Where to Walk Your Reactive or Anxious Dog in Melbourne

Walking a reactive or anxious dog can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to avoid unpredictable triggers. As the owner of a reactive dog, I know first-hand how challenging it can be to find the right places for peaceful walks. My dog, Tiga, is a wonderful companion but can become overwhelmed in busy environments. Over time, we've discovered that the key to enjoyable walks is choosing locations that provide space, security, and minimal unexpected encounters.

If you have a reactive or anxious dog, finding the right walking spots can make a world of difference. Here are some things to consider when picking the best places and times for a stress-free outing:

What to Look for in a Walking Location

• Wide, Open Spaces – Avoid narrow paths where you and your dog might feel trapped if another dog or person approaches.
• Long Lines of Sight – Areas with good visibility allow you to anticipate and prepare for any approaching distractions.
• Minimal Blind Corners – Unexpected surprises can be stressful for a reactive dog, so aim for open trails and clear pathways.
• Escape Routes – Choose locations where you have space to move away if your dog starts feeling uncomfortable.
• Time of Day Matters – Walking early in the morning or late at night can help avoid peak traffic times and reduce encounters with other dogs and people.

Ideal Places to Walk a Reactive or Anxious Dog

1. Empty Car Parks (Early Morning/Late Night)

Large car parks, such as those near shopping centres, office buildings or zoos, are often empty during off-peak hours, making them a great controlled space to practice leash skills and confidence-building. One of our favourite spots is the Melbourne Zoo car park at night—it’s usually deserted and offers a peaceful atmosphere with a beautiful city view.

2. Enclosed Dog Parks (When Empty)

While traditional dog parks can be overwhelming, some have designated hours or are empty at night, making them a useful training space. If you find one unoccupied, it can be a great place to practice recall and exposure training in a secure environment. A full list of dog parks in Victoria can be found here. 

3. Empty Sports Fields (Outside Game Times)

Sports fields can offer plenty of open space with great sightlines, making it easy to avoid triggers. Just be sure to check for any restrictions before taking your dog.

4. Cemeteries

A cemetery might not be the first place that comes to mind for a dog walk, but many allow leashed dogs and offer peaceful, quiet paths. They typically have few distractions, making them great for reactive dogs. The Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust (SMCT) provides beautiful cemeteries where dogs are welcome, as long as they remain on a leash, owners clean up after them, and they are not overly boisterous, aggressive, or disruptive to other visitors. Additionally, dogs should not relieve themselves on or near graves or memorial sites, and excessive barking should be avoided.

5. Bushwalks & Trails

Nature walks are a fantastic way to give your dog a break from urban stressors. Tiga loves exploring forest paths where we rarely encounter others. Be sure to choose dog-friendly trails and avoid national parks, as many do not allow dogs due to wildlife conservation regulations. We personally love Westerfolds Park in Templestowe.  

6. Sniffspace (Private, Rentable Yards & Fields)

Sniffspace offers private outdoor areas that you can rent by the hour. This is a great option if you want a secure space for your dog to explore without the worry of unexpected encounters. Different properties offer a range of environments, from grassy fields to fenced-in backyards. More information about Sniffspace can be found here. 

Final Thoughts

Every reactive dog is different, and finding the right spots for walks might take some trial and error. The key is to stay patient, be aware of your surroundings, and prioritize your dog’s comfort. Tiga and I have had our share of challenging walks, but by carefully choosing when and where we go, we've been able to make our outings more enjoyable and stress-free. Hopefully, these suggestions help you and your pup find a peaceful place to walk, too!

Looking for a high-quality, versatile leash for your dog? Check out our Mighty Tiga leash collection for durable, stylish, and multi-use leashes that make every walk safe and comfortable!