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Dogs are the most popular pets in the United States, but not everyone loves them equally. While most communities tolerate dogs to some degree, some embrace them more openly than others. Whether you are looking to relocate permanently to a place where your dog will be welcome or want to bring him with you on your vacation, you should check out the following cities that multiple publications have ranked highly for dog-friendliness.
1. Albuquerque, New Mexico
If you and your dog enjoy outdoor adventures, Albuquerque is a great place to go for a moderately challenging hike along the Sandia foothills or a leisurely stroll along the Rio Grande. If you prefer cityscapes, there are 33,000 acres of public parks for you and your pet to explore. Just be sure that your dog always has access to drinking water because Albuquerque is a dry climate. Out of 365 days in a year, only 60 see any rain.
2. Austin, Texas
If you or your dog are a little quirky, Austin is a place where you should fit right in. As illustrated by its motto, "Keep Austin Weird," it is a city that embraces and even celebrates difference, including people who dote on their dogs. Thanks to the usually mild climate, there is lots of outdoor dining available, and many restaurants welcome dogs to eat on the patio along with their people. There is also a food truck devoted to dog treats and 35 pet photographers. Other creative ways to make memories with your pet in Austin include a dog yoga class and a canines-only swimming spot at Red Bud Isle.
3. Boston, Massachusetts
In a big city, finding pet-friendly transportation can be a challenge, but Boston is an exception. While the New York subway may be the most famous, Boston's was actually the first in the United States, and during off-peak hours, you can take your dog with you when you ride on it. You and your dog can enjoy seeing the sights around Boston Harbor on a pet-friendly cruise. Local joints in many neighborhoods invite you to bring your furry friend along as well. For example, if you and your dog are in the mood to socialize, you can hang out at a bar that offers special "Yappy Hours."
4. Chicago, Illinois
Located on the banks of Lake Michigan, Chicago offers its very own dog beach where pooches can cool off by playing in the water. If you're interested in exploring the city on foot with your best pal, the 606 is an abandoned rail line converted to an elevated path for bicyclists and pedestrians, including dogs. The 606 is just one of many scenic walking paths in the Windy City, many along the lake. If you'd like to share a sports outing with your pup, you can see the Chicago White Sox baseball game on their annual Dog Day. Chicago shows its love of dogs in more subtle ways, too. On a hot day, your dog can get a refreshing drink of ice water from one of the big bowls left outside local bars and restaurants expressly for that purpose.
5. Colorado Springs, Colorado
With a population of over 475,000, Colorado Springs is a mid-sized city that offers lots of urban amenities in a rugged, natural environment. Take your dog on an excursion to Garden of the Gods Park, Seven Falls Canyon, Pike National Forest, or Crags Trail, all of which are nearby. If you prefer something less adventurous, there are plenty of dog parks throughout the city, so you can spend time in nature without straying beyond the city limits, a luxury in many cities.
6. Portland, Oregon
Portland may well be the dog-friendly capital of the United States. You can bring your dog into pubs and even grab a drink at the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company, which welcomes your pooch as well. There are more dog parks per capita in Portland than in any other U.S. city: 33 in all. While dogs of all breeds, including mixed breeds, are welcome in Portland, there are some breed-specific meet-ups, such as the Pit Bull Parade and the Pug Crawl. If you're interested in socializing with like-minded dog owners, some of these might appeal to you.
7. Seattle, Washington
Does your pup want to go to the dog park but you don't want to go out in the rain? As an alternative to putting on a raincoat and braving the weather, the city of Seattle offers an indoor dog park as an answer to your conundrum. Getting around is easy because dogs are allowed on ferries, light rail, and even city buses. You can patronize one of the many dog-friendly businesses and join one of the 32 meetup groups to connect with other dog lovers. If you see your dog as your child rather than your pet, you should fit right in; there are more dogs than actual children in Seattle.
8. San Francisco, California
San Francisco is another great place to socialize with other dog lovers. Not only are there over 50 meetup groups devoted to canines and their companions, but San Francisco also holds an annual event called DogFest. Activities at DogFest include a silent auction, music, wine tasting, and a 5K for people and pets. The All-Animal Show awards prizes in several categories including one for the Best Cat. The event is a fundraiser for a local elementary school so you and your dog can give back by participating. The iconic San Francisco trolleys allow you to take your pooch along for the ride, and there are also several dog-friendly gyms and restaurants.
The cities on this list are great places to visit with your dog. If you want to stay forever, they are even better.
