Dogs are welcome in the Drents-Friese Wold National Park. The general rule is that dogs should be kept on a leash. Within the fencing of the Aekingerzand, dogs are not allowed at all from 1 March up to and including 15 August, on account of birds breeding on the ground. For hygienic reasons, on account of the swimmers there, dogs are also not allowed at the Canadameer swimming pond. Within the fencing of the Doldersummerveld, dogs are also not allowed on account of breeding birds on the ground. In order to satisfy the wishes of dog owners, Staatsbosbeheer has marked a trail for dog owners and their best friend along which dogs can walk off leash for the largest part. The ‘natte neuzenroute’ (‘wet noses route’) starts at the visitors centre in Appelscha and is 6.5 kilometres long. The trail takes you through the forest along winding footpaths and characteristic trees. In addition, there are off-leash areas. You may find more information on off-leash areas in the leaflet (pdf, 4.2 MB). North of the Canadameer, a new pond has been created. This pond is specially intended as a bathing pond for dogs and horses.
