Dog-friendly Bowral, nestled in the heart of New South Wales' Southern Highlands, offers a delightful retreat for both you and your canine companion. Whether you’re a pet loving explore seeking an opportunity to dog sit in Bowral, or a pet parent seeking a local Bowral pet sitter, there’s plenty to discover in this wonderfully scenic city.
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Dog parks in Bowral
Centennial Park (Bowral Dog Park)
A fully fenced, off-leash park open 24/7, equipped with seating, dog water stations, and poo bag dispensers. It's a popular spot for dogs to socialize and play safely.
Location: 17 Centennial Rd, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Cherry Tree Walk
A picturesque walking and biking track lined with 526 cherry trees, commemorating Australian soldiers. Dogs are welcome on a leash, making it a serene spot for reflective walks, especially during the cherry blossom season.
Location: Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Retford Park
A National Trust property with expansive gardens and open spaces where dogs on leashes are welcome. Explore the knot garden, orchard, and the Millennium Canal, all set against the backdrop of a grand Victorian homestead.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Bowral
Royal Hotel
A family-run pub with a relaxed atmosphere. Dogs are allowed in the beer garden, which offers plenty of shade, making it a comfortable spot for both you and your pet.
Location: 255 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Scottish Arms Hotel
This rustic pub features a beautifully renovated beer garden where dogs are welcome. It's a great place to enjoy a meal and some rare Scottish beers with your canine companion.
Location: 69 Boardman Rd, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Centennial Vineyards Restaurant
Set amidst picturesque vineyards, this restaurant allows dogs in its courtyard area. It's an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy fine dining with their pets.
Fun dog-friendly activities in Bowral
Picnic at Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve
Between Bowral and Moss Vale, this reserve offers leashed walks, birdwatching opportunities, and picnic facilities amidst wetlands and bushland.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: 24/7
Location: Cecil Hoskins, Moss Vale NSW 2577, Australia
Visit the Bradman Oval
Take a leashed walk around this historic cricket ground named after Sir Donald Bradman. While dogs aren't allowed on the pitch, the surrounding parkland is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Everyday: 9 am - 4 pm
Dog-friendly walking trails in Bowral
Gibbergunyah Reserve
This 200-hectare reserve offers leashed bushwalking trails through diverse landscapes, including shaded paths and rocky outcrops. Highlights include Ninety Acre Hill Lookout with views of the Blue Mountains and sightings of native wildlife like wombats and echidnas.
Location: Boronia St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Length: 200 hectares (494 acres)
Mansfield Reserve
Featuring two easy-grade, 1.9 km mown walking tracks named Wombat and Wallaby, this reserve is ideal for leashed walks. The area was once part of the historic Retford Park Estate and offers a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls.
Location: Mansfield Rd, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Length: 1.9 km (1.2 miles)
Cecil Hoskins Nature Reserve
Known for its birdwatching opportunities, this 46-hectare reserve features picnic facilities and open areas. While dogs must be leashed, it's a peaceful spot to enjoy nature and observe local wildlife.
Location: Cecil Hoskins, Moss Vale NSW 2577, Australia
Length: 46 hectares (114 acres)
Dog-friendly cafes in Bowral
RAW & WILD Market & Café
A standout in Bowral, this café not only welcomes dogs in its outdoor area but also offers a special menu for them, including items like Doggie Organic Beef Pasta.
Location: 250 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Primary Espresso
A local favorite, Primary Espresso offers outdoor seating where dogs are warmly welcomed. They even provide treats for your furry friend.
Location: 23 Boolwey St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
The Press Shop
A stylish café offering breakfast and lunch options. Dogs are welcome in the partially covered outdoor seating area, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.
Location: 5/391-397 Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Gumnut Patisserie
Renowned for its delectable pastries and pies, this bakery allows dogs in its outdoor seating areas. It's an ideal place to enjoy a sweet treat with your pup.
Location: Shop 7, Grand Arcade, Bong Bong St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Kookabar Cafe
Located near Corbett Gardens, this café offers outdoor seating where dogs are provided with mats and water bowls. It's a cozy spot to relax after a stroll.
Location: Suite 3/30 Wingecarribee St, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
Annual dog events in Bowral
Southern Highlands World Dachshund (Satur)Day
A delightful gathering celebrating dachshunds and their enthusiasts. Expect fun activities, socialization opportunities, and a chance to meet fellow dachshund lovers.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Saturday, 21 June 2025
Location: Lake Alexandra, 20 Queen St, Mittagong NSW 2575, Australia
International Dog Day Celebration
Celebrate International Dog Day with a day dedicated to dogs of all breeds. Activities include social gatherings, treats, and plenty of playtime in beautiful surroundings.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: 26th August
Location: 1325 Old South Rd, Bowral
The best dog-friendly bars in Bowral
Briars Country Lodge & Inn
Set in a historic 1827 coaching inn, this venue offers a large covered terrace and expansive gardens where dogs are allowed. Please note: As of the latest update, Briars Country Lodge is temporarily closed due to a recent fire. It's advisable to check their current status before planning a visit.
Location: BRIARS INN, 645-653 Moss Vale Rd, Burradoo NSW 2576, Australia
Centennial Vineyards
Set amidst picturesque vineyards, Centennial Vineyards offers a pet-friendly environment where dogs are welcome in designated outdoor areas. Enjoy a glass of wine on the terrace while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
Dog-friendly wineries around Bowral
Artemis Wines
A family-run winery renowned for its Pinot Noir, Artemis Wines welcomes dogs in its outdoor tasting areas, including a covered deck and expansive lawns. It's an ideal spot to relax with your pup while savoring cool-climate wines.
Location: 46 Sir Charles Moses Ln, Mittagong NSW 2575, Australia
Cherry Tree Hill Wines
Known for its warm hospitality, Cherry Tree Hill Wines allows dogs both indoors and outdoors. The estate offers stunning views, and staff often provide water and treats for visiting pups, ensuring a pleasant experience for all.
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Bowral from dog owners and pet sitters
Tips for pet parents
Look out for local wildlife
Be cautious of native animals, and ensure your dog doesn't disturb them.
Always have poop bags to hand
Always clean up after your dog to maintain the pristine environment of Bowral.
Leash etiquette
While many areas are dog-friendly, always keep your dog on a leash unless in designated off-leash zones.
Get your vacation pet care sorted
If you’re planning a trip away, find a verified, 5* sitter who’ll take care of your furry family at home. Click below to discover how to find your own pet sitter in Bowral or other cities.
How to connect with pet sitters in Bowral
Tips for pet sitters
Hydration, hydration hydration
Carry water for both you and your dog, especially during warmer months (it is Australia, after all).
Keep to the doggo’s routine
Dogs love routine, so it’s important to maintain their daily schedule. Ask the pet parent about feeding times, walking routes, and playtime preferences.
Discover their dog-friendly favorites
Bowral is home to several dog-friendly trails, off-leash parks, and patios, making it easy to find the perfect place for any pup.
Find a place to stay in exchange for pet sitting
Why not experience living like a local by becoming a Bowral dog sitter? You’ll get to stay in a real home and care for a local pup, giving you a true taste of life for the people (and pets) who live here.
How to find house sits in Bowral
More dog-friendly travel guides near Bowral
Thinking about house sitting near Bowral with your canine companion? Or perhaps this is near your own home and you're thinking of welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.
