Winter might be chilly, but August in Melbourne is all about getting out with your dog and making the most of it. From wandering through the glowing inflatable rock formations at Prahran Square to pub crawls with your pup, breed meet‑ups, and even painting classes where your dog is the muse, the month is packed with ways to shake off the cold. Add in bustling weekend markets and cosy café stops, and there’s no excuse to stay home.
So grab the lead, layer up, and get ready for a month of belly rubs, beers, art and adventure – August is proof that Melbourne winters are better with dogs.
On this page:
Dog Events & Experiences
Walks, Meet-ups, and Furry Fests
August in Melbourne is packed with art, dogs and good times, from giant inflatable rock gardens that light up at night to pub crawls with your pup, paint‑and‑sip classes and breed meetups galore. Whether you’re after something creative, social or just plain fun, these are the events worth marking on your calendar this month.
Iwagumi Air Scape – Step Into a Living Rock Garden in the Heart of Prahran
Prahran Square transforms into a surreal art playground from with Iwagumi Air Scape by ENESS. Picture a rock garden the size of a city square, only these giant boulders are inflatable, soft enough to lean on, and completely free to explore. By day, it’s like wandering through an oversized stone landscape. By night, the entire square lights up with colour and an interactive soundscape that shifts as you move, filling the air with birds, insects and wind.
It’s art you can walk through, touch and experience with the whole family – dogs on leads included. Head there in the afternoon for the scale, then stay as the sun sets to see it come alive. With cafes and shops nearby, it’s an easy stop for coffee, pastries or a late lunch before immersing yourself in this one-of-a-kind urban escape.
When: 1st –17th August 2025
Location: Prahran Square
Puppy Pub Crawl Prahran – Pints, Pooches and the Perfect Sunday Stroll
If your dream Sunday includes sunny beer gardens, good food and a dog by your side, the Puppy Pub Crawl in Prahran is your vibe. Across three of Prahran’s friendliest pubs, you and your pup can stroll, sip and socialise while the dogs enjoy their own treats and doggie drinks.
Starting at College Lawn before heading to Bridie O’Reilly’s and Temperance Hotel, this dog‑friendly crawl is all about easy vibes – think leafy courtyards, discounted drinks, doggie tacos and plenty of new friends. By the end of the afternoon, you’ll have a tired, happy dog and a phone full of photos without ever leaving Prahran.
When: Sunday, 17th August 2025
Location: Prahran
Good Dogs of Darebin: Pom Party
It’s time for the tiniest, fluffiest takeover at Welcome to Thornbury. Pom Party: Pomeranian Edition is a whole day dedicated to celebrating the little divas of the dog world.
Think clouds of fluff, tiny prancing paws and enough cuteness to melt an icy Melbourne winter. Whether your Pom is rocking a bow, a bandana, or just their natural fabulousness, this is their moment to shine. Expect treats, photo ops and a park full of Pomstars and their adoring fans.
When: Sunday 24th August 2025
Location: Welcome to Thornbury, Northcote
Paws & Pints at The Angry Dog
A feel-good dog lovers meet-up at The Angry Dog in West Melbourne, hosted by Paw Share Club. Whether you’re a seasoned dog parent or just pup curious, it’s your chance to connect with locals over beers, belly rubs and real talk about pet life.
Every ticket helps pups in need because good humans stick together.
When: Saturday, 2nd August
Location: The Angry Dog, West Melbourne
Paint & Sip: Paint Your Dog Painting Class
Paint For Fun in Port Melbourne invites you and your dog to a unique painting class. Tailored for beginners, this workshop is not only about learning painting techniques but also about sharing the experience with your dog, who becomes both your muse and companion during the session. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and bonding with your dog.
When: 10th August
Location: Paint For Fun, Port Melbourne
Breed Meetups at Bark Park
Bark Park is Melbourne’s go-to indoor dog playground, the perfect spot for pups to run off-lead, make new friends, and burn energy rain, hail or shine. With regular cosy winter meetups, and fun contests like Cutest Pup competitions, it’s where wagging tails meet warm community vibes.
Humans can relax with hot drinks while the dogs romp around, pose for pro photos, and snack on pup-friendly treats. Whether you’re there for a casual play session or a full-on dog party, Bark Park keeps tails wagging and social calendars full.
Labrador: Saturday, August 9th
Maltese x Shi-tzu: Sunday, August 10th
Italian Greyhounds: Saturday, August 16th
Pugs: Sunday, August 17th
Schnauzer: Saturday, August 23rd
Finnish Lapphund: Sunday, August 24th
Breed Meetups Every Weekend at Doghouse Café
Doghouse Café is hosting a series of breed-specific meetups throughout June, bringing together dog lovers and their furry companions for mornings of socialising, play, and treats. Each event takes place in the shaded outdoor area of the café, providing a secure and welcoming space for dogs to explore while owners connect with fellow breed enthusiasts.
With delicious pupcakes and dogachinos included, these meetups are the perfect way to celebrate beloved breeds in a relaxed setting.
Greyhounds: Sunday, August 3rd
Cavalier: Saturday, August 9th
Huskys: Sunday, August 10th
Boston Terriers: Saturday, August 16th
Vizsla: Sunday, August 17th
German Shorthaired Pointer: Saturday, August 23rd
Chow Chow: Sunday, August 24th
Dachshunds: Saturday, August 30th
Dog-Friendly Markets
Looking for the perfect outing with your pup? Check out Melbourne’s dog-friendly farmers and craft markets! Shop for local produce and handmade crafts, and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. These weekly and monthly markets are a fantastic way for you and your furry friend to experience the best local Melbourne.
St Kilda Esplanade Market
Enjoy a Sunday stroll at St Kilda’s Esplanade Market with your dog. Since 1970, this beachside market has been a hit for its artisanal finds and pet-friendly atmosphere. Discover unique crafts, savor food truck treats, and spoil your pet with special items. Highlights include the “Puppy of the Day” contest and charity-supporting puppuccinos, blending fun and philanthropy into your market visit.
When: Every Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm
Location: St Kilda’s Esplanade
Price: Free
Veg Out St Kilda Farmers’ Market
The Veg Out St Kilda Farmers’ Market, happening every first Saturday of the month, is a community favourite in the bustling bayside suburb of St Kilda. Accredited by the VFMA, it’s a place where locals and visitors can enjoy fresh, local produce in a friendly, dog-welcoming environment.
When: Saturday 2nd August, 8:30 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Peanut Farm, St Kilda
Price: Free
Abbotsford Convent Farmers Market
Nestled in the scenic grounds of Melbourne’s historic Abbotsford Convent, this dog-friendly monthly market is a lively showcase of Victoria’s fresh produce. It welcomes food enthusiasts, ethical shoppers, and their dogs to discover a wide selection of fresh, seasonal produce, handmade artisan foods, and exquisite gourmet condiments, all sourced directly from Victorian farmers.
When: Saturday 9th July, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Abbotsford Convent
Price: $2 (proceeds go to the Abbotsford Convent)
Elwood Farmers Market
Held on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of each month, this dog-friendly market features over 40 stalls showcasing the finest local produce, artisan goods, and delicious treats. With a lively atmosphere enhanced by local musicians, it’s not just a place to shop but a welcoming community space where you can enjoy quality time with your dog. After exploring the market, take a scenic walk along Elster Creek to round off your visit with some extra exercise for your furry friend.
When: Saturday 9th & 23rd July, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm
Location: Elwood Primary School
Price: Free
Williamstown Farmers’ Market
Fresh local produce, delicious food, and a vibrant atmosphere at this dog-friendly market in Williamstown, Melbourne.
When: Sunday 10th August, 9:00 am to 2:00 pm
Location: Robertson Reserve, Williamstown
Price: Free
Gasworks Farmers’ Market
Experience some of the best of Victorian produce at the dog-friendly Gasworks Farmers’ Market in Albert Park. Occurring every third Saturday, this market is a celebration of sustainable living, offering everything from fresh produce to homemade delicacies and vibrant flowers.
