This list showcases the top dog rescues & shelters in Ohio. These remarkable organizations have been recognized for their unwavering dedication to the well-being of countless dogs. We've compiled this list by gathering heartfelt testimonials from both the Sniffspot community and the wider public, ensuring a comprehensive perspective on these exceptional shelters.
#25 in United States, #1 in Ohio, #1 in Akron
Akron
One of A Kind Pet Rescue is a non-profit organization founded in November 2005 and is funded by private donations. The organization is dedicated to saving animal lives, rescuing pets in imminent danger of euthanasia, spaying/neutering and adoption of homeless animals into appropriate, loving homes. We are a no-time-limit shelter, and no adoptable animal is euthanized. Many of our animals come from Animal Control Facilities (the pound) just prior to their scheduled euthanasia. Sick or injured animals brought to us by Good Samaritans are often given priority. Owner surrenders and strays are accepted when space is available.
"So much to say. We adopted our Sheldon (who was born there when his Mom was rescued) 8 yrs ago...."
— jennifer m.
Adoptee
"We have been donating to One Of a Kind Rescue in Ohio for years, and we finally just adopted our..."
— kristy u.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
#30 in United States, #2 in Ohio, #1 in Columbus
Columbus
Cabin Critters Rescue is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit in Scioto County, Ohio, that is focused on animal rescue and education. Started in February of 2019, we have rescued over 1000 dogs and cats (plus many other types of animals). Our primary focus is to find loving homes for our animal friends where they will thrive and be loved for the rest of their lives. We also care much about the humans behind the animals, therefore we are also really big in educating and providing awareness, as well as help to those who seek it.
"Cabin Critters has done so much for rescue & adoption efforts in the greater Portsmouth area! They are very..."
— carroll m.
Supporter, Fan
"Finding homes for the homeless. Helping those without a voice."
— kelly c.
Volunteer / foster
#46 in United States, #3 in Ohio, #2 in Columbus
Columbus
CHA Animal Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter in northeast Columbus, Ohio. CHA is funded solely from adoption fees, donations from the public, and our own fundraising efforts.
"CHA is always encouraging & helpful to potential families for the fur babies they care for & their volunteers are..."
— tabitha g.
Supporter
"I've been a fan of CHA for years. I adopted my very first cat through CHA when I was a..."
— andrea m.
Fan
#47 in United States, #4 in Ohio, #1 in Cleveland
Cleveland
NorthEast Ohio Collie Rescue was founded in 1995 by a group of individuals dedicated to the welfare and rescue of Collies in northeast Ohio. Many of our members also belong to local Collie clubs, obedience groups or are affiliated with other rescue organizations and local animal shelters.
"My wife and I were very fortunate to give two collies from Northeast Ohio Collie Rescue forever homes. After..."
— michael d.
Adoptee, Supporter, Fan
"This rescue does amazing work for the breed and truly cares for the animals"
— amy.
Adoptee, Supporter
#87 in United States, #5 in Ohio
Rico Pet Recovery is a nonprofit group dedicated to lost pet recovery in the Central Ohio area. Through donations and our volunteer network, we have successfully trapped and returned hundreds of family pets to their homes, all at no cost to the pet owner. Some are lost from owners, but many are abandoned and scared, strayed, injured and forgotten.
"Good work!? 24/7 no questions asked!!! Bad asses!"
— kris b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Endless work saving helpless animals, rehoming the unwanted, vetting those who others felt could fend for themselves. I will do..."
— carrie r.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
#88 in United States, #6 in Ohio, #3 in Columbus
Columbus
We are a 501(c)3 breed specific rescue that specializes in rehabilitating and rehoming basset hounds .
"BBHR is an amazing rescue! This group has so much knowledge of Bassets and the best type of environment for..."
— rebecca k.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"The people that run Buckeye Bassett Hound Rescue are Awesome. My husband and I along with our 2 dogs..."
— cathy g.
Supporter
#91 in United States, #7 in Ohio, #2 in Cleveland
Cleveland
Berea Animal Rescue Friends (ARF) is a no-time-limit animal shelter that rescues stray and homeless companion animals, provides medical care, spay/neuter, vaccinations and housing, and prepares animals for adoption into loving homes. We began as a grassroots organization in a family's garage and through hard work and the dedication of volunteers answering a real need in the community; the operation grew when the city of Berea provided us with a small building and utility costs; in return the shelter agreed to always have an open cage for the city's strays. The shelter was incorporated in 1987, and has now become one of the largest shelters in the region. In 2012 ARF purchased 16 acres of land in Columbia Township as the site to build a much-needed, larger shelter facility. We launched a Capital Campaign to raise funds for building, and in June of 2020 we moved into our beautiful new 5,300 square foot shelter . offering greater capacity to house animals and an enhanced environment for volunteers and adopters.
"Berea ARF is undoubtedly the finest rescue organization out there. Their unwavering dedication, compassionate approach, and unparalleled commitment to saving..."
— heather k.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"I can't imagine our family without Muttley thanks to Berea ARF"
— michael k.
Adoptee
#96 in United States, #8 in Ohio, #1 in Youngstown
Youngstown
At Paws and Prayers, a dedicated force of volunteers drive our goal of saving as many animal lives as we possibly can. Founded in 2001, Paws and Prayers blossomed from the notion that all cast-off animals deserve only the best lives as loved, indoor pets. With a higher power's guiding hand and unending prayers, the rescuers that formed Paws and Prayers sought to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home forgotten, neglected, or otherwise left-behind pets. One of the first of its kind, Paws and Prayers rescuers formed a foster-based rescue system in which every saved pet was cared for in the loving homes of the organization's volunteers until the perfect adoptive home is found. In its inaugural year, Paws and Prayers saved the lives of 200 dogs and cats. Paws and Prayers ever-growing base of volunteers and foster homes proudly saves hundreds of pets each
"There was the dog that saved his family from a fire. There was the dog that fell through the ice..."
— marty h.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster, Supporter, Fan
"Paws and Prayers is a foster-based rescue who provides love and a caring family for each dog or cat waiting..."
— mary k.
Adoptee
#97 in United States, #9 in Ohio, #1 in Dayton
Dayton
In 1974, a group of dedicated individuals committed to offering the Miami Valley an alternative to the traditional animal welfare system, came together and created the Society for the Improvement of Conditions for Stray Animals (SICSA). For 50 years, people in the Miami Valley have supported the SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center in a partnership of caring to build a strong humane community. In 2020, SICSA built a new, state-of-the-art facility located at 8172 Washington Church Road, Dayton, OH 45458. This facility features a spacious Veterinary Clinic, a Temporary Care Wing, numerous Play Yards, and more!
"Rico has been there to help every time I have asked them when I found an abandoned dog. They have..."
— diane m.
Supporter
"In July of 2023 I lost my 11 yrs old girl Swayze to liver failure. I WFH and my apartment..."
— renee d.
Adoptee
#98 in United States, #10 in Ohio, #4 in Columbus
Columbus
STS (Stop the Suffering) is volunteer run animal rescue based in Columbus, Ohio. We rescue dogs from all over Ohio, northern Kentucky and West Virginia. We house dogs through foster homes and strive to connect each one with their perfect forever family. STS is a 501(c) 3.
"STS is such a wonderful organization. They help so many animals be safer from poor rural shelters that would not..."
— lynn s.
Volunteer / foster, Supporter
"N/a"
— tracy s.
Supporter, Fan
#98 in United States, #10 in Ohio, #4 in Columbus
Columbus
We're Tri-State Collie Rescue (TSCR), a 100% volunteer- and foster-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has been dedicated to Collies, Shelties, and mixes thereof for over 40 years now. Our mission is simple: Rescue Restore Rehome
"Pack lyfe has not only gave me my 3rd rescue jumping jax but has helped me to foster with support..."
— kristen b.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"Adopted a beautiful tri collie girl from them. When they got her she was heartworm positive. They went..."
— felicia r.
Adoptee
#98 in United States, #10 in Ohio
RESCUEDohio is a 501(c)3 organization that is run entirely by volunteers with no paid staff Founded in August of 2015 by animal rescuers who wanted to do dog rescue differently Our volunteers & board of 7 are dog first focused & work tirelessly to place dogs into loving, compatible homes As a foster-based rescue, all dogs are in foster homes prior to adoption Because we are all volunteers with day-jobs, families & other responsibilities, we do not have a physical location, phone number, or hours of operation.
"100% volunteer, foster home based, all-breed rescue. Several hospice fosters currently."
— anita d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
"RESCUEDOhio is an all-volunteer dog rescue that is completely foster home based. They rely on donations from supporters and fundraising..."
— anita d.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #1 in Cincinnati
Cincinnati
Cincinnati Animal CARE operates Hamilton County's one and only animal shelter and is responsible for the county's dog warden and animal control services. As the sole taxpayer-funded provider of these services, we are committed to ensuring that all animals in our community are valued, protected and have a safe place to call home. We meet the immediate needs of animals that come to us through highly individualized care, life-saving solutions and temporary housing either in the shelter itself, or in foster homes throughout the community as we work to find safe and compatible homes for all. Known also as Cincy CARE, we assumed responsibility for Hamilton County animal services in August 2020, becoming the state's first open-admission municipal shelter committed to the humane no-kill philosophy, which means only euthanizing an animal when there is no other option for a live outcome.
"I know volunteers personally (Mellissa Gonzalez) that helps there at the shelter, they really try so hard to get dogs..."
— loni r.
Supporter, Fan
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #2 in Akron
Akron
Northeast Ohio Shetland Sheepdog Rescue, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit network of individuals concerned with the welfare of Shelties. It is not a shelter. We are dedicated to providing an alternative to dogs in Northeast Ohio who have been abandoned, abused, or given up by their owners.
"I have adopted 2 dogs through Freedom Ride Rescue. Cam, who is now 3, we adopted in 2021...."
— julie a.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #2 in Akron
#5 in golden Retriever
Golden Retriever
Akron
Golden Retrievers in Need Rescue Service, Inc., also known as GRIN is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, incorporated in 1992 by a group of Golden Retriever enthusiasts who recognized the need to find good homes for the countless Golden Retrievers euthanized each year for lack of a loving home. Thirty years later we are proud to continue the work they began.
"GRIN helps golden retrievers make it out of puppy mills alive!"
— angela k.
Supporter
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #5 in Columbus
Columbus
Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio is an all-volunteer, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has rescued hundreds of dogs since its inception in 2003. Donations and fees go directly to supporting the care and placement of our rescued dogs. AHDRO is a 100% volunteer organization. AHDRO's mission is to provide homeless collies, shelties, and mixes of both breeds a safe haven where they will receive medical care, nutrition, and love until their forever homes are found
"We are the most fortunate family who adopted the most wonderful collie from Almost Home Dog Rescue of Ohio ...."
— larry a.
Adoptee
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #5 in Columbus
Columbus
Our approach to advancing animal welfare is based on the belief that innovation should be constant. And that moving forward with thought-leading programs that enrich, fulfill and, yes, save lives is more than a goal. It's a given.
"CHA is the most caring animal shelter I have ever been to. Volunteering there, I got to see behind the..."
— brynley p.
Volunteer / foster, Fan
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #5 in Columbus
Columbus
Welcome to Gigi's! We're a nonprofit regional care organization that provides homeless dogs with access to quality shelter, veterinary, behavior, and adoption services at our state-of-the-art campus in Columbus, Ohio. We give homeless dogs in rural shelters the love and support they need to be ready for a home -- just like yours! Whether you're looking to adopt a pet, make a difference as a foster or volunteer, or give to save shelter dogs, we're excited you're here!
"I recently adopted my dog through Gigi's and was so pleased with the process. I was nervous about adopting another..."
— emily p.
Adoptee
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio, #2 in Youngstown
Youngstown
Pawsitive Hope Inc. is an animal rescue that has many parts; we take in animals with medical issues from shelters, take in owner surrendered medical animals, and provide medical / surgical care to animals that are part of other rescues. Pawsitive Hope Inc. also assists in educating the public on the benefits of spaying / neutering, we financially assist low income families to have their pets altered and we have created a program called Fix A Family that is available to families with pregnant dogs/cats, or dog/cats with litters. We provide medical care for the moms and puppies until the puppies are weaned. We then vaccinate, deworm, apply flea prevention, microchip and spay/neuter puppies, subsequently placing the animals up for adoption. We will also spay/neuter the parent dogs free of charge and return them to their owners. In addition we alter cats that are part of Trap, Neuter, Release programs. We volunteer our services as veterinarians, veterinary technicians and assistants to spay/ neuter clinics for low income families.
"The shelter had 21 puppies all at once and my dog and I wanted a puppy so we thought we..."
— francine c.
Adoptee, Volunteer / foster
#99 in United States, #11 in Ohio
Our Mission is to rescue and rehome companion animals. We spay and neuter to reduce overpopulation and to assist in reducing the euthanasia rate for companion animals. We do this by providing the best possible care and treatment while waiting to place them in safe and loving permanent homes.
"We adopted a sweet mixed breed dog from a rescue organization in Ohio but now that we have moved we..."
— pj g.
Adoptee, Supporter
One of A Kind Pet Rescue is a non-profit organization founded in November 2005 and is funded by private donations. The organization is dedicated to saving animal lives, rescuing pets in imminent danger of euthanasia, spaying/neutering and adoption of homeless animals into appropriate, loving homes. We are a no-time-limit shelter, and no adoptable animal is euthanized. Many of our animals come from Animal Control Facilities (the pound) just prior to their scheduled euthanasia. Sick or injured animals brought to us by Good Samaritans are often given priority. Owner surrenders and strays are accepted when space is available.
Northeast Ohio Shetland Sheepdog Rescue, Inc. is a 501c3 non-profit network of individuals concerned with the welfare of Shelties. It is not a shelter. We are dedicated to providing an alternative to dogs in Northeast Ohio who have been abandoned, abused, or given up by their owners.
Golden Retrievers in Need Rescue Service, Inc., also known as GRIN is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, incorporated in 1992 by a group of Golden Retriever enthusiasts who recognized the need to find good homes for the countless Golden Retrievers euthanized each year for lack of a loving home. Thirty years later we are proud to continue the work they began.
Founded in 1949, League for Animal Welfare is a privately funded, non-profit organization providing much-needed care for unwanted, lost and neglected cats and dogs in our community. As the oldest and one of the largest no-kill shelters in the area, the League serves the Greater Cincinnati area through initiatives to reduce the number of homeless animals and to help people better care for their pets. With the support of our dedicated staff, volunteers, foster families and friends, the League provides medical and behavioral care for more than 1,500 cats and dogs we find loving homes for each year. In addition to our sheltering services, the League also addresses the root causes of companion animal homelessness through assistance to local pet owners, including our pet food pantry; spay/neuter voucher program; vaccine clinics; and veterinary assistance program.
From Heaven to Earth is a 501c3 rescue that wants to save as many adoptable puppies as possible, proactively. Most of our puppies come from Amish, Farmers, and other families that have not gotten their pets spay/neutered. Many people still hold to the idea that spay/neuter takes the work out of the dog, others avoid it for religious reasons. This will sometimes attract people that use the puppies for negative things such as dog fights, etc.
Cincinnati Animal CARE operates Hamilton County's one and only animal shelter and is responsible for the county's dog warden and animal control services. As the sole taxpayer-funded provider of these services, we are committed to ensuring that all animals in our community are valued, protected and have a safe place to call home. We meet the immediate needs of animals that come to us through highly individualized care, life-saving solutions and temporary housing either in the shelter itself, or in foster homes throughout the community as we work to find safe and compatible homes for all. Known also as Cincy CARE, we assumed responsibility for Hamilton County animal services in August 2020, becoming the state's first open-admission municipal shelter committed to the humane no-kill philosophy, which means only euthanizing an animal when there is no other option for a live outcome.
NorthEast Ohio Collie Rescue was founded in 1995 by a group of individuals dedicated to the welfare and rescue of Collies in northeast Ohio. Many of our members also belong to local Collie clubs, obedience groups or are affiliated with other rescue organizations and local animal shelters.
Berea Animal Rescue Friends (ARF) is a no-time-limit animal shelter that rescues stray and homeless companion animals, provides medical care, spay/neuter, vaccinations and housing, and prepares animals for adoption into loving homes. We began as a grassroots organization in a family's garage and through hard work and the dedication of volunteers answering a real need in the community; the operation grew when the city of Berea provided us with a small building and utility costs; in return the shelter agreed to always have an open cage for the city's strays. The shelter was incorporated in 1987, and has now become one of the largest shelters in the region. In 2012 ARF purchased 16 acres of land in Columbia Township as the site to build a much-needed, larger shelter facility. We launched a Capital Campaign to raise funds for building, and in June of 2020 we moved into our beautiful new 5,300 square foot shelter . offering greater capacity to house animals and an enhanced environment for volunteers and adopters.
The mission of the Cleveland Division of Animal Care and Control is to reduce the number of stray and unwanted animals by enforcing City animal ordinances and connecting residents to low-cost spay & neuter services. In addition to helping animals in need, the Cleveland Division of Animal Care & Control (CACC) responds to complaints, enforces ordinances, picks up stray animals, and reunites lost pets with their owners. The Division also provides resources and assistance to animal owners while making every effort to facilitate positive outcomes for animals in their care.
Cabin Critters Rescue is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit in Scioto County, Ohio, that is focused on animal rescue and education. Started in February of 2019, we have rescued over 1000 dogs and cats (plus many other types of animals). Our primary focus is to find loving homes for our animal friends where they will thrive and be loved for the rest of their lives. We also care much about the humans behind the animals, therefore we are also really big in educating and providing awareness, as well as help to those who seek it.
CHA Animal Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit animal shelter in northeast Columbus, Ohio. CHA is funded solely from adoption fees, donations from the public, and our own fundraising efforts.
We are a 501(c)3 breed specific rescue that specializes in rehabilitating and rehoming basset hounds .
In 1974, a group of dedicated individuals committed to offering the Miami Valley an alternative to the traditional animal welfare system, came together and created the Society for the Improvement of Conditions for Stray Animals (SICSA). For 50 years, people in the Miami Valley have supported the SICSA Pet Adoption and Wellness Center in a partnership of caring to build a strong humane community. In 2020, SICSA built a new, state-of-the-art facility located at 8172 Washington Church Road, Dayton, OH 45458. This facility features a spacious Veterinary Clinic, a Temporary Care Wing, numerous Play Yards, and more!
The Champaign County Animal Welfare League (CCAWL) is a unique organization created to provide a safe haven for the unwanted, abandoned, neglected and abused animals of champaign and surrounding counties. Our unique facility is home to not only domestic animals but wildlife as well that are in need of rehabilitation. The CCAWL is also a sanctuary and provides a safe haven for the life of an animal until adoption. We pride ourselves on giving the utmost care to anything and everything that comes our way.
Established in June of 2018, Brave Breed Rescue, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non profit corporation dedicated to rescuing and re-homing all dog breeds that enter our care. Brave Breed Rescue, Inc. is located in West Milton, Ohio. From that location, we have great devotion towards rescuing dogs and finding them loving homes where they receive the care and respect that they so greatly deserve.
Island Safe Harbor is a 501(c) 3 non- profit organization which was founded June 3rd, 2011 by Nancy R. Benevento-Brown. We rescue the dogs that have been forgotten by everyone else. The sick, the disabled, the elderly, the misunderstood.
The Lucas County Pit Crew supports responsible guardians of companion animals in our community, with an emphasis on Pit Bull Terrier type dogs and community cats, through education, advocacy, training assistance, spay/neuter promotion, foster care, and adoption.We are defined by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. We define ourselves as a FOR PURPOSE organization because we are making a positive difference in our community each and every day!
At Paws and Prayers, a dedicated force of volunteers drive our goal of saving as many animal lives as we possibly can. Founded in 2001, Paws and Prayers blossomed from the notion that all cast-off animals deserve only the best lives as loved, indoor pets. With a higher power's guiding hand and unending prayers, the rescuers that formed Paws and Prayers sought to rescue, rehabilitate and re-home forgotten, neglected, or otherwise left-behind pets. One of the first of its kind, Paws and Prayers rescuers formed a foster-based rescue system in which every saved pet was cared for in the loving homes of the organization's volunteers until the perfect adoptive home is found. In its inaugural year, Paws and Prayers saved the lives of 200 dogs and cats. Paws and Prayers ever-growing base of volunteers and foster homes proudly saves hundreds of pets each
Pawsitive Hope Inc. is an animal rescue that has many parts; we take in animals with medical issues from shelters, take in owner surrendered medical animals, and provide medical / surgical care to animals that are part of other rescues. Pawsitive Hope Inc. also assists in educating the public on the benefits of spaying / neutering, we financially assist low income families to have their pets altered and we have created a program called Fix A Family that is available to families with pregnant dogs/cats, or dog/cats with litters. We provide medical care for the moms and puppies until the puppies are weaned. We then vaccinate, deworm, apply flea prevention, microchip and spay/neuter puppies, subsequently placing the animals up for adoption. We will also spay/neuter the parent dogs free of charge and return them to their owners. In addition we alter cats that are part of Trap, Neuter, Release programs. We volunteer our services as veterinarians, veterinary technicians and assistants to spay/ neuter clinics for low income families.
Advocacy We are the voice of Summit County's animals. We advocate on behalf of animals for their safety and compassionate care through education, awareness, and humane law enforcement. Compassion We demonstrate kindness and compassion for both the animals and people of our community. Our shelter is a safe haven, our adoption work completes families, and our resources support pet owners. Leadership We strive to set an example for high quality animal care, demonstrate integrity of action, and elevate the cause of animal welfare in our community. Partnership We create a continuum of support for animals through partnerships to rescue animals in need, provide for animals in our care, and advance shared values resulting in a compassionate community.
Welcome to the 2024 Ohio Sniffspot Top Dog Rescue & Shelter List, highlighting the top rescues and shelters in Ohio chosen by the Sniffspot community and the public.
Sponsored by Sniffspot, the largest global network of private dog parks, each park offers secure, private bookings on private land, including fenced, water, indoor, and beach parks. As a hub for rescue dogs, our sponsorship underscores our dedication to supporting shelters and rescues. Explore Ohio dog parks on Sniffspot's platform.
One of A Kind Pet Rescue adopts cats & dogs into loving, appropriate homes. We require all adopters to visit the rescue, meet the pet, and complete both an application and interview process. Adopters must be at least 18 years of age, have a stable home and ability to properly care for their pet. We verify residency and obtain landlord approvals if applicable. Adopted dogs must also meet existing family dogs prior to adoption. All pets are spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and flea/tick/worm treated prior to adoption.
Does your dog ever growl when you walk by their food dish? Maybe they get possessive of treats, carrying them far away and giving you side-eye when you start to approach — or snarling at your other pets or children if they get too close.
As almost every dog owner is aware, the nose of a dog is an amazing thing. Just as they can pick up sounds we can’t hear, their sense of smell and ability to pick up scents is well beyond ours. In fact, dogs have 40 times the number of olfactory receptors as humans.
More than 80 million Americans rely on their service dogs to help them navigate the world. Task-trained assistance animals perform a huge range of life-changing—in many cases, life-saving—services: These dogs act as eyes for visually impaired handlers, provide mobility support, alert to seizures and blood sugar crashes, interrupt anxiety attacks, remind their people to take medications, and so much more.
You thought your dog was house trained. Your home was clean from puddles of pee, those dreaded middle-of-the-night bathroom breaks were behind you, and you loved every minute of dog ownership… until your four-legged best friend started using the bathroom inside again. What’s going on?
Ah, poop. We humans think it’s disgusting… but many of our dogs seem to love the stuff. If you’re wondering why your canine companion tries to eat feces (either their own or that of other animals) you’re not alone!
Do you have a water-loving dog looking to burn some energy? There are countless dog parks to visit throughout our country — but some of them become far too hot in the midday sun to be safe for your pets to play. That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the best dog water parks throughout the United States! At these locations, your pup can frolic, splash, and swim to their heart’s content.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Does your dog destroy every toy you give them? Is your house littered with remnants of fabric and stuffing of all different sizes? Are you tired of investing in “indestructible” toys only for your pup to still dismantle—or worse, get bored of—them in just a few days?
You’ve been told your dog needs regular exercise. There’s a reason “walking the dog” is a classic daily activity: Frequent excursions give your pup a chance to experience the world, maintain a healthy weight, and — most importantly — spend time with you! Consistent physical activity can also improve their strength, muscle tone, coordination, and mental ability over time.
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
Many dogs have gotten a bad reputation over the years for being "dangerous breeds." Rottweilers are among them. Like pit bulls and other large, blocky-headed types of dogs, these powerful and beautiful animals are often assumed to be aggressive.
Your dog is reactive. They’ll see another dog, person, or other stimulus in the environment (like a car or bike) while out on a walk and suddenly go crazy at the end of their leash. The barking, lunging, and growling feels embarrassing for you — and it’s clear that your pup isn’t having a great time either.
Does your dog display reactivity to other pets or people? Maybe they’re a new rescue pup and are still settling into your home. Or they were sick growing up, so you missed their critical socialization period. Possibly they’ve had a bad experience after being raised as a normal puppy.
Do you have a reactive dog or suspect you may have one? You’re not alone!
* All Sniffspot articles are reviewed by certified trainers for quality, please see bottom of article for details *
From 2009 to 2020, there was a 40 percent increase in the development of public dog parks. Designated spots for canine exercise have become commonplace in every major city in North America — many pet owners won’t even consider renting an apartment that doesn’t have its own fenced-in pet area for their canine companions.
Thousand Oaks, California has been a safe haven for Sniffspot host, Jen, since childhood. Having grown up in busy Santa Barbara, Jen, an introvert from an early age, would seek out solitude and serenity away from tourists attractions and droves of people visiting from elsewhere. “My grandparents own 60 acres about a 30 minute drive from here, and I grew up spending every summer and every holiday visiting them on the ranch,” Jen explained. “In Santa Barbara, we wouldn't go to the beach on the weekend because that's where everybody was, so you'd find places off the beaten path where the tourists weren't. For me, the ranch was just my happy place.”
Ellen is the host of Country Pasture Getaway, one of Sniffspot's most popular sniff spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great sniff spot host.
Just 20 minutes outside of the busy city of Portland, Oregon, and settled right on the banks of the Columbia River, you’ll find what countless visitors have flocked to the area in search of – mountain views, crisp, clean air, and running water for miles. What you might not expect to find, however, is a hidden oasis designed just for dogs and their people, owned and operated by a farming couple and enjoyed by visitors on two legs, and four.
Fran is the host of Ranch Setting, one of Sniffspot's most popular spots. She has taken the time to write up the lessons she has learned about how to be a great Sniffspot host.
Looking for a space to play with your dog no matter what the weather’s like outside? Look no further than our list of the best indoor dog parks in the United States! These climate-controlled spaces are growing in popularity as pet ownership increases throughout the country. As a bonus, many of them also offer dog training, boarding, grooming, or daycare services on the premises.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered! It’s hard to narrow down, but we’ve put together some of the best off-leash dog parks throughout the country so you can plan your next adventure — along with a checklist of what to bring, what to know beforehand, and some frequently asked questions.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Las Vegas? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks to plan for your next adventure in Sin City.
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog? We’ve got you covered!
Looking for the perfect place to play with your dog in Portland? We’ve got you covered! Take a look at the best local dog parks and plan for your next adventure in the City of Roses.
Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.
Discover the Labrador Retriever, a breed celebrated for its playful nature, affectionate temperament, and trainability. Labradors are known for their friendly demeanor and adaptability, making them perfect family companions and versatile working dogs. As one of the most popular types of retrievers, Labs are ideal companions for various lifestyles and are recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an excellent breed for families.
Discover the Golden Retriever, a popular breed celebrated for its affectionate, playful, and trainable nature. Considered a large dog, Golden Retrievers were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and retrieving game beginning in the 1860s. Today, they're recognized by the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club (AKC) as one of the most beloved companion dog breeds.
Discover the American Staffordshire Terrier, a distinct breed celebrated for its playful, friendly, and loyal nature. Often confused with the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, a separate breed of British origin, the American Staffordshire Terrier (AmStaff) is considered a medium-sized dog. While both breeds share some similarities, the AmStaff is generally larger and has been developed as a distinct breed in the United States.
Discover the Australian Shepherd, an AKC breed celebrated for its trainable, playful, and affectionate nature. Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd is actually a native breed to the United States, originally developed to breed on farms and ranches. Considered a medium dog, Australian Shepherds were bred for herding beginning in the 1950s. As one of the high-energy breeds, Aussies are known for their boundless energy and need for regular exercise, including aerobic exercise.