Paws on the Road: The 5 Best Day Trips from Toronto for Dog Lovers

For Toronto-based dog lovers looking to treat their four-legged friends to some outdoor adventure and fun, we’ve got the best day trips for both of you. 

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What are the best day trips to take with dogs around Toronto?

If you know, you know. The thought of taking a day trip while your best buddy is left depressed on the couch just isn’t possible. The best day trips from Toronto with your four-legged friend are: 

  • Otter Lake Recreation Area
  • Sunnyside Beach
  • Sunnybrook Dog Park Loop
  • Bluffers Park Beach
  • Silver Birch Off Leash Dog Park

Toronto, Ontario, is generally pretty amenable to man’s best friend, with many dog friendly hotels, beaches, and restaurants (Black Lab Brewing). 

The verdant outdoors and fresh air lend themselves to many dog friendly areas across the Toronto Harbourfront and Downtown Toronto, but sometimes you want to get a little further out of the city center. These are the best day trips from Toronto, Canada, with dogs.

Otter Lake Recreation Area

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This is a perfect day trip date for you and your furry friend. Otter Lake has an off leash area where you can take your dog to swim. 

In addition, Sandy Beach is a dog friendly park where dogs must stay leashed but has an inviting atmosphere to stroll along, have a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors with your pet. 

It is located about two and half hours away, but it provides breathtaking scenery and is perfect for the pooch who likes to hang their head out of the window and breathe the fresh air. 

If you plan to stay the night, there are also pet friendly accommodations at the Sunny Point Resort

Sunnyside Beach

Located around 15 minutes outside of Toronto, this beach offers a great respite from the bustling city.

The beach is on the west end of the city on the shores of Lake Ontario on Lakeshore Boulevard. Leashed dogs are welcome here in certain areas.  

There is a boardwalk here to take a long stroll or a cycling trail if you and your dog live to get in a little more high energy activity. 

Nearby Sunnyside Park is also amenable to pets on a leash. Pet owners can walk their dogs on the beach on a leash on the west end of the beachfront from November to March. 

Sunnybrook Dog Park Loop

There are many pet friendly hiking trails around Toronto, but this one has been custom built. It is one of the most dog friendly places outside of the city center. 

If you and your dog like a good hike, this is a purpose built trail for you. 

The Sunnybrook Dog Loop is located twenty minutes north of Downtown Toronto and starts at the Sunnybrook Dog Park. 

It is a 5.3-km loop trail with a fairly easy route and takes just over an hour to complete. 

This is an all-weather trail that is also popular for snowshoeing and running. Dogs are not just welcome but are also permitted to be off-leash in some areas.

Bluffers Park Beach

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Bluffer’s Park Beach, set amongst the Scarborough Bluffs, is a fantastic place for a fun day out with your four-legged friend!

Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll along the sand or even have a picnic while admiring the breathtaking views of the lake, Bluffer’s Park beach has something for both humans and pets. 

This dog beach has soft and inviting sand, perfect for your pooch to run around in after taking a refreshing dip in the lake. You and your furry companion will surely have an exciting day of frolicking and relaxation when you head down to this wonderful spot.

Silver Birch Off Leash Dog Park

This gem is located just twenty minutes outside of the city. It is a great slice of outdoor heaven for both people and pooches. 

Dogs are welcome off leash, depending on your dog’s behavior, and most enjoy frolicking in the water while their humans stay on shore chatting. 

Silver Birch Off Leash Park is not fenced and doesn’t have drinking water, so pack accordingly and be prepared to keep a close eye on your furry friend!  

Dog Friendly Eateries Around Toronto

Going to or from your day trip, both you and your traveling companions might have worked up an appetite! Luckily there are some great dog friendly eateries in and around Toronto (some even supply dog treats!). 

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Black Lab Brewery

Location: 818 Eastern Ave, Toronto, ON

Dogs are just accepted but encouraged at the Black Lab Brewery. 

With kombucha and craft beers on tap alongside a beer garden and patio make this the perfect place to pull up a pint. 

Because the space is completely built to be dog friendly they don’t serve food, but often host pop up visiting vendors. 

Against the Grain 

Location: 25 Dockside Dr, Toronto, ON

A restaurant after our own dog loving heart! Their “Pawtio Menu” and supply of freshwater for you pooch make this laid back dining that accommodates you both. 

So enjoy your hummus and “two way tacos” on the Pawtio without having to worry about hiding Fido under the table. 

The Goodman Pub and Kitchen 

Location: 207 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON

This pub goes above, and beyond just allowing pets; they nearly cater to them with a special menu! Elevated comfort food for both you and your best friend. 

Lobster Burger Bar

Location: 214 King St W Suite 100, Toronto, ON

This local favorite isn’t just a great lunchtime spot for lobster rolls, and they also have a doggy menu and dog friendly patio.

They have fresh lobster brought in weekly from the East Coast of Canada and artisan crafted dog food for your pooch. 

Key Takeaways

  • Toronto has many dog friendly day trips within close range of the city. 
  • There are plenty of dog beaches, parks, and even hiking trails that welcome pets. 
  • Silver Birch Off Leash Dog Park is a favorite of dogs who love to swim. 
  • For hiking with your dog, venture 20 minutes outside the city to Sunnybrook Dog Park.