Top Pet-Friendly Shopping Spots in Australia (City-by-City Guide)

Discover the top 10 pet-friendly shopping spots in every Australian capital city. With a Pawbella Pet Stroller, you and your furry friend can explore malls, markets, and precincts in comfort and style.

A woman enjoying a coffee break at an outdoor cafe with her French Bulldog resting comfortably in a Pawbella Ultimate Pet Stroller.

Take Your Dog Shopping This Weekend (Without Getting Turned Away at the Door)

1. Why A Dog Stroller

We’ve all been there. You grab your keys to go shopping, and suddenly you’re met with those sad puppy eyes. You want to take them with you, but you dread the "No Dogs Allowed" sign or the stress of managing a leash in a crowded mall.

So, you leave them behind. Again. Or worse, you risk it, only to be told to leave by a security guard, ruining your day out. The guilt of leaving them at home (or the anxiety of them waiting in the car) just isn't worth it.

It doesn’t have to be that way. Australia is becoming more pet-friendly every day—if you know where to look. We’ve curated the ultimate list of shopping spots where your fur baby is actually welcome.

Pro Tip: Many of these precincts have strict "leash rules," but with a Pawbella Pet Stroller, you can breeze through crowded spaces safely. Your dog stays secure, and shop owners are far more likely to say "come in!" when they see a well-contained, happy pup.


2. Dining Out With Your Dog

Outdoor Seating You can usually bring your dog to outdoor spots like beer gardens or sidewalk tables. However, it is always up to the owner. Just because you see tables outside doesn't mean dogs are allowed. Always look for a sign or ask the staff first.

"Dog-Friendly" vs. "Dog-Tolerant" There is a big difference between places that allow dogs and places that love them.

    • Tolerant: They have a shared water bowl and let you tie your dog near your table.
    • Friendly: They treat your pup like a guest! They might have a special doggy menu, hooks for leashes, or enclosed courtyards.

Good Manners To keep everyone happy, follow these simple rules:

    • Four on the Floor: Keep your dog on the ground, not on chairs or your lap.
    • Short Leash: Keep the leash short (under 2 meters) so waiters carrying hot food don’t trip.
    • Vaccinations: Make sure your dog has their shots. High-traffic cafes can spread germs to puppies.


3. Melbourne: The Progressive Benchmark

Melbourne remains the undisputed leader in pet-friendly urban design. The city’s policy framework encourages a seamless flow between public walkways and private retail spaces, exemplified by the "Paw on the Door" initiative.

3.1 Burwood Brickworks

Burwood Brickworks represents the gold standard for indoor retail integration. They utilize a unique "Traffic Light System" (Green/Amber/Red paw stickers) to manage flow, allowing dogs in common mall areas.

 

3.2 Chapel Street Precinct

Spanning South Yarra to Windsor, this high street functions as a linear dog park. It is famous for its "Paw on the Door" decals which allow furry friends entry into most non-food retail stores.

  • Puppy Menu (Chez Misty & Others):

    • Doggy Crepes: A canine-safe version of the human classic.

    • Pup-cakes: Meat or peanut butter-based savory muffins.

    • Doggy Brunch Bowl: A mix of protein and dog-safe veggies.

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.3 High Street Armadale

A boutique-focused strip where groomed, pedigree breeds are the norm. Pocket parks like Armadale Reserve provide relief valves for shoppers needing a break.

  • Puppy Menu (Moby 3143):

    • Pig’s Ears: Often given as a high-value chew treat.

    • Liver Treats: Dried natural snacks kept behind the counter.

    • Filtered Water: Served in designated ceramic dog bowls.

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.4 Gasworks Plaza

A community hub featuring a monthly Farmers' Market (3rd Saturday) directly adjacent to a large off-leash park in Albert Park.

  • Puppy Menu (Gasworks Cafe):

    • House-made Dog Biscuits: Baked fresh on-site.

    • Pup Cakes: Soft cakes made with dog-safe ingredients.

    • Puppycino: Frothed milk, often dusted with liver sprinkles.

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.5 Fitzroy & Brunswick Street

The bohemian vanguard where dogs are considered part of the furniture in pubs and beer gardens.

  • Puppy Menu (The Doghouse / Augie's):

    • Raw Beef Tartare: High-quality raw beef mince for the paleo pooch.

    • Dogachino: Frothed milk with liver sprinkles or carob dust.

    • Dog Muffins: Savory meat and vegetable muffins.

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.6 North Fitzroy

Wide boulevards and proximity to Edinburgh Gardens cater to the "stroller and spaniel" demographic.

  • Puppy Menu (Arcadia Cafe):

    • Fresh Water Bowls: Always topped up at the outdoor tables.

    • Patio Pats: Staff are famously welcoming to dogs.

    • Plain Toast: Often ordered as a side for furry friends.

  • Connect: Visit Victoria | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.7 South Melbourne Market

Dogs are prohibited inside the market proper, but the culture thrives on the perimeter (Cecil St) where owners dine al fresco.

  • Puppy Menu (Market Pet Shop / Canteen):

    • Blackdog Pig's Ears: Available from the Market Pet Shop (Stall 204).

    • Dried Liver Balls: A popular takeaway treat.

    • Roo Crinkles: High-protein snack for the walk home.

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.8 Camberwell Sunday Market

An open-air "Trash and Treasure" market in a car park. Dogs are allowed, but the "leash rule" is strictly enforced due to crowds.

  • Puppy Menu (Dish & Spoon Cafe - nearby):

    • Puppacinos: A market-day staple for visiting dogs.

    • Shaded Water: Bowls placed in the outdoor seating area.

    • BYO Treats: Most owners bring their own due to the vintage nature of stalls.

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.9 Carlton Gardens Precinct

A UNESCO World Heritage site serving as the "backyard" for CBD apartment dogs.

  • Puppy Menu (Vincent the Dog - nearby):

    • Plain Bagel (No Salt): Often ordered plain for dogs.

    • Puppy Cino: A standard offering for the weekend crowd.

    • Fresh Water: Communal bowls at the courtyard entrance.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

3.10 Bunnings (Melbourne & National)

The "third place" for Australian DIY enthusiasts. Dogs are permitted if carried, on a lead (muzzled), or in a trolley.


4. Sydney: Harbour Views and Heritage Restrictions

4.1 Birkenhead Point Outlet Centre

A marina location offering a "lifestyle" outlet experience. Dogs are allowed in common mall areas and the outdoor food court.

 

4.2 East Village Zetland

Markets itself as a "Pet-Friendly Centre" for high-density residents. Strict "no dogs in restaurants" (indoor) rules apply.

  • Puppy Menu (Village Crown):

    • Beef & Veggie Bowl: Raw beef with carrots, pumpkin, and broccoli ($18).

    • Kangaroo Plate: Lean raw kangaroo meat with sweet potato and peas ($16).

    • Chicken & Cabbage: Raw chicken with cabbage and blueberries ($15).

  • Connect: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

4.3 The Cannery, Rosebery

An industrial-chic converted cannery. Dogs are restricted to common laneways and outdoor paths.

 

4.4 Home HQ Artarmon

A bulky goods centre that is fully indoors, making it a rare "wet weather" option for dog owners.

 

4.5 Newtown & Surry Hills

The heart of "pub dog" culture. The culinary offerings here are the most advanced in the country.

  • Puppy Menu (The Carrington):

    • Steak and Veggies: Grilled steak cut for dogs with steamed vegetables.

    • Beef Tartare: A premium raw beef dish for pampered pups.

    • Pup-friendly Roast: A mini version of the Sunday roast (meat and veg only).

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

4.6 Glebe Markets

Dogs are strictly prohibited inside the market (Public School grounds). Activity is focused on the nearby Foreshore Walk.

  • Puppy Menu (Nearby Cafes):

    • Water Bowls: Communal bowls placed on Glebe Point Road.

    • Dog Biscuits: Often kept at the counter for passing pups.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

4.7 Paddington Markets

Unlike Glebe, dogs are allowed on leash within the market area (Uniting Church grounds).

 

4.8 Bondi Beach Strip

Campbell Parade is a runway for dogs. While the sand is off-limits, the promenade is iconic.

  • Puppy Menu (Porch & Parlour):

    • Coconut Water: A hydrating drink popular for dogs in the summer.

    • House-made Dog Biscuits: Crunchy treats often available at the counter.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

4.9 Balmain Shopping Strip

Darling Street is a "village" strip with heritage pubs and street-based culture.

  • Puppy Menu (The London Hotel):

    • Pub Snacks: Plain water and biscuits often provided.

    • Puppuccino: Available at most cafes along Darling St.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

4.10 Bunnings (Sydney)


5. Brisbane: Subtropical Alfresco Living

5.1 Gasworks Plaza

Open-air design around a historic gasometer. The central green space acts as a de facto dog park in Newstead.

 

5.2 East Village Coorparoo

A mixed-use residential and retail precinct with ample outdoor space.

  • Puppy Menu:

    • Puppuccino: Standard frothed milk at the cafes.

    • Water Bowls: Communal bowls in the common landscaped areas.

  • Connect: Official Website

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

5.3 VEND Marketplaces

A permanent indoor marketplace that is explicitly dog-friendly and climate-controlled.

 

5.4 South Bank Parklands

The Riverwalk is a major dog artery for the city.

 

5.5 Eat Street Northshore

Container-market dining. Strict leash rules apply, and there is a limit of 1 pet per adult.

 

5.6 West End Markets (Davies Park)

Saturday markets held under massive Moreton Bay Figs.

 

5.7 Queen Street Mall (Periphery)

Dogs are prohibited in the Mall itself. Use adjacent cafes on Charlotte or Eagle St.

  • Puppy Menu (The Croft House / Riverbar):

    • Water Bowls: Provided for all canine guests.

    • Shaded Seating: Essential in the QLD heat.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

5.8 New Farm Park

A grand old park connecting to the Riverwalk.

  • Puppy Menu (Mary Mae's):

    • Doggy Ice Cream: A frozen treat perfect for humid Brisbane days.

    • Puppy Potion: A refreshing drink or broth for dogs.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

5.9 Paddington Retail Strip

Latrobe Terrace offers a hilly strip of converted cottages perfect for browsing.

  • Puppy Menu (Sassafras of Paddington):

    • Heinrich’s Hash: A mix of meat and dog-safe vegetables.

    • Billy’s Bone: A signature house-baked dog cookie.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

5.10 Harbour Town Gold Coast

An open-air outlet mall in Biggera Waters.


6. Perth: Coastal Vibes and Cafe Culture

6.1 Cockburn Gateway Piazza

An outdoor dining precinct with dedicated pet amenities.

 

6.2 Floreat Forum

Features "Dog Parking" stations with water and hooks.

 

6.3 Mount Lawley (Beaufort Street)

A popular high street strip for locals.

 

6.4 Fremantle Markets

No dogs allowed inside. However, the external "Yard" area is dog-friendly.

 

6.5 Leederville

A trendy inner-city hub.

  • Puppy Menu (Babylon Cafe):

    • Homemade Treats: Often available at the counter.

    • Courtyard Water: Fresh bowls in the shaded area.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

6.6 Hillarys Boat Harbour

A marina destination located near the Dog Beach.

  • Puppy Menu (Union Kitchen):

    • K9 Pupcakes: Savory muffins baked specifically for dogs.

    • Mutt Shake: A dog-friendly milkshake.

    • Dogs' Bark-fast: A hearty breakfast bowl for dogs.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

6.7 South Perth Foreshore

Offers stunning skyline views and mobile coffee vans.

 

6.8 Dog Swamp (Yokine)

A shopping centre and wetland area.

 

6.9 Subiaco Strip

A revitalized hub with a strong dog culture.

 

6.10 Bunnings (Perth)


7. Adelaide: The Festival City

7.1 Harbour Town Adelaide

An open-air "biophilic" outlet mall near the airport.

7.2 Rundle Street (East End)

A premium dining strip perfect for people (and dog) watching.

  • Puppy Menu (The Austral / Mascavado):

    • Doggie Buddha Bowl: Healthy treat bowl.

    • Organic Berry Blast Cookies: Baked treats.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

7.3 Glenelg Jetty Road

The premier beach strip of Adelaide.

 

7.4 Hahndorf Village

Widely regarding as "SA's Most Pet Friendly Destination".

 

7.5 Semaphore

A retro beachside suburb.

 

7.6 Adelaide Central Market

Dogs are not allowed inside the market. The culture thrives at the periphery cafes on Gouger and Grote St.

  • Puppy Menu:

    • BYO: Best to bring your own treats.

    • Outdoor Seating: Pavement tables available.

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

7.7 North Adelaide Village

The affluent O'Connell St precinct.

  • Puppy Menu (Fare and Square):

    • Snoopy Eggs: Poached egg on brown rice.

    • Beethoven Bolognese: Beef mince with vegetables.

    • Scooby Doo Stew: Chicken tenderloins in pumpkin puree.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

7.8 Henley Square

A beautiful beachfront plaza.

  • Puppy Menu (Bacchus Bar):

    • Pup Patty: A cooked meat patty served solo.

    • Puppy Porridge: Warm oats with blueberries.

    • Oscar’s Bolognese: Dog-safe pasta sauce with meat and veggies.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

7.9 Norwood Parade

A cosmopolitan strip.

7.10 Bunnings (Adelaide)


8. Canberra: The Bush Capital

8.1 Kingston Foreshore

High-density dining facing the lake.

 

8.2 Braddon (Lonsdale St)

The hipster heart of Canberra.

  • Puppy Menu (Assembly / Tipsy Bull):

    • Fresh Water: Provided at all outdoor tables.

    • Patio Seating: Spacious areas for dogs.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

8.3 Capital Brewing Co

Features a massive lawn area in the Dairy Road precinct, Fyshwick.

 

8.4 Garema Place

Civic's central plaza.

  • Puppy Menu (Nearby Cafes):

    • Outdoor Seating: Pavement tables available.

    • BYO Treats: Best to bring your own.

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

8.5 Southside Farmers Market

No dogs allowed in the stall area (School grounds). Periphery only.

 

8.6 Belconnen Precinct

Hub on Lake Ginninderra.

  • Puppy Menu (Stella's by the Lake):

    • Dog Beer: A non-alcoholic, meat-broth beverage.

    • Peanut Butter Chicken Donut: A savoury donut treat.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

8.7 Pialligo Wineries

A rural enclave just minutes from the city.

 

8.8 Bunnings (Canberra)


9. Hobart: Heritage and Wilderness

9.1 Salamanca Place

No dogs allowed in the Saturday Market (Puppy Parking is available nearby).

 

9.2 Battery Point

A historic residential precinct perfect for walking.

  • Puppy Menu (Jackman & McRoss / Preachers):

    • Bakery Treats: Crumbs (unofficially) from the famous pies/pastries.

    • Water: Bowls in the beer garden at Preachers.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

9.3 Sandy Bay

A beachside suburb.

  • Puppy Menu (Sisterhood):

    • House-made Dog Biscuits: Signature treats baked on-site.

    • PupCup: A small cup of frothed milk or yoghurt.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

9.4 North Hobart (NoHo)

The "eat street" of Hobart.

  • Puppy Menu (Room For A Pony):

    • Pizza Crusts: (Unofficial) Often shared by owners.

    • Dog Treats: Jar on the counter for good boys and girls.

  • Connect: Facebook | Instagram

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

9.5 Cascade Brewery

Australia's oldest brewery gardens in South Hobart.

 

9.6 Rosny Park

Eastern Shore hub.

  • Puppy Menu (Petbarn Eastlands):

    • Treats: Available for purchase in-store.

    • Dog Friendly Stores: Petbarn welcomes leashed pets.

  • Connect: Official Website

  • Find it: View on Google Maps

 

9.7 Mount Wellington (kunanyi) Trail

Features the Lost Freight Cafe at The Springs.

 

9.8 Bunnings (Hobart)

Good Old Bunnings tho....


Final Tips

  • Look for signs at entry points

  • Be respectful to other shoppers

  • Bring your poop bags

  • Keep the stroller zipped or clipped

  • Pawbella strollers feature a built-in leash, making even "leashed only" areas safe.

Ready to explore? Let's roll!

 

Shop Pawbella Strollers

Know a fellow dog lover who'd love this list? Share the blog, tag your friends, and help us make the world a more pet-friendly place.

 
A woman enjoying a coffee break at an outdoor cafe with her French Bulldog resting comfortably in a Pawbella Ultimate Pet Stroller.

Most shops turn dogs away, but they welcome Pawbella strollers.

A woman in a trench coat enjoys coffee at an outdoor café while her French Bulldog relaxes beside her in the Pawbella Ultimate Pet Stroller with Detachable Carrier (up to 22kg), surrounded by greenery and people.
See Why It Works
Back to blog