If you’re a dog parent living in Calgary—or you’re thinking about moving here—you’ll be happy to know this city is one of the most dog-friendly in Canada! 🐶💛
From sprawling off-leash parks to riverside trails and pet-friendly patios, Calgary is packed with great spots to explore with your furry best friend. Whether your pup loves running through open fields or lounging beside you while you sip a local brew, these are the top 5 dog-friendly spots in Calgary you won’t want to miss.
1. River Park / Sandy Beach 🌊
Located along the Elbow River in the southwest, River Park is one of Calgary’s most popular off-leash areas. It’s perfect for dogs who love to swim, run, and socialize.
Why it’s great:
Expansive trails and grassy areas
River access for water-loving pups
Scenic views and picnic spots for humans
✨ Pro tip: The current can be strong in spring and early summer—keep an eye on your dog near the water.
2. Southland Dog Park 🌿
This massive green space in the south end of the city is a dog’s dream come true. It’s full of trees, open fields, and winding trails where dogs can run free.
Why it’s great:
Huge off-leash area with natural shade
Water access along the Bow River
Plenty of space for large dogs to roam
🐾 Local favourite: Great spot for year-round walks, but bring boots in spring—it can get muddy!
3. Nose Hill Park 🏔️
For dogs (and owners) who love wide-open spaces, Nose Hill Park is the ultimate playground. It’s one of the largest urban parks in North America—and yes, much of it is off-leash!
Why it’s great:
Incredible mountain views and rolling hills
Huge off-leash areas for adventurous dogs
Quiet trails for peaceful walks
✨ Pro tip: Bring water—there’s no tap access in the park!
4. Sue Higgins Park 🐕
This is Calgary’s largest fenced off-leash park, and it’s a safe, social space for dogs of all sizes.
Why it’s great:
Fully fenced with multiple entry points
Pathways, trees, and open fields
Separate areas for smaller or shy dogs
🐾 Local tip: It’s right along Deerfoot Trail, so it’s easy to access from most parts of the city.
5. Cold Garden Brewery (Inglewood) 🍻
Because dog-friendly patios are part of Calgary’s charm! Cold Garden is one of the city’s best-known spots for beer lovers who don’t want to leave their furry friends at home.
Why it’s great:
Fully dog-friendly brewery—yes, dogs allowed inside
Relaxed, community vibe
Perfect weekend hangout for pups + people
✨ Pro tip: It gets busy on weekends, so bring a leash and a chill pup!
Bonus Mentions 🐾
Bowmont Park: Another riverside favourite with trails and off-leash areas.
Bon-A-Pet-Treat Bakery Café: Calgary’s very own dog bakery and café—yes, they serve treats for both humans and pups!
Petropolitan (Downtown): Luxury daycare and grooming for city dogs.
FAQs: Dog-Friendly Calgary
Q: Are all Calgary parks off-leash?
No—Calgary has over 150 designated off-leash areas. Always check signs for leash zones.
Q: Can dogs go in Calgary restaurants?
Dogs are allowed on most patios (if marked pet-friendly) but not inside restaurants, except for service animals.
Q: Do I need a city licence for my dog?
Yes—every dog over 3 months old in Calgary must be licensed with the city.
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Conclusion
From riverside runs to brewery hangouts, Calgary truly has something for every dog (and every dog owner!). 🐶💛 Whether you’re exploring the trails at Nose Hill or grabbing a cold drink at Cold Garden, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city with your four-legged friend.
✨ Want my full list of off-leash trails, patios, and local dog events? DM me “DOGS” and I’ll send you my free Calgary Dog Lovers Guide.
About Kristen Edmunds
Kristen Edmunds is a Calgary-area REALTOR® and Associate Broker with KIC Realty, specializing in acreages, luxury homes, and smart buy/sell strategies. With expertise in rural properties (water wells, septic, equestrian facilities) and a client-obsessed approach, Kristen helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals with confidence and ease.
