Tirhatuan Park Fenced Off Leash Area For Small Dogs is the small breed enclosure inside Tirhatuan Park in Dandenong North. Council added it alongside the large communal area so smaller dogs get their own fenced ground instead of sharing space with dogs three times their size.
Tirhatuan Park Small Dog Area: At a Glance
- The Vibe: A quieter enclosure set aside for small breeds, away from the pace of the main communal run.
- Best For: Small and toy breeds, and nervous dogs who get overwhelmed in a mixed-size crowd.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days, with no lighting after dark.
- Fencing: Fully Fenced, though owners report gaps in sections of the fence line.
- Parking: Onsite parking off Kriegel Way. Bus routes 802, 804 and 862 run nearby.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Small Breeds Only: This enclosure is set aside for small dogs, so play stays at a size your dog can match.
- Separate From the Main Run: The large communal area is a short walk away, which keeps the bigger, faster dogs out of this space.
- Parkland Setting: The enclosure sits inside a 20-hectare reserve with lakes, wetland and bushland along the Dandenong Creek corridor.
For the Humans
- Public Toilets: Toilets are provided in the reserve, so you are not limited to a quick visit.
- Playground and Picnic Area: A district playground, BBQ and picnic facilities are within the park.
- Walking Trails: Paths and boardwalks run through the wetland if you want to extend the outing on leash.
Insider Tip: Walk the fence line before you unclip. Visitors have reported gaps large enough for a small dog to slip through, and a toy breed will find them faster than you will. The grass also goes soft and muddy in winter, so keep a towel in the car.
The Final Verdict
Tirhatuan Park Fenced Off Leash Area For Small Dogs solves the problem most mixed off-leash parks leave open, which is what a small dog does when the big dogs arrive. The wider reserve brings toilets, parking and walking trails. Check the fence gaps on arrival and it does the job well.
For more info, visit the City of Greater Dandenong website.
Tirhatuan Park Fenced Off Leash Area For Small Dogs: FAQ
Q: Is this area only for small dogs?
A: Yes, this enclosure is set aside for small breed dogs. Larger dogs use the separate communal off-leash area.
Q: Is the small dog area fully fenced?
A: Yes, it is fenced, though visitors have reported gaps in the fence line, so check the perimeter on arrival.
Q: Are there toilets at Tirhatuan Park?
A: Yes, public toilets are provided within the reserve.
