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Top 8 Places Where Dogs Can Swim in Canada
We are one lucky bunch here in Canada, aren’t we? Not only do we have the majesty of wide-open landscapes and incredibly diverse ecosystems, but there’s also an abundance of dog-friendly spots where your tail-wagging best friend can dive right in!
But where can you let your canine buddy off the leash to take a refreshing dip? Well, look no further, because we’re about to introduce you to the top places where dogs can swim in Canada!
Shubie Dog Park
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ShubiePark/?locale=nb_NO
Address: Locks Rd, Dartmouth, NS B2X 2M1, Canada
Contact details: +1 902-490-4000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 10 PM
In Shubie Dog Park, your furry buddy can rejoice in a park full of forested trails, open spaces, and even a delightful sandy beach for a refreshing splash. But wait, there’s more!
Shubie Dog Park knows how to pamper your pooch! Water bowls are helpfully provided at various spots in the park, so both you and your dog can stay hydrated.
As always, though, be sure to follow the basic doggie rules: keep your pet under voice control and tidy up after them.
After a day of action, you might want to unwind with delicious food. Go and head over to Battery Park Beer & Eatery, where both you and Fido are invited to dine and socialise on their dog-friendly patio—the perfect way to cap off your adventure!
| Local tip: Tour the off-leash walking trails and explore historic lock structures, all while your dog enjoys the freedom to roam and sniff. |
Minister Island
Website: https://www.ministersisland.net/
Address: 199 Carriage Road, Ministers Island, NB, E5B 0A4 Canada
Contact details: +1 506-529-5081
Operating hours:
- Opening hours depend on the tide, click here for specific date and time.
Fancy a bit of an “island treat”? Minister Island in New Brunswick definitely fits the bill. With its accessible pathways during low tide, this island adventure will get your pup jumping for joy!
If you are feeling peckish, then venture over to Saint Andrews, a short distance away, to sample some scrumptious fare in a dog-friendly environment. You can also stop by The Patio, a dog-friendly restaurant with a delectable menu for you to savour.
Overall, a visit to Minister Island will have you falling head over heels with the way they cater to your pet’s needs. Numerous clean water bowls line the various trails, keeping those wagging tails in tip-top shape.
| Local tip: Timing is everything—check the tide table before heading out so you don’t get stranded on the island. |
Long Point Provincial Park
Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/longpoint
Address: 350 Erie Blvd, Port Rowan, ON N0E 1M0, Canada
Contact details: +1 519-586-2133
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Long Point Provincial Park is purely blissful for doggo lovers and bird watchers alike! Imagine your four-legged pal running free, enjoying the lap of cool Lake Erie waters, and you being immersed in the sight of rare bird species.
But the fun doesn’t stop at just bird watching and dog paddling. After their fun-filled water play, your furry friend can have a refreshing drink with strategically placed water bowls, care of the park.
And to keep the experience pristine for everyone, there are a few rules to follow, like leashing dogs when they’re not in the water and cleaning up after them. It’s a small price to pay for an unforgettable day, don’t you think?
In the vicinity, the nearby town of Port Rowan is home to some cosy, dog-friendly eateries. You can pop into Twins Ice Cream Parlor for a delightful treat for both you and your pet.
| Local tip: Come during off-peak hours to avoid the crowd and give your pup a broad play area! |
Cherry Beach
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/explore-enjoy/parks-gardens-beaches/beaches/
Address: 1 Cherry St, Toronto, Canada
Contact details: +1 416-338-4386
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 8 AM to 11 PM
Cherry Beach will take your furry friend’s beach day to the next level. With ample space to run and lake waters to dip in, this place is set to provide you and your pooch with an array of Instagrammable moments!
And don’t worry; Cherry Beach keeps your pet’s needs in sight. Not only is there an array of water bowls around, but safety measures like leashing your dogs in specific areas are also in place to ensure a good time for everyone.
Now, after a day of frolic and paddle, wouldn’t you love to sit and enjoy a good grub? Luckily for you, Toronto is brimming with neat dog-friendly spots.
For instance, you can check out Dockside Grill & Chill. With a water’s edge view, some delicious food, and a friendly welcome for your fur baby, it’s a total win!
| Local tip: Visit during the weekdays and beat the crowd for those perfect, crowd-free shots with your pup. |
Kew-Balmy Beach
Website: https://www.toronto.ca/data/parks/prd/facilities/complex/427/index.html
Address: Toronto, ON M4L 1B8, Canada
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 7 AM to 8 PM
Let’s now set the compass to Kew-Balmy Beach in Toronto, a place that spells a dream come true for our fur babies. Your little balls of fur are sure to love running off their limitless energy along the vast sandy stretch.
What’s better is the ready availability of water bowls placed strategically along the beach, keeping your furry family members well furnished and hydrated.
As you immerse yourself in these breezy vibes, let’s not forget the ground rules: keep your pups leashed in designated areas and never shy away from cleaning up after them.
Tired after all that canine cavorting? The city’s got you covered! The area brims with dog-friendly eateries.
One that stands out is the green eggplant. Doggos are welcomed with open arms, letting your pet enjoy the experience right along with you.
| Local tip: The beach is quieter on weekdays, making it the perfect time for some fun fetch sequences and plenty of space to run around. |
Bowen Bay Beach
Website: https://bowenislandmunicipality.ca/parks-recreation-culture/parks/
Address: 1798 Bowen Bay Rd, Bowen Island, BC, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-947-4255
Operating hours:
- Open 24 hours
Bowen Island’s calm waters make it a splendid haven for our audacious pals who simply love a good swim. Let their excitement fuel you as they bound around the beach and leap into the water.
The management here makes sure your pets are put first; fresh water bowls are readily available for their hydration needs.
Keep in mind that as you enjoy the beautiful beach, it’s important to practisec pet etiquette by leashing your dogs in certain areas (parking area, trails nearby, and viewpoint area) and cleaning up after your pet.
Just a heads up, though: if you’re planning on coming in July or August, it’s a no-go for our furry friends.
Feeling famished after an intense play session? Then head over to Doc Morgan’s Pub & Restaurant, a popular haunt that’s incredibly dog-friendly, so your faithful companion can chill by your side.
| Local tip: Morning swims are peaceful and crowd-free, offering you and your pet a serene beach experience. |
Kinlock Beach
Website: https://sandee.com/canada/prince-edward-island/stratford/kinlock-beach
Kinlock Beach’s wide sandy expanses and warm, shallow waters create a heartwarming sight of your furry friends in their happiest element. Our whimsical beach offers water bowls throughout to help your active pet cool down and hydrate.
While you and your pet bask in the sun-soaked beach, remember to adhere to common rules: dogs should be on-leash in the parking area, and remember to always leave only paw prints, not poop!
After a round of frolic and paddle, retreat to Mike’s Queen Street Meat & Seafood Market, where your pet is welcomed and BBQ indulgence awaits you!
| Local tip: The Sand Dune area is a perfect spot for capturing glorious sunset silhouettes of your pet. |
Hadden Beach
Website: https://covapp.vancouver.ca/parkfinder/parkdetail.aspx?inparkid=110
Address: 1000 Chestnut St, Vancouver, BC V6J 3J9, Canada
Contact details: +1 604-873-7000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 6 AM to 10 PM
Hadden Beach in Vancouver is an idyllic escape that offers grassy playgrounds, sand to bind across, and the calm waters of English Bay for your energetic companion to dive into!
With your pet’s needs in mind, this beach has water bowls for them. And while cherishing this beautiful scene, ensure you stick within the guidelines: leash required in certain areas and clean up after your pet.
After all that action, you might be dreaming about a fulfilling bite. Rocanini Coffee Roasters welcomes you right in with your pet for a chill downtime session.
| Local tip: Visiting early in the morning has its own calm charm before the crowd comes pouring in. |
