Airbnb for dog parks: Rent a private space for your furry friend

For just $30 an hour Queensland dog owners can let their furry friend frolic in a hinterland oasis – without the fear of other dogs or escapism.

For just $30 an hour Queensland dog owners can let their furry friend frolic in a hinterland oasis – without the fear of other dogs or escapism.

Like a form of Airbnb for dog parks, Sniffspace is a platform where dog owners can find secure, fenced areas to rent for their dogs to explore and play.

Founded in 2021 in New South Wales, Sniffspace began as a simple idea to provide dog owners with an alternative to conventional dog parks.

It has spread throughout the country now, providing a safe haven for owners of anxious dogs, larger breeds, or pets living in small spaces.

Wongawallan property owner, Paula Nokela, is one of the few Queensland residents capitalising on this emerging trend.

Banjo the two-year-old German Shepherd at a Sniffspace in Wongawallan. Picture: Nigel Hallett

“I thought I’ll give it a go, because I’ve got some extra space here. And I thought it’d be a nice little hobby, I couldn’t believe the response I got, there’s a great demand for it,” she said.

Offering three acres of partially rural land, complete with bushland and a dam for dogs to explore, Ms Nokela’s ‘sniff-ari’ has quickly become a favoured retreat for dog owners.

There is even a stash of toys and owners are welcome to bring a picnic to also enjoy the space.

Despite recently losing her own dogs to old age, Ms Nokela said she loved seeing dogs and owners enjoy her space.

Shadow, a two-yearold German Shepherd playing at the Sniffspace. Picture: Nigel Hallett

German Shepherd siblings Shadow and Banjo spent a morning at the property recently, leaving no inch un-sniffed.

Lana Webb said it was great to let Banjo “just be a dog” and explore without the judgement of others.

“Owning a big dog has its challenges and a sniff place like this opens the door for numerous opportunities for my dog,” she said.

Banjo after cooling off in the dam. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Shadow’s owner Grant Goding said it was challenging to give large dogs the chance to play off-lead.

“Many people are scared of larger breed dogs and many of them struggle with reactivity, so this is the perfect chance to let the dogs run wild,” he said.

The Wongawallan property is one of a handful in Queensland, but the concept is growing with more expected to come online soon.

German shepherd siblings Shadow and Banjo. Picture: Nigel Hallett

Sniffspace provides safe areas for dogs to play.

Banjo at the Wongawallan Sniffspace.