Dog owners can have it rough sometimes. Some neighbors, landlords, and cities just aren’t receptive to dogs. Most often it’s due to the misconception that all dogs are unruly and ravenous. But in other cases, it’s related to the stereotypical view of dogs: that they are not meant to be public creatures; rather, they’re meant to be kept at home, guarding the fort at all times.
Thankfully, this isn’t all of the United States. There are numerous cities that are receptive to dogs, and seemingly cater to dogs and their owners.
Looking to move yourself and your dog to a dog-friendly city? Pack up the car, stock up on all-natural dog treats, and get ready to make the move to the following U.S. cities.
1. San Diego, California
San Diego is probably high on the list of cities you’ve thought of moving to, solely thanks to their great weather. But it’s also one of the most dog-friendly cities in the U.S. In many places throughout San Diego, dogs are allowed in cafes, restaurants, stores, malls, breweries, and more. Also, expect to make the most of the many restaurants with dog-specific menus.
Best of all, the city features many beaches specifically for dogs and their owners. Dogs can be let off-leash at these locations, where they can run around in the sand and surf with other dogs — all without you receiving an ordinance from the city. Whether it’s the dog beach in Del Mar or the Original Dog Beach in Ocean Beach, you and your dog can soak up the rays with no problem.
2. San Francisco, California
When you think of San Fran, there are a few images that come to mind: massive, rolling hills, classic architecture, rich culture, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Well, you and your dog can explore the entire city with no problem.
You and your dog can enjoy a day full of wonderful festivities, starting by playing at Baker Beach. Head around the corner and relax at Golden State Park, where you can treat your compatriot to bully sticks for dogs while you take in views of the Golden Gate Bridge. After that, you can hit the town, walking, stopping at more sites, grabbing coffee and a bite for yourself. Finish the day off with a bang by going to Le Marcel — a made-from-scratch, all-natural dog bakery.
Your dog is sure to love the trip as much as you.
3. Portland, Oregon
“Keep Portland Weird” might be the unofficial slogan of Portland, but there’s nothing weird about the city’s love for dogs. With riverfront, dog-friendly parks abounding and numerous forest trails that are welcoming to dog-led adventures, there’s more than enough for dogs and their owners to do together.
That’s not even mentioning the fact that Portland has more dog parks per capita than any other U.S. city. Grab a coffee, stop by Voodoo Donuts, hit the Saturday Market, and enjoy a comfortable day out with your dog.
4. Phoenix, Arizona
Phoenix is more than car dealerships, sports stadiums, cacti, and hot weather. The city has actually maintained a lot of its historical Wild West flair and natural geography. You and your dog can make the most of your trip by visiting the city’s Pioneer Living History Museum, which provides you and your dog with over 90 acres of buildings and reproductions to explore together.
From there, go hiking through Shaw Butte and South Mountain Park and Preserve. You and your dog are surely going to need a break once you’re done with your adventures. End your day at O.H.S.O. Eatery and Nano-Brewery, one of the best dog-friendly restaurants, breweries, and distilleries in the city.
5. Austin, Texas
“Keep Portland Weird” might be Portland’s moniker, but “Keep Austin Weird” gives the West Coast city’s culture a run for its money. Austin is a notably relaxed city, featuring a rich culture driven by the arts, coffee, food, cocktails, breweries, and much more. But the city has an equally incredible reputation for being dog-friendly. Whether it’s the 10-mile downtown trail that hugs Lady Bird Lake or the Texas State Capitol Grounds, there’s more than enough spots to saunter around.
Looking to grab a bite to eat while having a place for your dog to (a) get a bite of their own or (b) have a place to play with other dogs? Stop by city hotspots like the Doghouse Drinkery, Austin Eastciders, or the Yard Bar.
6. Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is an incredibly dog-friendly town, providing you and your dog with many things to do. Big fan of baseball? Stop by Guaranteed Rate Field for the Chicago White Sox’s once-a-year Dog Day. Looking to relax by one of the Great Lakes? Hit up the city’s Montrose Dog Beach, where you and your dog can catch the breathtaking, windy views of Lake Michigan.
And the fun doesn’t end there. There’s more than enough inner-city trails and pathways for you and your dog to explore, stopping by stores, restaurants, breweries, and dog-friendly cafes along the way.
7. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston might be one of the most historic cities in the United States, but there is nothing outdated about it — especially when it comes to dogs. There’s just so much for you and your dog to do throughout the city, from running and walking around the 50 acres of Boston Common to traversing the historic Freedom Trail.
But don’t stop there. Explore the 15-acre Rose Kennedy Greenway and the surrounding restaurants and cafes or rent a kayak and explore the 80-mile Charles River with your dog. Even dogs can ride the city’s subway system, known as the T. Best of all, they ride for free!
You and your dog don’t have to be landlocked to one city. Weigh your options and start planning your next vacation. In no time, you and your dog can be exploring a new city together.
