Australia’s capital might be best known for its politics and galleries, but for those travelling with pets, Canberra is full of surprises. With its mix of wide-open spaces, dog-friendly cafés, and beautiful lakeside paths, it’s a dream destination for dogs and their humans alike.
Finding the Right Pet-Friendly Stay in Canberra
When travelling with a dog, comfort and convenience are key. If you’re looking for somewhere central, stylish, and truly pet-welcoming, The Sebel Canberra and The Sebel Canberra Civic tick all the right boxes.
The Sebel Canberra Civic
Located in the CBD, this hotel has a modern, clean feel and offers apartment-style accommodation, perfect for travellers with pets who need a bit of space. With kitchenette facilities and close proximity to parks and walking paths, it makes things easy from the start.
The Sebel Canberra
Just a few minutes away, this property offers slightly larger apartment-style rooms, ideal if you’re planning a longer stay. The leafy surrounds and nearby walking tracks made morning and evening strolls a breeze.
🐶 What Makes Them Pet-Friendly?
- ✅ Pet Accommodation Available: Both properties welcome pets of all sizes, with a maximum of two pets per room
- 💵 Pet Fee: Free of charge… that’s right, free!!!
- 🛏️ Pet Pack Inclusions: Upon arrival, your room will be prepared with:
- A soft dog bed
- Food and water bowls
- A list of nearby parks, pet stores, and vet services
- A complimentary Dr. Lisa pet refresh station in the foyer
- 🧼 Pet-Specific Cleaning: Rooms are deep-cleaned post-checkout to maintain hygiene for all future guests.
🐾 What to Do in Canberra with Your Dog
Canberra is bursting with pet-friendly activities. Whether you’re an early morning walker or a slow brunch kind of person, there’s something for every pup and their person.
☕ Brunch with Your Pup
Canberra has a thriving café culture, and most places with outdoor seating welcome dogs. Our favourites included:
- Stella’s by the Lake (Belconnen): Relaxed, delicious treats by the lake, Super pet friendly.
- Local Press Café (Kingston Foreshore): Healthy, whole-food focused, right by the lake.
- The Cupping Room (City): Award-winning coffee and dog bowls on standby.
🐾 Dog Parks & Trails
- Yarralumla Dog Park: Off-leash, fully fenced, and full of friendly locals.
- Lake Ginninderra Dog Park: This park has a lake where you and your dog can swim. There is also a large off-leash area for dogs to socialise.
- Lake Burley Griffin Walk: Just a short stroll from either Sebel location, the Lake Burley Griffin circuit is a must. Dogs must stay on-leash, but the 5km+ track is flat, scenic, and packed with water views, sculptures, and shady spots.
- Mount Ainslie Walking Track: Dog-friendly if leashed—rewarding views at the top.
🌸 Floriade Festival
If you’re visiting in spring, don’t miss Floriade—a massive flower festival held in Commonwealth Park. While it’s not pet-friendly every day, they hold a special Dogs’ Day Out, where pups are invited into the flower-filled park. It’s a great day out for social dogs and a fun photo opportunity for pet parents.
🍷 Wineries & Markets
Canberra’s surrounding wine region is surprisingly pet-friendly. Mount Majura Vineyard allows dogs on leash in their outdoor areas, and Shaw Wines offers outdoor dog-friendly tasting areas on their large terrace.
Don’t miss the Haig Park Village Markets (Sundays), where local pet treat stalls often pop up—and your dog will likely leave with a belly full of samples and pats from friendly locals.
From lake walks and brunch stops to comfy pet-friendly accommodation, Canberra is the perfect destination for a quick pet-friendly getaway. Staying in the city makes it easy to explore, and The Sebel Canberra properties prove to be an excellent choice for both style and practicality.
So, if you’re planning a trip with your dog and want the best of both city and nature, Canberra might just be your next paw-fect escape.