City of Waterloo unleashes temporary dog park in Waterloo Park

A temporary leash-free dog park is now open in Waterloo Park West, near the Westmount Road entrance.

The Waterloo Park West Dog Park is 1,670 square metres in size, has one fully fenced area, and is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

The temporary dog park will support the growing number of pet owners in Waterloo, particularly those with limited space for exercising and socializing with pets. It will remain open until a permanent leash-free dog park is constructed.

“This temporary dog park adds new energy to Waterloo Park, giving residents and their dogs a place to connect, be active and enjoy the outdoors together,” said Robin Milne, Director, Parks Forestry and Cemetery Services. “While this park offers an immediate option, we will soon be engaging with the community as we plan for a permanent leash-free dog park in the city’s core.”

In November 2024, Council directed staff to expedite the selection of a leash-free dog park location in the city’s core. After reviewing options, it was determined that Waterloo Park West was the most suitable site for a temporary park because it already had established grass and required minimal construction to open.

Later this fall, staff will begin to engage the community to gather feedback on potential permanent dog park locations in the City’s core. Funding for a permanent park is expected to be considered in the 2027 capital budget process.

The City of Waterloo reminds residents that all dogs in Waterloo over 12 weeks old must be licensed annually. Licenses come with a free dog tag, access to a lost pet reporting system, and licensing fees support local animal initiatives. Learn more at www.waterloo.ca/doglicence

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Media contact:

Shirley Luu
Communications Consultant
Corporate Communications
City of Waterloo
Shirley.luu@waterloo.ca