Ghent is widely regarded as one of Belgium's most dog-friendly cities. This medieval university town of around 270,000 people combines stunning Gothic architecture with a lively student atmosphere and a culture that genuinely welcomes dogs. Restaurant and café staff frequently offer water bowls and biscuits to visiting dogs without being asked. The Blaarmeersen recreation park features a dedicated dog beach where dogs can swim and play off-leash. The Citadelpark — Ghent's central park — provides shaded walking near the Museum of Fine Arts. The city's canal quays, pedestrianized historic center, and car-free zones create a pleasant environment for walking with pets. Ghent University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine operates a teaching hospital providing specialist veterinary care. De Lijn trams allow dogs to travel free. For pet sitters, Ghent offers a manageable size, exceptional walkability, welcoming locals, and a strong balance of urban culture and green spaces.
Veterinary Clinics
Ghent University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Merelbeke (university teaching hospital)
Sociale Dierenartsen
Zwijnaardsesteenweg 555, Ghent
Dierenartspraktijk Gent-Centrum
Central Ghent
AniCura Dierenkliniek Gentbrugge
Gentbrugge (east Ghent)
Pet-Friendly Parks
Blaarmeersen
Off-leash OKA large sport and recreation park west of the city center with a lake, sandy beach, cycling paths, and extensive green spaces. The dedicated dog beach (hondenstrand) allows dogs to swim and play off-leash during the summer season. Walking trails wind through wooded areas and open meadows. Facilities include sports courts and a seasonal café.
Zuiderlaan 5, 9000 Gent
Citadelpark
Leash requiredGhent's central park adjacent to the Museum of Fine Arts (MSK) and SMAK contemporary art museum. Features a waterfall, grotto, bandstand, and mature tree canopy providing excellent shade. Dogs must be leashed throughout. Flat, well-maintained paths make it accessible for all dogs. A convenient daily walking destination in the heart of the city.
Citadelpark, 9000 Gent
Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen
Leash requiredA 230-hectare nature reserve on the western edge of Ghent featuring wetlands, meadows, and birdwatching hides. Dogs are welcome on leash on the marked walking trails. The flat terrain follows waterways through marshland. An important site for migratory birds — dogs must be kept under control near nesting areas. A peaceful escape from the city.
Driepikkelstraat 32, 9030 Mariakerke (Gent)
Groenpark Gentbrugse Meersen
Off-leash OKA developing green corridor in Gentbrugge along the Scheldt river with meadows, walking and cycling paths, and community spaces. Designated dog zones allow off-leash play. Less crowded than the central parks and growing in popularity as new sections are completed. A good option for pet sitters based in east Ghent.
Gentbrugse Meersen, 9050 Gentbrugge
Local Pet Regulations
Leash Requirements
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times in all public spaces in Ghent, including parks, streets, and squares. Off-leash exercise is only permitted in designated dog zones (hondenloopzones) and the Blaarmeersen dog beach. Dogs are prohibited from all sporting facilities and children's playgrounds.
Microchipping and Registration
All dogs in Belgium must be microchipped and registered in the national DogID database before 8 weeks of age. Registration details must be updated within 8 days of any change of ownership or address. A European pet passport is required for travel within the EU.
Source: DogID Belgium
Dog Waste Cleanup
Owners must clean up after their dogs immediately in all public areas. Ghent provides waste bag dispensers and dog waste bins throughout the city. Fines for non-compliance start at €55. The city operates an animal food bank for pet owners on a limited budget.
Public Transport (De Lijn)
Dogs travel free on De Lijn trams and buses in Ghent. Dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle if the driver deems it necessary. Small pets in carriers also travel free. Guide dogs and assistance dogs travel without restriction. The compact city center is also easily walkable.
Source: De Lijn
Seasonal Beach Rules at Blaarmeersen
The Blaarmeersen dog beach operates seasonally, typically from May through September. Outside the beach season, dogs are welcome in the wider park on leash. During peak summer, the dog beach can be busy — early morning visits are recommended. Dogs must be under voice control in the off-leash area.
For nationwide regulations, see our Belgium pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Patershol
A medieval quarter of narrow cobblestone streets near the Castle of the Counts (Gravensteen). Known for its restaurants, many of which welcome dogs at outdoor terraces. The compact streets are atmospheric for walks, and canal-side paths connect to the wider city. A charming area with limited green space but strong character.
Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat / Citadelpark area
The neighborhood around Ghent University's central campus and Citadelpark. Wide streets, the Museum of Fine Arts, and direct park access. Student cafés and restaurants are generally very dog-friendly. Well-connected by tram and a practical base for pet sitters who want central access.
Coupure / Bloemekeswijk
A residential area along the Coupure canal with tree-lined quays, elegant townhouses, and quiet streets for walking. The canal paths extend toward Bruges and provide extended flat walking routes. Close to the Citadelpark and the city center. A peaceful, green residential area.
Mariakerke / Wondelgem
Suburban neighborhoods on Ghent's western edge near the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen nature reserve. Access to extensive walking trails through wetlands and meadows. More space and greenery than central districts. A good choice for pet sitters with active dogs who need room to move.