Top 5 Dog Parks in Dublin- Places to Play in Ireland with Your Pet On and Off Leash

Looking for a few dog parks to play with your dog in Dublin?

Dog parks in Dublin are hands down the best way to enjoy your pup in this corner of Ireland. Anyone who has visited Dublin with their dog knows that it is not the most dog-friendly city. Dogs are not permitted inside most public buildings and attractions, and forms of public transport, aside from the inner city trains. You can read more about European train travel with your dog on my blog, How to Conquer Train Travel with Your Dog Throughout Europe.

Dogs not being permitted in public buildings and transport made play time in the beautiful dog parks in and around Dublin particularly special! Sheila and I spent about 10 days exploring the parks and historic outdoors of Dublin. Here you’ll read our top 5 dog park favorites from inner city and Southern Dublin.

1. Phoenix Park– Dog Park in West Dublin

Phoenix Park is known as one of the largest and most historic parks in all of Dublin. Located just under 2 miles west of the city center it provides 1752 acres of flat, soft, grassy space for your pet to run off leash, without the fear of traffic, or nearby cars.

The prolific Papal Cross sits in the center of the park, shepherding all of the park visitors. Sheila and I enjoyed resting after a long day’s walk in this park. Admission is free. As beautiful as this park is, it’s important to mention that its landscape includes long hay like grass. Sheila is a tiny yorkipoo that got lost in the grass a few times, so make sure to keep a close watch if your furry friend is on the tiny side.

2. Marlay Park– Dog Park in South Dublin

Marlay Park is the go- to on and off leash dog park of southern Dublin. While it’s quite the trek to get there from inner city Dublin, the scenic trails alongside quiet creeks, cafes, and spacious, lush grassy patches are worth the commute!

Sheila and I were on foot for most of the journey from our accommodation on the outskirts of Dublin to Marlay Park (due to the fact that all public transport in Dublin is NOT dog friendly), so we very much enjoyed collapsing in a patch of grass on our travel blanket upon our arrival.

3. Bushy Park- Recreational Park in South Central Dublin- Dogs Welcome

Bushy Park is a lesser known flat, green and serene park in the southern end of Dublin. The main attraction of Bushy Park is the soccer goal posts and shady trees. Sheila and I lived a 15 minute walk from this park. Within a week’s time, Sheila and I visited twice. Sheila enjoyed finding sticks to chew in the dog park, while I practiced my forearm stands

4. St. Stephen’s Green Park– Urban Park in Central Dublin- Dogs Welcome on Leash

St. Stephen’s Green Park is a historic, urban park located close to the city center. If you’re spending the day walking the city with your dog, St. Stephen’s Green Park is the perfect picnic location to enjoy a mid day meal and relax. A charming pond is in the center of this park as well, lined by elegant black gates. I highly recommend stopping by with your pup. It’s important to note that dogs must be kept on a leash in this park.

5. Rathfarnham Castle Park – Castle Park in South Dublin- Dogs Welcome

Rathfarnham Castle Park is a hidden gem towards the southern end of Dublin, north of Marlay Park. While dogs are not permitted inside the castle, pet owners are encouraged to walk along the cobblestone trail lining the border of the castle and surrounding properties. Sheila and I walked to this castle and were surprised to find an attached large green space for her to run with the other small dogs.

Conclusion: Top 5 On and Off Leash Dog Parks in Dublin- Places to Play in Ireland with Your Pet On and Off Leash

In conclusion, Dublin is a beautiful city to visit with your dog during Spring, and Summer months when you can enjoy the outdoors. While their parks are pet-friendly and filled with history and lush green grass, Dublin city and Dublin tourist attractions as a whole are not pet friendly. You cannot take your dog on the bus without enforcement from the driver (Sheila and I were able to sneak on just a few times).

Public tours involving public transport do not allow dogs unless they are certified service animals, and any indoor environment including pubs, museums, grocery stores, and castles are dog- free zones. Your best bet is to wear your very best walking shoes, enjoy the beautiful park scenes, and have a Guinness on the patio!