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Today, we have a very exciting review! The lovely Jo and foster boy Wonton from @house_of_hugi have put together our very first international review from all the way down under. That's right - we have our first review for National Arboretum in Canberra, Australia. If you're like us and have a nervous or reactive pupper in tow, this leafy oasis might just be the perfect spot for your next outing. The National Arboretum Canberra is comprised of beautiful forests, secluded gardens and wide open spaces, making it the perfect adventure spot for your reactive dog.
With its lush greenery, winding tracks and stunning views, it's a haven for both humans and their furry companions. And here's the best part the site - it is strictly on-leash only! That's right, no need to worry about your nervous pooch dashing off into the bush or unruly dogs with no recall bounding up to you and your reactive dog. With attentive staff and volunteers onsite you can trust that (almost) everyone will play by the rules, keeping the atmosphere safe and relaxed!
Now, let's talk amenities. At the Village Centre you’ll find a café, toilets, gift shop and waste bins. There’s even an amazing adventure playground for human siblings!
The cafe offers takeaway so you can refuel with a coffee and cake to break up your walk and there’s water refill station nearby for humans and dogs to stay hydrated!
The Village Centre area can be busy on popular days such as weekends and public holidays but is generally quiet on weekdays especially in Autumn and Winter. It is still easy to avoid people on busy days especially if you venture away from the main carpark and centre.
What really sets the National Arboretum apart is its abundance of space. With sprawling grounds to explore, you and your reactive dog can roam to your heart's content with trails of different lengths to suit all energy levels! Trust us, there's nothing quite like brisk walk up the Dairy Farmers Hill with your furry bestie by your side.
The Arboretum is accessible for different levels of human mobility too, with accessible parking, toilets, and step-free sealed pathways around the Village Centre and from the hilltop parking area to the lookout on the Dairy Farmers Hill. Check out the ‘Paths, Tracks and Trails’ map on the Arboretum website for more info.
And if you're in need of a little solitude - there are even more secluded tracks where you can escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a moment of peace and quiet - like the Himalayan Cedar Track or the Cork Oak forest trail.
As you venture further from the Village Centre you may come across the occasional off-leash dog but you'll usually spot them with plenty of time to spare, allowing you to steer clear and avoid any potential issues!
There is paid parking at the Village Centre carpark but this all goes back into funding the upkeep of the Arboretum and maintaining free access to the grounds. There is free parking across the rest of the site but no bins so be prepared to take all waste with you!
In conclusion folks, the National Arboretum is a real gem for dog lovers, especially those with nervous or reactive pups. With its leash-only policy, attentive staff, and range of amenities, it offers a safe and welcoming environment for all.
So why not leash up your pup, grab a coffee, and come see for yourself? Trust us, you won't be disappointed. Happy adventures!
Reactivity rating (out of 5) - 4
Scenery Score (out of 5) - 5
People points (out of 5) - 5
Accessibility scare (out of 5) - 5
Canine courtesy count (out of 5) - 4
Total Tally - 4/5
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