Bringing Your Dog to Jasper National Park
Meet David Argument, Jasper National Park’s Resource Conservation Manager. He oversees a large team of experts dedicated to protecting the wildlife and environment of Jasper National Park. If anyone knows about the impacts of off-leash dogs in a park, it’s Dave — and it helps to know that he has a dog too!
*This content is offered in partnership with Parks Canada
The Most Important Thing to Know About Visiting Jasper National Park with Your Dog
To wildlife, your dog — no matter the size — may seem like a predator or threat. As a visitor to the park, it’s important to consider the potential impact you’re having on wildlife as well as your pet’s safety.
When visiting a national park, you are entering the home of protected wildlife. Even a well-behaved dog can stress or endanger wildlife. That’s why keeping your dog under control at all times is essential to minimize safety risks to both wildlife and your dog. As a pet caretaker, you are responsible for preventing your dog from disturbing wildlife. This means keeping dogs on leash is the best way to avoid negative interactions.
Where Can You Go with Your Dog?
Most trails near the Jasper townsite, picnic areas, lakes, and rivers are dog-friendly. However, some areas are off-limits to protect sensitive wildlife. Places dogs are not allowed include:
- Alpine trails in caribou country
- Some of the park’s busiest beaches
To enjoy the park with your dog, choose:
- Less busy and congested areas
- Established, officially marked trails
- Designated dog-friendly beaches
Off-leash Issues
Off-leash dogs are more likely to get into a conflict with wildlife. One of the biggest risks with pets in areas with bears is a loose dog encountering a bear. Bears, wolves, cougars and coyotes have been known to kill or injure dogs, and it’s almost always when the dog is not under physical control. Unfortunately, this can also result in a negative outcome for the wildlife.
Final Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Visit with Your Dog
Based on Dave’s experience, he suggests the following:
- Don’t leave your dog staked out overnight. Whether you’re tenting or staying in a recreational vehicle, bring your dog in with you.
- Keep your dog leashed whenever they are outside.
- Dog food should only be put out for a brief period, and anything uneaten should be stowed away. Dog food left out will attract wildlife to your campsite, which can result in habituation of wildlife to supplied foods, wildlife health issues, and safety issues for you and your dog.
- Pick up after your pet and dispose of all waste properly in the garbage bins.
Visiting a National Park with a dog can be a rewarding experience, for you and your dog. For more information on visiting Jasper National Park, visit the Parks Canada website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/jasper.