Calgary is recognized as one of Canada’s most dog-friendly cities, offering more than 150 designated off-leash areas across all four city quadrants. Whether you’re looking for fenced dog parks, riverside trails, or open fields for high-energy play, Calgary provides some of the country’s best spaces for safe, leash-free fun.
The City of Calgary Parks & Outdoor Spaces Division maintains a comprehensive network of off-leash dog parks, each marked with clear signage and maintained year-round. Many of these parks include double-gated entrances, small-dog enclosures, water access, and shaded seating for owners. Popular destinations such as Sue Higgins Park, Southland Park, and Bowmont Natural Area combine scenic landscapes with community-friendly amenities. Calgary’s commitment to pet safety and recreation means that no matter where you live — NW Calgary, SE Calgary, or downtown — there’s always a leash-free zone nearby.
- Dogs must be on leash outside designated off-leash zones.
- Off-leash areas are for licensed, vaccinated dogs only.
- Owners must maintain sight and voice control at all times.
- Clean up after your dog — waste bins are provided.
- Maximum of two dogs per handler in fenced areas.
- Aggressive or disruptive dogs must be removed immediately.
- No food, alcohol, or glass containers allowed in off-leash areas.
- Park hours: 5 a.m. – 11 p.m. (unless otherwise posted).
1. Do dogs need to be licensed in Calgary?
Yes. All dogs over 3 months of age must be licensed with the City of Calgary and must wear their tag when in public spaces.
2. Can dogs be off-leash anywhere?
Only in designated off-leash areas. These are clearly marked with signage. Leashes are required elsewhere, including parking lots and pathways leading to off-leash zones.
3. Are there fenced dog parks?
Yes. While most are open fields, some sites like Rotary Park offer fenced enclosures for added safety.
4. What is the dog-to-handler ratio?
A maximum of 6 dogs per person is allowed in Calgary’s off-leash parks.
5. Do I need to pick up after my dog?
Absolutely. Pet owners are responsible for removing all dog waste and disposing of it in provided bins.
1. What is Calgary’s largest off-leash park?
Sue Higgins Park is the largest, offering open space, wooded trails, and river access.
2. Are off-leash areas open year-round?
Yes. Most parks are open daily from **5 a.m. to 11 p.m.**, including through winter.
3. Are there water stations for dogs?
Some high-traffic parks offer seasonal water taps, but it’s best to bring your own water supply.
4. Can dogs swim in Calgary?
Yes. **Southland Park** and parts of Sue Higgins have river access where dogs can safely swim.
5. Where can I find a map of off-leash areas?
Visit calgary.ca to view the full map of off-leash zones and park amenities.
6. Are dogs allowed on city pathways?
Yes, but they must be on-leash at all times on pathways and sidewalks unless otherwise posted.
