Shepherd Reserve Off Leash Area

Shepherd Parade Reserve is a relaxed off‑leash dog area tucked into Bardwell Valley near the local golf course. Its open-grassy layout feels like a casual escape—ideal for owners who want a low-key spot where dogs can roam and sniff without the fuss of a busy park.

The reserve is unfenced, so reliable recall is essential. The open turf makes it easy for dogs to spread out and explore, though the ground can get muddy after rain and sewerage warning signs suggest occasional maintenance issues. Bench seating lets owners take a breather, but there are no water taps or fenced boundaries to provide additional amenities or containment.

This area is best suited for medium to large dogs with good recall, paired with owners who appreciate a simple, local setting without needing elaborate facilities.

Shepherd Parade Reserve is managed by Bayside Council. You can view its location alongside all other council-managed off-leash areas on the map below. 

Other Bayside Council dog parks include Rhodes Street Reserve, Flynns Reserve, Hughes Avenue Reserve, Ron Gosling Reserve, Sparks Street Reserve, Mutch Park, High Street Reserve, Gaiarine Gardens, Bona Park, Firmstone Reserve, Astrolabe Park, Cahill Park, Lady Robinsons Beach, Sir Joseph Banks Park, Kingsgrove Avenue Reserve, Scarborough Park, and Frys Reserve.

Bayside Council has strict rules in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors to off-leash areas:

• Dogs must be kept under control and supervised at all times, in sight of their owner/handler
• You must be physically able to control or restrain the dog if required by chain, cord or leash
• Your dog should not harass people or other animals. Even when dogs are in off-leash areas, they must still be under effective voice control
• If any dog shows signs of aggression or antisocial behaviour the dog’s handler must leash and remove their dog immediately
• You must clean up after your dog at all times
• You must keep your dog on a leash when entering or exiting the designated off-leash area.