20 May 2022
There is no shortage of things to do with your dog in Tasmania.
Beautiful coastline, rugged trails and mountainous treks, Tasmania is full of breathtaking wilderness perfect for dogs.
And, with a little planning, you don’t have to leave your family’s best friend at home; they can be by your family’s side as you explore everything Tasmania has to offer.
Like most parts of Australia, dogs aren’t allowed in national parks, but there are still plenty of options for an unforgettable holiday for you and your pooch. All you need to enter the region legally is a health declaration that they have been treated for hydatid tapeworms.
Dog-friendly activities in Launceston - Tamar Valley
Launceston is a hotspot for dog-friendly parks, with over a dozen parks within 8 km of Launceston’s CBD.
A popular inner-city destination is Hoblers Bridge Dog Park, with easy access to the river and an off-leash area, this park is well worth a visit.
Another option for a doggy paddle outside of town is Saint Leonard’s Dog Park, which has a stream that runs throughout the grounds. Also featuring picnic and BBQ facilities, as well as a playground close to the swimming area, this park has it all.
Not far away, Coronation Park is perfect for the most social of canine visitors, an ideal place for lucky pups to get set up on a doggy blind date!
A little further away, adventure awaits at Hollybank Reserve, where you can take an educational stroll through the forest.
Later on, dog-owners can relax at one of many dog-friendly cafes around Launceston. Samuel Pepys Cafe and Relish Cafe are two where you can expect a warm welcome and a cool bowl of water for your four-legged friend. Tasmania Butter Co. also has a good reputation for dog-friendliness as well as excellent coffee and treats!
Pet-Friendly Places to Stay in Launceston
On the banks of the River Esk, Discovery Parks - Hadspen is just 15 minutes from Launceston. The perfect place to start your Tasmanian adventure, onsite experts are more than happy to help you plan your Tassie trip - just give them a call. Dogs are welcome on selected sites and cabins all year round.
Dog-friendly things to do in Hobart
The port city of Hobart is ideal for a dog-friendly holiday.
With beaches, trails and clifftop treks, your dog will thank you for including them on your trip to the historic capital. Get down to Marieville Esplanade at Sandy Bay, where you’ll find beach walks, a community park and a playground to keep the whole family entertained. Check out the 24/7 off-leash areas at Kingston Beach or Clarke’s Beach at Coningham.
For something a little different, the spectacular Alum Cliffs trail is dog-friendly (on leash) and has a well-mapped-out walk for the whole family to enjoy. Oakes Falls also allows dogs on leashes and is worth the trip for a soothing waterfall experience.
At the end of a long day of exploring, the aptly-named, Every Man and His Dog Vineyard is a short drive away and is kid and dog-friendly. There is a fantastic outdoor seating area at Hobart Brewing Co’s microbrewery, and you’re welcome to pack your own lunch at T-Bone Brewing Co., where you can pair a refreshing pale ale with your choice of sambo.
Hobart is also full of dog-friendly dining spots, from trendy beer gardens like Preachers, to lively, spacious outdoor settings like In the Hanging Garden, which offers cocktails and casual bites in a lush green setting.
Pet-Friendly Places to Stay in Hobart
Discovery Parks - Hobart is a naturally picturesque park that welcomes dogs on selected sites and cabins. Onsite BBQs are perfect for whiling away the evenings and plotting the next day’s family adventure. There’s also loads of in-park activities to entertain the kids.
Things to do with your dog in Northwest Tasmania
Devonport is a pet-friendly city at the mouth of the River Mersey. The Spirit of Tasmania ferry connects the city to Melbourne via a daily service and is more than happy to carry canine passengers to the island.
There are four off-leash exercise parks in town, with some including swimming areas. Dog Exercise Park is a popular spot that’s fun for pooches who love getting their daily run around. There’s a sheltered dog walking area at Back Beach on Cole’s Road, plus sites at East Devonport Foreshore and Shipwreck Beach, offering plenty of opportunity for a healthy sniff around.
Just 30 minutes down the road from Devonport is the town of Sheffield, where dogs are always welcome to absorb the over 140 murals that adorn the buildings of this quaint, historic town.
Whether you’re stopping in Devonport for a day or longer, you won’t run out of dog-friendly dining options. Your pet will always be in good company while you grab a pasty, coffee and some peace and quiet at The Park Pavillion Cafe.
Another highly recommended stop is Fifteen Tables, where you can watch the Spirit of Tasmania arrive. Relax with the fam over casual seaside dining at Drift Cafe or why not forget the diet and indulge in some baked goods and a doggy bowl at Zest Cafe.
Dog-Friendly Places to Stay in Northwest Tasmania
Discovery Parks - Devonport is another stunning Tasmanian waterfront location that makes for an ideal family stopover while exploring nearby Burnie. An activity room, bouncing pillow, BBQ facilities and playground will keep the kids entertained, and dogs are permitted on selected cabins and sites throughout the year.
