According to the American Pet Products Association’s National Pet Owners Survey 2021-2022, approximately 69 million US households own a dog, which is about 47% of all households. If you are one of those many dog owners in the United States, you might benefit from knowing which cities and places are dog-friendly. This information is especially useful for those of you that are looking to take a roadtrip with your dog, looking to relocate to a new city with your dog or you are simply new to dog ownership and want to know what all the rules and expectations are within in your city.
Here is some general information about how welcomed dogs are across the US. and at the end of this article, we are providing some resources that you might find useful.
Top Dog-Friendly Cities in the US
There are many cities in the United States that are considered dog-friendly. Here are some notable examples:
- Portland, Oregon: With over 30 off-leash dog parks and a large number of restaurants, cafes, and shops that allow dogs inside, Portland is considered one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country.
- Austin, Texas: Known for its love of all things outdoors, Austin is home to many dog parks, hiking trails, and swimming spots that welcome dogs. The city also has many dog-friendly cafes, bars, and restaurants.
- Seattle, Washington: Seattle has a large number of off-leash dog parks and dog-friendly hiking trails, as well as several dog-friendly beaches. Many restaurants, cafes, and breweries also allow dogs inside.
- San Diego, California: San Diego is known for its beautiful weather and beaches, many of which allow dogs. The city also has many dog-friendly cafes and restaurants, as well as several off-leash dog parks.
- Denver, Colorado: Denver is home to many dog-friendly parks and hiking trails, as well as several dog-friendly breweries and restaurants. The city also hosts several dog-friendly events throughout the year, including the annual Denver Dog Days of Summer festival.
City Guides
National Brands That Are Dog-Friendly
Many national brands allow dogs inside, but policies vary by location and may be subject to change. Here are some examples:
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- Bass Pro Shops
- Barnes & Noble
- Pottery Barn
- Sephora
- Nordstrom
- Ace Hardware
- Orvis
- Half Price Books
Resources and Organizations
- American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) is a nonprofit organization that works to prevent animal cruelty, provide animal rescue services, and promote pet adoption. Their website offers resources for pet owners, including information on pet care, training, and behavior, as well as a database of adoptable pets.
- Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) is also a nonprofit organization that works to protect animals from cruelty and promote their well-being. Their website offers resources for pet owners, including information on pet care, adoption, and animal welfare laws.
- Petfinder is an online database of adoptable pets from shelters and rescue organizations across the United States. Their website also offers resources for pet owners, including information on pet care, behavior, and training.
- Best Friends Animal Society is a nonprofit organization that works to save the lives of animals in shelters across the United States. Their website offers resources for pet owners, including information on pet care, training, and adoption.
- The Humane Society of the United States’ Pets for Life is a program that provides resources and support to pet owners in underserved communities across the United States. Their website offers information on pet care, behavior, and training, as well as resources for finding affordable veterinary care.
- The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a nonprofit organization that promotes responsible dog ownership and advocates for the well-being of dogs. Their website offers information on dog care, training, and health, as well as a database of AKC-registered breeds.
- The Pet Poison Helpline is a 24-hour hotline staffed by veterinary toxicologists who can provide information on pet poisonings and help pet owners determine whether their pet needs medical attention.