Dog-friendly parks in Inner West

Glebe Foreshore Parks are one of the standout waterfront walks in NSW, offering a long, continuous stretch of paths with open views across the harbour. The walk can be as short or as long as you like, with multiple entry points and connecting sections along the foreshore.

Bridgewater Park is a well-maintained off-leash park with a large grassed area that gives dogs plenty of room to run. The open layout makes it easy to settle in or move around depending on how active your dog is.

Enmore Park is a well-maintained, mostly grassed park with a mix of walking paths and open space. The paths loop through areas lined with trees, making it a good spot for a slower walk with plenty of sniffing opportunities.

Federal Park sits on the Glebe foreshore with harbour views and a mix of open grass, a skate park, and playground areas. The grassy sections are off-leash at all times, and the main sports field is off-leash when not being used for organised sport. Dogs are excluded from the wetland, skatepark, playground, and BBQ areas. It's part of the broader Glebe Foreshore walk, so can be combined with a longer waterfront outing.

Hawthorne Canal Reserve has a relaxed, community feel with a partially fenced off-leash area and a steady local presence. It's a simple, well-used space that works well for everyday visits, with the surrounding area adding to the overall experience.

King George Park is a simple, open grassed park with space for dogs to run off-leash. The layout is straightforward, with enough room for movement without feeling crowded.

Petersham Park is a historic green space in the inner west, with large grassy lawns, mature trees and plenty of room for a walk. The southern section is off-leash all day, with an additional designated area off-leash from 6–9am and 4–6pm (5–8pm during daylight saving). It is a popular, friendly spot for dog walkers, with toilets, shade, BBQs and a playground on hand. A spacious park that suits both an off-leash run and an easy stroll.

War Memorial Park has a large, old tree right in the centre that anchors the whole space and provides serious shade. The southern area is off-leash at all times, while the northern section and anywhere within 10 metres of the playground is on-leash. The park has distinct sections — quieter corners for dogs that want space, and more open areas for chasing and socialising. BBQs, toilets, and parking are all nearby.

Battersea Park is an off-leash area in Abbotsford with drinking water, waste bags, and shade. Dogs can access the water at certain tide levels. Visitors describe it as one of the nicest off-leash parks in the Concord area, with a relaxed atmosphere and well-maintained grass.

Camperdown Memorial Rest Park is a large, grassed park in Newtown that's especially popular on weekends. The open layout and tree coverage provide a mix of sun and shade, with plenty of space for dogs to move or settle.

Enmore Fenced Dog Park is a fully enclosed space designed for easy, secure off-leash time. A double-gated entry makes getting in and out straightforward, especially with more excitable dogs.

Five Dock Park Fenced Dog Park has separate sections for small and large dogs, with shade, seating and water fountains for both dogs and owners. Dogs are off-leash within the fenced area, with two safe entry gates and good lighting that makes it usable in the evening. Bags and bins are provided, and the surrounding parkland is pleasant for a wider walk. A well-set-up, secure spot for a relaxed off-leash visit.

HJ Mahoney Memorial Park sits alongside the Cooks River with mature trees providing serious shade coverage. The off-leash area covers the sports ground when it's not being used for organised training or matches — at those times, dogs need to be on-leash. The park has been upgraded in recent years and the grounds are well-kept. BBQs, toilets, and shaded areas make it suitable for longer stays.

Mrs Isabella Hills Rest Area is a compact, well-maintained fenced off-leash park in the backstreets of Newtown. What it lacks in size it makes up for in shade and accessibility — mature trees cover most of the space, and there's drinking water available. The regulars are friendly and it has that neighbourhood dog park feel where everyone knows each other's dogs. It's a quick, easy stop rather than a destination park.

Odea Reserve is a well-maintained, mostly grassed park with a fenced off-leash area and additional open space surrounding it. The enclosed section has a double-gated entry and a mix of sand and grass, along with water fountains although shade can be limitted.

Bede Spillane Reserve is a fenced off-leash area where dogs can safely go off-lead. The enclosure has shade, drinking water, and a community of regulars who describe the park as a safe and welcoming space. Toilets are available nearby. It's a solid local park that does the essentials well without any frills.