Traveling with your dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but not all destinations are created equal when it comes to being dog-friendly. While some places merely tolerate dogs, truly dog-friendly destinations go above and beyond to welcome your furry companion. According to Dr. Michelle Dulake, a veterinarian and co-founder of Fera Pets, the key to a great dog-friendly destination is the presence of pet-friendly accommodations, outdoor dining options, and plenty of open spaces like parks, trails, and beaches where your dog can stretch their legs. Many top destinations even offer special perks like off-leash beaches, dog-friendly breweries, and hotels that provide amenities such as dog beds, toys, and special menus.
When choosing a destination for your next vacation with your dog, it’s important to consider your dog’s personality and needs. For dogs that love the outdoors, beach vacations or hiking trips are often ideal. Breeds like golden retrievers and Labradors tend to thrive in environments where they can run, swim, and play fetch. However, if your dog is more hesitant or fearful in large crowds, a quiet, outdoor-focused vacation might be a better fit. As Dr. Tammy Hunter, a veterinarian with VCA Animal Hospitals, noted, “For dogs, being with their people matters much more than the destination itself.” No matter where you go, the most important thing to your dog is that you’re together.
For those looking for inspiration, experts recommend several top dog-friendly destinations in the U.S. San Diego, California, is a standout choice, with its sunny weather, dog beaches like Ocean Beach Dog Beach, and pet-friendly activities like puppy yoga and boat rides. Another great option is Asheville, North Carolina, which boasts scenic hiking trails, dog-friendly breweries, and the famous Biltmore Estate, where dogs are welcome on the grounds. Portland, Oregon, is also a dog lover’s paradise, with off-leash parks, canine-friendly coffee shops, and even a dog-friendly doughnut shop. Meanwhile, cities like Austin, Texas, and Denver, Colorado, offer warm weather, hiking trails, and plenty of pet-friendly patios and breweries.
For those who prefer a mix of beach and mountain activities, destinations like Lake Tahoe, straddling California and Nevada, are perfect. Lake Tahoe offers dog-friendly hiking trails in the summer and cozy pet-friendly cabins in the winter. Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is another excellent choice for beach lovers, with its welcoming attitude toward dogs, dog-friendly restaurants, and scenic hiking trails. If you and your dog love the great outdoors, Acadia National Park in Maine is one of the few national parks that allows dogs, offering stunning hikes and pet-friendly accommodations. Other highlights include Golden, Colorado, with its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, and Bend, Oregon, which is practically built for outdoor enthusiasts and their dogs, with miles of hiking trails and off-leash parks.
When planning your trip, it’s essential to keep your dog’s comfort and safety in mind. Dulake advises packing essentials like food, water, medication, and toys, and researching the location of veterinarians and emergency hospitals at your destination. She also recommends ensuring your dog is microchipped, up-to-date on vaccinations, and prepared for the journey. “Traveling with your dog should be fun for both of you, so choose a destination where they can be part of the adventure—not just tagging along,” she said. Additionally, Hunter stressed the importance of booking pet-friendly accommodations that go beyond tolerating dogs, such as hotels that offer dog beds, bowls, and even toys at check-in.
Finally, don’t forget to make your trip enjoyable and stress-free for both you and your dog. If you’re driving, ensure your dog is safely secured with a seat belt or crate, and plan plenty of stops at pet-welcoming rest areas. If flying, research pet-friendly policies and accommodations beforehand. Wherever you go, remember to be mindful of local leash requirements and safety tips, such as never leaving your dog unattended in a car. By choosing a destination that truly welcomes dogs, you and your furry companion can enjoy a memorable and relaxing vacation together. Whether you’re lounging on a beach, exploring trails, or enjoying a meal at a dog-friendly patio, the joy of traveling with your dog is unmatched.
