Perth is one of the best cities in Australia for a dog-friendly weekend — good beaches, a solid café scene, and enough variety that you don’t need to go far. This is a one-day itinerary built around what’s actually open and worth doing right now, with your dog in tow. Want to stretch it into a full weekend? Book a night in dog-friendly accommodation and take it at a slower pace.
📋 In This Guide
Optional: Stay the Night
A staycation feels more like a proper break if you can leave your own house behind for a night. Perth’s dog-friendly hotel options have improved significantly — QT Perth in the CBD now runs their Pup Yeah! package with a dedicated dog bed, pet toiletries, treats, and an in-room dog dining menu. Pier 21 in North Fremantle is the riverside apartment hotel option if you’d prefer something quieter.
For more space and a fenced yard, Airbnb is your best bet — filter by “Pets allowed” and look specifically for listings that mention a fully fenced yard. See our full Perth dog-friendly accommodation guide →
What to Bring
🎒 Packing List
- Enough food for the day — don’t assume you can buy your dog’s specific food on the road
- Their bed and a favourite toy (if staying overnight)
- Lead, collar with ID tag, and plenty of waste bags
- Towels for the beach — one for you, one for them
- Portable water bowl and water bottle
The Itinerary
Start the morning at Leighton Dog Beach in North Fremantle — a long stretch of soft white sand with great views of the Fremantle Port and dunes for dogs who like to sprint. After the swim, The Beach Bus is right there for coffee and something to eat. It’s become the go-to morning fixture for the dog beach crowd in this part of Perth.
After the beach, drive north for lunch at Union Kitchen at Mindarie Marina. The alfresco dining area overlooks the ocean and marina, dogs are welcome outside, and they have a dedicated dog menu including puppuccinos. It’s about a 35-minute drive from Leighton — far enough to feel like you’ve gone somewhere, not so far it becomes a road trip.
For the afternoon and evening, head east to the Swan Valley. It has a solid cluster of cellar doors and breweries with outdoor areas that welcome dogs. Ugly Duckling Wines is a consistently good option — outdoor seating with vineyard views and cheese platters. Wind down here before heading home.
More Ideas to Mix In
🐾 More Ways to Fill the Day
Dog-friendly markets
Several Perth farmers markets welcome dogs. Check our Perth markets guide for which ones currently allow dogs and when they run.
Kings Park walk
Dogs are welcome on a lead throughout most of Kings Park. Roe Gardens is a popular route. Note that dogs are not allowed on the elevated Federation Walkway section, in Naturescape Park, or within 10m of playgrounds.
Dog-friendly pub
Swap the Swan Valley for a more local finish — Perth has a good number of dog-friendly pubs. Check our Perth city guide for options near you.
