Explore the new Carnfunnock Dog Fields — fenced, secure spaces for dogs to run off-lead safely in Larne. Learn the rules, benefits, and responsible use tips.
🐾 Exploring the Carnfunnock Dog Fields: A Step Forward for Local Dog Owners
🐾 Exploring the Carnfunnock Dog Fields: A Step Forward for Local Dog Owners
by Scoop
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Carnfunnock Country Park has long been one of the most scenic and family-friendly destinations on the Larne coast — and now, it’s home to something new for local dog owners: dedicated enclosed dog exercise areas.
After years of discussion, planning, and community effort, Mid and East Antrim Borough Council has opened two fenced dog fields within the park — one for small dogs (under 13.5kg) and one for large dogs (over 13.5kg). These secure spaces provide a controlled environment where dogs can run freely, off-lead, without disturbing other park users.
🌿 What You’ll Find at Carnfunnock’s Dog Fields
🌿 What You’ll Find at Carnfunnock’s Dog Fields
Each exercise area features:
Fully enclosed fencing for safety
Separate fields for large and small dogs
Bin and waste facilities at the entrance
Clear rules are displayed for all users
The park’s setting offers open views toward the sea, making it a refreshing place for both owners and dogs to enjoy some outdoor time together.
📋 Dog Exercise Area Rules
📋 Dog Exercise Area Rules
The rules for using Carnfunnock’s dog fields are clear and designed to protect all visitors:
Only owners exercising their dogs may use the area
Dog foul must be removed immediately
All dogs must be licensed and vaccinated
No dogs under 4 months old
All dogs must be spayed or neutered
Owners must stay within the dog park with a lead ready at all times
Aggressive dogs must be removed immediately
No more than 3 dogs per person
Under-16s must be accompanied by an adult
Prohibited: sick dogs, food or treats (for humans or dogs), alcohol, glass, buggies, or aggressive dogs
These regulations may seem strict, but they reflect a wider effort to create safe, shared public spaces for everyone — including children, families, and those who may not be comfortable around dogs.
🏞 Why These Dog Fields Matter
🏞 Why These Dog Fields Matter
The new dog fields at Carnfunnock are part of a broader framework of Dog Control Orders introduced by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council.
Under the Dogs on Lead and Dogs Exclusion Orders, dogs must be kept on a lead or are not permitted in specific areas such as the Maze and Walled Garden, the Family Fun Zone, and parts of the main entrance and car park. These rules exist to balance the needs of all park users and ensure safety.
By creating these fenced-off-lead spaces, the Council provides a fair solution — a safe environment for dogs to run and play while maintaining order elsewhere in the park.
Community voices have highlighted that this initiative has taken significant time, funding, and insurance planning. Carnfunnock’s dog park is viewed as a pilot project — if successful, it could pave the way for more dog-friendly exercise areas across Mid and East Antrim.
💬 A Note on Shared Spaces
💬 A Note on Shared Spaces
Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and not all dogs enjoy meeting others. Responsible ownership means understanding that shared parks and promenades are for everyone. Keeping dogs on leads where required, and respecting those who prefer space, helps ensure safety and enjoyment for all.
⚠️ Why We Don’t Personally Recommend Dog Parks
⚠️ Why We Don’t Personally Recommend Dog Parks
At Larne Dog Walking, we believe controlled off-lead exercise and socialisation are important — but not all dogs thrive in shared dog park settings.
Here’s why we typically avoid dog parks:
Unpredictable behaviour: Dogs from different households may have conflicting play styles or temperaments, leading to scuffles or stress.
Health concerns: High-traffic dog areas can increase the risk of parasites or infectious diseases.
Training setbacks: Overstimulating environments can make recall and lead manners harder to maintain.
Lack of supervision: With no attendant on duty, safety depends entirely on user responsibility.
That said, for responsible owners with well-socialised dogs, these spaces can offer valuable enrichment and freedom when used thoughtfully.
If you choose to visit, take time to assess the environment before entering, avoid peak times, and ensure your dog’s recall, confidence, and vaccinations are up to date.
📍 Visit Carnfunnock Dog Fields
📍 Visit Carnfunnock Dog Fields
Carnfunnock Country Park is located just off the Coast Road (A2), a few miles north of Larne. Entry to the dog exercise areas is free, and the park offers plenty of walking trails, play areas, and coastal views to enjoy.
You can view the official Dog Control Map and further details on the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website: 👉 Carnfunnock Dog Control Map (PDF)
🐾 Final Thoughts
🐾 Final Thoughts
The new dog fields at Carnfunnock are a positive development for local dog owners, offering a secure space for safe, off-lead fun — while also promoting responsibility and respect for others in shared environments.
Used wisely, they can make a real difference in building a safer, more considerate dog-walking community.
📍 Larne Dog Walking — Trusted, Reliable, and Professional Dog Walking in Larne
🐾 Updated Section (Corrections and Community Action)
🐾 Updated Section (Corrections and Community Action)
Correction:
In our original post, we mentioned that Carnfunnock Dog Fields had double-gated entry. After feedback from local visitors, we’d like to clarify that while there is a separate gate for each section, it is not a double-gated system.
A proper double gate provides an added layer of safety by allowing one gate to close before the next opens — helping prevent excitable dogs from slipping out as others enter.
Community Feedback:
We’ve been heartened by all the feedback from local dog owners who use the fields regularly. Visitors shared valuable insights about:
Entrance Safety: The area can get muddy and slippery after heavy rain, and suggested adding stones or gravel at the entrances for better footing.
Water Access: Some noted that while there’s a hosepipe nearby, a dedicated dog water source would make a big improvement.
Dog Enrichment: Suggestions also included adding activities to stimulate dogs within the field and a seating area for owners to relax while their dogs explore.
Our Response:
Based on all your helpful feedback:
We’ve contacted the council to request the addition of a proper double-gated entry and stones/gravel at the gates to prevent slipping in wet conditions.
We are also following up on possibilities for providing fresh water access and enrichment activities (like agility obstacles or sensory features) to enhance the experience for visiting dogs and owners.
We’ll keep our readers and community updated as we hear back from the council. Your feedback truly helps shape a safer and more enjoyable environment for dogs in Larne — thank you for helping us keep the community moving forward!
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