Best Northern Beaches Parks for Anxious Dogs
As a proud owner of a dog-walking business, I understand that all dogs have their unique needs, especially those who may experience anxiety. I love connecting with these special pets and watching them grow in confidence. Our beautiful Northern Beaches community is blessed with numerous parks, where your anxious dog can enjoy a serene environment. Here’s a list of the best parks and walks designed to cater to anxious dogs, ensuring a relaxing and joyous experience for both pet and owner.
Off-Leash Areas:
Dearin Reserve Dog Off-Leash Area, Newport
This hidden gem is perfect for anxious dogs who need space without overwhelming crowds. The Dearin Reserve in Newport offers a quiet off-leash area allowing your pet the freedom to explore at their own pace. Surrounded by lush greenery, this park provides a peaceful environment conducive to calming anxious nerves.
Frenchs Forest Showground, Frenchs Forest
If you have a small dog who gets overwhelmed by bigger dogs, or one who simply prefers their own space, Frenchs Forest Showground has a perfect spot for you. Just off of Glenn St. there is a small designated area for small and anxious dogs. This area is fenced and far enough away from the main off-leash dog area, the dogs don’t bother each other as they enjoy their special place.
McCarrs Creek Reserve, Church Point
Nestled near Pittwater, McCarrs Creek Reserve offers a tranquil setting perfect for anxiety-prone dogs. The creek combined with serene trees, make this an ideal place for a calming walk. There is a designated off-leash area as well, so your dog can roam if they are confident enough.
Avalon Beach Reserve Dog Park, Avalon
Located in the heart of Avalon Beach, this dog park is well-designed with anxious pups in mind. With ample shaded areas and plenty of space, Avalon Beach Reserve is perfect for a quiet and relaxed day out with your pet. Simply follow the ‘yellow brick road’ as the locals call this pathway to this small fenced-in dog park. Try to go at off-peak time as this gem is beloved by locals.
Mona Vale Headlands Dog Park, Mona Vale
Mona Vale Headlands not only provides stunning coastal views, but also an expansive off-leash area which offers ample space for dogs to spread out. The gentle sound of the ocean waves and the fresh sea breeze are sure to create a soothing atmosphere for your dog. This park is on an incline, so dogs and their owners get a workout going up and down to explore from top to bottom.
Deep Creek Reserve, Narrabeen
Deep Creek Reserve offers a secluded and tranquil spot away from the hustle and bustle. The natural surroundings make it an ideal place for anxious dogs to run around or simply relax. Please review the Manly Kennel Club’s training schedule, as they rent this area out on certain mornings, so the park becomes off-limits to non-members.
Trails & Walks:
Narrabeen Lagoon Trail, Narrabeen
A favorite among locals, the Narrabeen Lagoon Trail offers a scenic walk around the entirety of Narrabeen lake. The long, winding trail ensures a calming and uninterrupted walk, making it perfect for anxious dogs needing a peaceful escape. We will warn you that there are bridges throughout this trail, so if your dog has any sensory issues with grates or metal bridges on their paws, they will not enjoy the whole route. We also suggest avoiding this walk on the weekends, as parts of this track are popular with cyclists and it can become crowded, or challenging to prepare your pet for oncoming bike traffic which often spans multiple bikes at a time.
Winnererremy Bay, Mona Vale
Situated near the Bayview, Winnererremy Bay also known as Flying Fox Park is a haven for dogs seeking a nice flat park with grass and a paved track. This is a great spot for a training walk to help your dog overcome anxiety around meeting new people, hearing different sounds, or having controlled interactions with other dogs. The Flying Fox Cafe is dog friendly, and can also be a great place for cafe training as you can seat yourself inside/outside and create distance between yourself and others.
Red Hill Reserve, Beacon Hill
Red Hill Reserve is a less crowded alternative trail to Narrabeen Lake. This park's trail offers a serene and quiet environment with plenty of interesting smells and sights to keep your dog engaged without overwhelming them. A mix of dirt and paved pathways make it perfect for any owner wanting to enjoy wildlife without having to go bush. There is a small wooden bridge, but most dogs are less averse to these than the metal bridges on other tracks.
Long Reef Headland Walk, Long Reef
The walk provides a mix of open spaces and shaded areas with stunning coastal views, ensuring a balanced and peaceful outing. This walk takes you up to the Long Reef Headland and back down past the golf course. This mix of uphill and flat walking paths is great for any dog who needs to burn off energy but is not ready for a run at a park. Beware as part of this walk is part of the Long Reef off-leash dog park. Avoid this part by simply following the pathway to the Long Reef Surf Club. This has ample parking and is a great place to start and finish your walk.
Tips for Walking Anxious Dogs:
Choose Quiet Times: Try visiting parks during off-peak hours to avoid large crowds and other dogs.
Bring Comfort Items: Your dog might feel more secure with familiar items, like a favorite toy or blanket to use in the car.
Stay Calm: Your dog picks up on your energy. Maintaining a calm demeanor can help reassure your pet.
Positive Reinforcement: Reward your dog with treats and praise during the walk to build confidence and create positive associations with the new environment.
Short Walks: Start with shorter walks and gradually increase the duration as your dog becomes more comfortable with the park environment.
Exploring the Northern Beaches' parks with your anxious dog can be a rewarding experience for both of you. The serene settings provide the perfect backdrop for your dog to enjoy the great outdoors while feeling safe and secure. So pack up some treats, grab the leash, and discover these tranquil parks that cater to the needs of anxious dogs – your furry friend will thank you for it!
