Uncover the 50 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the USA

With the percentage of households with dogs rapidly rising in the USA, it's never been more important to know the most dog-friendly cities. An estimated 65 million households in the US own at least one dog, and pet lovers value their pets feeling welcome where they live.

We looked to our community of dog experts to get their firsthand perspective on where they call home. With over 6,000 detailed responses from our Sniffspot users, we can confidently uncover the 50 best most dog-friendly cities in the USA.

Whether you're looking to move to a dog-friendly city or you're planning a trip with your pet, you can expect to learn:

• What makes a city dog-friendly
• How we ranked cities
• The 50 best dog-friendly cities in the USA

What Makes a City Dog-Friendly?

First, what even makes a city dog-friendly? It's not just about the number of dogs that call the city home — it has to do with the city's amenities, attitude towards pets, and local laws.

When we asked our users to rate their cities based on friendliness, we asked about a variety of key factors:

• Dog parks: Do these dog-friendly cities have public off-leash dog parks readily available for canine residents?
• Hiking: Dog lovers and outdoor enthusiasts go hand-in-hand. Most dog-friendly cities also have access to dog-friendly hiking trails.
• Sniffspots: Of course, we also asked our users how they rank accessibility to private dog parks through Sniffspots in their city.
• Public parks: Are the public parks in this city also dog-friendly?
• Dog-friendly businesses: Are dogs welcome at local breweries, restaurants, and coffee shops?
• Housing: It goes without saying that the housing policies should also be dog-friendly. This includes dog-friendly neighborhoods, apartment complexes, and local laws.
• Dog waste cleanliness: Nobody likes running into unscooped dog poop in their cities! How clean are the local dog owners when it comes to pet waste?
• Leash laws: The most common pet peeve of our dog-lover community is off-leash dog encounters. In addition to leash laws, how do residents rank their frequency of encountering off-leash dogs?
• Dog services: Is there easy access to high-quality dog services like vet offices, groomers, and pet care?
• Overall cost: Last but not least, how does the overall cost of owning a dog compare in this location?

As you can see, dog owners take a lot of things into consideration when determining where to live. Dogs are members of the family, and dog-friendly cities are as important as family-friendly cities to those in these communities.

The Top 50 Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the USA

Without further ado, let's share the top 50 most dog-friendly cities in the USA. For each listing, we'll share how they rank in terms of overall dog-friendliness, as well as a local's perspective on the city they call home.

Considering a dog-friendly move or trip? We've already covered:

• Moving with dogs: essential tips and trends
• The best dog-friendly hotels in the USA
• Dog-friendly airlines ranked by our users

Jost Sorenson on Unsplash

50. Madison, Wisconsin

Nestled in Wisconsin's picturesque landscapes, Madison shines as a haven for dogs and their owners. Its extensive network of parks, including Warner Park and Sycamore Park, offers ample space for furry friends to play.

Madison's scenic beauty, recreational amenities, and welcoming nature make it a shining example of dog-friendly living, where both residents and visitors can enjoy the bond between humans and their canine companions.

Overall ranking: B-
Dog-friendly perks: Easy to walk your dog, high-quality dog services, low frequency of off-leash dogs

"We have access to many segments of the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin which is great for hiking and most hikers do a good job of picking up after their pets and keeping them on leash on these trails. There is also a lot of public land for hiking if you want to let your dogs off-leash." - Heather T.

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49. Gainesville, Florida

At number 49 on our list, Gainesville is primarily known as a college town. Home to the University of Florida, Gainesville is also very welcoming to four-legged friends.

Gainesville offers outdoor adventures and dining experiences tailored to both students and their furry companions.

Overall ranking: B-
Dog-friendly perks: Access to Sniffspots, dog-friendly hiking trails, and dog-friendly businesses (restaurants, breweries, etc)

"Gainesville is a college town so lots of doggie-friendly housing here. I'm also able to take my dog out when we go to eat as a family. There's a lot of outdoor seating. Plus, there are a lot of parks and natural springs around." - Roman J.

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48. New York City, New York

In The Big Apple, renowned for its vibrant culture and iconic skyline, the canine community thrives despite its B-rated dog-friendliness.

While public dog parks and hiking trails may be lacking (for practical reasons), the city compensates with an abundance of dog-friendly restaurants and coffee shops. Moreover, New York City boasts some of the highest quality veterinary services in the USA, ensuring the health and well-being of its beloved pets.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: High-quality dog services (vets, grooming, etc), dog-friendly housing options, and many places to walk your dog

"A lot of New Yorkers have dogs, so people here are used to there being dogs around just about everywhere. Central Park also has off-leash dog hours from 7-9 AM, but you can also navigate to dog-safe hiking trails upstate. Surprisingly, dog ownership costs aren't too high here. NYC vets aren't that much more expensive." - Leah S.

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47. Eau Claire, Wisconsin

We go back to Wisconsin for our 47 ranking, Eau Claire. With B-rated dog-friendliness, dogs and their owners thrive amidst scenic landscapes and welcoming streets.

Accessible Sniffspot private dog parks and picturesque hiking trails offer outdoor adventures in warmer months. Although dog ownership is affordable, finding pet-friendly housing can be challenging.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Many Sniffspots to choose from, dog-friendly hiking, easy to walk your dog, and overall low cost to own a dog

"There are lots of hiking trails here, and dogs are welcome at most. When it comes to dog-friendly spots, breweries are a yes. Restaurants have a hard time getting patio seating because of the weather, and the policies don't allow dogs in places that serve food." - E. N.

Ben Moreland on Unsplash

46. San Francisco, California

Next, the San Francisco Bay Area in California boasts a B-rated dog-friendliness score. Renowned for its exceptional dog-friendly hiking trails and pedestrian-friendly streets, the San Francisco Bay Area provides endless opportunities for outdoor exploration and leisurely strolls with furry companions.

Moreover, the city's high-quality dog services ensure top-notch care for beloved pets. However, the cost of dog ownership in the Bay Area can be prohibitive, posing a challenge for some residents.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking and availability of high-quality services

"San Francisco has beautiful dog-friendly parks and lovely hiking areas. There are also a lot of good sidewalks in SF, but a lot of noise and distractions." - Melanie L.

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45. Sacramento, California

As you'll quickly discover, California is a popular state on this list of the most dog-friendly cities. Sacramento is no exception. Wide, accessible outdoor areas make this a natural fit for adventure enthusiasts (humans and dogs alike).

However, Sacramento struggles with dog-friendly housing and the overall cost of dog ownership. Some owners also report long wait times for dog services.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Easy to walk your dog and many dog-friendly businesses

"So many spots nearby love dogs! Restaurants have water bowls for dogs and are just generally friendly. Lots of great small local-owned businesses too! Midtown Mutts big shout out!" - Alise L.

Ty Fiero on Unsplash

44. Lynnwood, Washington

Located just north of Seattle, Lynnwood is a favorite spot for dog owners. The Pacific Northwest in general is incredibly dog-friendly, with endless hiking trails and parks.

Lynnwood has an impressive amount of Sniffspot private dog parks, as well as welcoming dog-friendly businesses. However, the cost of owning a dog in the Lynnwood area is high.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking and walking as well as many dog-friendly businesses

"Lots of nice large parks with dogs everywhere. I love using Sniffspot. There are a few great large ones (>5 acres) a short drive away. Lots of small backyard ones that are like my own. Also, most rentals here allow dogs which is nice." - H. P.

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43. Chicago, Illinois

The biggest midwest city, Chicago has no shortage of dog lovers. With a B ranking overall, there are a lot of dog-friendly walking spots in the Windy City.

Compared to other large cities on this list, Chicago also has easy access to high-quality dog services — many of which our users say are more affordable.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly walking paths and high-quality dog services

"There are a lot of dog-friendly places and they spoil the dogs that come in! While there are a lot of dogs here, I do wish Chicago had more dog parks." - Aneta S.

Shelly Collins on Unsplash

43. San Antonio, Texas

Southwest of Austin, San Antonio is one of the most famous cities in Texas. This is for good reason since it's home to the Alamo as well as the famous San Antonio Riverwalk.

With the exception of dog-friendly public transportation, San Antonio ranks highly for dog-friendly public parks, dog-friendly businesses, and hiking.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Public parks, dog-friendly hiking trails, and dog-friendly businesses

"We have a few great dog parks in the city, and we have a lot of trails with water and views. We are getting more and more dog-friendly places." - Alexandra C.

Tia Cunningham on Unsplash

42. Baltimore, Maryland

A major seaport just outside of the nation's capital, Baltimore, Maryland has a dedicated population of dog-lovers.

Though residents would like more dog parks, it's easy to walk your dog, and you can take your pet to many coffee shops and restaurants.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly walking paths, dog-friendly businesses, and overall dog-friendly housing options

"We can take our dogs pretty much everywhere. While I wish there were a few more dog parks and Sniffspots, we have a lot of dog-friendly public parks. At least in my neighborhood, all dogs are leashed." - G. A.

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41. Nashville, Tennessee

Known as Music City, Nashville has more than just line dancing and honkytonks. A popular dog-friendly vacation spot and place to call home, Nashville earns a B ranking from our users.

Lots of restaurants and breweries in Nashville welcome dogs, and it's easy to find a safe spot to walk Fido. However, Nashville residents do wish there was more dog-friendly housing.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly businesses, easy-to-find walking areas, and dog-friendly city parks

"In Nashville, you still have to do some work to find dog-friendly places but there are several and they are generally really inviting and clean. My neighborhood is fairly quiet and easy to walk around. However, if you're renting here, there are so many restrictions that it feels like you can only have a super small toy breed or nothing." - Kelsey R.

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40. Saint Paul, Minnesota

The state capital of Minnesota and one of the Twin Cities, Saint Paul is a friendly place for pet parents to call home. Another B-ranked city, Saint Paul makes it easy to find dog-friendly parks and hiking trails.

Though finding indoor spaces for your dog can be tricky in the colder months, Saint Paul has a lot of dog-friendly businesses.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Availability of Sniffspots, public parks, and dog-friendly hiking trails

"While you can't control the people who visit them, the parks are nice with tables, poop bags, amount of land. Most dog owners here in Saint Paul are nice to deal with, and there are walking trails close by." - C. P.

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39. Los Angeles, California

Another California staple, Los Angeles is known for its Hollywood hills, glitz, and glamour. It's also a famously dog-friendly city, earning a solid B ranking from our users.

Though the Sniffspot community wishes for a lower cost of dog ownership, it's easy to walk your dog and hike in LA. There are also lots of dog-friendly housing options.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Access to Sniffspots, dog-friendly hiking trails, and welcoming businesses

"LA has lots of space and lots of options for dog parks. In my neighborhood, I rarely see off-leash dogs. If there are off-leash, they're well-trained." - Shannon W.

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38. Oakland, California

Located on the east side of San Fransisco Bay, Oakland is a vibrant mix of the old and the new. Like San Fransisco, this Bay Area city gets a B ranking. With a lot of dog-friendly public parks and businesses, Oakland is quickly becoming a furry-friend favorite.

Overall Ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly public parks and easily accessed walking areas

"I'm almost 10/10 satisfied with the dog-friendliness of my city. However, stray aggressive dogs and the need to triple-check for cars before crossing any street is why it's not a 10." - Shakira G.

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37. Olympia, Washington

We head back to the PNW for Olympia, Washington's state capital. Ranked a solid B by our users, Olympia is close to dog-friendly hiking and Sniffspots. It's also easy to find dog-friendly walking areas and parks, as well as high-quality services for your pet.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly public parks and hiking trails nearby

"Prices for dog ownership here are very reasonable, Sniffspots are priced competitively and fairly, licensing is inexpensive, dog parks are free, and the other services in the area like training or walking are all priced moderately compared to other areas as far as I know." - K.

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36. Arlington, Virginia

Located just across the Potomac River from the nation's capital, Arlington is a pleasant place to call home. This is one of the few places on our list that ranked A+ in terms of walking your dog as well as accessibility to high-quality pet services. Talk about impressive!

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: High-quality pet services, dog walking trails, and dog-friendly businesses

"There are many dog-friendly establishments and we are in a city but there is still a lot of grass. People are actually pretty good at picking up after their dog here." - C.

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35. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

A vibrant city on the shores of Lake Michigan, there's an endless charm to Milwaukee — and its dog-friendly nature is no exception.

Though Milwaukee's residents wish there were more dog parks, it's easy to walk your dog just about anywhere here. Additionally, there's a growing number of private Sniffspot parks available.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly paths, dog-friendly businesses, and high-quality dog services

"We have a lot of dog-friendly stories and patios here. Most people in MKE are respectful of leashing and keeping their distance." - J. B.

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34. Vancouver, Washington

Just across from Portland, Oregon, you'll find Vancouver, Washington. Just as quirky and cute as its neighbor, Vancouver is a PNW hidden gem for dog lovers.

With a thriving Sniffspot community, dog-friendly businesses, and nearby hiking trails, there's a reason so many people are flocking here.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking nearby and dog-friendly businesses

"Decent amount of dog-friendly spaces, sidewalks, nearby places to hike. Wish people would follow leash laws, and that the city hiking paths were wider." - Madison L.

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33. Orlando, Florida

Known famously for its high concentration of theme parks, Orlando is a magical place outside of the park gates as well. Exceptionally dog-friendly and welcoming, Orlando's neighborhoods are full of Sniffspots, dog-friendly parks, and dog-friendly housing.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly walking areas, dog-friendly parks, and dog-friendly housing

"Quite a few dog parks in our area, our fave is a really nice one with a lake for the dogs to swim in and a fenced-in wooded area for them to explore." - P.

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32. Grand Rapids, Michigan

The second largest city in Michigan, Grand Rapids is a growing city with a thriving quality of life. This isn't just for its human residents either!

Ranked a solid B by our users, Grand Rapids boasts beautiful walking trails, dog-friendly businesses, and high-quality pet services.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly walking areas, access to Sniffspots, and high-quality dog services

"I like the dog parks and sidewalks available here. We as a city do a good job of providing on-leash trails for people to use. Many apartments allow dogs for an added fee, which is reasonable." - Ren P.

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31. Kansas City, Missouri

You might know Kansas City for its jazz and BBQ, but it's also one of the fastest-growing dog-friendly cities. According to our users, Kansas City is great for dog-friendly public parks, breweries, and low-cost dog ownership.

Overall ranking: B
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly public parks and low costs

"MO has lots of trails and dog parks to hang around. I love going on walks here!" - Brinley H.

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30. Miami, Florida

If you're looking for something warm and tropical, look no further than Miami, Florida. Home to world-famous beaches and South Beach, you'll be surprised to learn just how many places here are welcoming to four-legged companions!

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly housing and dog-friendly natural areas

"Lots of dog parks, dog-friendly restaurants, and many dog-friendly businesses, however, most of these dog-friendly places are catered toward small dogs. Finding homes, apartments, condos that are accepting of large breeds is very challenging." - K. S.

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29. Santa Rosa, California

Next, we head back to the West Coast for Santa Rosa, California, a B+ rated dog-friendly city. Located in the northern part of the Bay Area, Santa Rosa is the heart of wine country. If looking for a vino getaway, you'll be surprised to learn your pooch is welcome here.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Sniffspots, dog-friendly businesses, and cleanliness

"Fair amount of dog-friendly stores and dog parks here. And, lots of Sniffspot options. I am lucky enough to live in a neighborhood that is well-kept." - Judy G.

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28. Columbus, Ohio

The biggest city in Ohio, Columbus has a lot to offer residents — both canine and human. Compared to other cities on this list, owning a dog is affordable here, and you can access numerous walking areas and city parks.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly parks and high-quality pet services

"Lots of walking paths, many people own dogs, dog-friendly patios, but no dog park and many of the neighborhoods don't allow fences for yards." - Ross P.

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27. Jacksonville, Florida

Another beachside town, Jacksonville, Florida isn't to be overlooked. From the beaches to the city parks, pets are very welcome in Jacksonville.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly parks and walking areas

"There are a good amount of SniffSpot locations to choose from within 10 miles or less from where I live, and Jacksonville also has dog-friendly restaurants, and dog parks, and dog-friendly beaches." - N. B.

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26. Cincinnati, Ohio

Known for its impressive zoo and 19th-century architecture, Cincinnati is a regional favorite. For residents, Cincinnati is generous and welcoming towards dogs. From public parks to nearby hiking trails, this is a dog walkers paradise.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly public parks and walking trails

"There are a number of dog-friendly spots and patios, and there do seem to be a lot of new spots coming up. No complaints here!" - L. S.

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25. Las Vegas, Nevada

If you're a dog lover, you might be surprised that it's worth taking a gamble on Las Vegas, Nevada. The glitzy, bright casino wonderland is home to a dog-friendly atmosphere — both on and off the Las Vegas strip.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Nearby hiking trails and dog-friendly businesses

"There are so many different dog park areas and events to socialize your dog. There are also so many easy open areas to hike during the right time of the year. Lazydog is our favorite local business to go to together!" - C. G.

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24. Dallas, Texas

This cultural hub in Texas says hello to its many dog residents with enthusiasm. Known for its green spaces and endless things to do, Dallas is beloved by its many canine locals.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: High-quality dog services and low cost of dog ownership

"Lots of places are dog-friendly here. Lots of green spaces and trails. Nice charming neighborhoods that are pleasant for dog walks!" - I.

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23. Denver, Colorado

The Mile High City isn't just for outdoor enthusiasts and climbers. It's also a popular spot for dog lovers! With excellent walking trails and stunning views, there's a reason so many pet lovers flock here.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking trails and dog parks

"There are so many dogs in Denver, and you're allowed to bring your dog into a lot of places. There are also a lot of parks and hiking trails. Even though I live in the city, there are enough green spots for my dog on our walk." - K. P.

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22. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City isn't just for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. It's also a haven for dog lovers! With beautiful hiking trails and scenic parks, it's no wonder so many pet owners are drawn to this vibrant city.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking and high-quality dog services

"SLC has a lot of activities, festivals, and dog parks. It's also very clean, and owners pick up after their dogs here." - Karen B.

Yuhan Du on Unsplash

21. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh is a fantastic place for dog lovers! Ranked highly for its dog cleanliness and walking areas, the city offers a variety of parks and scenic riverside trails. It's clear why so many pet owners find the Steel City a perfect home.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Clean dog parks and pet-friendly trails

"There are good dog parks here, and public transportation is also pet friendly. My favorite dog park nearby is Riding Meadow, it's a big and quiet park." - J. S.

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20. Lexington, Kentucky

Lexington, KY boasts numerous dog-friendly businesses, including bars and restaurants, where pets are warmly welcomed alongside their owners.

From cozy cafes to bustling breweries, there's no shortage of places to enjoy with your furry companion. Additionally, Lexington's beautiful parks and green spaces offer ample opportunities for strolls and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for both pets and their human counterparts.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Pet-friendly businesses and green spaces

"Lexington has many dog parks, dog-friendly patios, and breweries. For nearby hiking, Red River Gorge is fantastic and very dog friendly." - Katie L.

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19. New Orleans, Lousiana

New Orleans, LA is a paradise for dog owners, offering an abundance of dog parks and walking areas. From leisurely strolls along the Mississippi River to exploring the charming streets of the French Quarter, there's always something exciting to discover.

With a diverse array of pet-friendly establishments and welcoming locals, it's no wonder that dogs and their owners feel right at home in the Big Easy.

Overall ranking: B+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog parks and walking trails

"It's NOLA, so not a lot of hiking. But there are lots of bars with outdoor, dog-friendly spaces. City Bark has a lot of amenities for dogs also." - G. Z.

Stephen Poore on Unsplash

18. Richmond, Virginia

Richmond, VA has a wide range of dog-friendly services, including veterinarians and pet care facilities. With its picturesque parks and scenic riverfront trails, the city provides ample opportunities for outdoor adventures with your four-legged companion.

With a thriving pet care industry and a strong sense of community among pet owners, Richmond truly stands out as a city that embraces its furry residents.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: High-quality vets and dog parks

"Compared to other cities, Richmond has a lot of friendly and patient dog owners. This is a very friendly dog city." - Domi S.

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17. Cary, North Carolina

Cary, NC has an abundance of dog-friendly parks and hiking trails. Its scenic landscapes and welcoming community create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures with your furry companion.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly public parks and hiking trails

"Tons of parks and lots of positive reinforcement trainers in the area here. Very involved rescue community and outreach too. Lots of sidewalks and greenways in Cary." - Katie S.

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16. Seattle, Washington

Another PNW favorite, Seattle offers endless dog-friendly parks and outdoor spaces. With stunning waterfront views and expansive green areas, the Emerald City welcomes all furry friends.

Whether exploring urban trails or enjoying a day at one of the many dog parks, Seattle offers endless opportunities for you and your dog to experience the beauty of the Pacific Northwest together.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: Lots of Sniffspots, public parks, and dog-friendly hiking

"Dogs are allowed a lot of places here, and there are a lot of off-leash parks that are well maintained. Almost every hiking trail here is dog-friendly, and I live in a residential neighborhood with a lot of sidewalks and trails." - G. P.

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15. Colorado Springs, Colorado

Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Colorado Springs beckons dog lovers with its rugged landscapes and top-notch pet services. From the iconic Garden of the Gods to the breathtaking trails of Pikes Peak, this city offers a plethora of hiking opportunities for you and your furry companion to explore.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking and high-quality pet services

"Colorado Springs has a large amount of dog parks, dog-friendly restaurants, and plenty of outdoor space. There are enough hikes here where you won't always run into other people." - Ellie S.

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14. Raleigh, North Carolina

In Raleigh, NC, taking your furry friend for a stroll is a breeze. With its well-maintained sidewalks, charming neighborhoods, and numerous parks, the city offers a seamless walking experience for dog owners.

With its mild climate year-round, there's never a bad time to lace up your walking shoes and hit the pavement with your four-legged friend by your side.

Overall ranking: A-
Pet-friendly perks: Dog-friendly walking areas and hiking trails

"Raleigh is very dog friendly with great options for outdoor dining, trails, and outdoor activities. Raleigh has some of the best nature trails!" - Taylour T.

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13. Eugene, Oregon

Eugene, OR offers dog owners a perfect blend of affordability and natural beauty. From the lush forests of Spencer Butte to the serene waters of Fern Ridge Reservoir, Eugene's stunning landscapes are sure to delight both you and your canine companion.

Plus, with its relatively low cost of living, including affordable pet-friendly housing and budget-friendly amenities, Eugene makes it easy to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: Low cost of pet ownership and hiking areas

"I live in a pretty good neighborhood for walking dogs. My dog loves to go on hikes and I have never had problems with finding a dog-friendly hike here." - M. L.

Andrew S on Unsplash

12. Minneapolis, Minnesota

In vibrant Minneapolis, dogs are celebrated members of the community. The city's reasonable cost of living and pet-friendly amenities ensure that caring for your dog is both affordable and convenient. With its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor spaces to explore, Minneapolis invites you and your beloved pup to discover the joys of city living together.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: Easy-to-find dog walking trails and low cost of dog ownership

"There are large secure parks, with beautiful scenery, and great walking paths." - Rebecki B.

Acton Crawford on Unsplash

11. Aurora, Colorado

Aurora, Colorado, earns the city an impressive A- dog-friendly ranking. With its abundance of Sniffspots and high-quality dog services, Aurora ensures that furry companions are well-cared for and appreciated.

Overall ranking: A-
Dog-friendly perks: Many Sniffspots and high-quality dog services

"There are LOTS of dog parks, dog-friendly businesses, walking trails, dog stores, and more! It's not uncommon to see quite a few people out with their dogs on any given day." - Faith H.

Clark Wilson on Unsplash

10. Asheville, North Carolina

In Asheville, North Carolina, dogs are family. From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the lush forests of the surrounding area, Asheville offers dog lovers outdoor adventures, and Asheville's dog-friendly atmosphere ensures that your canine companion is always by your side.

Overall ranking: A
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly hiking and businesses

"There are lots of places you can take dogs like the Wag Bar, plenty of dog parks and outdoor trails, rivers, etc in Asheville." - Annie K.

Tony Williams on Unsplash

9. Sarasota, Florida

In the coastal city of Sarasota, dogs are cherished members of the community. When it's time to unwind and soak up the sun, a few select beaches welcome dogs to splash in the waves and enjoy the salty breeze.

With its tranquil ambiance and scenic surroundings, Sarasota beckons both you and your canine companion to savor the beauty of coastal living in the Sunshine State.

Overall ranking: A
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly beaches and housing

"People love dogs here. Everyone takes their dogs to the park to have fun with others." - Juliana W.

Wes Hicks on Unsplash

8. Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte gives dogs endless freedom with an abundance of dog parks and pet-friendly laws ensuring their happiness and well-being. From spacious off-leash areas to well-maintained trails, the city offers plenty of opportunities for pups to stretch their legs and socialize with furry friends.

Overall ranking: A
Dog-friendly perks: Dog parks and pet-friendly housing

"There's something for everyone (and every dog)." - M. N.

Jermaine Ee on Unsplash

7. San Diego, California

In the vibrant coastal city of San Diego, California, dogs are treated to dog-friendly hiking trails, breweries, and more. After a day of adventure, kick back at one of the city's dog-friendly breweries, where you can enjoy local brews and soak in the SoCal atmosphere while your pup lounges.

Overall ranking: A
Dog-friendly perks: Pet-friendly businesses and stunning hiking trails

"I see dogs everywhere I go and people are friendly about it, I would rate my city higher if there were more backyards or fenced common areas for apartment dogs." - Corgan D.

Jack Prommel on Unsplash

6. Alexandria, Virginia

Nestled in the heart of Virginia, Alexandria welcomes dogs with open arms. From grooming salons to pet boutiques and veterinary clinics, the city is well-equipped to cater to your furry friend's needs.

Whether you're pampering your pup or exploring the charming neighborhoods of Old Town, Alexandria ensures that every moment spent with your dog is filled with convenience and delight.

Overall ranking: A
Dog-friendly perks: Walking trails and high-quality pet care

"Lots of walking trails, dog owners generally train their dogs and follow the rules, dogs are generally welcome in public areas outdoors." - Laura Z

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5. Long Beach, California

Next, Long Beach, CA rolls out the red carpet for dog owners. The vibrant scene of cafes and establishments invites owners to sip their favorite brews alongside furry companions.

Moreover, Long Beach offers a wide range of dog-friendly services, including grooming parlors, pet boutiques, and veterinary clinics, ensuring that your canine companion receives top-notch care.

Overall ranking: A+
Dog-friendly perks: Pet-friendly businesses and high-quality pet care

"Close to the beach, lots of parks and open space for dogs, and most trails here allow dogs." - Court N.

Trang Nguyen on Unsplash

4. Portland, Oregon

In Portland, OR, the vibrant culture extends a warm welcome to dogs, with numerous dog-friendly businesses and breweries dotting the cityscape. So leash up your pup and embark on a culinary adventure through this beautiful PNW city.

Overall ranking: A+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly businesses and bars and pet-friendly parks

"Portland is pretty darn dog-friendly! Lots of space in Oregon to hike with dogs!" - O. D. R.

Lorin Lindell on Unsplash

3. Bellingham, Washington

While Bellingham, WA may not have an abundance of public dog parks, it makes up for it with dog-friendly hiking adventures. Whether navigating rugged mountain paths or leisurely strolling through scenic forests, Bellingham beckons both you and your dog to revel in the splendor of the Pacific Northwest.

Overall ranking: A+
Dog-friendly perks: Sniffspots and dog-friendly hiking

"There are trails throughout Bellingham and dogs are welcome when on a leash." - Jill H.

Tomek Baginski on Unsplash

2. Austin, Texas

Austin, TX is renowned for its dog-friendly culture, embracing pets as cherished members of the community. Furthermore, many of Austin's establishments and services cater to pets, from cozy cafes to reputable veterinary clinics.

Overall ranking: A+
Dog-friendly perks: Dog-friendly parks and businesses

"I live in Austin, TX and if I wanted to I could bring my dog with me literally everywhere. It's also a no-kill city and the shelters work really hard for that." - R. P.

SK on Unsplash

1. St. Petersburg, Florida

St. Petersburg, FL stands out as the epitome of a dog-friendly city, offering endless amenities for our four-legged friends.

From scenic waterfront parks to lush green spaces, the city's commitment to creating a pet-friendly community shines through at every turn. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll along the beach or visiting one of the city's many dog-friendly cafes, St. Petersburg takes first place on our list of the most dog-friendly cities in the USA!

Overall ranking: A+
Dog-friendly perks: Public dog parks and dog-friendly parks

"Many businesses including bars, restaurants, and offices allow dogs. Lots of dog parks and dedicated dog beaches. Almost all restaurants allow dogs outside and put water dishes outside!" - S. L.

Most Dog-Friendly Cities: Our Ranking

There you have it! That's how the Sniffspot community ranks their dog-friendly cities in terms of pet-friendly activities and services.

How does your city match up to those above? To those who shared their dog-friendly perspectives on their cities, thank you for your insight!