Search dogs across Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a dog-friendly town with the Fitzroy River, several parks where dogs can run free and a few cafes that welcome four-legged companions in the city’s centre.

Parks: There are a few dog parks in Rockhampton. The first is the off-leash dog park on Charles Street in Berserker called the Leash Free Dog Park, which features an obstacle course and drinking fountain. Kershaw Gardens features an off-leash park near the Dowling Street car park and has scenic trails within its gardens that can be explored on foot with a leashed dog. Duthie Park in Frenchville is an open park for dogs to dash around in without leash restrictions. All Blacks Park in North Rockhampton has an off-leash obstacle course and drinking fountain for dogs to enjoy. The other parks that are great for dogs are Alf Kele Park (Victoria Park) and Eddie Baker Park in Norman Gardens. For those who want a more adventurous hike with their dogs, Mount Archer offers the Nurim Circuit boardwalk at its summit in Fraser Park for dogs on a leash. This park features spectacular views of the city of Rockhampton for dogs to enjoy after a short hike to the summit.

Beaches: While Rockhampton is located inland from the Fitzroy River, it is only around 35 minutes to the beaches of Yeppoon and the Capricorn Coast. Most of these beaches permit dogs on-leash during the daytime hours and off-leash before 8am and after 4pm; thus, a trip to the beach is a relatively easy option for dogs in Rockhampton (though avoid national park areas like the beaches near Byfield).

Cafés and Restaurants: A number of restaurants in Rockhampton allow dogs to dine at their outdoor tables. These include the Riverston Tea Rooms, which permits dogs on the verandah, Coffee Society Rockhampton, which has an outdoor area that welcomes dogs starting at 5:30am, and The Criterion Hotel, which permits dogs in its outdoor areas for lunch and dinner. For breakfast, Giddy Goat Cafe and Bar on East Street is a spot that many locals favor as it allows dogs and serves breakfast.

Getting around Rockhampton with a puppy is easy once they’re a little older and more confident on a lead.

Taxis and rideshares: Many of these will take dogs, though some may not be used to having a dog on the journey so calling ahead or checking with the driver beforehand may save a little hassle. Blankets for the taxi seat are usually accepted though.

Car hires: Several car hire companies based in Rockhampton and Rockhampton Airport take dogs in their rentals so be sure to check the policy when booking your desired rental company.

Getting to the Coast: As with Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Rockhampton does not have any ferry or CityCat services to transport dogs across the coastal town. However, the town is relatively small and most puppies will be better suited to the car to reach places like Yeppoon, Emu Park or the Capricorn Coast for a day off running on the beach.

If you’re relocating to Rockhampton with a dog already in the family, or if you’re looking for a place to stay while you’re picking up your new puppy, there are plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options for you and your four-legged companion.

Hotels and motels: Many places that welcome dogs include the Archer Park Motel in the centre of town – they offer pet-friendly Queen and Twin rooms on the ground floor that don’t have carpeting. True Blue Motor Inn on the northern edge of town offers pet-friendly rooms with their own small fenced outdoor area. Park Avenue Hotel Motel also takes dogs and cats – although for a small additional fee.

Holiday homes: If you’re looking for something a little more holiday home styled, there are a range of pet-friendly holiday houses and serviced apartments available throughout Rockhampton and the surrounding Capricorn Coast on sites like Airbnb or Stayz. Just be sure to confirm with the holiday home owner the pet policy – including any weight or breed restrictions – prior to booking.

Campgrounds: Lastly, caravan parks such as Riverside Tourist Park along the Fitzroy River are generally pet-friendly for those who are camping within their own van, camper or tent. However, if you’re looking to go further afield, caravan parks like Silver Wattle Caravan Park will take dogs and cats into their cabins – again for an additional nightly fee.

Most veterinarians will recommend adopting a puppy from a reputable, registered breeder. This will guarantee that the puppy is happy and healthy, regardless of whether the puppy is purchased from a breeder in Rockhampton’s CBD or a property out on the Capricorn Coast. Do not hesitate to ask the breeders questions about the puppies’ health, temperament, and care. A reputable breeder will be happy to answer them for you.