Brussels Pet Owners Discover New Summer Destinations for Dogs and Cats

Brussels recorded 42,800 registered dogs in the region last year, pushing local services to expand pet-friendly routes ahead of peak summer demand.

July heat and school holidays have drawn more residents outdoors with their animals, creating demand for reliable spots that avoid crowds and offer water access. The city’s animal welfare office updated its outdoor guidelines in May 2026 after complaints about restricted access in central areas during prior seasons.

Residents in Ixelles can start at the shaded paths around Étangs d’Ixelles before heading to the weekly Thursday market on Place Flagey, where vendors sell portable water bowls and leashes. Further east in Etterbeek, the Cinquantenaire Park offers fenced exercise zones near the arch that stay open until 9pm on weekdays.

City data from 2025 showed a 17 percent rise in pet-related park permits compared with 2023, with average monthly costs for basic dog-walking services listed at 180 euros through approved providers. Registration at the municipal office on Rue du Midi remains free for cats and 25 euros for dogs through the end of July.

Routes and timing

Early morning visits to the Forêt de Soignes entrance near Auderghem avoid midday sun while giving pets room to roam on marked trails. Evening canal walks along the Brussels-Charleroi waterway in Anderlecht provide cooler air and fewer cyclists after 7pm.

Owners should carry waste bags and check the city app for temporary closures before leaving home. Water stations at both parks refill automatically, and several nearby cafés on Avenue Louise accept leashed pets on their terraces until 10pm.

Next steps include downloading the updated trail map from the Brussels Animal Welfare site and testing short loops this weekend to gauge pet comfort before longer outings.