Planning a road trip with your furry companion? If you love traveling and want to ensure your dog is just as comfortable as you are, we’ve got you covered.
Based on factors such as dog-friendly restaurants, pet-friendly hotels, dog parks, and veterinarian access, we’ve ranked the top dog-friendly cities in the U.S.. Plus, we’ll share safety tips from The American Kennel Club for traveling with pets, especially when renting a car.
Let’s dive into the best cities for a fun and hassle-free vacation with your dog!
1. Orlando, Florida – The Ultimate Dog-Friendly Destination
Orlando tops the list as the most dog-friendly city in the U.S. With an impressive 334 dog-friendly restaurants and 535 pet-friendly hotels, this city ensures you and your pup have plenty of places to eat and rest. You’ll also find 15 dog parks where your dog can run, play, and socialize.
Top Dog-Friendly Spots:
- Lake Baldwin Park – A spacious off-leash park with a lake for swimming
- Mead Botanical Garden – A scenic, pet-friendly walking trail
2. Tampa, Florida – A Paradise for Dog Owners
Tampa is another Florida city that’s perfect for pet lovers. With 302 dog-friendly restaurants, 250 pet-welcoming hotels, and 115 vet practices, your furry friend will feel at home.
Best Dog Parks in Tampa:
- Rowlett Dog Park – A shaded park with separate areas for small and large dogs
- Deputy Kotfila Memorial Dog Park – A clean, well-maintained dog park with agility equipment
3. Richmond, Virginia – Scenic Walks & Pet-Friendly Vibes
Richmond is a dream for dog owners who love outdoor adventures. It has 5.74 outdoor parks per 100,000 people, making it one of the greenest places for dog walks. Plus, 51.6 veterinarians per 100,000 people ensure your pup is in good hands.
Where to Go in Richmond with Your Dog:
- Byrd Park – A beautiful green space for long walks
- James River Park System – A pet-friendly hiking and swimming spot
4. Cincinnati, Ohio – A City That Loves Dogs
With 158 dog-friendly restaurants, 144 hotels, and 100+ veterinarians, Cincinnati welcomes you and your pet with open arms. The city also has 28 animal welfare organizations, proving its love for furry companions.
Dog-Friendly Highlights:
- Otto Armleder Dog Park – A massive off-leash park with trails
- WagsPark – A private, well-maintained dog park with a lake
5. Scottsdale, Arizona – Dining & Relaxation for You and Your Pup
Scottsdale is known for its high number of pet-friendly restaurants and hotels. With 90.3 dog-friendly restaurants per 100,000 people and 255 pet-friendly hotels, your dog will feel pampered here.
Best Places for Dogs in Scottsdale:
- Chaparral Dog Park – A large park with grassy areas and agility equipment
- Horizon Dog Park – A well-shaded park with separate areas for small and large dogs
6. St. Petersburg, Florida – A Sunshine State Haven for Pets
St. Petersburg offers 111 veterinarian practices, 153 dog-friendly restaurants, and 16 animal welfare organizations, making it one of Florida’s top pet destinations.
Where to Visit with Your Dog:
- Fort De Soto Park – Paw Playground – A beachside paradise for dogs
- North Shore Park – A scenic dog-friendly park with waterfront views
7. St. Louis, Missouri – A Caring Community for Pets
St. Louis is home to 73 animal welfare organizations—the second highest in the study—along with 194 dog-friendly restaurants and 104 vet practices.
Best Dog Parks in St. Louis:
- Treecourt Unleashed Dog Park – A large, off-leash park with trails
- Southwest City Dog Park – A fun, well-maintained park with agility obstacles
8. Minneapolis, Minnesota – The City of Lakes for Dog Lovers
Minneapolis boasts 198 dog-friendly restaurants, 110 vet practices, and 16 dog parks. With its beautiful lakes and walking trails, it’s an excellent destination for outdoor-loving dog owners.
Must-Visit Dog Parks in Minneapolis:
- Minnehaha Falls Dog Park – A spacious, wooded off-leash park
- Loring Park – A scenic city park perfect for on-leash strolls
9. Boise, Idaho – A Pet-Friendly Outdoor Adventure
Boise, known as the City of Trees, offers 108 pet-friendly restaurants, 68 hotels, and 86 veterinarian practices. Its natural beauty and dog-friendly trails make it a great spot for nature-loving pet owners.
Best Dog Parks in Boise:
- Military Reserve Dog Park – A massive, off-leash area with hiking trails
- Morris Hill Dog Park – A cozy, well-maintained fenced dog park
10. Spokane, Washington – A Dog Park Lover’s Dream
Spokane rounds out our top ten with 5.68 dog parks per 100,000 people, one of the highest in the country. This city also has 79 dog-friendly restaurants and 42 pet-friendly hotels.
Top Dog Parks in Spokane:
- High Bridge Dog Park – A spacious off-leash park with shaded areas
- Valley Mission Dog Park – A large, well-kept park with agility features
From sunny Florida to scenic Washington, these top 10 dog-friendly destinations ensure that both you and your pup can travel in comfort.
Whether you’re looking for dog parks, pet-friendly hotels, or great outdoor spaces, these cities have everything to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. So pack up your dog’s favorite treats and hit the road for a tail-wagging adventure!
FAQ’s
What are the best dog-friendly cities in the U.S.?
Orlando, Tampa, and Richmond rank as the top three dog-friendly cities based on the number of pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and parks.
Which city has the most dog-friendly restaurants?
Orlando has the highest number of dog-friendly restaurants, with 334 places welcoming pets.
What should I consider when traveling with my dog?
Ensure your destination has pet-friendly accommodations, veterinary access, and safe outdoor spaces for walks and playtime.
Are there any travel tips for road trips with dogs?
Use a pet seatbelt or crate, take frequent breaks, and bring food, water, and comfort items to keep your dog happy and safe.