Pet-friendly Ontario: Beaches, hikes, trails & attractions

Live in the Province of idyllic lakes, epic falls and maple syrup with a canine companion? Or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Ontario some time soon? Don’t go anywhere - below, find the ultimate guide to pet-friendly Ontario, where we highlight some of the beaches, attractions, hikes and trails you can explore with a furry companion.

Toronto & the GTA

If you’re based in the eclectic city of Toronto or you live in the GTA, you won’t run out of options with your furry friend. Below, explore some of the restaurants, dog parks and key attractions Toronto and the GTA has to offer - whether you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Toronto, or you’ve got a pooch of your own.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Toronto & the GTA

Want to find out about Ontario’s pet-friendly restaurants? Let’s start with Toronto - where dogs aren’t generally allowed inside due to health regulations, but are welcome on outdoor patios by some businesses. 

Hunters Landing

Looking for a lively restaurant to watch the world go by with your canine companion? Places like Hunters Landing are a solid choice - well reviewed for its atmosphere and hearty menu inspired by cuisines from around the world, Hunters Landing can be enjoyed by pet parents and their pups at the outdoor seating area. 

Location: 82 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 4A6, Canada

Hemingway's Restaurant and Bar

Toronto is filled with lively pubs where you can catch up with friends, without leaving your canine companion behind. Hemingway’s is a great example - stop for the dog-friendly patio and stay for the New Zealand comfort food.

Location: 142 Cumberland St, Toronto, ON M5R 1A8, Canada

The Hole in the Wall T.O.

Got a soft spot for craft beer? Check out The Hole in the Wall T.O. where you can try brews from near and far, along with fresh oysters, pizza and burgers - all in good, furry company.

Location: 2867A Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1Y9, Canada

Naturally, there are lots more where that came from, but hopefully you’ve got a flavour of the dog-friendly restaurants Toronto has to offer.

Dog-friendly things to do in Toronto & the GTA

Visit Toronto Islands

If you want to explore your local area, why not plan a day out to Toronto Islands? Double-check that the ferry you’re catching is dog-friendly, and explore the skyline views, waterfront paths and breezy boardwalks.

Location: St Lawrence-East Bayfront-The Islands, ON, Canada

Distillery Historic District 

Keep your pup on a leash and take a step back in time at Toronto’s Distillery Historic District - complete with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, pet-friendly patios and historic architecture.

Location: 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada

Evergreen Brick Works

Want to get out of the city’s hustle and bustle? Check out Evergreen Brick Works - an eco-oriented complex loved for its Saturday farmer’s market, nature trails and public art displays.

Location: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8, Canada

Dog parks in Toronto & the GTA

Sometimes all your furry friend needs is a little time off the leash to run around, and make friends with - sniff - their own kind. So every now and then, why not find your local designated off-leash area? We’ll list a few that are in Toronto and the GTA below.

Cedarvale Park Dogs Off-Leash Area

This fenced dog park in York, Toronto is the perfect place to let your dog run free if you live nearby. Explore the spacious grounds, take a seat in the shaded bench area, and keep your pup hydrated at the water stations.

Location: 443 Arlington Ave, York, ON M6C 3A2, Canada

Earlscourt Park Dogs Off-Leash Area

Located within Toronto’s Earlscourt Park, the off-leash area is loved by locals for the space dogs have to run around, and the picnic benches which pet parents can gather under, beneath the trees.

Location: 1200 Lansdowne Ave, Toronto, ON M6H 4K8, Canada

St. Andrew's Playground Dog Park

Head to downtown Toronto and you’ll find St. Andrew’s Playground Dog Park - a popular urban spot for local pet parents to let their pups run leash-free. The lights which make evening walks safer and the turf which avoids muddy pups are just some of the reasons locals (and their furry friends) love it.

Location: 450 Adelaide St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1S9, Canada

Want to plan more dog-friendly things to do in Toronto and the GTA? Head to our ultimate guide to dog-friendly Toronto for more ideas.

Niagara Region

Looking for dog-friendly things to do in Ontario’s Niagara region? Take a look below for restaurants that currently allow dogs, and activity ideas to help you make the most of your local area. And if you’d like a few more activity ideas, wineries and dog parks, head to our full guide to pet-friendly Niagara Falls.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Niagara Region

Dogs are generally allowed in the outdoor seating area of pet-permitting restaurants in Ontario’s Niagara Region, so take a look below for a taste, and always call ahead to check pups are still welcome.

Treadwell Cuisine

Treadwell is a dog-friendly spot that prides itself on celebrating seasonal produce and regional wines - so stop by to try their farm-to-table breakfast, lunch and dinner plates.

Location: 114 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0, Canada

The Grist

Niagara Region isn’t short of pet-friendly microbreweries - check out The Grist’s dog-friendly seating area for an ever-changing beer menu, and a menu of loaded oven-baked rolls, specialty pizza and pub favourites like beer-battered fish and chips.

Location: 78 Four Mile Creek Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1P0, Canada

WeinLoKaL

From tapas to steak, and charcuterie boards to mushroom risotto, WeinLoKaL is a great example of the dog-friendly restaurants Niagara Region has to offer.

Location: 7555 Montrose Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 2E9, Canada

Dog-friendly things to do in Niagara Region

Stroll around Queen Victoria Park

For incredible views of the Horseshoe Falls, keep your dog on a leash and explore Queen Victoria Park with your pup. Complete with beautiful lawns, seasonal flower displays and an unreal backdrop, it makes for the perfect spot to get into nature and enjoy quality time with your furry companion.

Location: 6345 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X8, Canada

Visit Niagara on the Lake

Known as the prettiest town in Ontario, Niagara on the Lake is well worth a visit - keep your dog on a leash and soak up the Victorian architecture, drop into a dog-friendly winery and stroll with your pup for a truly unforgettable afternoon.

Location: Niagara on the Lake (NOTL), Ontario, Canada

Dog parks in Niagara Region

DeVeaux Woods State Park Dog Park

This fully-fenced dog park in Niagara Falls features designated areas for small and large dogs, along with wood chips and a grassy area for your dog to explore. 

Location: 3100 Lewiston Rd, Niagara Falls, NY 14305, United States

Elm Street Leash-Free Dog Park

Located in Port Colborne is Elm Street Leash-Free Dog Park - part of a former landfill site that’s now become a well-loved park for dogs to explore safely.

Location: Port Colborne, ON L3B 5K9, Canada

Burgoyne Woods Dog Park

This four-acre dog park in St. Catharines is fully fenced and features two enclosures - one for small dogs, the other for large. Explore the grounds along with the small creek that your pup will love splashing through.

Location: 70 Edgedale Rd, St. Catharines, ON L2P 2G4, Canada

Southwest Ontario

Whether you’re looking for a dog-friendly patio or a pet-friendly day trip in Southwestern Ontario, you won’t be short of choice. The area is home to wine regions including Lake Erie North Shore and Pelee Island, along with Carolinian forests and Windsor Pizza - giving Southwest Ontario its crown as the “pizza capital of Canada”. For a taste of the dog-friendly restaurants, attractions and dog parks in Southwest Ontario, take a look below.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Southwest Ontario

Marshview Patio & Bar

Like many dog-friendly restaurants in Ontario, Marshview Patio & Bar welcomes pups at the outdoor seating area, where pet parents can enjoy stunning views of Turkey Point Marsh, and tuck into Canadian comfort food favourites.

Location: 1730 Front Rd, St Williams, ON N0E 1P0, Canada

The Busholme

If you’re a fan of cozy, family-run restaurants where fresh food and welcoming vibes are at the heart of it all, you won’t be short of places to eat in Niagara. The Bushholme is a great place to stop by with your pup - head to the outdoor seating area for poutine, burgers and fried chicken waffles.

Location: 156 Main St, Erin, ON N0B 1T0, Canada

Munchies Coffee House & Barkery

And if you’re looking for a daytime restaurant that’s quite literally made for pups, look no further than Munchies Coffee House & Barkery. Stop by with your furry companion for coffee, waffles and even casseroles.

Location: 1000 Upper Gage Ave unit 4, Hamilton, ON L8V 4R5, Canada

Dog-friendly things to do in Southwest Ontario

Live in Southwest Ontario with a canine companion? Explore your local area some time soon with your pup, starting with the dog-friendly parks below.

Point Pelee National Park

Want to visit the southernmost point of Canada? Head to Point Pelee National Park for a unique peninsula landscape well-loved for its diverse bird population and marsh boardwalk. 

Location: 1118 Point Pelee Dr, Leamington, ON N8H 3V4, Canada

Pinery Provincial Park

For 21 kilometres squared of rare oak forests and freshwater sand dunes, head to Pinery Provincial Park in Southwest Ontario. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and some of the beaches welcome pups - dogs are currently welcome on the P1 and P2 sections. Located on the shores of Lake Huron, it’s the ideal spot to hang out with your pup and soak up Ontario’s incredible nature.

Location: 9526 Lakeshore Rd, Grand Bend, ON N0M 1T0, Canada

Long Point Provincial Park 

Located in Port Rowan, Long Point is loved by locals for its soft sandy beach, bird watching opportunities and hiking trails. And the best part? Dogs are welcome throughout the park, and are currently allowed off-leash on the dog exercise beach that’s at the west end of the day use beach in the New Park area.

Location: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0, Canada

Dog parks in Southwest Ontario

Pottersburg Off-Leash Dog Park

Located in London, ON, Pottersburg Off-Leash Dog Park is loved by locals for the wide open field, walking paths and fenced area for small dogs.

Location: Pottersburg-FIDO Off-leash Area, London, ON N5W 1B1, Canada

Pinery Provincial Park Dog Beach

You’ll be pleased to hear that some of Ontario’s dog parks are on the beach - and Pinery Provincial Park Dog Beach is a popular one. Located in Lambton County, dogs can explore the Lake Huron shoreline on a 2-metre leash - keep your eyes peeled for the signage to make sure you’re in the designated dog-friendly area.

Location: Lambton Shores, ON N0M 1T0, Canada

Port Mcnicoll Dog Park

Explore the open fields and walking trails to give your pup plenty of room to run around, catch a scent and socialize with new furry friends.

Location: 5123 Talbot St #5017, Port McNicoll, ON L0K 1R0, Canada

Georgian Bay and Blue Mountain 

Georgian Bay is loved for its rugged granite coastline and pine-lined shore, while Blue Mountain is visited by locals for watersports, hiking and its village charm. Below, explore just some of the dog-friendly restaurants, parks and attractions the two areas have to offer.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Georgian Bay and Blue Mountain

Magnone's Italian Kitchen

In the heart of Blue Mountain village is locally-loved Magnone’s Italian Kitchen. Book a table at the outdoor seating area with your pup for stone-baked pizza, fresh salads and hearty secondi dishes.

Location: 190 Jozo Weider Blvd #1, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 3Z2, Canada

Copper Blues

Copper Blues in the Blue Mountains welcomes pups and their humans at the umbrella-covered tables, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and hearty pasta dishes with your pup right by your side.

Location: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd Unit #3, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0V2, Canada

Mother Tongue Asian Bistro 

And like many areas in Ontario, Blue Mountain is complete with dog-friendly restaurants serving up a pan-Asian menu of sushi, fried rice and miso soup.

Location: 166 Jozo Weider Blvd, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0V2, Canada

Dog-friendly things to do in Georgian Bay and Blue Mountain

Visit Blue Mountain Village

If you’re keen to take your pooch on a day trip, Blue Mountain Village is your answer! While it might feel like a vacation, Blue Mountain is a popular resort town for many day trippers - and their furry friends. Window shop the adorable boutique shops, stop by a dog-friendly coffee shop or restaurant with a pet-friendly patio, and soak up the mountain views.

Location: 156 Jozo Weider Blvd, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 3Z2, Canada

Killarney Provincial Park

On the north shore of Georgian Bay is Killarney Provincial Park - a haven of forest, wetlands and mountains. Keep your dog on a leash and explore the park for a truly breathtaking day out in what many call the ‘jewel’ of Ontario.

Location: 960 ON-637, Killarney, ON P0M 2A0, Canada

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park

On the southern shores of Georgian Bay is Wasaga Beach Provincial Park - the perfect place to enjoy a sandy beach day during the warmer months. And the best part? Dogs are currently allowed on part of Beach 3 - just check the signage at the beach to make sure you’re following the rules.

Location: 11 22nd St N, Wasaga Beach, ON L9Z 2G8, Canada

Dog parks in Georgian Bay and Blue Mountain

Heritage Park Dog Park

In the Craigleith area of The Blue Mountains is Heritage Park Dog Park - close to the Blue Mountain Resort area, and a reliable greenspace for dogs to run off-leash.

Location: Tyrolean Park, Kandahar Ln, The Blue Mountains, ON L9Y 0N3, Canada

Beautiful Joe's Leash-Free Dog Park

Back in Georgian Bay is Beautiful Joe’s Leash-Free Dog Park - a 24-hour space with separated areas for small and large dogs, complete with benches and shaded picnic tables.

Location: Meaford, ON N4L 1A9, Canada

Muskoka 

Located in Ontario’s “Cottage Country”, Muskoka is home to over 1600 lakes - namely Muskoka, Joseph and Rosseau, along with adorable towns like Huntsville and Gravenhurst - both loved for their unique charm. 

While the scenery is sure to inspire any landscape artist, it’s almost guaranteed your pup won’t be short of spots to explore, either. So for a taste of pet-friendly Muskoka, explore some of its dog-friendly restaurants, attractions and parks below.
Dog-friendly restaurants in Muskoka

Tall Trees

Like many of Ontario’s restaurants that welcome pups, Tall Trees welcomes dogs on the pet-friendly patio, where owners can enjoy refined European dishes of scallops, roasted beets, cocktail shrimp and more.

Location: 87 Main St W, Huntsville, ON P1H 1V5, Canada

On the Docks Pub

For views across the water, check out Muskoka’s pet-friendly restaurants with a deck where dogs are allowed. On the Docks is a great spot to try if you live nearby, or you’re house sitting in Ontario, so stop by for a laid-back menu of tacos, sandwiches and wraps. 

Location: 90 Main St E #1, Huntsville, ON P1H 2C7, Canada

Sawdust City Brewing Co.

Nestled in Gravenhurst is Sawdust City Brewing Co. - a dog-friendly brewery loved for its West Coast-style IPA and hearty dishes of gnocchi, fried chicken and poutine.

Location: 397 Muskoka Rd N, Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1G3, Canada

Dog-friendly things to do in Muskoka 

Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail

In the Township of Muskoka Lakes is Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail - a 2.9km loop popular for its views of Lake Muskoka and pink granite rocks. The trail is considered easy to moderate, so keep your pup on a leash and hike to the top.

Location: 1057 Milford Bay Rd, Bracebridge, ON P1L 0J3, Canada

Arrowhead Provincial Park

Just north of the town of Huntsville in Muskoka is Arrowhead Provincial Park - famous for its winter ice skating trail, and popular with pet parents for its dog-friendly trails and unforgettable fall scenery.

Location: 451 Arrowhead Park Rd, Huntsville, ON P1H 2J4, Canada

Algonquin Provincial Park

Not far from Muskoka is Algonquin Provincial Park - the oldest provincial park in Canada, and one of the most scenic. Its river network, orange-hue forests and rivers attract visitors and their dogs all year round - as well as local moose, deer and beavers. Be sure to read up on black bear safety, as well as the pet-free areas of the park.

Location: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada

Dog parks in Muskoka

Bracebridge Dog Park

With lots of space to run and sections for small and large dogs, Bracebridge is a dog park loved by locals. Find the tables to take shade while your pup safely plays in the fenced areas, and the restrooms just around the corner in the wider park.

Location: 130 Beaumont Dr, Bracebridge, ON P1L 1X2, Canada

Washago Dog Park

Just off the highway, Washago Dog Park is the ideal place to let your dog off the leash, and for you to stretch your legs after a long journey home.

Location: PMX6+JV, Washago, ON L0K 2B0, Canada

Ottawa and Eastern Ontario 

Ottawa is the political heart of Canada, and it’s steeped in 19th-century history - from its countless national museums to Parliament Hill, there’s a lot to explore for us humans. But what about our pups? Explore below to get a flavour of the spots you’re welcome to visit with your furry friends in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario

Tavern on the Falls

Looking for lunch with a view? Check out Tavern on the Falls’ dog-friendly seating area and choose from a please-all menu of tacos, hot dogs and loaded chips.

Location: 1 John St, Ottawa, ON K1M 2K1, Canada

Black Dog Bistro

Join local diners, pet parents and their pups at the outdoor seating area of Black Dog Bistro in Manotick - a well-loved spot known for a refined menu with a clear French influence.

Location: 5540 Manotick Main St, Manotick, ON K4M 1A6, Canada

Banditos

Ottawa is filled with eclectic dog-friendly restaurants with all kinds of cuisines to choose from. Take Banditos - it’s a Southern Californian-inspired restaurant with an extensive taco menu, along with nachos and well-loved cocktails.

Location: 683 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3T8, Canada

Dog-friendly things to do in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario

Wander along the Rideau Canal

It’s not a day out in Ottawa without a stroll along the Rideau Canal - stop off at a local dog-friendly cafe first and take your pup along the Canal for a quintessentially Ottawa walk.

Location: Ottawa, ON, Canada

Explore ByWard Market

Loved by locals for its bustling stalls selling fresh produce, artisan goods and handmade crafts, ByWard Market is the perfect place to get amongst Ottawa’s local culture. Take your pooch on a leash if they’re happy in busy spaces, and stop by a dog-friendly patio.

Location: ByWard Market Square, Ottawa, ON, Canada

Frontenac Provincial Park

Located in Eastern Ontario and the southern edge of the Canadian Shield, Frontenac Provincial Park is home to varied forests of maple, oak and hemlock, 22 lakes, deer, moose and beavers. Keep your furry friend on a leash, follow local signage and be sure to keep them under control around any wildlife.

Location: 6700 Salmon Lake Rd, Sydenham, ON K0H 2T0, Canada

Dog parks in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario

Bruce Pit

From open fields to wooden trails, it’s easy to see why Bruce Pit is so popular with local pet parents. Let your dog run free and walk the 2.4km trail that loops around the water.

Location: 175 Cedarview Rd, Nepean, ON K2H 6A5, Canada

Stanley Dog Park

Along the banks of the Rideau River is Stanley Dog Park - a stone’s throw away from ByWard Market. Just be aware that the off-leash area isn’t fully fenced, so only let your dog run free if you’re confident in their recall. And if you’re house sitting in Ottawa, ask the pet parents before letting their dog off the leash.

Location: 183 Stanley Ave, Ottawa, ON K1M 1P2, Canada

Rockcliffe Park Dog Park

Rockcliffe is another local favourite that’s also unfenced, and provides ample green space and wooded trails for your furry friend to sniff and explore.

Location: 540 Hillsdale Rd, Rockcliffe Park, ON K1M 0Y6, Canada

Dog-friendly beaches in Ontario

Sometimes all you need is a walk by the shore, the lake breeze in your hair and your pooch by your side! Explore some of the dog-friendly beaches Ontario has to offer below, and remember to check the rules before entering any beach with your dog, come prepared and always clean up after your pet.

Port Burwell Provincial Park Dog Beach

Located in Elgin County in Southwest Ontario, Point Burwell Provincial Park Dog Beach is loved for its shallow waters with a sandy bottom, rocky bluffs and 2.5km shoreline. The dog-friendly area is split into on-leash and off-leash sections - so check the signage before letting your pup run free.

Location: Port Burwell, ON, Canada

Long Point Provincial Park Dog Beach Area 

In Southwest Ontario’s Port Rowan is Long Point Provincial Beach - where you’ll find an off-leash dog exercise area at the west end of the day use beach. With shallow entry to the water and soft sand for your furry friend to play in, it’s clear to see why pet parents love this spot.

Location: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0, Canada

Pinery Provincial Park Dog-Friendly Beach Area

In Western Ontario in Lambton Shores is Pinery Provincial Park Dog-Friendly Beach Area, where the P1 and P2 beaches welcome dogs on a leash during the summer. The beach is known for its pristine water and soft white sand, perfect for your pup to dig and play.

Location: Lambton Shores, ON N0M 1T0, Canada

Awenda Provincial Park Dog-Friendly Beach Area 

In Georgian Bay lives Awenda Beach - where there is a designated pet-friendly area popular with local dog owners. Pet parents love this spot because it’s one of the only places dogs are welcome on this part of Ontario's shoreline, so be sure to stay up to date with local rules and regulations.

Location: Lake Huron, Canada

Tips for pet parents in Ontario: Important things to know

• Stay up to date on beach closures. A build-up of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can result in unsafe waters and beach closures - especially during the warmer months, so stay up to date on your local dog-friendly beaches.
• Always bring a dog towel. Bear in mind that Ontario’s beach trails are often lined with mud or marshy edges, so always bring a towel to save your car later!
• Line up your pet care for your next vacation. Your pup will never run out of things to do in Ontario, but what about when the time comes to go on vacation? As vets agree pets are happier at home, why not welcome an in-home pet sitter to keep them company while you’re away? Click below to find out how it works.

Tips for pet sitters

• Find out about the pet’s behaviour around wildlife. As you’ll know by now, Ontario is home to all kinds of animals, so ask the pet parents about their dog’s reaction to common wildlife in local dog walking spots so that you’re prepared.
• Plan your walks around the weather. Depending on where you are, the summers around Ontario can get especially hot for dogs during the day time, so walk in the morning or evening, and try to opt for shaded trails. And beware of salt on the ground during winter - ask the pet parents if their dog wears any protective gear.
• Experience Ontario through house sitting. So, want to soak up Ontario’s lake views, explore its forests or stroll by the shore with a furry tour guide? Click below to find out how to get your house sitting adventure started.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Ontario

Thinking about house sitting in Ontario, visiting a nearby place with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• Dog-friendly Toronto: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Ottawa: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Hamilton: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Guelph: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Collingwood: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Kingston, ON: Things to do with a dog
• Pet-friendly Niagara Falls: Restaurants, hikes and dog parks