California’s reputation as a paradise for travelers and their canine companions has only strengthened in 2025, as dog-friendly tourism expands across the state. Recent developments in regulations, hospitality, and technology have made exploring California easier and more enjoyable for dogs and their owners alike.
This year, updated state and federal guidelines have clarified the process of traveling with dogs, especially for international visitors. Since late 2024, new U.S. CDC regulations require dogs entering California to be at least six months old, microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and accompanied by a CDC Dog Import Form. These requirements extend to interstate travel as well, with state authorities recommending that dog owners plan at least three to four weeks ahead to complete necessary veterinary paperwork and health certifications. This proactive approach simplifies travel, ensuring smoother transitions at airports like LAX, SFO, and SAN, which now provide more extensive animal relief areas and clearer guidance for travelers.
California hotels are increasingly rolling out the red carpet for their four-legged guests. New hotel launches and rebranding efforts are emphasizing pet-friendly luxury. In Napa Valley, the Archer Hotel Napa and River Terrace Inn have launched signature pet packages, complete with dog concierges, customized pet amenities, and dog-friendly rooftop gatherings. At the Archer, pets enjoy special in-room comforts and easy access to local dog-friendly wineries and outdoor patios.
In Southern California, boutique properties like L’Auberge Del Mar near San Diego host weekly “Yappy Hours” on their terraces, where dogs and owners mingle over pup-themed treats. Hotel Wren, a stylish newcomer near Joshua Tree, offers dog-welcome accommodations with desert-view patios, kitchenettes, and tailored pet amenities. Similarly, Big Bear Lake’s Hotel Marina Rivera has made lakeside leisure dog-inclusive, featuring pet-friendly cabins and easy access to lakeside trails.
The surge in dog-friendly hospitality extends beyond hotels to specialty bed-and-breakfast inns. Carmel Country Inn on the Central Coast has enhanced its reputation as a leading pet-friendly establishment, providing guests with unlimited biscuits, luxury dog bedding, and direct access to leash-free beaches and trails. Likewise, Wildhaven Sonoma in the Russian River area provides upscale glamping experiences complete with fenced areas for off-leash play and on-site dog-washing stations.
Transportation for pets has seen considerable improvements. Airlines operating in California, including Delta, Southwest, and Alaska, have streamlined pet travel processes with clear fee structures and attentive care, providing regular updates to pet owners during flights. Additionally, popular airports have expanded pet relief areas, further reducing the stress associated with flying.
Technology is also playing a pivotal role. Tools like the CDC’s newly launched “Dogbot” chatbot help travelers navigate complex entry requirements, veterinary paperwork, and transit regulations. USDA-APHIS maintains updated online resources to assist pet owners with finding accredited veterinarians and understanding pet-travel procedures.
Pet-friendly community events have blossomed across California, notably in urban centers and popular tourist destinations. Napa and Sonoma counties regularly feature “Yappy Hours” at vineyards and local breweries, blending wine-tasting experiences with canine socializing. San Francisco’s local breweries and outdoor dining spots also routinely cater to dogs, creating vibrant community hubs that encourage pet-friendly socialization.
From the coastal enclaves of Carmel and San Diego to the wine-soaked valleys of Napa, California in 2025 has become more welcoming and inclusive for dogs and their humans than ever before. Whether your travels include boutique hotel stays, desert adventures, vineyard tours, or urban escapades, California’s expanding dog-friendly initiatives ensure memorable experiences for travelers and their beloved canine companions.