Woman walking with small dog. Image credit Ilona Peter-Halica via Shutterstock

9 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the US

From spectacular dog parks and hiking trails to hotels and cafes that welcome canines, there are a number of factors that make some cities particularly dog-friendly. Whether you are looking to travel with your dog in tow or you are curious to know if your city ranks above the rest when it comes to dog-friendliness, this guide to the best dog-friendly cities in the U.S. is here to help.

Tuscon, Arizona

Catalina State Park, Arizona. Image credit: Larry Barrett via Shutterstock

Voted the most dog-friendly city in the US by SmartAsset in 2018, Tucson, Arizona is the number one place for canines. Not only is this desert city packed with scenic trails and dog parks, but the local businesses are all about catering to man’s best friend, too. Close to 150 Tuscon businesses allow pets, including dozens of eateries, and more than 100 hotels and resorts welcome pooches as patrons as well.

Portland, Oregon

Portland skyline. Image credit: Jacob Johnson via Pixabay

Locals or those who have visited Portland, Oregon, will agree that this city ranks as one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. Given that Portland is home to many nature lovers, the city is rich with parks and trails to explore with your dog, but that is not all. Several restaurants and breweries in the city welcome dogs – some even have pet menus. For overnight stays, many hotels welcome dogs too.

Tampa, Florida

Visiting the sunshine state with your best friend? Be sure to put Tampa, Florida on your list of places to see. According to Honest Paws, Tampa is the best US city to be a dog. Several restaurants, cafes, and hotels in Tampa are dog friendly, and they are in the most popular areas of the city. So you do not need to go out of your way to find a spot that welcomes your furry friend. And if you are hoping to hit up the beach in Tampa, you will find dog-friendly beaches awaiting you.

San Francisco, California

Woman walking dogs by Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. Image credit: lindsey via Pixabay

Whether you want to take a cruise on the bay, get a sweet treat from a bakery, enjoy Sunday brunch at a hot restaurant or stroll through parks and beaches, you can do it all in San Francisco, California, with your dog. Not only does the diverse landscape of the bay area lends itself to a unique walk, but many shops, restaurants, and hotels in the city extend an open welcome to pups too.

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Garden of the Gods mountains in Colorado Springs. Image credit: comobilize via Pixabay

Given that people tend to spend the majority of their time in Colorado Springs, Colorado in nature, it is the perfect destination to visit with your dog. Bear Creek Dog Park, with an agility course, 25 acres of land for dogs to run and play, and swimming areas, is a must-visit, as is the Pub Dog, which has a dog-themed menu – in addition to its human menu. You will also find several pet-friendly accommodations, dog-friendly hiking trails, parks, and more.

San Diego, California

Chocolate lab enjoying the water in San Diego. Image credit: Reed Naliboff via Unsplash

You do not have to worry about leaving your dog at home when you go to the beach in San Diego, California. Many of the city’s beaches are dog friendly, as are several of the hotels and restaurants near the beaches. When it comes to popular landmarks, many of San Diego’s most popular attractions are dog-friendly, including Balboa Park, Old Town San Diego, Petco Park, and more.

Austin, Texas

Black and white dog running in Texas landscape. Image credit: cctm via Shutterstock

Planning a trip to Austin, Texas? Consider bringing your dog along with you. They are sure to appreciate the barbecue just as much as you do, not to mention, the city is home to several parks and trails that are well-suited to dogs and their owners. If you visit at the right time – in April or September – you can even attend a festival with your pooch.

Boston, Massachusetts

Boston downtown. Image credit: Czapp Árpád via Pexels

Boston, Massachusetts is such a beautiful city to walk around; you might as well have your dog with you when you make your way around the cobblestone streets or eye-catching harbor. After catching a drink with your pup at “yappy hour,” you can take a cruise in the harbor together. If you are planning to make Boston a permanent home for you and your pup, the city also has a number of dog-friendly apartments and neighborhoods.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago river walk. Image credit: Heather Bozman via Pexels

People might not think cosmopolitan cities like Chicago, Illinois are great for dogs, but the Windy City is actually a great place for canines and their best friends. On top of dog-friendly pubs, patios, river cruises, and walking trails, small dogs can ride the city’s trains as long as they are in a carrier.

Conclusion

From beachside San Diego to the midwest metropolis of Chicago; there are dog-friendly cities all across the country. Next time you leave the house to explore your city or travel to a new destination, consider bringing man's best friend along for the journey. In the most dog-friendly cities in the US, you will find plenty of activities, eateries, and hotels that are set to welcome you and your four-legged furry friend with open arms (and paws).

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