Is Edmonton Dog Friendly?

News flash: the dogs are taking over Edmonton, and personally, I think that’s the best news I’ve ever heard! Every city could use more tail-wagging happiness, and no one embodies the spirit of pure joy more than our four-legged friends.

It turns out, I’m not alone in this belief. In Edmonton, the number of fur babies may very well outnumber actual human children! When you consider all of the great amenities and parks that welcome our animal friends, it’s easy to see why so many dog lovers are setting their sights on the west. Anyway you look at it, Edmonton is a great place to live for all residents, furry and four-legged ones included!

Are you planning to buy a house in Edmonton or the surrounding areas? My detailed Buyer’s Guide makes the process straightforward and even fun! Download your copy for free right here.

Dining Out With Doggos

It wasn’t long ago that the idea of taking your canine companion out to lunch or dinner was unthinkable. Restaurants were for people, not pets – but all that has changed. Today, many of Edmonton’s best restaurants can’t wait to welcome you and your friendly furmeister to their outdoor patios. This way, everyone gets to join in the fun!

Imagine dining and chatting with your friends or family members, all while your most faithful friend sits happily by your feet, feasting on snacks and enjoying a refreshing bowl of water. As summer approaches, it’s the perfect time for you and your woofer to check out a couple of my favourite places, such as Hart’s Table & Bar, XIX Nineteen, and Original Joe’s.

The only downside is the wait staff may forget all about you as they pile attention on your deserving pooch. It’s a small price to pay once you see those smiling doggo faces and wagging tails.

It’s always nice to live in a place that loves and welcomes our pets. However, humans are important too! See how Edmonton’s schools stack up in Does Edmonton Have Good Schools?

Endless Pet-Friendly Amenities

Don’t tell Fido, but Edmonton offers numerous high-quality veterinary clinics for emergency and preventative care. While this is one place your dog may not want to hear about, pet owners can rest assured their companions will be healthy and well cared for.

Now, onto happier topics!

Many stores and services in Edmonton are starting to roll out the red carpet for leashed and well-behaved furry friends. A day of errands no longer needs to be a lonely experience as your dog can join you in many of the places you love to shop. If in doubt, call ahead.

Independent boutiques, department stores, and outside-facing malls aren’t the only ones delighted to meet your best friend. Many hotels are also happy to accommodate travellers with pets, which opens up the city even more.

Thinking about buying your next home in Edmonton? The posts below will give you some valuable pointers:

Edmonton’s Outdoor Havens of Joy

If you want to see a dog dance with delight, just take them to an expansive green field lined with trees and foliage. When the leash can come off, the joy is even more complete. With so many dog-friendly parks and green spaces (including 60 off-leash zones), Edmonton is truly a canine paradise!

Terwillegar Park

In Southwest Edmonton, just off Rabbit Hill Road, you’ll find one of the places dogs love most. It’s not just the vast open field where pooches can leap, run, play, or bask in the sun, although there is plenty of room for all of that. It’s also not the wooded trails that provide so many new sights and smells to explore.

This unique park also boasts riverside access, so water-loving dogs can get their paws wet and take a swim. Just imagine how your loved one’s tail will wag as you turn the corner and they realize that you’re headed to what just might be their favourite place on earth!

Buena Vista Park

Buena Vista Park is located near the Edmonton River Valley and offers another oasis of wide open spaces for dogs to play in without the confines of their leash. The park also connects to the Hawrelak Trail, which means a long walk might be on the agenda before basking in the field or by the river. Though there is a designated off-leash area, it is not fully fenced. As always, you’ll want to keep a watchful eye on your pup, especially if they are easily excitable.

Lauderdale Dog Park

If you need a secure environment for a boisterous buddy, Lauderdale Dog Park is an ideal choice as one of Edmonton’s only fully enclosed leash-free areas. With a separate area for small or shy dogs, everyone’s beloved pet can join in the games.

Hermitage Park

Calm dogs may seem less exuberant from the outside, but they also love the freedom that comes with being off-leash. That’s why Hermitage Park is one of Edmonton’s top spots for laid-back doggos.

Scenic ponds and long trails make for a tranquil experience for everyone. This is another park with water access, so your dog can cool off with a refreshing dip in the North Saskatchewan River.

Do you have more questions about living in Edmonton or the local real estate market? I am happy to help with anything you need! Send an email to jolene@jolenelangelle.com or give me a call at 780.910.1317 today to learn more.