St. Catharines offers several designated leash-free dog parks where your pup can run, play, and socialize safely. These fenced and maintained areas provide a welcoming environment for both dogs and their owners. Whether you’re near Canal Valley or in the city’s west end, there’s a park nearby for your dog to enjoy.
St. Catharines is a dog-friendly city with multiple leash-free areas designed for safe, off-leash recreation. Operated in partnership with the St. Catharines Dog Owner's Association (SCDAO), these parks are well-maintained, fenced, and include waste stations and seating for owners. From forested trails to open fields, you’ll find spaces your dog will love.
1. Do I need to leash my dog when arriving at the park?
Yes. Dogs must be leashed when entering and exiting leash-free zones. Remove the leash only once you’re fully inside the designated off-leash area.
2. Can I let my puppy or untrained dog use the off-leash park?
Use caution. Puppies under four months or dogs without reliable recall may not be ready for leash-free environments. Always supervise your dog closely.
3. What if my dog is showing aggressive behaviour?
Immediately leash your dog and remove them from the park. Toronto requires owners to maintain control of their dogs at all times. Repeated aggressive incidents may result in bylaw fines or restrictions.
4. Are waste bags provided in Toronto’s dog parks?
Many leash-free areas have dispensers and bins, but it’s recommended to bring your own bags just in case. Always clean up after your dog.
5. Can I bring more than one dog?
Yes, but a single person may bring **no more than three dogs at once**, and must supervise them at all times.
6. Are toys allowed?
Yes, but use with caution. Not all dogs share well. Avoid bringing high-value toys or treats that might cause resource guarding.
1. Is a leash still required when entering or leaving the park?
Yes. Dogs must be leashed at all times when entering and exiting leash-free areas. Off-leash freedom is only permitted **inside the designated fenced park zones**.
2. Can I bring treats or toys into the dog park?
Use caution when bringing treats or toys. Not all dogs respond well to sharing, and treats may cause food aggression. It’s best to avoid high-value items unless you’re confident in your dog’s social behavior.
3. Who is responsible for cleaning up after the dogs?
You are. Dog owners must always pick up after their pets. Waste bags and receptacles are provided at most parks. Leaving waste behind contributes to park closures and health hazards.
4. Is there a limit to how many dogs I can bring at once?
Yes. According to local guidelines, **no more than three dogs per adult handler** are allowed in leash-free areas at one time to ensure proper supervision.
5. What should I do if my dog gets into a conflict with another dog?
Immediately and calmly separate the dogs. Do not use physical force. Exchange contact information with the other owner and report any injuries or aggressive behavior to the **St. Catharines Dog Owner’s Association (SCDAO)** or local animal services if needed.
1. How many leash-free dog parks are in Toronto?
Toronto has over **70 designated leash-free zones** located throughout public parks across the city.
2. Are the dog parks fenced?
Yes. All official off-leash zones are fully fenced and marked with signage.
3. Do the parks have separate areas for small dogs?
Some Toronto parks, like Sunnybrook and Sherwood, include separate small dog zones. Always check signage or the city’s website before visiting.
4. Is there a fee or membership required?
No. All leash-free areas in Toronto are **free to use** and open to the public.
5. What are the park hours?
Most parks are open from **7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.**, though this may vary by location and season. There’s no lighting in many areas, so plan accordingly.
6. Can I bring food or drink into the dog park?
It’s discouraged to bring human food or dog treats into leash-free areas to prevent fights between dogs. Water is fine, and some parks provide dog fountains.
1. Are the dog parks in St. Catharines fenced?
Yes, all designated leash-free areas in St. Catharines are fully fenced for safety, including Catherine Street Park and Burgoyne Woods.
2. Do I need a membership or permit to use the dog parks?
No membership or permit is required to access the leash-free parks. They are open to the public and free to use.
3. Are the parks separated for small and large dogs?
Currently, there are no separate enclosures for small and large dogs. All dogs share the same space, so ensure your dog is well-socialized and under control.
4. What hours are the leash-free parks open?
Leash-free parks are generally open from **dawn until dusk**, year-round. However, lighting may be limited during winter months, so plan your visits accordingly.
5. Is there parking available at the dog parks?
Yes. Both Catherine Street Park and Burgoyne Woods Leash-Free Park offer nearby parking. However, availability may vary during peak hours or community events.
6. Are there any dog waste stations on-site?
Yes. Waste bag dispensers and garbage bins are available at all city-designated leash-free parks. Please use them to help keep the parks clean and open for everyone.
