The GTA’s Top-Ranked Neighbourhoods for Pet Lovers

By Sandra De Grandis | 10 minute read

Wahi analyzed data from Local Logic, a location intelligence platform, to rank GTA neighbourhoods in Toronto, York, Peel, Durham, and Halton regions in 11 categories based on lifestyle, needs, goals and interests. Wahi’s Where to Live 2023 rankings consider neighbourhood attributes such as nearby schools, transit quality, park spaces, access to restaurants and shopping, and more..

From Lakeside Park in charming Old Oakville, to Home Smith Park situated along the Humber River in Kingsway South, Toronto, you’ll find these 15 GTA neighbourhoods are replete with parks for both you and your four-legged friend(s) to enjoy. The neighbourhoods that made this list were ranked according to characteristics such as the amount of green space and overall accessibility. We’ve also included a few dog parks in the mix. What better way to let your pooch run freely and socialize with other dogs, right?

Where to Live: Durham

Established in 1974, Oshawa/Durham — known as the Clean Energy Capital of Canada — has been steadily growing over the past couple decades. Less than an hour’s drive from Toronto, Durham is a vibrant community where you can find a variety of cafes, restaurants, as well as farmer’s markets, summer festivals, live music, and even a provincial park. Pet lovers will be happy to know their furry friends will have plenty of space to run around in.

1. Centennial, Oshawa

Located in the northern part of Oshawa, Centennial is commonly referred to as “Nosh.” It’s one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods, and sought-after by those who prefer living in a tranquil and quiet area. Coupled with an abundance of parks and green spaces, this neighbourhood can also be considered a pet lover’s paradise. There are plenty of lush green spaces, paths, as well as a trail along Oshawa Creek, so your pet will have more than enough space to stretch their legs.

Check out:

• Somerset Park: Paths, tons of green space, a trail along Oshawa Creek — you’ll find it all at Somerset Park.
• Northway Court Park: The wide trail and copious amount of green space make this park a great place to take your dog.
• North Oshawa Park: Lush trees, picnic tables, a trail, and a small creek is what you’ll find as you stroll through North Oshawa Park.

2. Blue Grass Creek, Whitby

Located in southeast Whitby, Blue Grass Creek is a newer neighbourhood. One of the bigger parks, Blue Grass Meadows Park, has a lovely hiking trail and water pond ideal for leisurely strolls. You’ll also be in close proximity to Short ‘n’ Sweet Pet Grooming and the Durham Region Animal Emergency Clinic, so won’t have to go far to find pet services in this neighbourhood.

3. Eastdale-Donevan, Oshawa

Even though Eastdale and Donevan are considered separate neighbourhoods in Oshawa, the locals think of it as one area. Eastdale-Donevan is a scenic and lush suburban neighbourhood that is quite close to the downtown core. And between Harmony Creek Trail, McKenzie Park, Baker Park, and Galahad Park, you’ll have your pick of parks, waterways, trails, and wooded areas to enjoy alongside your four-legged friend.

Where to Live: Halton

Situated in the Golden Horseshoe in Southern Ontario, Oakville/Halton region consists of four municipalities: Burlington, Oakville, Milton, and Halton Hills. It’s a diverse region that has experienced dramatic growth over the last 20 years. Here you’ll find a mixture of agricultural communities with small-town charm alongside “big city” amenities such as shopping centres, cafes, a variety of cuisines, and cultural events. It also has a scenic waterfront along Lake Ontario, dozens of parks both big and small, and more than a fair share of dog parks for your pooch to run around in.

1. Old Oakville, Oakville

Located along the shores of Lake Ontario, Old Oakville is considered one of the more charming and quaint neighbourhoods in the GTA, and it’s easy to see why. Heritage century homes dot the lakeshore, and there are plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas in the waterfront parks for you and your pet to explore on foot. It’s in close proximity to downtown Oakville, yet retains a certain rustic charm.

Check out:

• Lakeside Park: This serene park features a waterfront trail along Lake Ontario, which makes it an idyllic spot for morning or evening walks with your pet.
• Tannery Park: You’ll enjoy stunning lakeside views as you promenade along the Waterfront Trail. Don’t forget to check out the historic Oakville Lighthouse.
• Post Dog Park: The name says it all. It’s a dog park, so your pooch will have lots of quality off-leash fun while socializing with other dogs.

2. Burlington Waterfront, Burlington

Burlington Waterfront overlaps a bit with Downtown Burlington, but you won’t find the typical hustle and bustle of city life in this neighbourhood. It’s quieter and slower-paced, so if you enjoy a more peaceful lifestyle you’ll definitely like it here. Plus, you have the beach right at your doorstep, and the luxury of enjoying waterfront strolls along Lake Ontario or Brant Street Pier with your pet.

3. Palmer, Burlington

Palmer is nicely nestled in central Burlington, which gives you easy access to major landmarks, as well as local parks and pet supply stores, such as PetMax. You also won’t find a lack of greenery in this part of town. Tree-lined boulevards and green spaces such as Sycamore Park, Lansdown Park and the eponymous Palmer Park are all dog-friendly, so you’ll have your pick of the litter (no pun intended!).

Where to Live: Peel

Mississauga/Peel is one of the fastest growing and culturally diverse areas in the GTA. Its close proximity to Toronto via highways and public transportation make it a highly sought-after area for people of all ages. You can find it all in Peel Region: art galleries, museums, cultural events, theatres, and recreational centres. Residents of Peel have access to over a dozen conservation areas and parks. For all you pet lovers out there, this means your four-legged friend(s) will have plenty of opportunity to explore the outdoors.

1. Applewood, Mississauga

Prior to the 1950s, much of the area known as Applewood actually consisted of apple orchards, hence the name. Land development started in the 50s, and fast-forward to today, it’s one of Mississauga’s more vibrant and friendly neighbourhoods. It’s also known for having lots of open green spaces. Take your time exploring the various foot paths and relaxing under the shady trees with your pooch in Applewood’s dog-friendly parks.

Check out:

• Westacres Park: A quiet, well-maintained park equipped with sports fields, bike and walking paths, and plenty of room for your pooch to run around.
• Fred Halliday Memorial Park: This small park has more than enough green space and paths for you to walk your dog.
• Applewood Hills Park: Shady trees, cycle and walking paths, Applewood Trail — there is lots to do in this park with or without your pet.

2. Lakeview, Mississauga

Situated on the shores of Lake Ontario in the southeastern corner of Mississauga, Lakeview boasts stunning panoramic waterfront views. One of the major perks of living here is the close proximity to the lake, the tranquil atmosphere, and easy access to downtown Toronto. Pet lovers will also be delighted to know there are copious amounts of green spaces and parks along Lake Ontario, including Marie Curtis Dog Park.

3. Dixie, Mississauga

Although a highly commercial and industrial area, there is a sizable residential enclave found in Dixie. In this densely populated neighbourhood you won’t find a lack of amenities, and that includes public parks. The biggest park in Dixie is Etobicoke Valley Park. With 19.6 hectares full of trees, open green spaces, creekside trails, and an off-leash dog park at the end of Etobicoke Creek, your pet won’t get bored in this part of town.