Gothenburg is Sweden's second-largest city, situated on the west coast with a maritime character that makes it a fantastic place for pet owners. The city offers abundant green spaces, including the beloved Slottsskogen park, coastal nature reserves like Särö Västerskog, and numerous designated off-leash exercise yards (rastgårdar). Dogs ride free on Västtrafik public transport as long as they are leashed. Gothenburg's café culture is notably dog-friendly, with many establishments welcoming well-behaved dogs inside. The nearby archipelago provides unique island-hopping opportunities for adventurous pet sitters. With a population of around 590,000, the city balances urban convenience with easy access to forests, beaches, and hiking trails along the Bohuslän coast.
Veterinary Clinics
Blå Stjärnans Djursjukhus (Blue Star Animal Hospital)
Gothenburg (24/7 emergency and specialist care)
Evidensia Djursjukhuset Göteborg
Mölnlycke (east of Gothenburg)
Göteborgs Djurklinik
Hisings Backa
Pet-Friendly Parks
Slottsskogen
Leash requiredGothenburg's most popular park — 137 hectares of woodland, meadows, and ponds in the heart of the city. Dogs must be leashed in the main park, but the nearby Majvallen exercise yard offers a fenced off-leash area. Slottsskogen also features a free zoo, playgrounds, and the Natural History Museum. Accessible via tram lines 1 and 2.
Slottsskogen, 413 11 Göteborg
Hundpalatset (Dog Palace)
Off-leash OKA fully fenced off-leash dog park in Gothenburg offering spacious grounds where dogs can run freely and socialize. The park is well-maintained with separate areas and is popular among local dog owners as a daily meeting point. A dedicated community-run space with a welcoming atmosphere.
Änggårdsbergen Nature Reserve
Off-leash OKA vast nature reserve on Gothenburg's western edge with forest trails, rocky outcrops, and lakes. Excellent for longer hikes with dogs through varied terrain. Dogs must be leashed during the March 1 to August 20 wildlife protection period. Outside that window, well-behaved dogs can walk off-leash on trails.
Änggårdsbergen, Göteborg
Hovåsbadet (Dog Beach)
Off-leash OKA dog-friendly beach section a short drive south of central Gothenburg, offering coastal access where dogs can swim in the sea. There is a dedicated dog section separated from the main bathing area. Perfect for water-loving breeds during warmer months. Parking available nearby.
Local Pet Regulations
Leash Laws in Urban Areas
Dogs must be kept on a leash in all public places within Gothenburg, including streets, parks, and public squares. Off-leash exercise is permitted only in designated rastgårdar (exercise yards). Municipalities set their own local leash ordinances, and Gothenburg enforces year-round leashing in built-up areas.
Seasonal Wildlife Protection (Koppeltvång)
Between March 1 and August 20, all dogs must be kept on a leash throughout Sweden, including in forests and nature reserves. This nationwide rule protects wildlife during the breeding season. Violations can result in fines. Outside this period, dogs may be off-leash in nature if under effective control.
Source: Naturvårdsverket
Public Transport (Västtrafik)
Dogs travel free on all Västtrafik services in Gothenburg, including trams, buses, and ferries. Dogs must be leashed and kept on the floor — not on seats. Small pets in carriers also ride free. Avoid peak hours with larger dogs for the comfort of other passengers.
Dog Waste Cleanup
Dog owners must immediately pick up after their dogs in all public areas. Gothenburg provides waste bag dispensers and bins in parks and along popular walking routes. Fines apply for non-compliance. The city takes cleanliness seriously and enforcement is active.
Microchipping and Registration
All dogs in Sweden must be microchipped and registered with the Swedish Board of Agriculture (Jordbruksverket) by four months of age. The registration links the dog to its owner. Failure to register can result in fines. Dogs must also be identifiable via a collar tag with the owner's contact information.
Source: Jordbruksverket
For nationwide regulations, see our Sweden pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Majorna-Linné
A bohemian, walkable district adjacent to Slottsskogen park with tree-lined streets, independent cafés, and vintage shops. Many local cafés welcome dogs inside. Proximity to the park and the Göta älv riverfront makes it ideal for daily dog walks. Strong community of dog owners.
Haga
Gothenburg's oldest neighborhood with charming cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and cozy cafés. The area is compact and walkable, leading up to the Skansen Kronan hill which offers panoramic views and pleasant walking paths. Several cafés in Haga are known for welcoming dogs.
Långedrag
A coastal residential area in western Gothenburg with harbor walks, sailing clubs, and access to the southern archipelago ferries. Quiet streets and waterfront paths make it excellent for dog walks. The nearby Saltholmen terminal connects to car-free islands — perfect for day trips with dogs.