We love to shower our pets with affection, which often means bringing them along when we hit the town. With 85 million pet parents in the U.S., we’re sharing 8 of the friendliest dog cities in America.
So what makes a city dog friendly? Locations that offer affordable pet expenses, abundant health care, acres of parkland, walking trails, dog beaches, pet-friendly events, patio dining and more make a city perfect for your pup!
That’s a lot to cover, but doggie-havens like this do exist! Here are 8 of the friendliest dog cities in America:
PORTLAND, OR
Portland continues to rank as one of the friendliest dog cities in the U.S., and we’re guessing the cities 33 dog parks have something to do with this! They have more dog parks per capita than any other big city in the country. Did you know they even have their own social network for pet parents? It’s also one of the few cities in the world where you can bring your pup into a pub, and they’re even home to the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA
The City by the Bay boasts 174 dog-friendly restaurants. Just decide the type of cuisine you’re in the mood for and bring your pup along to chow down! It’s also home to the Dog Fest, an annual dog festival that celebrates dogs and raises money for charity. You’d also be surprised to hear they have the lowest average pet deposit for dog owners who are looking to rent. This city also ranks second in walkability by SmartAsset.
AUSTIN, TX
In Austin, you can find your inner peace with Austin Doga, a yoga class you can do with your dog! In addition, most Austin restaurants welcome dogs into the patio-dining area, and there are dozens of doggie daycares, dog walkers, and trainers in the city. Austin also holds the title for the largest number of no-kill shelters in America, according to Austin Pets Alive.
SEATTLE, WA
Did you know there are more dogs than children in Seattle? There are 32 meetup groups for dog lovers and an indoor dog park, which comes in handy on those famous Seattle rainy days. In addition to the indoor park, there is a total of 14 off-leash dog parks in the city, and 10 in surrounding areas. You can also bring your pup inside to a number of restaurants and bars, including Norm’s Eatery and Ale House. In addition to these fun outings, there are numerous dog spas, grooming facilities, and premier veterinary clinics.
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CHICAGO, IL
Chicago’s Montrose Dog Beach is a fun spot for your dog to run and play in the waters of Lake Michigan. The Chicago White Sox holds an annual Dog Day at the baseball park. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy baseball, a good beer, and time with their pooch? With a number of walking paths along the lake, there’s always a place to enjoy the city together.
DENVER, CO
Interested in shopping at the Farmer’s Market this weekend? In Denver, you can bring your dog along while browsing the area’s fresh fruits and veggies. And if your dog loves going for walks, the Mile High City is the place to be. With hiking and walking trails around every corner, you’re sure to find a spot to bring your pup. They also boast the Watering Bowl, which is known as “your best friend’s bar.” Here you can enjoy a good drink and snacks while your dog plays in the fully fenced 7,000 sq. ft. dog park.
NASHVILLE, TN
The famous Centennial Park houses an off-leash area in addition to dog-friendly music, movies, and art events throughout the year. Nashville also offers 182 dog-friendly restaurants that welcome patio dining for you and your pup. With 54 pet services in Nashville, you’re sure to find a great pet store, pet sitter, trainer, groomer, or vet to keep your dog happy and healthy.
SAN DIEGO, CA
A city where you can take your dog surfing? Count us in! San Diego is home to the annual Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon. There are plenty of dog parks, dog beaches, and dozens of dog-themed events, including PawMicon, the canine equivalent to San Diego’s Comic-Con. With beautiful weather year-round, you can always find a restaurant with great outdoor patio dining that allows your pooch to chow down with you too.
Jenn Fenton is the face behind the Instagram account and blog, One Hippo Two Hippo that features her rescue dogs, Riley + Jax. Her love for her rescue dogs and dog products shows through her content creation, imagery and bright, fun visuals. As a marketing and product manufacturing professional, she has created targeted content and products for national brands including Petco, PetSmart, Wayfair, HomeGoods and more. She loves connecting with other like-minded pet and animal lovers just like her! Shoot her a message to say hello!
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DailyBarker tour to ALL these cities… let’s do it! 🙂