Aberfeldie Park Dog Off Leash Area

Aberfeldie Park sits on The Boulevard above the Maribyrnong River, and its off leash area is a large unfenced open space with room for a proper run and river views for the cool down walk. It suits an active dog with a reliable recall, not one that bolts.

The dog setup

Off leash is allowed in the designated open grass area only, with dogs on lead everywhere else in the park, including around the athletics track when sport or training is on. Under Moonee Valley rules an off leash dog must be under effective control and responsive to voice commands, and must stay at least 15 metres clear of playgrounds, barbecues and outdoor exercise equipment. Carry bags and pick up as you go.

Worth knowing

There is no fencing anywhere in the zone and the river sits close by, so your recall is the only fence. Water loving dogs can head down to the riverbank under supervision, and the ground turns to mud after rain, so budget for a wash down on wet days. Keep dogs clear of the local birdlife along the water.

Max: unfenced with a river nearby means recall is everything. If it's patchy, work the far corner away from the water and keep the lead clipped until you trust it.

Getting there

The park is reached off The Boulevard in Aberfeldie, with parking along the riverside road. The 57 tram is the nearest public transport, followed by a short walk down toward the river. Weekend mornings and weekday late afternoons draw the biggest crowds, so mid morning on a weekday is the quiet window for a proper run.

While you're out there

The Maribyrnong River loop starts right here for an on lead warm up or cool down, and Calmer Cafe is the neighbourhood coffee stop. If you need a fence, Bent Street Fenced Dog Park in Moonee Ponds and Cliff Whitworth Reserve Dog Park in Essendon West are both close.

More runs are on the Victoria dog parks guide and the Moonee Ponds destination page.