7 great places to hang out with your dog in Toronto

September 27, 2019

You and your canine companion need a change of scenery and your neighbourhood park isn’t cutting it? Check out these dog-friendly spots.


Even though city by-laws don’t permit dogs on patios or in restaurants, there’s still plenty of urban fun to be had. Head to ...


1. Black Lab Brewing
The owners named their microbrewery after their dog, Snoopy, a black Labrador mix with a big personality. Snoopy inspired them to create a gathering spot where humans can enjoy craft beer and bring their canine companions. (Since it’s not a restaurant, the no-dogs-allowed by-law doesn’t apply.) You may also have a chance to meet and greet Snoopy. (818 Eastern Avenue)


2. The Four Seasons Hotel
For those who appreciate the fine things in life, this elegant Yorkville hotel is ideal for a dog-friendly staycation. Four-legged friends get treats upon arrival and the concierge is happy to provide maps for the best dog walking routes. Next door, Ramsden Park (also owned by the hotel) is an off-leash space perfect for pooches who appreciate beautifully landscaped gardens. (60 Yorkville Avenue)


3. The Haunted Walk
Pet parents may be happy to have their dogs nearby as they explore some of the city’s creepiest places. Offered from April to December, the Haunted Walk is celebrating 20 years of storytelling adventures. Canines are welcome as long as they are leashed and … brave. Unfortunately, pups are not allowed in buildings. (305A-56 The Esplanade)


4. Tallship Cruises
If your dog loves water, book a trip on the tall ship Kajama, a 165-foot schooner. For 90 minutes, you and your pooch can take in gorgeous views of the Toronto skyline while enjoying the breeze from Lake Ontario. Cruises depart from the west side of Queen’s Quay. Reservations are advised. Have fun, remember that dogs must be leashed at all times, and don’t forget to remind your dog how lucky he or she is! (207 Queen’s Quay West)


5. High Park
Torontonians know it, but if you are a tourist visiting the Hogtown with your dog, you have to go to High Park. It’s Toronto’s largest green space with more than 160 hectares, so there’s ample room for humans and pets to roam and get some urban fun. Check out the long, leash-free trails that wind along rivers and ponds, and the partially fenced dog park where you and your pooch can enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the tables. (1873 Bloor Street West)


6. Park & Bark Dog Show
These pop-up neighbourhood events are held at different locations throughout the year and are fun for humans and their canines (leashed, of course). They give you the opportunity to attend information sessions in a festive atmosphere, hear expert speakers and try new products and services. The one-day outdoor events also feature free food samples, music and giveaways … plenty of reasons to mark your calendar! This fall, get ready for the last two events of the year: September 28th and October 19th. Check out their website for details.


7. Nom Nom Nom Poutine
Technically, this isn’t a restaurant. It’s a market stall, which makes having your dog on-hand possible. After you grab one of their poutine creations (voted best in the city), head to one of the nearby picnic tables. And, yes, perhaps slip a curd or two to your cheese-loving canine who is drooling next to you. (770 Dundas Street West)


Photo Credits:


Cover: Darya Tryfanava


Photo 1: Back Lab Brewing Instagram


Photo 2: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto Instagram


Photo 3: Haunted Walk Facebook


Photo 4: wokenupinvegas


Photo 5: noblehound.ca


Photo 8: Park & Bark dog show Facebook


Photo 7: Ella_bella_gsd



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