BringFido's Guide to Saskatchewan

Q: Where can I take my dog in Saskatchewan?

Saskatchewan is dog friendly! Fido won’t be the only one with four legs exploring Prince Albert National Park, home to Canada’s only free-range herd of wild plains bison. This pet-friendly national park lies at the heart of Saskatchewan and boasts 17 trails to explore with your dog. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk on the Waskesiu River Trail or a challenging hike to the historic log cabin on the Grey Owl Trail, there's an adventure to suit you and your pooch here. If you’d rather paddle through the park, rent a pet-friendly kayak or canoe from the Grey Owl Center. While the town’s famed underground tunnels are out of bounds for canine tourists, the historic city of Moose Jaw is still a must-visit with your mutt. First, snap a picture of your furry best friend in the shadow of the world’s largest moose, Mac the Moose, at Moose Jaw’s visitor center. Then, hike a portion of the Trans Canada Trail through Wakamow Valley. This urban park spans more than 500 acres and has more than 12 miles of pet-friendly trails to explore. Don’t forget to make the short trip to Buffalo Pound Provincial Park to meet the captive herd of bison on the rolling green hills. If your dog wants to shake off her leash, make your way to Moose Jaw Dog Park for a game of fetch on the grass.

Q: Is Regina dog friendly?

Regina is pet friendly. Roll into Regina with your Retriever and enjoy the pet-friendly delights Saskatchewan’s capital city has to offer. Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, townsfolk gather at Regina Farmers Market to peruse stalls full of delightful offerings, including a selection of natural treats for Fido at Jenny's Bow + Meow and The Good Dog Treats. After the market, head to Wascana Place for a pleasant walk around Wascana Lake on the paved trail and a picnic on one of the luscious green spaces. Then, toast your Regina romp with a malty brew on the pet-friendly patio at Malty National Brewing Co.

Comment

Posted 8/1/2023 by Billy Francis

Bring Fido to the prairie province of Saskatchewan for an extraordinary adventure. “The Land of the Living Skies” welcomes pups to paddle by your side along scenic waterways and trace the footsteps of outlaws through hidden valleys on a guided tour. Foodies can dine on local eats and sip morning coffee inside a hip hangout. While you’re there, book a stay in a luxury barn with its own ice rink or spend a few nights in a pet-friendly hotel in the vibrant capital of Regina.

Things to Do

“Are you “shore” this is the right way?" Photo by Facebook.com/PrinceAlbertNationalPark

Paddle through stunning surroundings, learn Canadian history from the experts and let your pup play off leash in this pretty province.

Bring Fido to Bison Haven

Fido won’t be the only one with four legs exploring Prince Albert National Park in the heart of Saskatchewan. This pet-friendly park is home to Canada’s only free-range herd of wild plains bison, and you may spot them while on one of the 17 trails within the park. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk on the Waskesiu River Trail or a challenging hike to the historic log cabin on the Grey Owl Trail, there’s an adventure to suit you and your pooch. If you’d rather paddle through the park, rent a pet-friendly kayak or canoe from the Grey Owl Center.

Trails and Trains

There’s so much to see and do with your dog around Saskatoon. Pups with good recall can wander off leash through Chief Whitecap Park alongside the Saskatchewan River and learn about the area’s indigenous history. Keep heading south along the river to Cranberry Flats Conservation Area to explore trails and enjoy scenic views of the valley. For a change of pace, make a stop at Saskatchewan Railway Museum and admire vintage locomotives in the outdoor areas of the park.

Take an Outlaw Tour

Big Muddy Badlands in south Saskatchewan was once the stomping ground of famed outlaws like the Sundance Kid and Dutch Henry. Learn about the fugitives who came to this mysterious valley to disappear on an expedition with Big Muddy Tours. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join a pet-friendly day tour that will take you to highlights like Castle Butte, Big Beaver, the Outlaw Caves and sacred indigenous sites.

“It’s my birthday and I’ll pant if I want to.” Photo by @reginafarmersmarket

Romp Around Regina

Roll into Regina with your Retriever and enjoy the pet-friendly delights Saskatchewan’s capital city has to offer. Every Wednesday and Saturday morning, townsfolk gather at Regina Farmers Market to peruse stalls full of delightful offerings, including a selection of natural treats for Fido at Jenny's Bow + Meow and The Good Dog Treats. After the market, head to Wascana Place for a pleasant walk around Wascana Lake on the paved trail and a picnic on one of the luscious green spaces. Then, toast your Regina romp with a malty brew on the pet-friendly patio at Malty National Brewing Co.

Run, Play and Soak in Saskatoon

From Silverwood Dog Park’s riverside trails to the beach at the Off-Leash Recreation Area Sutherland, Saskatoon has a whole host of dedicated dog parks and off-leash spaces for pups and their owners to enjoy. Pets will need a permit from the City of Saskatoon to enter dog parks. After playing off leash, slow down and share Saskatoon’s laidback side with your Shih Tzu at Head to Tail Pet Spa, where he can enjoy a new hairdo and a microbubble bath. Then, head to Crossmount Cider Company for a refreshing brew and a free doggy bandana to compliment Fido’s fresh cut.

Make a Break for Moose Jaw

While the town’s famed underground tunnels are out of bounds for canine tourists, the historic city of Moose Jaw is still a must-visit with your mutt. First, snap a picture of your furry best friend in the shadow of the world’s largest moose, Mac the Moose, at Moose Jaw’s visitor center. Then, hike a portion of the Trans Canada Trail through Wakamow Valley. This urban park spans more than 500 acres and has more than 12 miles of pet-friendly trails to explore. Don’t forget to make the short trip to Buffalo Pound Provincial Park to meet the captive herd of bison on the rolling green hills. If your dog wants to shake off her leash, make your way to Moose Jaw Dog Park for a game of fetch on the grass.

Places to Stay

Have a barnstormin’ time! Photo by Airbnb

Spend time in a valley, on a lake and next door to a national park on your pet-friendly adventure in Saskatchewan.

Seclusion in the Valley

Nestled among 320 acres of rolling fields, hills and rivers on the edge of the Qu’Appelle Valley, this prairie grasslands farmhouse is a luxury Airbnb that the whole pack will adore. The big red barn has an immaculate interior with huge windows to allow for panoramic prairie views and hardwood floors for easy cleanup. Four-legged guests are free to explore the entire property and all of its winding trails and backcountry. During the winter months, visitors can even request an ice rink to be set up next to the barn.

Rest Up in Regina

The Hotel Saskatchewan offers exquisite accommodations in the heart of the capital. Pups will be greeted with a treat at check-in and are welcome to use one of the hotel’s plush beds during their stay. Canine callers to this historic hotel can wander across the road to Victoria Park for morning and afternoon potty breaks. Well-behaved dogs can continue to nap in the room if you need to step out and restock their treat stash.

SK Farm Stay

Bordering Prince Albert National Park, Sturgeon River Guest Ranch is the “pawfect” farm stay for adventurous Alsatians. During the day, you can watch the bison roam the grounds from the trails that weave through the property or climb into a horse-drawn cart and enjoy a guided tour from your host. When the sun sets, head back to the guesthouse for a cozy evening in the large living space with tiled floor.

Arrive by boat or plane! Photo by Airbnb

Paddle and Stay

For a truly secluded stay, book this lakefront cabin on Lac La Ronge. Only accessible by seaplane, snowmobile or boat, this remote cabin promises an undisturbed stay in idyllic surroundings. Guests have access to power, water and WiFi, but can keep it rustic by lighting the large wood fireplace at night time. If you don’t have your own boat, pack your pup’s life jacket and rent a canoe from Montreal River Outpost to paddle together to this incredible cabin on the lake.

Receive a Royal Welcome

Located along the Trans-Canada Highway, Royal Hotel Regina offers convenience and class in Saskatchewan’s capital city. Dogs will discover a welcome pack with treats, bowls and more waiting in the room. This comfortable hotel welcomes pets to join their owners for walks anywhere on the property and is within walking distance of a small local park space. Take a morning stroll to nearby Stone's Throw Coffee Collective for a morning pick-me-up.

Go Small, Or Go Home

It’s time to downsize with your dog at The Nest near Saskatoon. You and your furry best friend are free to use the pet-friendly trails to explore 40 acres of prairie land surrounding the property. Clean up your pup’s muddy paws in the outdoor shower, then head inside this cozy tiny home for an afternoon nap. When the sun sets, head back outside to see if you can catch the northern lights and stargaze with your dog.

Dog-Friendly Restaurants

“Lap it up, Mom.” Photo by Facebook.com/cohensyxe

Known as “Canada’s Breadbasket,” it’s no surprise that you can find great food here.

Celebrate Saskatchewan Beers

Sample beers from around Saskatchewan and beyond at Cohen’s Beer Republic in Saskatoon. Terriers are welcome on the terrace of this lively gathering place where pups can often be found joining in the fun. Pair your local pour with a sausage board or unique salad, while Fido laps up a bowl of water on the house.

Pups at Pete’s

After a day of exploring the trails at Prince Albert National Park, refuel on the patio at Pete's Terrace Restaurant in Waskesiu Lake. The eatery serves up classic pub fare like burgers, nachos and more. Grab a bite and listen to the live music coming from inside.

Big City Dining with Rural Hospitality

Hang out under the string lights on the welcoming patio at Harvest Eatery in Shaunavon. The menu features classic dishes with modern twists made using locally-sourced produce that reflect the province. Order a handheld Harvest Burger, beef brisket or grilled romaine salad and sip on a Banana Bread Old Fashioned.

“Chill dogs are always welcome.” Photo by Facebook.com/3313CoffeeRoasters

Coffee Indoors, Fido?

If it’s raining, bring your dog inside to lounge on the couch at 33 1/3 Coffee Roasters in Regina. This hip hangout loves when pups join their owners for morning coffee and homemade baked goods.

Madam of River Street

Moose Jaw is known as “Canada’s Most Notorious City.” The tunnels underneath the city were once used to sell liquor during prohibition. Rosie's on River Street, named after an infamous madam who evaded arrest for 20 years, pays homage to the city’s colorful history. Nowadays, you can drink openly on the pet-friendly patio at Rosie’s, which serves a selection of draft beers and breakfast all day.

A Taste of Ireland in Regina

Shannon's Pub & Grill is a casual Irish pub and eatery in Regina. Bring your dog along to the pet-friendly patio to keep you company while you sample classic Irish dishes like lamb stew, Irish poutine and more.

Where’s Fido’s dream Canadian destination? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!

Banner photo by iStock/s-eyerkaufer.