We all love our four-legged housemates. They’re loyal to a fault, endlessly forgiving and always excited to see us, even when we’ve only been gone for 12 minutes. 

With International Dog Day having just passed on Wednesday 26 August, it’s time we pay the puppy tax and show them just how much we love them. 

Whether your pup is a foodie, an adventure dog, a social butterfly or just loves to be pampered, here are some of the best ways to celebrate with them around Canberra. 

 

Who Let the Dogs Out? 

If your dog believes every outing should include them, Canberra has plenty of pup-friendly spots where they can sit by your side while you grab a coffee, lunch or something a little stronger. 

At QT Canberra in Civic, the Pup Yeah! stay package is getting an International Dog Day upgrade, with guests checking in with their pups from 26–31 August receiving a complimentary cake for themselves and a dog-safe cake for their four-legged friend. The pet-friendly rooms also come with doggy treats, grooming products and a CUB dog bed. 

Sitting opposite Lake Ginninderra, Stella’s By The Lake in Belconnen has dog beds, water bowls and an entire pup menu featuring puppachinos, donuts, dog beer and take-home treats. 

For a casual café stop, try Gang Gang Cafe and Bar in Downer, Edgar’s Inn in Ainslie, Little Oink in Cook, Assembly in Braddon or Common Grounds in Gowrie. 

 

Stretch Their Legs 

If your dog needs to burn off some energy, Canberra has plenty of walks made for sniffing, strolling and the occasional splash. 

The Bridge to Bridge loop around Lake Burley Griffin has water views and plenty of space for your pup to stretch their legs. Mount Ainslie is ideal for dogs with big energy and owners who want a workout. 

You can also head around Lake Ginninderra, Lake Tuggeranong or the Weston Park and Yarralumla lakeside areas. For dogs who love getting in the water, Lake Ginninderra and Lake Tuggeranong also have designated dog swimming spots, so keep an eye on signage and leash rules as you go. 

 

For the Pups Who Need a Playdate 

Some dogs are happiest when they have room to run and another pup to chase. Luckily, Canberra has plenty of fenced dog parks where they can do exactly that. 

Try Lake Ginninderra Dog Park in Belconnen, Yarralumla Dog Park near Weston Park, Inner North Dog Park in O’Connor or Greenway Dog Park near Lake Tuggeranong. 

There are also fenced dog parks across suburbs including Casey, Duffy, Forde, Franklin and Lanyon, so there’s a good chance your pup has a playdate spot closer than you think. 

 

For the Pups Who Love Being Pampered 

WOOOF Dog Grooming in Manuka offers full grooming, de-shedding and spa treatments, including ozone hydro-spa options and support for nervous dogs. 

You can also try Pawparazzi Pet Braddon for full grooms, nail care and stylish cuts, Barks & Bubbles Canberra in Higgins for a local freshen-up, or Bark Avengers Mobile Dog Grooming if your dog would rather the groomer come to them. 

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW 

International Dog Day: Wednesday 26 August 2026 

QT Pup Yeah! week: 26–31 August 2026 

Where: Dog-friendly venues, parks, walking tracks and groomers across Canberra 

Good to know: Check individual venue requirements before heading out. Dogs must remain on-leash on footpaths, and dogs in designated off-leash areas must remain under effective control.