Dog-friendly hiking in Australia: rules, etiquette and where you can walk with your dog

Last updated: 1 November 2026

Walking with your dog is one of life's simple pleasures. In Australia, though, many of the best-known walking tracks are off limits to dogs. This guide explains why, where you can go, and how to be a welcome visitor when you do bring your dog along.

Why most national parks don't allow dogs

Across Australia, dogs and other pets are generally not permitted in national parks. Each state sets its own rules, but the reasons are similar:

• Wildlife disturbance. Even a well-behaved dog leaves scent that native animals read as a predator. Ground-nesting birds, small mammals and wallabies can be stressed or chased.
• Disease and parasites. Dogs can spread diseases to wildlife.
• Baiting. Some parks and nearby land use 1080 baits to control foxes and wild dogs. These baits are deadly to pet dogs.
• Other visitors. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and wildlife viewing is a big part of many park visits.

Assistance animals are usually allowed under disability law, but rules on carrying certification vary, so check the park's official page.

That's why most listings for walks in national parks, such as the Grand Canyon Track or the Overland Track, show dogs as not permitted.

Where you can walk with your dog

Dogs are often welcome in other types of reserves:

• Regional and urban parks managed by councils or state park agencies outside the national park system
• State forests, in many states, usually on a lead
• Some conservation and recreation reserves, depending on local rules
• Council walking trails, foreshores and off-lead areas

On Aussie Hikers, every listing shows the dog rule published by the official land manager. If the agency doesn't publish a rule, we mark it "not published" rather than guess. Use the dog-friendly filter on the home page to see walks with confirmed permission.

Some confirmed dog-friendly walks on the site include:

• Mount Ainslie Summit walk, ACT: dogs allowed on a lead and on tracks only.
• Falls Trail – Lesmurdie Falls, WA: dogs permitted, subject to the official conditions.
• Valley Loop – Lesmurdie Falls, WA: a loop in the same reserve.
• Cape Peron Loop Trail, WA: dogs permitted, subject to the official conditions.
• Lake Joondalup Circuit, WA: dogs on lead allowed on some sections, but not at Neil Hawkins Park.

Rules can change, and some areas restrict dogs at certain times of year, such as during bird nesting season. Always check the official source linked on the listing before you go.

Leads, bags and good manners

When dogs are allowed, the rules usually include:

• Keep your dog on a lead unless signs say an area is off-lead.
• Pick up and carry out all droppings. Don't leave bags by the track to collect later.
• Stay on the track. This protects plants and keeps your dog away from snakes.
• Give way. Step aside with your dog under control when others pass, especially horses, children and people who look nervous.
• Keep your dog out of water supplies and away from wildlife.

Keeping your dog safe

Australian conditions can be tough on dogs.

• Heat. Dogs can overheat quickly, and hot rock or sand can burn their paws. Walk early in the morning, choose shade and skip hot days.
• Water. Carry enough for your dog as well as yourself, plus a collapsible bowl.
• Snakes. Snakes are a real risk for curious dogs. Keep your dog on a lead and away from long grass, logs and rocks. If you suspect a bite, keep your dog still and get to a vet urgently.
• Ticks. Paralysis ticks are common along the east coast. Talk to your vet about prevention and check your dog thoroughly after every walk.
• Baits. Obey all baiting signs. If you think your dog has eaten a bait, go to a vet immediately.
• Fitness. Build up distance gradually, just as you would for yourself. Puppies and older dogs need shorter walks.

What to pack for your dog

• Lead and harness, with an ID tag
• Water and a bowl
• Poo bags, and a sealable bag or container to carry them out
• A small towel
• Basic first aid, including a compression bandage
• Your vet's number and the nearest after-hours vet

Respecting the rules matters

It can be tempting to bring your dog "just for a short bit" into a national park. Please don't. Rangers can issue fines, and the risk to wildlife and to your dog from baits is real. There are lots of places where dogs are welcome, and choosing those keeps the trails open and friendly for everyone.

Frequently asked questions

Can I carry my dog through a national park in the car? Usually you can drive through on a public road with your dog kept inside the vehicle, but you can't let it out. Check the specific park's rules.

Are dogs allowed on beaches in national parks? Generally not. Some council-managed beaches next to parks have dog-friendly sections and times. Check local signs.

What about state forests? Many state forests allow dogs on a lead, but rules differ between states and some areas are baited. Check with the forestry agency first.

Why does a listing say "not published"? It means the official land manager doesn't clearly state a dog rule online. Contact the manager directly before bringing your dog.

Sources

• NSW National Parks: pets and animals in national parks
• Parks Victoria: dog friendly parks
• Queensland Parks: pets
• Parks and Wildlife Service WA: pets in parks
• Parks and Wildlife Service Tasmania: dogs and pets
• Official dog rules for each walk are linked on its listing.