Ford Park Fenced Dog Park

Ford Park Fenced Dog Park is a fully fenced, 24 hour off-leash area inside the larger Ford Park sports reserve on Banksia Street, Bellfield. It is double-gated, lit after dark, and popular enough with locals that timing your visit matters more than the drive.

The rules. Dogs run off-leash only inside the fenced yard itself; the rest of Ford Park, including the paths past the playground and picnic areas, is on-leash. There is no separate small-dog or timid-dog yard, so the space is shared by all sizes, and owners are expected to keep voice control and step in early if play gets too rough. Poop bags and bins are supplied, and cleaning up after your dog is not optional.

What's there. The yard has secure double-gate entry, a few established trees for shade and wind cover, and a mix of gravel and open grass underfoot. Water fountains with dog bowls are on site, along with benches for owners and lighting for evening visits. Public toilets sit in the broader Ford Park complex rather than inside the fenced area itself.

Getting there. The park is at 244 Banksia Street, Bellfield, with parking accessible off Oriel Road. Local bus routes run along Banksia Street if you are coming without a car.

Nearby with the dogs. Ivanhoe is a few minutes away and has dog-friendly options worth combining with a visit, including Bambino Coffee Bar and Lucci Eatery. If Ford Park is busy, Seddon Reserve and Sparks Reserve in Ivanhoe are other local off-leash areas worth checking.

When to go. Weekday afternoons from about 4:30pm to 6pm and weekend mornings are the busiest windows. Weekday mid-morning to early afternoon is your best bet for a quieter run, especially useful if your dog is reactive or still building confidence off-leash.

Sources

• Ford Park Dog Park | Shaping Banyule · banyule.vic.gov.au

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.