Whether you are looking for a day trip or a longer holiday with your dog, Canada has some great pet-friendly beaches for you and your pup to explore. Be sure to read up on the specifics of each beach before you visit: some are fully off-leash, some on-leash, while others have restricted and dedicated dog areas. What they all have in common is some great space for your pup to run around, socialize, and have some fun! Here are a few popular dog-friendly beaches from coast to coast:

Elk/Beaver Lake – British Columbia - dogs are allowed off leash all year round, except in picnic areas from June through September. Otherwise, the lake is fully off leash. Some features your furry pal will love include: a 10km hiking trail around the lake, full meadows to run in, and a dedicated dog beach.

Lacombe Lake Dog Park – Alberta – dogs are fully welcome at this park. Areas are mostly on-leash. So come prepared to read the signage! Visiting pooches love the swimming area and the trails.

Designated swimming areas – Manitoba – While dogs are not allowed at provincial designated beaches with defined swim areas, many provincial parks across Manitoba have pet-friendly swimming areas for your pup to enjoy a daily dip. The Asessippi has a natural sand bar, which makes it a local favorite.

Cherry beach/Clarke beach – Ontario – with a fully designated off-leash area along the western boundary of the beach, this is a favorite location for Ontario dogs and those visiting the province.

Crescent Beach – Nova Scotia  - about two hours from Halifax, this beach is beautiful and relatively quiet, providing you and your pup with some good space to run around and chase the Frisbee.

Before visiting a new pet-friendly park, it is important to read up on the park before you plan a trip so that you are aware of any changes or updates to their pet policies.

Have a local beach that you and your furry pal visit that we should know about? Share your pictures and tag us on Instagram! @petsplusus