Forde Dog Park

Forde Dog Park is a fully fenced, 24/7 off-leash area on Francis Forde Boulevard, right in the Forde shops precinct. It is a small park by ACT standards, but it is well used by locals and has genuine agility gear, a water station and shade from mature trees, making it a solid stop rather than a destination in itself.

The rules. Dogs run off-leash inside the fenced enclosure but must go back on lead the moment you step outside it. Waste bags are supplied by the ACT Government, though it is worth carrying your own as backup in case the dispenser runs dry. There is no separate area for small versus large dogs, everyone shares the one enclosure, so keep an eye on your dog around size mismatches.

What's there. A water bubbler for dogs, a handful of benches for owners, waste bins, and a small A-frame plus weave poles for dogs that enjoy a bit of agility play. Mature trees give scattered shade across the grass and wood-chip surface.

Getting there. Street parking on Francis Forde Boulevard is limited, so arrive early on weekends if you want a spot close by. Local ACTION buses service Forde; check Transport Canberra for current routes and timetables.

Nearby with the dogs. Frankies at Forde is right next door and welcomes dogs in its outdoor courtyard, handy for a coffee before or after a run around.

Weekday mornings and Wednesday evenings are the quiet windows. Weekends, and especially Sunday and Thursday/Friday evenings, bring the biggest crowds and the muddiest or dustiest ground depending on recent weather.

Sources

• 27 August 2020 ACT Legislative Assembly Hansard · hansard.act.gov.au

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