Sydney’s had some very soggy doggy weather lately, and whether your pup is a puddle‑jumper or the type to give you “I’m not going out in that” eyes, they still need exercise and stimulation. The good news is there are plenty of ways to keep them happy and entertained without braving the downpour. From indoor dog play areas to cosy pubs and covered cafés, here’s where to go when the skies won’t clear.
1. Indoor Dog Play Areas & Activities
Wet weather doesn’t have to mean bored dogs!
Woof & Wild – Climate Controlled Dog Playground
Located in Brookvale’s Westfield Warringah Mall, Woof & Wild is a fully indoor dog playground in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Expect agility equipment, toys and supervised play sessions in a climate-controlled space.
Dog Royalty – Indoor Dog Daycare with Room to Zoom
Dog Royalty in Alexandria offers a spacious indoor dog daycare with ramps, toys and enrichment games. Ideal for casual rainy-day drop-ins or regular care.
K9 Swim – Indoor Hydrotherapy & Fitness
K9 Swim in Richmond has heated pools, underwater treadmills and hydrotherapy programs. Great for fitness, recovery or just a fun swim.
Positive Dogs – Nose Work Training Indoors
Positive Dogs in Five Dock runs scent-detection classes indoors. Nose work is mentally stimulating and just as tiring as a long walk.
2. Dog‑Friendly Indoor Pubs & Breweries
Head to one of these dog friendly pubs in Sydney where pups are welcome inside. Always check with staff when you arrive, as policies can change or vary by time of day.
Inner West & Surrounds
- The Erko (Erskineville) – popular, relaxed and dog friendly inside.
- Vic on the Park (Marrickville) – welcomes dogs inside and has a great community vibe. In the area? See our full Dog‑Friendly Marrickville Pub Crawl.
- White Cockatoo (Petersham) – dogs allowed in the undercover outdoor area that feels almost indoors.
- The Toxeth (Glebe) – inside friendly with a photo wall of canine regulars.
- Courthouse Hotel (Newtown) – regular dog visitors and a buzzing atmosphere.
- Carlisle Castle Hotel (Newtown) – cosy pub known to allow dogs inside.
- Willie the Boatman (St Peters) – craft beer and snacks with your pup inside.
- The Riverview Hotel (Balmain) – A stylish Inner West pub where dogs are welcome indoors, perfect for keeping dry while you enjoy a hearty meal and local vibe.
Most Inner West breweries are generally dog friendly indoors, but ask staff to be sure.
Sydney CBD & The Rocks
- Australian Heritage Hotel (The Rocks) – historic pub where dogs are welcome inside.
- Captain Cook Hotel (Millers Point) – dog friendly inside.
- Hero of Waterloo (The Rocks) – dogs allowed indoors, ideal for post‑walk shelter.
South Sydney
- Yulli’s Brews (Alexandria/Surry Hills) – dog friendly brewery with indoor seating.
- The Carrington Hotel (Surry Hills) – includes both indoor and outdoor dog friendly spaces.
- BrewDog (South Everleigh) – super dog-friendly brewery and indoor space with special dog menu!
Eastern Suburbs
- The Robin Hood Hotel (Waverley) – dogs welcome inside.
- The Dog Hotel (Randwick) – everyone is welcome in this local gem. Dogs and their owners can enjoy the covered beer garden.
Parramatta
- The Albion Hotel – Classic pub vibes with genuine dog-friendly hospitality.
Sutherland Shire
- Bangor Tavern – a laid-back local with a large undercover beer garden that welcomes pups.
3. Dog‑Friendly Cafés with Covered or Indoor Spaces
Inner West
- Cafe Bones (Leichhardt) – The original dog friendly café in Sydney with covered outdoor seating and famous puppuccinos.
- Paw Haus (Mascot) – Pet store and café combo where you can shop for treats and enjoy a coffee under cover.
- Baba G’s (Rozelle) – Middle Eastern-inspired café with plenty of shelter for wet days.
Eastern Suburbs
- Doglato (Bondi & Coogee) – Dog-friendly gelato in Sydney with covered seating for rainy-day visits.
Parramatta
- Havenstone (Parramatta North) — A heritage-listed café in a charming sandstone building with indoor and outdoor seating
- River Cafe Parramatta – Grab shelter and stretch your legs. The outdoor seating is nicely covered, so you can enjoy the views even when it’s drizzly.
Sutherland Shire
- Next Door Cafe Cronulla – A friendly local café with plenty of covered seating, so you and your pup can stay snug and dry while grabbing a coffee.
Glenhaven, Terrey Hills & Milperra
- Frankie’s Food Factory (various Flower Power locations) – Family-friendly cafés set inside lush garden centres, all with dog-friendly covered seating
4. Bunnings – Indoor Sniffari
Bunnings is a quirky option for an indoor dog friendly walk in Sydney when the weather’s bad. Their official policy welcomes assistance animals and well‑behaved pets on a lead. Keep your dog under full control and clean up after them. It’s a perfect place for a stretch and sniff down the aisles, and staff often have a smile and a pat ready.
5. Fun Indoor Activities for Dogs at Home
When heading out isn’t an option, try these:
- DIY snuffle mats – hide treats for scent work.
- Obstacle course – use cushions, chairs and broomsticks for agility.
Bonus: Gear Up for Wet Weather Walks
Even if you have to venture outside, the right jacket can make a world of difference. The SlowTon Waterproof Dog Coat is lightweight, affordable, and keeps pups dry without restricting movement. It’s a great pick for rainy-day walks when the weather’s less than paw-fect.
Final Word
Rain doesn’t have to ruin your day or your dog’s. Sydney has plenty of indoor dog play areas, cosy pubs, covered cafés and creative at‑home activities to keep tails wagging when the weather’s less than paw‑fect.
We’ve done our best to find the most up to date details, however it’s always best to check by calling ahead to make sure your pup will be welcomed.
🐾 Know another hidden gem? Tag us at @Pawtripper and use #RainyDayWithMyDog so we can share it with our pack.
