Oxford Reserve Dog Off Leash Area

Oxford Reserve Dog Off Leash Area is a landscaped, mostly open linear reserve at 19 Oxford Street, Nunawading, covering roughly 6,350 square metres alongside the Eastern Freeway open space. It suits a quick off-lead run, with the option to keep walking into the wider parkland network that threads through Melbourne's east.

Leash status

Dogs may be off lead in the designated area but must stay under effective control, responding immediately when called, and you must carry a lead the whole time. Manningham Council rules require dogs back on lead close to playgrounds, barbecues, play equipment and exercise gear, and on any concrete, asphalt or gravel path, which includes the shared trails running through. Declared dangerous or restricted breeds are excluded from off-lead access. Pick up after your dog and carry your own bags.

Water, terrain and hazards

Expect open grassed space rather than a fenced enclosure, with a linear rain garden feature and a basketball court on site. Shared trails connect through to Koonung Creek Linear Park and Mullum Mullum Park if you want a longer outing. Some drinking water is available, but bringing your own is the safer call.

Max: this is an open reserve beside a freeway corridor, not a fenced yard. If your dog's recall is shaky, keep to the interior grass away from the road edge and the paths.

Getting there and parking

Access is off Oxford Street with local street parking nearby. Nunawading Station on the Lilydale and Belgrave lines is a 20 to 30 minute walk, or a few minutes by car.

When to go

Weekday mid-mornings between about 10am and 1pm are the calmest. Weekend mornings and the after-work window from roughly 4:30pm to 6pm are the busiest. Best suited to dogs that enjoy open space and owners happy to continue into the connected trails.

Close by with the dogs

Nicoll Park Dog Off Leash Area is the other Nunawading option, and The Peddler Cafe covers the coffee stop with dogs welcome outside.

More runs are listed under Victorian dog parks or in the Nunawading guide.