A member of the public made the discovery at Colwick Woods.
The RSPCA has launched an appeal to find out more information.
The animal charity said that the dog was a white and tan coloured female, it had been left in bedding and a laundry cover.
She was left in a shallow hole near the cafe.
Inspector Ellis from the RSPCA who attended the incident said: “While there were no obvious signs of injuries or cause of death of this poor dog I am keen to find out how her body came to be left at this location.
“She was microchipped – but her chip was registered to an Italian database and we have been unable to gain any further information at this stage.
“I am following up on a number of lines of enquiries and I would urge anyone with information which can help my investigation to call me in confidence on 0300 123 8018.”
