlines the details of visiting the store with your furry friend. All in all Cabela’s is a pet-friendly store! Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and remain well-behaved. Some stores provide indoor or outdoor kennels for a small rental fee so owners can keep their pets safe while they shop.

Urban Barn

Dogs are allowed on leashes at all Urban Barn locations. Get some four-legged advice as you shop for contemporary furniture.

Michaels

Michaels is well-known for being a pet-friendly retail location. The company doesn’t list a pet policy anywhere, so it is essentially up to the individual manager of the store. That being said, most locations in Calgary allow furry friends on leashes or in a shopping cart.

Indigo

Planning to go spend some time picking out your next book? Well as of 2018, Indigo started a new pet-friendly chapter! Dogs are allowed in all of their stores, with some restrictions in cafe areas and certain mall locations.


As you can see, Calgary is a great city for dog owners. Businesses are accepting, nature is in abundance, and there are plenty of dedicated off-leash parks for dogs to run free. 

Are you a dog owner looking for the perfect neighbourhood in Calgary to call home? Looking for a neighbourhood that’s as safe, functional, and welcoming for your dog as it is for you?

Check out our blog post, Best Communities in Calgary for Dog Owners. We outline 8 of the most desirable Calgary neighbourhoods for dog owners.

Drop a comment and share your favourite place to spend an afternoon with your furry friend!

 

Posted by Cody Tritter on
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