Traveling with your dog has never been easier or more enjoyable on the San Francisco Peninsula. From sleek, design-forward hotels in the heart of Silicon Valley to cozy coastal retreats along Half Moon Bay, there’s no shortage of welcoming…
The dog days of summer are here! Got a pup who loves the water? California’s rivers, lakes and coastal landscapes welcome four-legged family members with paw-some adventures.
Lake Siskiyou is strikingly beautiful, incredibly dog-friendly and delightfully under the radar. Set among the waterfalls and wilderness of northwestern California, near the Oregon border, it’s especially inviting in the summer.
Few places cater to water-loving canines like Catch A Canoe & Bicycles, Too. A perennial DogTrekker favorite, this Mendocino coast mainstay runs guided tours and rents dog-friendly watersports equipment on the Stanford Inn grounds. Innkeepers Joan and Jeff Stanford have…
Big Bear Lake boasts 300 days of sunshine and dark nights perfect for stargazing, but that’s just the start. This mountain jewel in the San Bernardino National Forest also has great fishing, boating and water activities, hiking and biking trails…
Home to 60+ miles of Pacific coastline and 30 miles of San Francisco Bay shores, The San Francisco Peninsula puts beach adventures in easy reach. Conveniently located between Silicon Valley and the City by the Bay, this pup-focused destination features…
Set along the Sacramento and American rivers, Sacramento offers endless activities and an engaging dog-friendly lifestyle. Mornings start on waterfront trails. Afternoons unfold across sun-kissed parks and restaurant patios. Each evening, serene, stylish hotels invite four- and two-legged guests to…
If your dog measures joy in miles, spring in Yosemite Mariposa County delivers. Dog-friendly trails inside the Valley and throughout nearby national forest lands offer space to roam beneath towering granite cliffs and whispering pines. Visit midweek for open trailheads…
There’s no place like Yosemite Mariposa County in spring, especially when you’re joined by your favorite four-legged friend.
The Yosemite Mariposa County region offers an adventure-filled autumn vacation not just for humans but for their four-legged companions as well.
Calling all dog lovers and pet parents! You’re invited to come out to the Big Bear Puptopia Festival on July 25 for a tail-wagging day of fun in Veterans Park. Enjoy the Pawground, relax in the K9 Lounge, watch stunt…
Welcome to the San Francisco Peninsula — where family-friendly travel includes your four-legged companions. From scenic hiking trails and dog-friendly beaches to charming, walkable downtowns, The Peninsula makes it easy to create memorable experiences with your pet by your side.
The Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino celebrates 45 years of welcoming dogs with ocean-view rooms, plant-based dining, spa services and nature walks. This eco-resort treats four-legged guests like family, with treats, beds and coastal trails nearby.
Held at Linda Mar Beach in Pacifica, along the Peninsula’s coast, the World Dog Surfing Championships showcases talented canine athletes
Welcome to the San Francisco Peninsula — where family-friendly travel includes your four-legged companions. From scenic hiking trails and dog-friendly beaches to charming, walkable downtowns, The Peninsula makes it easy to create memorable experiences with your pet by your side.
Exercise and social time are important for you and your pet to stay happy and healthy — The Peninsula makes it easy! With everything from off-leash parks to scenic coastal trails, there’s no shortage of great places to explore together…
This summer, choose Redding, where every gathering becomes a memory in the making. Set along the Sacramento River and framed by Northern California’s forests and lakes, Redding offers an unhurried place to connect. Here, the agenda is yours to…
Cross the Golden Gate and the whole vibe changes. Sausalito shimmers off the water, redwoods close in around Mill Valley, and somehow five minutes from San Francisco, you’re in the kind of place where dogs are expected at the coffee…
Cinco de Mayo is one of California’s great outdoor holidays. The first week of May delivers reliably warm weather from San Diego to Sacramento, patio season hits full stride, and the margaritas flow. And if you have a dog? You’re…
Most airlines have a firm rule: dogs over 20 pounds fly in the cargo hold or don’t fly at all. But a handful of carriers have quietly changed that, letting large dogs ride in the passenger cabin alongside their people…
California’s pup-friendly festivals make the dog days of summer truly exciting. Under bright Golden State skies, you can enjoy beer tastings, baseball games, adoptathons and camp experiences all designed for four-legged friends. This week, DogTrekker dishes up details on our…
Sacramento sits within a short drive of some of California’s most iconic activities, including many delightfully dog-friendly options. It’s easy to choose your own adventure here, whether you’d like to taste small-batch wines, hike ruggedly beautiful trails, survey the state’s…
With so many activities for four-legged VIPs, it’s worth lingering longer in Sacramento. Dog-friendly hotels offer generous amenities and comfortable options for every price point. Plus, walkable neighborhoods feature independent shops and dining venues that welcome you like a local…
Some of Sacramento’s most dog-friendly spots double as social spaces that connect travelers with friendly locals. By striking up a conversation, you’ll often get the inside scoop on the best parks, restaurants, shops and trails for pups. These paw-some playgrounds…
In Sacramento, mornings move at an easy pace. Greet the day on the American River Parkway, where dog walkers can wander for miles, or play fetch in a neighborhood park. From there, swing by one of the city’s many coffee…
Foxtails peak from May through October across California — and their one-way barb makes them a veterinary emergency when embedded. Here’s where to check your dog, what symptoms to watch for, and when to call the vet.
Yes, you can bring your dog to Yosemite. Full trail list (Valley, Wawona, Glacier Point), where to stay in Mariposa County, B.A.R.K. Ranger program, shuttle rules, FAQ. Updated 2026 by the DogTrekker editorial team.
California has waterfalls almost everywhere, but the ones that welcome dogs are a smaller, more specific list.
10 dog-friendly bed & breakfasts across Napa Valley, from Calistoga to Napa, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
17 dog-friendly vacation rentals across the Gold Country, from Arnold to Twain Harte, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
12 dog-friendly vacation rentals across Mammoth Lakes and the Eastern Sierra, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
14 dog-friendly vacation rentals across Greater Palm Springs, from Desert Hot Springs to Rancho Mirage, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
17 dog-friendly vacation rentals near Yosemite, from Coulterville to Wawona, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
8 dog-friendly cabins across Monterey and Big Sur, from Big Sur to Pacific Grove, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to load up the car and point it toward the Sierra foothills, this is it.
If you’re scouting a spring getaway that doesn’t require a four-hour drive or a June reservation made in February, point the car east from the Bay Area toward the Sacramento River Delta.
Your dog loves a road trip. What they do not love — and what they cannot negotiate — is what happens to an unrestrained 60-pound passenger when you brake hard…
The most dangerous moments of most dog vacations are not on the trail or in the car — they are in the first ten minutes of arrival at an unfamiliar room.
A dog first aid kit is not a survival kit and it is not a replacement for a veterinarian.
Leptospirosis is now a core canine vaccine, and Northern California — especially the Bay Area, North Coast, and Sierra foothills — is one of the higher-risk pockets in the country. What the latest peer-reviewed research says about the disease, the…
Bites peak April through October, an estimated 150,000 dogs and cats are bitten nationwide each year, and most of the field “first aid” you read on the internet makes the bite worse. The honest, source-checked guide for California dog owners…
A dog that bolts from your backyard at home has neighbors, familiar scents, and a chance of returning on their own.
Rattlesnakes get the headlines, and for good reason — but they are one chapter in a much longer book.
Mother’s Day lands on Sunday, May 10 this year, and the sweet spot for booking a California getaway is right now — about three weeks out, before the good rooms…
Spring is the sweet spot for California lakes. Water levels sit high after winter runoff, the summer houseboat parade hasn’t started yet, and daytime temps are…
Spring is the sweet spot for California lakes. Water levels sit high after winter runoff, the summer houseboat parade hasn’t started yet, and daytime temps are…
Earth Day lands on April 22 this year, and we think the best way to mark it is exactly the way we mark most days at DogTrekker — out on a California trail with a happy dog.
Why Marin County is a dog’s paradise in spring If you haven’t taken your dog across the Golden Gate Bridge yet this spring, you’re running out of excuses.
Something about spring in California pulls you lakeside. Maybe it’s the way the Sierra foothills turn gold-green after the last rain, or the fact that your dog…
Sacramento doesn’t always get the credit it deserves as a dog-friendly destination.
Paso Robles wine country has a short window every year when the hills turn electric green, the vines are just starting to leaf out, and the tasting rooms…
Where your dog can legally run off-leash in the Eastern Sierra and Gold Country — and the honest test for whether she’s actually ready.
“Compostable” and “biodegradable” dog poop bags are mostly marketing. Here’s what the labels actually mean — and the best real-world choice for California.
The Bay Area is arguably the best urban dog-hiking region in America. Here’s why its leash rules exist — and why following them protects access.
Month-by-month guide to Central Coast beach closures for snowy plover nesting, plus dog-friendly beaches that stay open March through September.
Coast redwoods have roots just 6-12 feet deep but 100 feet wide. Here’s why that shapes where your dog can walk in California’s redwood parks.
Roosevelt elk, bears, seal pups, plovers — California’s North Coast is thick with wildlife. Here’s exactly what to do when your dog meets them.
California desert dog travel: why surface heat, fragile cryptobiotic soil, and trail etiquette matter more in Palm Springs than a Sierra meadow.
Eagle Falls, Emerald Bay and Mt. Tallac are buckling under crowds. Here are the Tahoe dog trails taking the hit — and quieter alternatives that still deliver.
Tahoe’s famous blue isn’t just scenery — it’s chemistry. Here’s what your dog’s poop actually does to the lake, and how to hike without adding to it.
DogTrekker’s Leave Only Paw Prints® framework: seven plain-English principles for California dog owners who hike, camp, and travel with their dogs.
9 dog-friendly cabins near Yosemite, from Fish Camp to Yosemite West, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
26 dog-friendly cabins across Big Bear and the San Bernardino Mountains, from Big Bear Lake to Yermo, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties.
After a day beneath Yosemite’s soaring granite cliffs and rushing waterfalls, it’s only natural to crave a cozy place to rest your head, feet, and for some of us, paws. Fortunately, Yosemite Mariposa County offers a range of dog-friendly hotels…
If your dog measures joy in miles, spring in Yosemite Mariposa County delivers. Dog-friendly trails inside the Valley and throughout nearby national forest lands offer space to roam beneath towering granite cliffs and whispering pines. Visit midweek for open trailheads…
This Earth Day, DogTrekker is celebrating something worth wagging about: our community. A recent reader survey shows 99% of you pack it in and pack it out, and 95% leash up in sensitive habitats. Now, that’s a pack worth howling…
Toxic algae blooms in California lakes and rivers can kill a dog within minutes to hours, and there is no antidote. The state-by-state hot-spot list, the three toxin classes, and the live HAB Reports Map every California dog owner should…
Heatstroke kills 50–64% of affected dogs, and 3 out of 4 cases are caused by exercise — not hot weather alone. Here’s what California dog owners need to know about hot pavement, warning signs, emergency cooling, and the state law…
California reports roughly 1/200th the Lyme cases of New York — and our tick season peaks in fall and winter, not summer. Here’s what California-specific CDC data, vet research, and CDPH surveillance actually show, and what it means for protecting…
Little River Inn hosts Pup Palooza, a lively spring celebration benefiting the Mendocino Coast Humane Society. Dog painting, wine tasting, training workshops, and costume contests fill the day, and lodging packages make it easy to stay the full weekend.
Most Shasta Cascade hike lists start and end with Burney Falls, Whiskeytown Falls and Lake Siskiyou Trail. Fine hikes — but not the only ones. Here are five dog-friendly trails from our DogTrekker directory that don’t crowd the Google results…
California suits seniors traveling with dogs when the trip is built around short drives, easy walks, cooler weather and stops with clear pet rules.
Santa Barbara’s dog-friendly secret isn’t on the downtown wharf: it’s in the foothills, the canyons, and a beach the locals still call Hendry’s. Here’s where we actually go on a Central Coast weekend.
Late spring in Mammoth is the window: snow is dropping off the lower trails, the alpine lakes are clearing, and the July crowds haven’t arrived yet. Here are seven stops that make a dog-friendly weekend work.
South Lake Tahoe gets the traffic, but the dog-owning locals in the northern Sierra keep coming back to Truckee: a historic rail town with outdoor tables, woodsy trails and a fraction of the crowds.
Healdsburg is 67 miles north of the Golden Gate and built around a historic plaza where dogs aren’t just allowed, they’re expected. Here’s how we spend a Sonoma wine weekend with the pup.
Beyond Bolinas and Stinson, Marin County has an entire weekend of dog-friendly trails, brewpubs, and redwood hikes the locals don’t post about. Here’s where we actually go.
16 dog-friendly places to stay on the Mendocino Coast and inland Mendocino County—from cabins and cottages to inns, lodges, and historic lighthouse keeper homes—drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties. Every property below links to its full DogTrekker listing…
9 dog-friendly bed & breakfasts across the Mendocino Coast, from Albion to Westport, drawn from DogTrekker’s directory of vetted pet-welcoming properties. Every property below links to its full DogTrekker listing with photos, pet policies, booking details, and directions. Blair House…
Resorts are different from hotels. A hotel is somewhere you sleep between activities. A resort is the activity — grounds you can walk for an hour, restaurants and bars on the property, water access, real space for a dog to…
California’s SNO-Park system is the best-kept winter secret for dog owners. They are state-managed parking areas at trailheads where you can pull off the highway, park in a lot that actually gets plowed, and walk straight into the snow with…
The Northern California coast between San Francisco and Bodega Bay is one of the best stretches of shoreline in the country to explore with a dog. Bluff trails, wide beaches, hidden coves, working harbors, redwood-shaded ravines that drop straight to…
Idyllwild is the rare California mountain town where the entire community operates as if dogs are part of the deal. The lodging is dog-friendly, the restaurants have proper dog-friendly patios instead of one bench out back, the trails out of…
Whatever brings your group to Redding, the area’s undiscovered charms will make you wish you had more free time.
Movement and fresh air have a way of creating authentic bonds in Redding.
Choose Redding for gatherings that focus less on structure and more on the people—and dogs—who make the experience worth having.
Meetings look different in Redding, especially for small teams looking for destinations where dogs can be seamlessly integrated into the experience.
Sheepdog trials test outrun, fetch, drive, shed, and pen on a scored 100-point course. California hosts a deep trial tradition, and the USBCHA National Finals return to Alturas in 2026. Expect brilliant Border Collies and deeply unimpressed sheep.
A guide dog’s day runs on routine, intelligent disobedience, and hours of quiet focus in public. California has shaped the field since 1947, when Guide Dogs for the Blind opened its San Rafael campus. Here is what the work actually…
You don’t need the high passes to enjoy the Eastern Sierra in spring. Highway 395 stays open all year, and Lone Pine, Bishop, Convict Lake, the June Lake Loop, and Mono Lake come to life in May and June with…
Five spring dog-friendly escapes under two hours from San Francisco or Oakland: Half Moon Bay and Pescadero, Healdsburg and the Russian River, Calistoga and upper Napa, Bodega Bay and the Sonoma Coast, and Santa Cruz on the edge of Monterey…
Five honest California Father’s Day trips, all dog-friendly: McCloud and the Shasta Cascade, Paso Robles ranch country, Trinidad on the Humboldt coast, Mammoth Lakes at full stretch, and Nevada City in the Gold Country. Muddy dogs, cabin porches, no infusions.
California’s high country blooms a full month or two after the valleys. Four dog-friendly hikes where wildflowers are still climbing into June and July: Carson Pass, Panther Meadows on Mount Shasta, the June Lake Loop, and the country around Lassen.
Six dog-friendly California escapes for Memorial Day weekend: North Lake Tahoe, the Mendocino coast, Big Bear Lake, Avila Beach, Bishop and the Eastern Sierra, and Bodega Bay. Each pick includes real places to stay, and why the rooms book out…
Bodega Bay and the Sonoma Coast deliver 17 miles of rugged beaches, coves, and bluffs where leashed dogs are welcome. We map Doran Regional Park, Sonoma Coast State Park beaches, dog-friendly lodging, and a loop through western Sonoma County.
Spring patio season is here, and California has more than 350 dog-friendly breweries across the state. From Lagunitas in Petaluma to Firestone Walker in Paso Robles and Cool Beerwerks in Gold Country, here is where to start your paws-and-pints tour.
The Bay Area has dozens of rescue groups across San Francisco, the East Bay, South Bay, Peninsula, North Bay, and Wine Country. We round up the shelters, breed-specific rescues, and senior dog sanctuaries ready to match you with your next…
Santa Barbara runs deep on dog-friendly options. From the off-leash sand at Arroyo Burro Beach to Douglas Family Preserve blufftops, Funk Zone wine tasting, and patio dining citywide, we map the best spots to bring your dog.
The East Bay Regional Park District manages over 125,000 acres across Alameda and Contra Costa counties. From Point Isabel’s off-leash shoreline to Mission Peak’s steep summit climb, these are the regional parks every Bay Area dog should know.
State parks ban dogs from Big Sur trails, but beaches on Los Padres National Forest land welcome leashed dogs. We map the off-limits parks, the beaches where dogs can run, and dog-friendly lodging across every budget.
Spring on the San Francisco Peninsula means Mori Point bluffs, Fitzgerald tide pools, Montara Mountain climbs, Half Moon Bay patios, Windy Hill wildflowers, and a Pescadero overnight at Costanoa. Six dog-friendly outings before the June fog rolls back in.
Temecula Valley welcomes dogs across more than 30 wineries, 16 patio restaurants in Old Town, and 13 pet-friendly hotels and resorts. Tucked between San Diego and Los Angeles, it is Southern California’s most dog-friendly wine country weekend.
North County San Diego’s coast links Coronado, Del Mar, Encinitas, and Carlsbad by Highway 101 and Interstate 5. Expect off-leash beaches, resort and boutique lodging, walkable village districts, and a deep bench of dog-friendly patio dining.
San Diego offers one of California’s deepest dog-friendly lineups: off-leash beaches at Ocean Beach and Fiesta Island, 60-plus pet-welcoming hotels, dozens of patio restaurants, and easy day trips to Coronado, Del Mar, and Temecula wine country.
Santa Cruz in April delivers off-leash beaches like Its Beach, greenbelt trails through Pogonip, walkable coastal paths, and dozens of dog-friendly patios and hotels. It is an easy weekend from the Bay Area before the summer crowds arrive.
The San Francisco Peninsula’s Flavors of the Peninsula runs April 23 through May 3, 2026, inviting dog parents to explore a region defined by coastal views, neighborhood gems and global cuisine. From Half Moon Bay to bayside communities, participating restaurants…
Mother’s Day is right around the corner, and if the most important lady in your life also happens to be a dog mom, we’ve got the perfect excuse to plan a getaway where everyone — two legs and four…
Ojai and Ventura: two dog-friendly towns, one unforgettable trip The Ojai Valley and the coastal city of Ventura together make one of the most appealing dog-friendly getaways in Southern California. Just 90 minutes north of Los Angeles, these two destinations…
The Orange County coast is a dog-friendly paradise The Orange County coastline — stretching from Huntington Beach through Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, and Dana Point — is one of the most dog-friendly stretches of coast in Southern California. With dog…
April on the Monterey Peninsula is one of those rare windows when everything aligns for a dog-friendly getaway. The summer crowds haven’t arrived, the coastal wildflowers are putting on a show, and the fog that blankets the coast later in…
The Yosemite region and Eastern Sierra offer some of California’s most stunning mountain scenery — and the good news is that several trails in the area are accessible for visitors with mobility challenges who want to bring their dogs along…
California’s Central Valley stretches more than 400 miles through the heart of the state, and its flat terrain and extensive paved trail systems make it one of the most accessible regions for visitors with mobility challenges. From the shaded riverfront…
California Wine Country — spanning the rolling vineyards of Napa and Sonoma counties — offers some of the most scenic paved trails in the state, and many of them welcome leashed dogs. Whether navigating by wheelchair, pushing a stroller, or…
Lake Tahoe and the High Sierra offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in California, and the good news is that much of it is accessible to visitors of all mobility levels — along with their dogs. We’ve compiled a…
California’s Shasta Cascade region — a rugged landscape of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and thundering waterfalls — might seem like territory reserved for the most agile hikers. But tucked among the towering pines and wild rivers, we’ve found a collection…
California’s Central Coast stretches from Santa Cruz to Ventura, encompassing some of the most dramatic coastline in the state. For travelers with mobility challenges — and their loyal four-legged companions — this region offers a surprising number of paved paths…
California’s North Coast is one of the most dramatic stretches of coastline in the state — towering redwoods, rugged bluffs, and quiet estuaries that feel a world away from the bustle of the Bay Area. For visitors with mobility challenges…
Gold Country is best known for its Gold Rush history, but this stretch of the Sierra Nevada foothills also holds some of California’s most rewarding accessible trails — places where handlers with mobility needs and their dogs can explore paved…
Southern California’s diverse landscape — from mountain lakes to desert oases to coastal bluffs — offers a surprising number of paved and accessible trails where handlers with mobility needs and their dogs can enjoy the outdoors together. Whether we’re talking…
The San Francisco Bay Area offers one of the most extensive networks of accessible, dog-friendly trails in California. From the paved waterfront promenades of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area to the wide levee paths maintained by the East Bay…
If your idea of California wine country starts and ends with Napa, we need to talk. About 90 minutes east of Sacramento, Amador County’s Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the oldest Zinfandel vines in the state — and…
There’s a sweet spot in the California calendar when Gold Country is at its absolute best — and we’re in it right now. The foothills are green, the wildflowers are putting on a show along Highway 49, and the historic…
Mojave National Preserve is the rare NPS unit that welcomes dogs on every trail. Here are five hikes where spring blooms are peaking right now.
Spring has arrived in the Sierra and Lake Tahoe is shaking off winter. Snow melts, trails open at lower elevations, and mountain air hits different with your dog trotting beside you. Our guide to dog-friendly Tahoe hikes, restaurants, and lodging…
California has more dog-friendly trails than any reasonable person could hike in a lifetime. We’ve narrowed it down to ten picks that deliver the best combination of scenery, dog access, and that post-hike feeling of having actually done something with…
There’s a stretch of California coastline where fog rolls in like a slow exhale, bluffs erupt in wildflowers every spring, and nobody blinks when your dog walks into a restaurant. That’s the Mendocino Coast, and April is arguably the best…
Spring in California means one thing for dog owners: patio season is officially open. California legalized dogs on restaurant patios in 2014, and since then the dining scene for pup parents has only grown. Our statewide guide to dog-friendly outdoor…
California’s lakes are filling up from winter rains and the foothills are electric green. If you and your dog want warm spring weather without sandy crowds, head inland. Four dog-friendly lake getaways — Folsom, Clear Lake, Shasta, and Bass Lake…
Why spring is the sweet spot for Central Coast camping If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to load up the car, leash the dog, and head for the coast, this is it. Spring on California’s Central Coast is…
Almost every public campground in California welcomes dogs, but “dog-friendly” can mean very different things. At most state parks, your pup is confined to paved paths, fire roads and the campsite itself. National forest and BLM campgrounds are far more…
Temecula’s wine country has over 40 wineries, but “dog-friendly” can mean anything from “we’ll tolerate it” to “we have a water bowl with your dog’s name on it.” The wineries below actually welcome dogs — not as an afterthought, but…
The Inland Empire doesn’t get much camping love in the usual roundups, which is a mistake. The San Bernardino Mountains sit 90 minutes from most of Southern California, and the range from lakeside USFS campgrounds to free dispersed camping means…
Orange County has a dog park problem, but it’s the good kind: too many solid options and not enough weekends. The county stretches from beach towns to inland suburbs, and the dog parks reflect that range. Some are sandy and…
Greater Palm Springs has figured out something most desert towns haven’t: dogs are good for business. The result is a hotel market where pet policies go beyond “tolerated” to something closer to “actively welcomed.” Here’s where to stay, what it…
Los Angeles has more dog-friendly hiking trails than any city in California, and most of them are good. Looking beyond LA? See the best dog-friendly trails in California. The problem isn’t finding a trail — it’s finding one that matches…
The trails are thawing, the lake is shimmering and Big Bear Lake is officially open for adventure. Spring and summer usher in the best of alpine life—blooming meadows, refreshing breezes and endless miles of dog-friendly paths begging to be explored…
Surrounded by mountains with miles of pet-friendly hiking and biking trails, a river running through it and nine national and state parks at its doorstep, Redding is an outdoor paradise for dog-friendly vacations. Discover the best trails, lakes, parks and…
New coastal access near Bodega Bay adds another destination for dog lovers exploring Sonoma County’s parks, beaches and spring hiking trails.
California’s Central Coast is one of those places that seems tailor-made for a dog-friendly getaway — and spring might be the best time to go. The crowds thin out between winter storms and summer vacation season, wildflowers blanket the coastal…
San Diego has more dedicated dog beach than any city in California, and most of the state doesn’t even come close. Four beaches allow dogs, each with a different personality. Here’s what actually matters at each one. Dog Beach, Ocean…
Spring is the perfect time to camp with your dog in California. Mild temperatures, green hillsides, and wildflower blooms set the scene from March through May, and you will beat the summer crowds at campgrounds from the redwood coast to…
Easter weekend is the perfect excuse to hit the road with your dog. California is packed with dog-friendly destinations where you and your pup can soak up spring, from the off-leash beaches of Carmel to the wine country patios of…
California’s wildflower season peaks from late March through mid-April, and several of the best spots welcome dogs. From Hite Cove near Yosemite to Gold Country river trails, these three hikes deliver rolling hills of poppies and lupines before the blooms…
The San Francisco Peninsula is hiding some genuinely under-the-radar spots that most dog owners drive right past. From a forest-ringed lake in Belmont to windswept bluffs above the Mavericks surf break, these five are the ones locals keep to themselves.
Wild Blue Dogs Fall Camp is a six-night, all-inclusive retreat on 33 acres at Lake Tahoe. Professional trainers lead agility, nose work, paddleboarding, and 100-plus activities, while registration fees support canine cancer research. Early bird pricing ends April 30.
Spring is the best time to take your dog wine tasting in Napa and Sonoma. Cooler temps, thinner crowds and dozens of dog-friendly patios make it easy to sip, stroll and explore together.
California is home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the country, and everyone deserves to experience them — including hikers with guide dogs, service dogs, and mobility needs. These ADA-accessible trails offer breathtaking scenery without barriers.
Spring is the perfect time to explore Greater Palm Springs with your pup — mild temperatures, desert blooms, and dog-friendly trails, hotels, and patios. Our guide covers Mission Creek, Whitewater, La Quinta Resort, Boozehounds and more, plus how to time…
There are no signs to Bolinas — the locals keep taking them down. But if you find the turnoff from Highway 1, you’ll discover off-leash beaches, secret waterfall hikes, and one of Marin’s most dog-friendly towns.
California is warming up and your water dog knows it. From the crystal-clear pools of the South Yuba River to calm Lake Natoma, here are the best spring splash spots to hit before the crowds arrive.
Peninsula dog rescues are giving dogs second chances through shelters and foster-based groups across San Mateo County. From the Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA to small foster networks, these organizations invest in rehabilitation and thoughtful matching for lasting adoptions.
California’s outdoor lifestyle doesn’t have to stop when temperatures spike — it just needs a seasonal adjustment. With a little planning and awareness, you and your dog can still enjoy summer safely, from coastal escapes to mountain retreats.
Little River Inn’s Water Dog Package bundles a two-night coastal stay with a dog-friendly canoe or kayak outing, a generous dinner voucher, and a pet welcome bag. Explore Big River by outrigger or paddle through sea caves off Van Damme…
Little River Inn’s tented dining cabanas let guests enjoy California-inspired meals alongside their dogs. Each heated hideaway overlooks the garden terrace, and the menu features local wines, seasonal dishes and weekend brunch favorites served directly to your table.
Little River Inn welcomes dogs in ocean-view rooms, suites and cottages set on 225 Pacific-front acres. Expect fireplaces, private patios and welcome treats for pups, plus walking paths, a nine-hole golf course and easy access to Mendocino Coast trails.
Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast hosts its annual Pup Palooza celebration on April 25, 2026, with dog painting, wine tasting, and contests benefiting the Mendocino Coast Humane Society. Ocean-view rooms and doggie dining cabanas make it a full…
From coastal bluffs in Pacifica to redwood forests in Woodside, the San Francisco Peninsula is loaded with dog-friendly hiking. These trails offer ocean panoramas, shaded woodland paths and wide-open grasslands perfect for energetic pups on leash.
The early days of a rescue adoption shape everything that follows. From dog-proofing your home to understanding the 3-3-3 adjustment rule, here’s how to set up a new rescue dog for a smooth, confident transition into your family.
If your dog shares your bed and licks your face, you may wonder about parasites. The real risk usually comes from contaminated soil and fleas, not cuddling. Here’s what veterinarians actually worry about, from roundworms to hookworms and beyond.
Skip the polished cocktail lounges and head to the San Francisco Peninsula’s scruffiest, most dog-friendly bars instead. These beach pubs, harbor dives and neighborhood patios welcome muddy paws, cold drinks and a good time after a long coastal walk.
Beyond the tech campuses and tidy downtowns, the San Francisco Peninsula hides off-leash meadows, quiet bluffs and redwood trails that most visitors never find. These are the secret dog-friendly spots in San Mateo County that locals love.
San Mateo County serves up some of California’s best dog-friendly dining, from beachside lobster rolls at Sam’s Chowder House to craft beer at Half Moon Bay Brewing Company. Expect water bowls, friendly servers and pups lounging under every patio table.
The San Mateo Coast packs 60 miles of rugged Pacific shoreline into one compact region, and much of it welcomes dogs. Expect off-leash beaches, tide pools, wild surf, and foggy coastal magic just an hour from San Francisco and Silicon…
Finding waterfall hikes that welcome dogs takes local knowledge. These five California trails deliver the full package: big cascading falls, great scenery and dog-friendly rules, from the coastal tidefall at Alamere to the triple falls along the McCloud River.
Many popular California landscape plants can seriously harm dogs if chewed or swallowed. Sago palms, oleander, and other common ornamentals pose risks ranging from stomach upset to liver failure. Here are five of the most dangerous plants to keep out…
New research from the Dog Aging Project suggests that regular outdoor activity may help dogs live longer, healthier lives. Scientists are finding that exercise, mental stimulation, and environmental variety all play a meaningful role in how dogs age.
The West County Regional Trail starts in Forestville and stretches 5.5 paved miles through vineyards and farms to Sebastopol, following an old railway corridor. Connect to the Joe Rodota Trail for 14 miles of continuous, dog-friendly walking across Sonoma County.
Wild Blue Dogs’ fall camp in South Lake Tahoe, September 13-19, pairs bonding activities like agility, nose work and kayaking with certified trainers. All proceeds support canine cancer research, and you’ll enjoy quiet Tahoe beaches and great weather all week.
Spring brings a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from fun runs and beach festivals to wine tastings and costume parades. Many raise funds for animal welfare organizations, so you and your pup can play while making a positive…
The Beachcomber properties in Fort Bragg are offering a midweek BOGO winter deal through March 2026. Book two nights and pay for one at the Beachcomber Motel, Beach House Inn, or Surf and Sand Lodge, and enjoy complimentary beach cruiser…
Noyo Harbor Inn in Fort Bragg offers two winter specials through March 2026, including a weeknight rate starting at two hundred thirty-nine dollars and a third-night-free deal. Set along the Noyo River with dog-friendly rooms and a welcoming outdoor patio…
Winter on the Mendocino coast means fewer crowds, dramatic storms and cozy stays at Little River Inn. Two seasonal specials make it even more tempting, and dog-friendly rooms plus heated dining cabanas mean your pup is part of every moment.
Greater Palm Springs pairs dog-friendly desert hikes with sun-soaked patios and pet-welcoming hotels. Start the morning on the Bump and Grind Trail, stroll midcentury neighborhoods in the afternoon, then wind down at a brewery where your dog is always welcome.
A dog-friendly day-and-night itinerary for Greater Palm Springs — morning trails at Whitewater or Homme/Adams, El Paseo strolling, Moorten Botanical Garden, pool-side afternoons, and patio dinners at Boozehounds or Jake’s. Plus ideas to stretch it into a full weekend.
Greater Palm Springs is packed with dog-friendly patios where tails wag as happily as forks. From Boozehounds’ dedicated dog menu to relaxed brunch spots with sunny sidewalk seating, this desert oasis makes dining with your four-legged foodie effortless.
Fall in Tahoe means golden aspens, glassy lake mornings, and thinning crowds. Base yourself in Truckee for the best leaf color and trail access, chase reflections at Spooner Lake, and enjoy shoulder-season dining before the short window of peak color…
Summer at North Lake Tahoe means long days on dog-friendly beaches like Kiva and Kings Beach, cool dips in the Truckee River, and alpine hikes with sweeping views. Patio meals in walkable mountain towns round out the perfect warm-weather getaway…
DogTrekker’s beloved Maya graces the cover of Napa Humane’s 2026 calendar after an outpouring of community votes cast in her honor. Purchase a copy to celebrate her legacy and support Napa Humane’s mission to protect companion animals across the region.
Spring is Tahoe’s overlooked shoulder season, and that’s exactly why it works so well with a dog. Snow melts off the lower trails, crowds vanish, and the lake shifts through shades of blue while meltwater-fed rivers run fast through pine…
Winter in North Lake Tahoe brings fewer crowds, deep snow, and a landscape made for long walks with your dog. From Truckee’s gritty main street to Kings Beach’s quiet shoreline and Tahoe City’s groomed Nordic trails, each community offers its…
DogTrekker kicks off 2026 with a look ahead at the coastal walks, mountain trails, and welcoming patios waiting for you and your dog across California. More hotels, trails, and restaurants are rolling out the red carpet for pups than ever…
Planning a California coast trip around your dog isn’t a compromise. From off-leash sand at Huntington Dog Beach to boutique inns in Mendocino, the Golden State’s shoreline rewards travelers who bring their four-legged companions along for the ride.
California’s FOUND Act, signed into law in October 2025, changes how cities handle pets during evacuations. Named for Oreo, a Pomeranian rescued from the Palisades fire, the law requires better planning for animals in disaster zones starting January 2026.
Skylar was a young street dog and new mom when she landed in a high-kill shelter with time running out. A Bay Area rescuer pulled her with minutes to spare, and her story highlights the difference rescue makes.
From Big Bear’s lakefront boutique hotels to Huntington Beach’s award-winning resort and West Hollywood’s rooftop patios, these 2025 award-winning properties set the standard for dog-friendly hospitality across California. Pack treats and start planning.
Yosemite’s gateway towns are welcoming a wave of new glamping and adventure hotels. From canvas tents in Mariposa to safari-style camps in Groveland, these fresh lodging options put you close to the park with dog-friendly rooms and outdoor experiences.
West Hollywood is paws-down LA’s most dog-friendly neighborhood. Walkable boulevards, rooftop lounges and patio dining along Melrose and Santa Monica make it easy to explore with your pup, while nearby Runyon Canyon offers off-leash hikes with skyline views.
Paséa Hotel and Spa in Huntington Beach earned the top spot in USA Today’s Best Pet-Friendly Hotel awards. Dogs of all sizes are welcomed with a private dog park and dedicated dog menu.
Hotel Marina Riviera in Big Bear Lake blends retro alpine style with modern comfort on the waterfront. A heated pool, lakeside fire pits, and dog-friendly outdoor dining make it easy to bring your pup along.
Autumn in Northern California means cooler trails, colorful foliage and fewer crowds. These five dog-friendly day trips cover Apple Hill orchards, Gold Rush towns, ocean bluffs and redwood groves, each one perfect for a fall road trip with your pup.
Sacramento is a dog-travel powerhouse with 32 miles of river parkway trails, farm-to-fork dining on spacious patios and craft breweries that welcome pups. These one-day itineraries pair top dog-friendly hotels with the best the capital city has to offer.
California’s best dog-friendly mountain hikes hide in national forests and regional parks, far from the famous national parks that ban pets on trails. Dawn in the Sierra Nevada is a quiet, pink-tinted secret. My dog, Scout, knows it before I…
From Mendocino’s Victorian headlands to Laguna Beach’s gallery-lined streets, California’s best coastal towns have quietly reshaped themselves around four-legged visitors. Expect water bowls at storefronts, treats at hotel check-in and patios where dogs are the guests of honor.
Southern California is loaded with places where dogs can cool off, from the famous off-leash waves at Huntington Dog Beach to calm inland lakes and hidden creeks. This guide covers the best swim spots and what to know before you…
This Thanksgiving, DogTrekker celebrates a year of readers supporting California rescues, fostering pets and protecting park access. As a thank-you, we’re sharing winter lodging specials from Mendocino County’s most pup-friendly properties, including Little River Inn and Stanford Inn.
Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast is running three winter deals: a Hair Ball fundraiser package, the Cozy by the Coast discount through February, and a Whale of a Sale third-night-free offer in March.
When rain cancels the daily walk, your dog still needs engagement. Scent games, frozen Kongs, DIY puzzles and short training sessions can tire out a restless pup just as well as a hike.
Southern California’s best dog-friendly hotels go far beyond a simple pets-allowed policy. From Loews Coronado Bay’s bayside paths to La Quinta Resort’s 45 acres of gardens, these properties treat dogs like honored guests with dedicated amenities and genuine hospitality.
Putah Canyon Campground on Lake Berryessa’s quiet west side offers waterfront campsites, gentle lakeshore walks and peaceful mornings with your dog. Facilities are basic, but the wide-open shoreline and starry skies make it an ideal low-key camping getaway.
Yucaipa Regional Park in the Inland Empire offers flat lakeside paths, shaded lawns, and a relaxed atmosphere that works well for dogs of all ages. Paved trails loop past three scenic lakes at the foot of the San Bernardino Mountains.
Calaveras Big Trees State Park lets you stand among giant sequoias with your dog. While pets can’t join the dirt grove trails, paved paths near the visitor center wind past towering trees.
Hidden Falls Regional Park near Auburn offers 1,200 acres of wide, well-maintained trails through oak foothills, shady creek corridors, and seasonal waterfalls. The approachable terrain works for dogs of all ages and energy levels, with loops you can tailor to…
Lake Tahoe’s clear blue water, miles of shoreline, and endless trails make it a top destination for dog owners. From the modern Basecamp Hotel to the luxury Landing Resort and the quiet Cedar Glen Lodge, these are the best dog-friendly…
Sacramento’s big backyard delivers dog-friendly road trips to Placer County waterfalls, Gold Country mining trails, and small-batch wineries in the Sacramento River Delta. Two-room suites at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Sacramento Riverfront Promenade make a comfortable home base.
Sacramento’s thriving craft beer scene and easy access to top wine producers make it a tasting tour hotspot, with dog-friendly taprooms and Instagram-worthy murals along the way. Start at the Hyatt Centric Downtown and explore patio breweries within walking distance.
Sacramento earns its title as America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital with 1.5 million acres of farmland and incredible local chefs serving fresh, seasonal ingredients. The dog-friendly Citizen Hotel puts you two blocks from Capitol Park and steps from Michelin-recommended dining.
Sacramento’s parks and multi-use trails are a dog lover’s paradise, from the 32-mile American River Parkway to the tree-lined paths around Capitol Park. The Kimpton Sawyer Hotel welcomes dogs with no pet fees, no size limits, and evening wine receptions.
Big Bear Lake kicks off 2026 with the Polar Plunge fundraiser for Special Olympics on April 18, followed by the third annual Puptopia Festival on July 25. Expect agility courses, costume contests, and a full day of tail-wagging fun at…
Spring in Yosemite Mariposa County brings swelling rivers, wildflowers, and fresh scents that delight dogs on paved paths where leashed pets are welcome. See Bridalveil Fall at peak flow, explore Sierra National Forest trails, and discover dog-friendly towns beyond the…
In Greater Palm Springs, every day is an invitation to adventure for you and your dog, with scenic hiking trails, sun-drenched patios, and a variety of pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals. In Greater Palm Springs, every day is an invitation…
This four-day autumn itinerary covers Yosemite Mariposa County’s best dog-friendly adventures, from historic foothill towns to scenic trails inside and beyond the park. Visit in fall for lower prices, fewer crowds, and golden light on the valley’s iconic granite walls.
A three-day dog-friendly Greater Palm Springs itinerary across the nine-city region. Trail mornings at Homestead and Whitewater, afternoons on El Paseo, breweries and patios, plus desert-travel tips for keeping your pup safe in the sun.
From Boozehounds’ dog menu to sunny brunch patios, Greater Palm Springs serves up dog-friendly dining where pups are always welcome and tails wag as happily as forks. From hearty brunches to savory dinners—and even treats for your buddy—these dog-friendly restaurants…
Greater Palm Springs breweries welcome dogs with shady patios, water bowls, and ice-cold pints, making them perfect spots to hang with your canine bestie. Pups, pints, and great vibes. These Greater Palm Springs breweries are perfect for savoring every sip…
This fall, Greater Palm Springs is the perfect playground for you and your four-legged travel buddy. Explore dog-friendly breweries, dine on sunny patios where wagging tails are always welcome, and follow a curated itinerary for the ultimate getaway.
Fall on California’s North Coast shines at the Stanford Inn and throughout Mendocino County, with Harvest Mendocino events from late October through mid-November. Sample regional bounty, ride the Mushroom Train through redwoods, and stay for holiday sparkle into the new…
Couples choose the Stanford Inn by the Sea for weddings, anniversaries, and romantic reconnections, drawn by its coastal beauty, garden setting, and dog-friendly hospitality in Mendocino. Wake to ocean views, unwind with spa treatments, and stroll the bluffs with your…
The Stanford Inn practices mindful, personal hospitality in an era of screens and contactless check-ins, putting people, pups, and the planet first. This family-run Mendocino resort has spent forty-five years curating genuine guest experiences rooted in warmth and environmental care.
The Stanford Inn earned a spot on USA Today’s top 10 eco-friendly hotels for the second consecutive year, recognized for organic gardens, composting programs, and classes that help guests leave as better stewards of the environment after their stay.
DogTrekker’s new SoCal Portal showcases Southern California’s best dog-friendly places to stay, play, hike, dine, and splash, from laid-back beach towns to high-desert escapes. Sunshine, surf, mountains and deserts—Southern California is a dog lover’s dream. DogTrekker.com’s brand-new SoCal Portal pulls…
DogTrekker.com celebrates 15 years of helping California dog lovers travel together, supporting animal welfare groups and inspiring millions of readers since launching in June 2011. DogTrekker.com launched 15 years ago, guided by a mission to leave no dog behind –…
The GOCAL region in Southern California is a dog-friendly gateway to mountains, deserts and everything in between. From Ontario to Riverside and Mt. Baldy, you’ll find parks, patios and trails that welcome four-legged travelers.
The DogTrekker team says goodbye to Maya, a rescue pup from Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue who became the heart of our journey as Director of Barketing. Her nine years of warmth and wagging reminded us that every pawprint tells…
Noyo Harbor Inn in Fort Bragg pairs Mendocino Coast beauty with genuine dog-friendly hospitality. Leashed dogs join guests at HarborView Bistro, and the inn’s grounds and nearby coastal trails make it easy to keep your pup happy all weekend.
Huntington Beach is pure coastal joy for dogs, with the legendary off-leash Dog Beach, ocean-view patios, and a laid-back surf town vibe that welcomes four-legged visitors. Start early for calm waters and cooler sand, then reward your pup with a…
Big Bear Lake is a tail-wagging alpine getaway just hours from Southern California, with forested trails, a flat shoreline path, and dog-friendly boat rentals on the lake. Crisp mountain air and laid-back charm make it an ideal escape for dogs…
Greater Palm Springs blends dog-friendly spirit with vibrant desert beauty, making it a prime pick for sunshine escapes. Start your day with a walk along palm-lined neighborhoods, explore welcoming patios, and stay at hotels that treat your pup like family.
Winter and spring in Yosemite Mariposa County deliver two trips in one: snow-dusted scenery and quiet roads give way to roaring waterfalls and fresh green foothills. Either season is perfect for exploring with your dog by your side.
From mountain trails to desert washes, GOCAL’s parks and open spaces give dogs plenty of room to stretch their legs. These are the best outdoor spots in Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside and beyond for a day out with your pup.
A simple phone call and a “canine resume” can help your large dog get past strict hotel weight limits. By proactively marketing your pup’s good behavior, training credentials and calm temperament, you can open doors that online booking cannot.
Ticks carry serious diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease that can strike your dog fast. Learn the warning signs, prevention strategies and why regular tick checks after hikes could save your pet’s life.
Berkeley Humane’s Bark and Meow Around the Block street fair returns August 23 at 2700 Ninth Street in Berkeley. Hundreds of adoptable dogs from more than two dozen Bay Area shelters will be on hand, alongside live music, food trucks…
Most dog owners think their pet is a healthy weight, but studies show roughly 60 percent of U.S. dogs are overweight or obese. Too many treats, missed rib checks and portion confusion are common culprits behind the growing problem.
Waggin’ Trails Rescue Foundation hosts Wag, Wine and Dine on August 24 at the Meritage Resort in Napa. Enjoy wine from 20-plus wineries, gourmet bites, live music and a pooch pageant while supporting dogs in need of forever homes.
Nuevo Dog Park in Santa Clara closed indefinitely after multiple dogs fell severely ill and one died following visits. City officials are testing for toxins while pet owners share stories of sudden vomiting, seizures and emergency vet trips.
California’s soaring rents and strict no-pet rental policies are forcing owners to surrender beloved dogs and cats. Shelters from Los Angeles to Oakland are overflowing as housing instability becomes the leading cause of pet relinquishment statewide.
Not every California town is dog-friendly. Breed bans, strict leash laws, hefty fines and park restrictions vary widely from city to city. Before you travel, check local ordinances so you and your pup don’t get caught off guard.
JSX lets dogs fly in the cabin on 30-seat jets with no security lines and no cargo holds. Pups up to 79 pounds ride beside you on routes connecting Burbank, Oakland, Napa and other California cities, making weekend getaways stress-free.
Leptospirosis cases are rising in California dogs, fueled by heavy rains, urban rats and contaminated puddles. The bacterial disease can cause kidney and liver failure, but a simple vaccine and smart trail habits can protect your pup.
Big Bear Lake has dog-friendly lodging for every type of traveler, from family cabins with full kitchens to romantic retreats with hot tubs and lake views. Pet fees and policies vary, so call ahead to confirm before you book.
Fall at Big Bear Lake means fewer crowds, crystal-clear water and prime fishing season. Bring your pup along for kayaking, pontoon cruises, shoreline casting and sunset picnics on the 22 miles of scenic alpine shoreline.
Autumn turns Big Bear Lake’s trails into a canvas of golden aspens and mountain color. With over 100 miles of hiking routes and stargazing after dark, fall is the best season to hit the trails with your dog.
When summer heat hits the GOCAL region, cool off with your dog at shaded patios, indoor shops and breezy food halls in Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Upland and Claremont. These spots keep both you and your pup comfortable.
GOCAL’s ice cream shops, biergartens and cafes serve cool treats for dogs and humans alike. From pup cups at Handel’s in Upland to the dog-friendly patio at Dog Haus in Claremont, beating the heat has never tasted better.
Airlines have tightened pet travel rules, limiting cabin spots, ending emotional support animal policies and enforcing stricter crate requirements. California dog owners need to book early, prepare paperwork and plan ahead for smooth flights.
Beat the GOCAL summer heat by walking your dog during cooler morning and evening hours. Ontario Town Square, the Claremont colleges, San Antonio Creek Trail and Haven City Market offer shaded, scenic routes for safe warm-weather strolls.
HarborView Bistro at Noyo Harbor Inn has added an impressive whiskey menu, a cigar lounge and a winemaker dinner series. These dog-friendly culinary events pair great food and drink with Mendocino Coast views and gracious hospitality.
Noyo Harbor Inn blends Arts and Crafts architecture with modern comfort on the Mendocino Coast. Half the rooms welcome pets, with wood floors, private patios and park-like grounds for dog walking just steps from the harbor.
Five dog-friendly stops near Noyo Harbor Inn showcase the best of the Mendocino Coast. Glass Beach, the Noyo Headlands Trail, the Skunk Train, Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens and the Big River Trail all welcome leashed pups.
Noyo Harbor Inn’s HarborView Bistro and Bar in Fort Bragg serves fresh seafood and California wines on a riverfront patio where dogs are welcome. Watch fishing boats drift by over brunch, happy hour, or a locally sourced dinner with sunset…
Chaminade Resort in Santa Cruz hosts Pawsh Retreat on August 24, featuring dog pools, pet massages, agility games, a canine fashion show and adoptable pups. Admission is free with a suggested donation benefiting the Santa Cruz SPCA.
Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever to dogs hiking through tall grass and wooded areas. Here’s how to spot symptoms, remove ticks safely, and keep your adventurous pup protected with year-round preventatives.
California’s splash season means it’s time to hit the water with your dog. From Russian River paddling trips to Mendocino coast kayaking, these DogTrekker-tested favorites offer seaside coves, freshwater lakes and rivers for every water-loving pup.
Southern California’s best dog parks range from Hollywood Hills hikes at Runyon Canyon to off-leash beach romps at Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach. This north-to-south guide covers urban hideaways, oceanfront escapes and mountain vistas for every pup.
California offers seven world-class off-leash dog beaches, from Huntington Dog Beach’s golden sands to Carmel Beach’s iconic shoreline. This field-tested guide covers the best times to visit, parking tips and insider knowledge for each location.
The first year with a new puppy sets the stage for lifelong habits. These seven training tips cover early socialization, positive reinforcement, consistency and patience to help your pup grow into a confident, well-mannered travel companion.
Eight small lodges between Mendocino and the Oregon border treat dogs like honored guests. From Little River Inn’s cliff-top rooms to Requa Inn’s salmon scraps at breakfast, each property sits near trails through ancient redwood groves.
When Southern California heats up, head to these eight dog-friendly lakes within three hours of the city. From Castaic Lake’s golden foothills to Big Bear’s alpine waters, each spot offers shoreline access and cool relief for overheated pups.
The Capitol Corridor’s Pets Onboard program has carried over 1,000 pets between Sacramento, Oakland and San Jose in its first year. Small dogs and cats ride for $29 each way, giving pet owners a practical alternative to highway traffic.
California’s dog-friendly travel scene expanded dramatically in 2025, with new CDC travel regulations, luxury hotel pet packages in Napa and San Diego, expanded airport relief areas, and tech tools that simplify planning trips with your pup. California’s reputation as a…
The Big Bear Puptopia Festival on July 26 is a free day of dog-friendly fun featuring a giant Pawground, stunt dog shows, agility courses, a grooming Spaw, and vendors selling gourmet treats.
Sonoma County restaurants go way beyond dog-tolerant. From Howard Station Cafe’s dedicated doggie menu in Occidental to Barndiva’s garden patio in Healdsburg, these spots serve up wine country hospitality for humans and their four-legged dining companions.
California’s state parks offer lakeside romps and woodland strolls for leashed dogs. From splashing at Lake Tahoe and Folsom Lake to camping at Lake Oroville, here’s your guide to trail etiquette, rules and the best pup-approved park adventures.
Catch the big game with your dog at these 10 California sports bars, from Riddick’s in Redding to spots in Big Bear, Fort Bragg and South Lake Tahoe. Few things are better than catching the big game with good friends…
That “pet-friendly” hotel label can hide steep fees, musty designated rooms, strict weight limits and absurd breed restrictions. Before booking, learn to spot the red flags and find California lodgings that genuinely welcome your dog.
Pup-friendly festivals are popping up across California this summer and fall. From Puptopia in Big Bear to Bark & Meow in Berkeley and winery fundraisers in Napa, these events bring dog lovers together while supporting rescue and animal welfare groups.
A south-to-north road trip through California’s best dog-friendly destinations, from Ocean Beach in San Diego and Runyon Canyon in LA to Big Bear Lake, Carmel Beach and beyond. Each stop pairs off-leash fun with pet-welcoming hotels and cafes.
Five insider tips for smoother California road trips with your dog, including pet-friendly rest stops with fenced play areas, hidden beaches away from crowds, no-fee hotel chains, dog-welcome ferries and trains, and local visitor centers with canine-specific recommendations.
From Cypress Inn’s Yappy Hours in Carmel to canine massages at Nick’s Cove in Marin, these California hotels genuinely love dogs. Expect welcome treats, dedicated pet menus, adventure packages and luxury bedding designed for four-legged guests.
More California workplaces now allow dogs in the office. This practical checklist covers everything from confirming pet policies and evaluating your dog’s temperament to packing essentials and setting up a comfortable workspace for your pup.
Written from a dog’s perspective, this tongue-in-cheek look at Mars colonization asks the important questions: Will there be belly rubs in space, and did anyone learn from what happened to poor Laika on Sputnik 2.
Over half of American dogs are overweight, which can lead to diabetes, joint problems and shorter lives. Learn how to check your dog’s body condition and help your pup get back to a healthy weight.
San Diego tops California for dog-friendly dining, thanks to year-round mild weather and hundreds of patio restaurants that welcome pups. From dedicated dog menus at The Patio on Lamont to spacious gardens at Stone Brewing, options abound.
Flying with your dog through California? LAX, SFO and SAN lead the pack with indoor and outdoor pet relief areas, therapy dog programs and clear guidance for travelers. Here’s what to expect at the state’s most accommodating airports.
From coastal safari tents and redwood Airstreams to vineyard cabins and desert retreats, California’s dog-friendly glamping scene offers the best of outdoor adventure without sacrificing creature comforts. Pack the treats and let the tail-wagging begin.
Vacaville offers affordable, dog-friendly lodging just 30 minutes from Napa Valley and even closer to the laid-back Suisun Valley wine region. Between tastings, enjoy off-leash play at Lagoon Valley Dog Park and patio dining downtown. For wine lovers craving a…
When an aging Rottie named Maggie could barely walk, veterinary acupuncture brought her back to life. Studies show the treatment reduces pain in over 80% of dogs with joint issues, though it works best alongside a broader care plan.
Booking a hotel with your dog takes homework. This guide walks through the key questions to ask before reserving, from size and breed restrictions to pet fees, in-room amenities, relief areas, and policies about leaving your dog unattended.
Five California towns every dog should visit at least once: Carmel-by-the-Sea for off-leash beach bliss, Mendocino for coastal trails, South Lake Tahoe for mountain adventures, Santa Barbara for elegant seaside strolls, and one more surprise.
A weekend itinerary for Sacramento with your dog, from Saturday morning walks in Capitol Park and mural hopping in Midtown to Sunday brunch at dog-friendly patios, off-leash parks, and a River Fox Train ride that welcomes pups.
Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast has new doggie dining cabanas, updated rooms and pup-friendly adventure packages. Fifth-generation innkeeper Cally Dym invites guests to revisit this bluff-top gem near trails, beaches and ocean sunsets.
Little River Inn’s Water Dog Package bundles a two-night stay with your choice of dog-friendly sea cave kayaking or a Big River canoe trip, plus a dinner voucher and pet goodie bag. Available May through September on the Mendocino coast.
Little River Inn’s new heated dining cabanas let dogs join their people for seasonal meals featuring fresh local seafood, foraged mushrooms and farm produce. Most cabanas seat four people and two dogs, with ordering by QR code and tableside delivery.
Little River Inn’s pet-friendly rooms range from garden retreats to ocean-view suites with gas fireplaces and private patios. Dogs receive treats, bowls, towels and furniture covers at check-in, and well-behaved pups can even ride along on the golf course.
Little River Inn sits between Mendocino’s redwoods and the Pacific coast, with a footpath to Van Damme State Beach and easy access to Big River Trail. This 225-acre, family-owned property has welcomed dogs and their people for over 80 years.
Napa Humane supports pets and their families through spay/neuter clinics, dog training classes, behavior hotlines and safety-net programs. Their summer calendar features community mixers, Dine & Donate nights and a pet photo calendar contest.
A curated guide to California’s top dog-friendly glamping escapes, from Mendocino Grove’s safari tents under the redwoods to desert retreats and vineyard stays. Each property blends wilderness access with comfortable amenities for you and your pup. Glamping by the sea…
Glamping in California’s mountains and deserts pairs epic scenery with dog-friendly comfort. From safari tents near Yosemite to Western-themed lodging at the gateway to Anza-Borrego, these retreats offer hiking, stargazing and wide-open spaces for your pup. From alpine meadows to…
Glamping in California wine country means safari tents along the Russian River, luxury cottages in Paso Robles and campgrounds in the Santa Ynez Valley. Many nearby wineries welcome leashed dogs for tastings, treats and vineyard strolls.
Wake up beneath towering trees at these dog-friendly forest glamping spots. From AutoCamp’s Airstreams near the Russian River to KOA Ventura Ranch’s tricked-out teepees, each property offers trails, fire pits and plenty of room for pups to roam.
Three DogTrekker-approved coastal glamping destinations where dogs are truly welcome. Mendocino Grove offers platform tents near the beach, Costanoa features eco-resort cabins, and each property provides dog wash stations for those sandy post-adventure paws.
Mendocino County’s spring sweet spot: wildflowers on the bluffs, quieter trails and patios, and dog-welcoming lodging from intimate inns to coastal resorts. Our guide to Mendocino hotels, dining, breweries, Stone Ranch and Mendocino Grove, plus the top 10 dog-friendly activities…
Lake Tahoe’s summer scene includes dog-friendly beaches on the north shore, scenic waterfront paths and seasonal camps by Wild Blue Dogs that combine canine activities with nonprofit fundraising. Pups can swim, hike and socialize all season long.
Northern California’s Shasta Cascade region spans eight counties packed with national and state parks, trails, lakes and pet-friendly towns. From Mount Shasta’s peaks to Burney Falls, spring brings wildflowers and ideal conditions for exploring with your dog.
Bishop sits at 4,000 feet in the Eastern Sierra, surrounded by public lands perfect for dogs. With pet-friendly hotels, a dedicated dog park, patio dining, and trailheads steps away, it’s a big draw for pups.
Lake Sabrina, at 9,100 feet near Bishop, rents dog-friendly pontoons, motorboats and kayaks for high-altitude lake adventures. Back in town, pups enjoy a dedicated dog park, patio dining at local breweries, and 16 pet-welcoming hotels.
Catch A Canoe at the Stanford Inn rents special canine cruiser platforms so dogs can ride along on Big River paddling trips. Back on land, the inn pampers pups with house-made treats, bowls and organic doggie dishes in the lobby.
Russian River Adventures celebrates 25 years of paddling in Sonoma County with pup-friendly canoe tours on stable inflatable vessels. Dogs join for just $15 on a nine-mile self-guided trip past swimming holes, wildlife and scenic riverbanks.
Vacaville offers affordable pet-friendly hotels with easy access to Napa, Sonoma and Suisun Valley wineries. Stay for less, sip world-class wines, and enjoy dog parks, patio dining and public art with your pup along the way.
Even seasoned visitors may not know how welcoming Yosemite and Mariposa County can be for dogs. From pet-friendly paved trails and Sierra National Forest hikes to lodging with special pet packages, here are five things every dog traveler should know.
Bishop sits at 4,000 feet in the Eastern Sierra, offering dog-friendly trails, alpine lakes, budget-friendly hotels, and outdoor dining patios. From Bishop Creek Canyon hikes to peaceful Owens River walks, this small town delivers big adventures for dogs and their…
Exploring Bishop with your dog means traveling smart and treading lightly. Keep pups leashed on trails, carry plenty of water, watch for spring runoff and summer heat, and respect this special landscape.
Bishop makes it easy to travel with dogs. Sixteen of the town’s 21 hotels welcome pups, many recently remodeled and close to trails and open spaces. Check in downtown and you’ll be steps from shops, restaurants and craft breweries.
Surrounded by 98 percent public land, Bishop serves up incredible outdoor adventures for dogs and their humans. Hike Bishop Creek Canyon past cascading waterfalls, walk among ancient bristlecone pines, or paddle the serene alpine waters of Lake Sabrina in the…
Bishop is a high desert gem on Highway 395 where dogs are genuinely welcome. A central dog park, walkable downtown, pet-friendly dining patios and trails with off-leash options make this Eastern Sierra town a favorite among DogTrekker regulars.
Victoria Gardens in Rancho Cucamonga is the perfect open-air destination for shopping and dining with your pup. Dog-friendly patios at restaurants like The State and Paul Martin’s serve comfort food and farm-to-table dishes while you enjoy the day together.
Summer 2025 brings a temporary vehicle reservation system to Yosemite National Park during peak dates. A $2 pass from Recreation.gov is required for daytime entry, but overnight guests are exempt. Plan ahead and your dog-friendly adventure stays on track.
Sacramento’s central location makes it a perfect launchpad for Northern California adventures with your dog. Riverfront strolls, dog-welcoming patios, plus easy day trips through Gold Country, Amador and El Dorado wineries, and the High Sierra from a single capital-city basecamp.
From Sacramento, you can reach Lake Tahoe’s alpine beaches and mountain parks in about two hours. Let pups splash at Kiva Beach, hike Van Sickle Bi-State Park, paddle Echo Lakes or grab a post-hike pint at FiftyFifty Brewing in Truckee.
Gold Country towns east of Sacramento roll out the welcome mat for dogs. Hike wildflower-lined trails at Auburn State Recreation Area, walk through history at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park and stroll the 35-mile El Dorado Trail.
Wild Blue Dogs hosts weeklong sleepaway camps on the shores of Lake Tahoe for you and your pup. The all-inclusive experience features hikes, swims, campfires and training, and every dollar raised goes toward canine cancer treatment and research.
The Greater Ontario region of Southern California offers dog-friendly trails for every skill level. Walk the paved Pacific Electric Trail, roam Red Hill Community Park’s off-leash area, or hike Mount Rubidoux for panoramic views.
Sustainability helped spark DogTrekker.com. Before launching the website, around Earth Day 2011, we sent a newsletter called “Leave Only Pawprints.”
This Earth Day and every day, follow these five tips for keeping your dog safe on the trail. Plan ahead, respect wildlife, practice good trail etiquette, pack out all waste and support businesses that champion environmental stewardship across California.
Yosemite Mariposa County’s Nature Rules program helps visitors protect this extraordinary landscape. Travel responsibly by sticking to pet-friendly trails, arriving early, packing out all waste and using eco-friendly sunblock to safeguard the park’s wildlife and waterways.
Care For Big Bear promotes responsible tourism in the San Bernardino National Forest, where more than 3 million visitors play each year. Stay on trails, respect wildlife, and support local green businesses.
Mariposa County is home to Yosemite National Park and a wealth of pet-friendly lodging, dining and photo opportunities. Bring your dog to experience the valley’s iconic views, Gold Rush-era towns, and trails in the surrounding Sierra National Forest.
The snow is melting and spring is blooming in beautiful Big Bear Lake. Trails teem with life, the lake beckons paddlers, and patio dining season buzzes. Our guide to paddling, hiking, dining, lodging, and the Care For Big Bear stewardship…
Big Bear’s restaurant scene warmly welcomes dogs on patios throughout the village. Try dog-safe donuts at Dank Donuts, burgers and brews at The Bone Yard, wine and bites at Barrel 33, or Mexican fare at Azteca Grill.
The city of Fort Bragg released its top 10 dog-friendly activities list, and it’s a great starting point for planning a coastal trip with your dog. Ten picks from Glass Beach and MacKerricher State Park to Pomo Bluffs, the Skunk…
Big Bear Lake, just 100 miles from Los Angeles, is a top dog-friendly getaway in the San Bernardino National Forest. Paddle the seven-mile lake, hike over 100 miles of trails, then unwind at a pet-welcoming cabin or lakeside restaurant.
DogTrekker’s spring and summer 2025 event guide highlights pup-friendly fundraisers across California. From Pasadena Humane’s Wiggle Waggle Walk to the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and Woofstock Chico, your participation supports rescue efforts that change animal lives.
Mendocino Stone Ranch is a 50-acre retreat with art installations, redwood trails and unique lodging options including a yurt with ocean views. Nearby Mendocino Grove hosts dog-friendly group events amid stately forests.
Mendocino County’s beer trail winds from coastal Fort Bragg taprooms to inland gems like Anderson Valley Brewing Company’s 30-acre beer park. Pet-friendly patios, fresh pub fare, and creative craft beers make this a tail-wagging tasting tour for dogs and their…
Mendocino County’s dining scene welcomes dogs with open arms. The Little River Inn is debuting cozy Pup Cabanas, James Beard-nominee Scott Baird runs a beloved burger stand in Philo, and the Stanford Inn serves plant-based meals at pup-friendly lobby tables.
Mendocino County’s coastal hotels go above and beyond for dogs. From Rendezvous Mendocino’s peaceful B&B setting to the Stanford Inn’s dog-friendly canoe rentals and the Little River Inn’s fireside cottages, these properties make four-legged guests feel right at home.
After a day exploring Yosemite Mariposa County, you and your dog will have earned a good meal. Pup-friendly restaurants along the way serve everything from craft beer and burgers to farm-to-table plates and steaming bowls of ramen.
Redding’s event calendar is packed with festivals, fairs and community gatherings year-round. From the Redding Rodeo and Kool April Nites car show to First Fridays downtown and the Glowing Wild light installation at Turtle Bay, there’s always something happening.
Redding is adventure central for dogs and their people, with 225 miles of trails within 15 minutes of town. Explore Shasta-Trinity National Forest, walk the iconic Sundial Bridge, and follow the paved Sacramento River Trail all the way to Shasta…
Vacaville’s mild climate and 30-plus parks make it a prime destination for outdoor fun with dogs. Hike the trails at Lagoon Valley Park or let pups play fetch at Alamo Creek Park.
Vacaville’s dog-friendly culture shines through its renovated dog parks, pet-welcoming breweries and charming downtown shopping. Sip craft beers at The Brass Tap’s yappy hour and browse pet boutiques like Sweet Pea’s.
From Vacaville, three renowned wine regions are within easy reach. Sample Suisun Valley’s undiscovered gems, visit dog-welcoming Sonoma wineries like Mutt Lynch and Cline Cellars, or sip sparkling wine at Napa’s Domaine Chandon.
California’s desert landscapes offer a unique adventure for dogs and their people. From Death Valley’s sweeping vistas to Joshua Tree’s scenic drives and Anza-Borrego’s rugged trails, careful planning and plenty of water will keep your pup safe and happy.
Greater Ontario California — GOCAL — is an under-the-radar dog-friendly gateway to SoCal. About 45 minutes east of Los Angeles, the region pairs Inland Empire trails, outdoor shopping at Victoria Gardens, and year-round patio dining in Ontario and Rancho Cucamonga…
The Greater Ontario region of Southern California serves up a tasty lineup of dog-friendly restaurant patios. Lazy Dog has a dedicated dog menu, and Rock and Brews treats pups like VIPs.
GOCAL — Greater Ontario, California — has built a reputation for year-round, dog-friendly patio dining. Three favorite spots to eat on a patio with your dog: Popping Yolk Café for brunch, Lazy Dog for dinner with an actual dog menu…
Napa Humane’s annual Pawsport offers more than $1,100 in perks for just $75 during March. Two-for-one wine tastings, restaurant discounts, and lodging deals make it a great value supporting Napa Humane’s programs.
Team DogTrekker spotlights two spring fundraisers that support California animal welfare. Napa Humane’s Pawsport unlocks wine, dining and hotel deals from 30-plus businesses, while Pasadena Humane’s Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run raises funds for Southern California wildfire relief.
Pasadena Humane’s Wiggle Waggle Walk and Run returns to Brookside Park near the Rose Bowl on April 6. The annual fundraiser features a walk, doggie costume contest and vendor marketplace, with proceeds supporting animals impacted by the recent Eaton Fire.
The Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau partners with DogTrekker on our Leave Only Paw Prints® stewardship values. What those values mean practically, which Yosemite trails welcome dogs, and how to plan a low-impact visit to one of the world’s great…
Yosemite Mariposa County offers dog-welcoming places to stay for every style, from glamping at AutoCamp to the award-winning Tenaya at Yosemite in Fish Camp. Plan ahead for pet policies and pair your stay with nearby trails and wildflowers.
Northern California’s coastline is packed with dog-friendly beaches worth visiting. From Baker Beach with its Golden Gate Bridge views to off-leash Carmel Beach and the sandy cliffs of Fort Funston, these spots are unforgettable.
Orli La Jolla is a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of La Jolla Village that welcomes dogs. Guests enjoy modern rooms with upscale touches, a pet pampering package upgrade, and easy walking access to beaches, restaurants, galleries and shops.
Greater Palm Springs is a sun-soaked playground for dogs and their people. This itinerary covers dog-friendly dining at spots like Boozehounds and Wilma and Frieda’s, desert trail hikes and craft breweries where wagging tails are always welcome. Planning the ultimate…
While winter means snowflakes elsewhere, California’s warmer destinations make for quieter, dog-friendly trail days. Four best-in-show playgrounds to explore with your pup this season—from coastal Mendocino and Greater Ontario to Redding’s Sacramento River trails and the fee-free East Bay Regional…
Wherever your California adventures lead, remember to Leave Only Paw Prints. Keep your dog leashed where required, respect wildlife, pack out everything you bring in, and help preserve trails and beaches for future generations.
Great news for Bay Area dog owners. The East Bay Regional Park District has dropped dog fees in 2025, giving pups free access to 73 parks with 1,250 miles of trails across Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Pleasant Hill makes…
Greater Ontario, or GOCAL, is an under-the-radar Southern California gem for dog-friendly travel. Hike San Gabriel Mountain trails, shop at Victoria Gardens with your pup, treat them to a Doggie Delights cupcake, and settle into one of several pet-welcoming hotels.
Mendocino County draws dog lovers with old-growth redwoods, dramatic coastline and genuinely pet-passionate lodging. Hike the Big River Trail, walk the Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, then check into the Little River Inn.
Redding’s dog-friendly hotels put you within minutes of 225 miles of trails. The Sheraton at the Sundial Bridge serves dog dishes at its restaurant, and nearby routes offer year-round hiking for pups. Redding’s dog-friendly accommodations offer easy access to one…
Popular oral flea and tick medications like Bravecto, NexGard and Simparica have drawn FDA warnings for potential neurological side effects in dogs. While serious reactions remain rare, veterinarians recommend discussing alternatives with your vet, especially for dogs with pre-existing conditions.
Yosemite welcomes leashed dogs on paved roads and paths near iconic landmarks like Bridalveil Fall and Glacier Point. Beyond the park, the towns and trails of Mariposa County offer even more pet-friendly hikes, lodging, and dining worth discovering.
From SNO-Parks and Big Bear Lake to Lake Tahoe and Mammoth, California delivers serious winter fun for dogs and their people. Snowshoe through national forest, sled powder-covered meadows, and retreat to pet-friendly cabins and lodges across the Sierra Nevada.
Winter travel with your dog calls for extra preparation. These five essential safety tips cover cold-weather gear, paw protection, frostbite prevention and more to keep your pup happy and healthy in the snow.
Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra is a top winter basecamp for dog lovers. Pet-friendly lodges, cross-country ski trails, snowshoe routes and cozy cabins make this mountain town ideal for snowy getaways with your pup.
Lake Tahoe rolls out the red carpet for dogs in winter, with plowed walking trails along the lakeshore, cross-country ski centers that welcome pups, pet-friendly hotels and restaurants, and wide-open wilderness to explore on snowshoes or on foot.
California’s 18 SNO-Parks offer affordable winter access to stunning Forest Service lands for snowshoeing, sledding, cross-country skiing, and even skijoring with your dog. A season pass costs just $40 and covers all locations from November through May.
As wildfires devastate Southern California, the DogTrekker team shares ways to support displaced families and their pets. Donate to organizations like Pasadena Humane, SPCA LA and Best Friends Animal Society. As we witness the devastation caused by the wildfires sweeping…
Visit Big Bear has coordinated discounted lodging for LA County wildfire evacuees, with many properties waiving pet fees and providing extra supplies. Contact them for updated availability and food voucher information.
This four-day itinerary covers the best of dog-friendly Yosemite Mariposa County, from historic Mariposa town strolls and paved valley hikes to hidden gems like the Wawona Meadow Loop Trail and the dramatic granite-walled reservoir at Hetch Hetchy.
Tired of dating apps? California dog parks are becoming a popular, low-pressure way to meet fellow pet lovers. We weigh the pros and cons of finding romance while your pup plays fetch.
This holiday season, support California’s dog rescue and adoption organizations. From Napa Humane to Rocket Dog Rescue, here are our favorite groups working to give every pup a loving home.
Desert camping with your dog requires extra care, from hydration and paw protection to tent safety and wildlife awareness. Here are practical tips for enjoying California’s desert landscapes with your pup. California’s deserts are a world apart — wide-open spaces…
Hundreds of entries poured in for DogTrekker’s 2024 Go California Photo Contest, and thousands voted for their favorites. Meet the winning pups, including two Pomeranians waving from Glacier Point and a sidecar-riding dog cruising through Carmel-by-the-Sea.
DogTrekker’s 2024 Go California Photo Contest drew hundreds of entries showcasing pups across the Golden State. The top prize went to two Pomeranians at Glacier Point, while voters chose a sidecar-riding dog in Carmel.
Four Northern California hotels from the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards stand out for dog lovers. The Stanford Inn, Harbor Court, Stanford Court and Inn at the Presidio all warmly welcome pups.
Sea Ranch Lodge on the remote Sonoma Coast blends eco-friendly design with stunning ocean views. Dogs are welcome in most room types and can join you on six trails and beaches, including the scenic Blufftop Trail.
Cavallo Point Lodge in Sausalito sits on national park grounds with Golden Gate Bridge views and green spaces to explore with your pup. The curated Eco Luxe Pups program includes organic treats and artisan dog bowls.
The historic Claremont Club and Spa in the Oakland Hills pampers dogs of all sizes with fluffy beds, treats and sweeping Bay Area views. Nearby East Bay Regional Parks offer 120,000 acres of trails to explore.
The Stanford Inn by the Sea on the Mendocino coast has welcomed pets for over 45 years. Nearly all rooms are dog-friendly, and the inn serves organic treats made in-house alongside its acclaimed plant-based cuisine.
Ventura is an ultra-dog-friendly surf town with beaches for splashing, trails for hiking, breweries with big patios and a walkable downtown. Pet-friendly lodging ranges from coastal hotels to vintage glamping trailers.
Santa Barbara offers a stunning coastal escape for dogs and their people, with off-leash beaches like Arroyo Burro, dog-friendly wine tasting rooms, waterfront hotels and the open spaces of Douglas Family Preserve.
San Luis Obispo County stretches 100 miles along Highway 1, with off-leash beaches, dog-friendly wineries and charming towns from Cambria to Pismo Beach. Stay at coastal lodges or the Michelin Key-awarded San Luis Creek Lodge.
Carmel-by-the-Sea is one of America’s most dog-friendly towns, with loose leash laws, an off-leash beach, pet boutiques and patio dining galore. More than half of the village’s 40-plus hotels welcome four-legged guests.
Santa Cruz pairs legendary surf breaks with towering redwoods and 17 dog-friendly beaches along its 29-mile coastline. Add wineries, breweries and a walkable downtown, and you have the perfect pup-friendly getaway.
From Palm Springs resorts to Bay Area landmarks, California’s best dog-friendly hotels earned major accolades in 2024. Here are award-winning properties that treat your pup like a VIP guest. California is home to some of the finest dog-friendly hotels in…
Both Conde Nast Traveler and Sunset named Healdsburg a top wine destination in 2024. This Sonoma County town offers dog-friendly tasting rooms, fenced parks, pet boutiques and hotels that roll out the red carpet for pups.
Yosemite Mariposa County is packed with pet-friendly lodging, from luxury tents at AutoCamp to rustic cabins near the park. Leashed dogs can enjoy paved trails, campgrounds and the B.A.R.K. Ranger program.
The 2024 Sunset Travel Awards spotlight three dog-friendly coastal California hotels: Timber Cove Resort on the Sonoma Coast, Laguna Surf Lodge in Orange County and the charming Orli La Jolla near San Diego.
A MarketWatch study ranked San Francisco the most dog-friendly city in America, and Conde Nast readers agree. Three Bay Area hotels stand out for pup-loving travelers, including two in the scenic Presidio.
Two Palm Springs hotels landed on Conde Nast Traveler’s 2024 list of the 10 Best Hotels in the World. Hermann Bungalows and Colony Palms Hotel both welcome dogs and offer upscale desert retreats. window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []}; googletag.cmd.push(function()…
The Stanford Inn by the Sea on the Mendocino coast is a dog-friendly gem run by a family of animal lovers. Gorgeous grounds, plant-based dining, and ocean views make it a top pick for pups.
Spend four pet-perfect days in Yosemite Mariposa County exploring historic towns, hiking dog-friendly paved trails in the valley, and venturing to quieter spots like Wawona Meadow and Hetch Hetchy. This detailed itinerary covers lodging, dining, and scenic drives for every…
Half Moon Bay on the San Francisco Peninsula is a natural getaway where dogs can romp on beaches, dine at patio restaurants with special pet menus and stay at seaside lodges right along Highway 1.
Fall brings San Francisco’s sunniest weather, making it the perfect time to explore the city with your dog. From off-leash Fort Funston to the Presidio’s bay-view trails, here are our favorite spots.
Muir Beach is a dog-friendly Marin County cove just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Pups can play off-leash or under voice control on the beach, and nearby hotels in Mill Valley and Sausalito welcome pets.
Dillon Beach sits between Bodega Bay and Tomales Bay with an off-leash public beach perfect for well-behaved dogs. Stay in chic tiny home cabins at Dillon Beach Resort or historic waterfront cottages at Nick’s Cove.
Yosemite Mariposa County is a wonderful winter destination for dogs and their people. Leashed pups can enjoy paved trails past iconic landmarks, snowy forest hikes, and cozy pet-friendly lodging at spots like Tenaya Lodge and AutoCamp Yosemite.
Planning a California trip with your dog involves more than finding pet-friendly hotels. Beach rules, dramatic climate swings, wildlife hazards, transit policies, and accommodation fees all vary by region and require advance research to keep your trip smooth and your…
Sacramento, America’s Farm-to-Fork Capital, is a standout dog-friendly destination with miles of trails, dozens of parks, and patio restaurants serving field-fresh cuisine. Follow Highway 50 east to the Apple Hill wine trail, where many family wineries welcome pups on their…
Mendocino County’s Anderson Valley is one of the most dog-friendly wine regions in California. Nearly a dozen Highway 128 wineries welcome pups with treats, water bowls, fenced play areas and resident winery dogs.
Dogs are endlessly fascinating creatures with abilities that surprise even devoted owners. From a third eyelid and the power to smell time to unique nose prints, here are five things you probably did not know about your pup.
The Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast has championed sustainability since the 1980s with organic gardens, plant-based cuisine, biodiesel vehicles and free EV charging. It proves that eco-friendly travel can also be luxurious.
Happiness and health are woven into every stay at the Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast. Expect plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, wellness workshops, ocean views and four state parks within two miles.
The Stanford Inn has welcomed dogs since its earliest days, with no size or breed restrictions. Pups get welcome treats, in-room dog sheets, stainless steel bowls and 10 acres of trails and gardens to explore.
The Stanford Inn on the Mendocino coast sets a dreamy scene for romantic getaways. Ocean-view rooms with fireplaces, spa services, river tours and creative workshops help couples reconnect alongside their pups.
Families love the Stanford Inn for its kid-friendly adventures, from canoe trips on Big River to scavenger hunts in the organic gardens. Spacious suites, a heated pool and complimentary breakfast round out the appeal.
Temecula wine country is a playground for dogs and their people, with pup-friendly wineries, scenic hiking trails at the Santa Rosa Plateau, a walkable Old Town and plenty of outdoor dining options. Traveling with your dog can transform an ordinary…
Big Bear Lake shines in autumn with golden leaves, warm days and cooler evenings under starry skies. Lower lodging rates and fewer crowds mean more room for your dog to play at this mountain getaway.
DogTrekker’s Go California Photo Contest offers 12 prizes, including two $500 grand prizes. Snap your dog enjoying California’s beaches, lakes, parks, and trails, then submit your best shots by September 30 and vote for your favorites to help them win.
Not all pet-friendly motels truly welcome dogs. Learn how to spot the real deal by checking reviews, comparing fees, assessing on-site amenities and evaluating staff attitudes before booking your next trip with your pup.
Fall in California brings a wave of dog-friendly events, from the Pismo Beach Corgi Getaway and Berkeley Humane’s adopt-a-thon to DogFest Northwest in Oakland, Bark in the Park in San Jose, and Halloween costume contests in Big Bear Village.
Wild Blue Dogs fall camp at Lake Tahoe features an all-star lineup of certified trainers and top dog professionals, including a national agility champion and certified behavior consultants who bring hands-on expertise to every activity.
Big Bear Lake offers seven miles of water plus 100 miles of hiking trails for dogs and their people. Kayak, paddleboard, and hike together, from easy shoreline strolls to the challenging Cougar Crest climb.
Big Bear Lake vacation rentals let you live like a local surrounded by pine trees and lake views. From high-end lakefront estates to cozy cottages with fenced yards and hot tubs, there are pet-friendly options for every budget.
Big Bear’s cozy cabins welcome dogs with open arms. From historic log cabins once used by film stars to fenced cottages under towering pines, these mountain rentals offer fireplaces, full kitchens and that quintessential cabin charm.
Big Bear Lake has dog-friendly lodging for every style, from lakeside resorts and Bavarian-style lodges to upscale hotels with no size restrictions. Pet fees and policies vary, so call ahead to confirm before you book.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that petting, walking and playing with dogs significantly boosts brainwave patterns tied to relaxation and concentration. Participants also reported lower stress and improved emotional well-being.
This four-day itinerary covers the best of Yosemite Mariposa County with your dog, from historic small towns and pet-friendly restaurants to Bridalveil Fall hikes, Wawona Meadow trails and scenic drives through the park.
Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains is a cool mountain escape for dogs and their people. With 100 miles of hiking trails, lakeside parks, pet-friendly cabins and patio dining, it offers year-round outdoor fun.
Napa Humane’s pet photo contest gives you the chance to feature your dog in their 2025 calendar while supporting low-cost spay and neuter services, vaccine clinics and microchipping in Napa County.
Oakland is one of the Bay Area’s most dog-welcoming cities, with 73 regional parks, off-leash trails in the hills, sunny weather when San Francisco is socked in with fog, and walkable neighborhoods like Rockridge and Temescal lined with dog-friendly patios…
If your dog goes missing, act fast. Search your neighborhood, post on social media and local lost-pet groups, contact shelters, and leave familiar-scented items outside your home. These essential tips can help bring your pup back safely.
Research published in Science shows that dogs can serve as early warning systems for human health. Because they share our environments and are especially sensitive to toxins, their health issues often mirror risks facing their owners.
Skip the Tahoe crowds and explore California’s quieter dog-friendly lakes instead. From Clear Lake in Lake County to Big Bear, Shasta Lake and more, these alternatives offer great swimming, boating and shoreline fun with your pup.
Shasta Lake, California’s largest reservoir, offers 370 shoreline miles of dog-friendly fun near Redding. Rent boats, swim at sandy coves, hike the Sacramento River Trail, then enjoy patio dining and pet-welcoming hotels in town. Splash! Three rivers feed Shasta Lake…
Lake County, two hours north of San Francisco, blends water fun, wine tasting and small-town charm around Clear Lake. Bring your dog to paddle, hike, visit dog-friendly wineries and stay at lakeside lodges.
A humorous first-person account from the world’s first domesticated dog, who is pretty sure he’s the one training his human. From morning wake-up routines to guarding the cave, this pup runs the show.
Owning a dog brings real health benefits, from lower blood pressure and better weight management to reduced stress and stronger social connections. Dog owners are four times more likely to meet weekly exercise goals.
California summers are packed with dog-friendly celebrations, from Sacramento River Cats Wet Nose Wednesdays and the Puptopia Festival in Big Bear to the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in San Diego and brewery fundraisers across the Bay Area. Here are our top…
With history and fun in Old Sacramento to o expansive parks and delicious restaurants with patios, Sacramento has great options for you and your pup year-round.
Adipose-derived stem cell therapy is showing promising results for dogs with arthritis. In a clinical trial, treated dogs showed significant improvement in mobility and pain levels compared to those given a placebo.
Pleasant Hill in Contra Costa County offers dog-friendly wineries, off-leash parks, scenic trails and a welcoming downtown with patio dining. Nearby regional parks and nature preserves round out a perfect East Bay outing with your pup.
California wildfire season poses serious risks to dogs, from poor air quality to emergency evacuations. Here are five critical steps to protect your pup, including limiting outdoor time, creating safe indoor spaces and preparing a go-bag. Let’s talk about dogs…
Heatstroke can be deadly for dogs, especially in California’s warm climate. Learn to recognize early warning signs like heavy panting and lethargy, and take preventive steps to keep your pup cool and safe on hot days.
DogTrekker’s California Photo Contest invites you to photograph your dog at the state’s most scenic spots. From Big Sur cliffs and Yosemite trails to San Francisco landmarks, here are top locations for stunning pup portraits. Are you a proud dog…
Three dog-friendly California road trips worth taking: Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes through the Eastern Sierra, Jenner to Leggett along the coast, and Redding to Mount Shasta through volcanic country. Each route features pet-friendly stops and stunning scenery.
Lake Tahoe is a dream for dogs and their people, with pristine beaches, mountain trails and pet-friendly lodging from South Lake to quieter spots like Tahoma. Here’s how to plan the perfect Tahoe trip with your pup.
Bark in the Park in San Jose is the largest dog festival in the United States, drawing over 15,000 dog lovers. Enjoy costume contests, agility demos, vendors and more at William Street Park while supporting local pet organizations.
If your dog loves basking in the sun, keep an eye out for overheating. Dark-furred dogs absorb more heat, so provide shade, fresh water and limit sun time during peak hours. Know the warning signs to act fast.
Mariposa County near Yosemite is packed with dog-friendly adventures, from the Wawona Meadow Loop and South Fork Trail to pet-welcoming restaurants, historic lodges and even a ghost town tour you can enjoy with your pup.
California’s quirkiest roadside attractions welcome dogs too. Visit the colorful Salvation Mountain, pose with the giant Cabazon Dinosaurs, and explore other offbeat stops that make for great photo ops with your four-legged travel buddy. California, renowned for its natural beauty…
California has dozens of dog-friendly waterfalls worth visiting, from Alamere Falls cascading into the ocean at Point Reyes to Bridalveil Fall in Yosemite and hidden swimming holes in Shasta County. Leash up and go chase some mist.
San Francisco is basically Disneyland for dogs. With a rich canine history, off-leash beaches, dog-friendly bars, and famous four-legged residents past and present, the city by the bay has earned its reputation as the ultimate dog town.
The Skunk Train in Mendocino County earned a top-five spot in USA Today’s Best Scenic Train Ride awards. Dogs are welcome aboard for the ride through redwood forests, and the surrounding area offers beaches, trails and breweries.
Redding is the perfect base for exploring Northern California with your dog. Walk the iconic Sundial Bridge, hike and swim at Whiskeytown Lake, and enjoy craft beer on dog-friendly patios around this welcoming mountain town.
Wild Blue Dogs hosts fall camp on 33 fenced acres near South Lake Tahoe, with training in agility, nose work, lure-coursing and more. This nonprofit camp also funds canine cancer research and treatment grants for dogs in need.
In dog rescue, a “foster fail” is actually a win. It happens when a foster family falls so deeply in love with their temporary pup that they adopt for good, turning a short-term arrangement into a lifelong bond.
Choosing the right rescue dog means honestly evaluating your lifestyle first. Consider your activity level, living space and time commitment, then match those with a dog’s energy, temperament and size for a successful adoption.
Greater Palm Springs offers dog-friendly desert adventures, from hiking Tahquitz Canyon to patio dining on El Paseo. Stay at pet-welcoming resorts like La Quinta, explore date gardens in Indio and soak up the laid-back desert vibe with your pup.
Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino Mountains is a year-round playground for dogs. Swim and kayak in summer, hike through fall colors, romp in winter snow, and enjoy spring wildflowers, all with pet-friendly lodging and dining nearby.
Ukiah, right off Highway 101 in Mendocino County, is a funky dog lover’s dream. The town offers an off-leash dog park, a scenic rail trail through vineyards, pet-friendly breweries and annual events celebrating all things canine.
Calistoga in Napa Valley is a standout wine country town for dog lovers. Stroll Lincoln Avenue, hike the Oat Hill Mine Trail, taste wines at dog-welcoming wineries like Chateau Montelena, and dine on pet-friendly patios.
When a child gets scared of your dog on a hike or at the beach, stay calm and take control. Use leash commands, communicate with parents, respect boundaries and reward your dog for good behavior around kids.
Pet-proofing your California home goes beyond hiding the shoes. Secure windows and heavy furniture, store toxic plants and chemicals out of reach, use pet-safe cleaning products and create a comfortable space your dog can call their own.
Dogs can solve puzzles, read human facial expressions and learn over a thousand words. This lighthearted look at canine intelligence makes a strong case that our four-legged friends might just be smarter than some of us.
Dog travel is a billion-dollar industry, yet many hotels still treat pets like an afterthought. This straight-talking piece lays out why genuinely welcoming dogs leads to repeat business, higher spending, glowing reviews and fuller rooms.
From treat turn-down service to doggy room service, here’s how to spot a truly dog-friendly hotel in California. Plus, the right questions to ask before booking and our top five picks for pup-welcoming stays.
Your dog may love basking in the sun, but that doesn’t mean he knows when to stop. Learn how to recognize signs of overheating and keep your pup cool and safe during hot California days.
Before heading to the shore with your pup, check beach policies, watch for hot sand, and keep an eye on ocean currents. These practical tips will help you and your dog have a safe, fun beach day.
Flea allergies can make your dog miserable, but the right prevention and treatment plan keeps them itch-free. From flea collars and spot-on products to vet-prescribed medications, here’s how to manage canine flea allergies.
From golden retrievers and Labradors to gentle Cavalier King Charles spaniels, certain breeds are natural fits for therapy work. Learn which dogs make the best emotional support companions and why.
California leads the nation in dog parks, and these five stand out. From the 23-acre Point Isabel on San Francisco Bay to Runyon Canyon with Hollywood sign views, here are our top off-leash picks.
Sacramento earned its Farm-to-Fork Capital title with fresh Central Valley produce and creative chefs. From riverfront seafood spots in Old Sacramento to neighborhood patios across the city, many restaurants welcome dogs.
Bark Park in Susanville offers separate off-leash areas for large and small dogs, open dawn to dusk. This Lassen County community gem is a welcome rest stop for travelers with pups on road trips through northeastern California.
Southern California’s coast is a paradise for pups, from Huntington Beach’s off-leash sand and annual surf dog competition to San Diego’s string of dog-friendly beaches, harbor cruises, and outdoor dining patios.
As warm weather returns, rattlesnakes emerge across California’s trails and grasslands. Learn how to identify these snakes, protect your curious dog from bites, and what to do if a close encounter happens.
Hit the road along California’s Central Coast with your dog, from Santa Cruz beaches and Cannery Row patios to off-leash Carmel Beach and Pismo’s pup-friendly lighthouse suites. Sun, surf, and tail wags await.
San Francisco rolls out the welcome mat for dogs at Crissy Field, Fort Funston, Ocean Beach, and Golden Gate Park. Add Nob Hill hotels and Presidio Tunnel Tops to the mix for a full pup-friendly city getaway.
Mendocino County pairs stunning Pacific coastline with dog-friendly adventures like kayaking, Skunk Train rides through redwoods, botanical garden strolls, and winery visits. The Little River Inn makes an ideal pup-welcoming basecamp.
The East Bay SPCA’s Growl Meow and Wine silent auction features hundreds of packages, from hotel stays to sustainable dog gear. All proceeds support the organization’s mission of keeping pets and people together.
Santa Monica offers dog-friendly hotels near the pier, off-leash parks like Airport Park and Herb Katz Dog Park, pet-welcoming restaurant patios, and top-notch grooming spas. It’s a SoCal hotspot for pups and people.
Owning a dog does more than fill your home with joy. Studies show that dogs lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, ease loneliness, and spark social connections on walks and at the park.
Planning a California road trip with your dog takes some preparation. These seven tips cover vaccination records, comfortable car travel, finding dog-friendly parks and beaches, safety on trails, and what to pack.
The East Bay SPCA celebrates 150 years of serving animals and communities in the Bay Area. From its first Oakland shelter in 1922 to affordable veterinary clinics today, the organization continues to lead in animal welfare.
Dog agility training combines speed, precision, and teamwork as dogs sprint through obstacle courses guided by their handlers. Open to all breeds and sizes, it builds fitness, strengthens the human-canine bond, and is a blast to watch.
Greater Palm Springs has over 300 days of sunshine and plenty of dog-friendly restaurant patios to enjoy it. From upscale French terraces and comfort food spots to casual brewpubs, your pup is welcome at the table. Greater Palm Springs is…
Lake Tahoe welcomes dogs at sandy beaches like Kiva and Lake Forest, on forested trails from easy loops to summit hikes, and at patio restaurants with treats at the ready. This guide covers everything you need for a Tahoe trip…
Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs welcomes leashed dogs to explore over 3,000 species of desert plants. Wander through the Cactarium and outdoor trails while your pup sniffs earthy desert aromas in the warm sun. If you’re a dog owner…
Salmon poisoning disease is a potentially fatal illness that strikes dogs who eat raw fish along the California coast. Know the warning signs, including lethargy, vomiting, and fever, and seek veterinary care immediately.
Greater Palm Springs shelters like the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and Animal Samaritans in Thousand Palms make it easy to adopt a rescue dog. Both offer thorough matching processes and full medical care with each adoption. If you’re hanging out…
As California warms up, ticks become a real hazard on trails and in tall grass. Learn how to safely remove a tick from your dog using tweezers, and why prompt removal matters for preventing serious diseases.
Highway 128 winds through Mendocino’s Anderson Valley past dog-friendly wineries, farmstead cheese stops, and craft breweries. Tasting rooms hand out treats, and spots like Pennyroyal Farm even feature sheep-herding border collies.
Mendocino’s sweeping Pacific vistas, pygmy forests, and bluff-top trails set the scene for a dog-friendly North Coast escape. The Stanford Inn offers canoe rides with a special canine deck, plus organic treats for pups.
Fort Bragg delivers beaches, botanical gardens, and Skunk Train railbike tours for dogs and their people. Walk Glass Beach, explore MacKerricher State Park trails, and dine on dog-friendly patios at the Noyo Harbor waterfront.
Mendocino County’s inland corridor along Highway 101 features dog-friendly wineries, farm-to-fork restaurants, and the iconic Skunk Train. Board with your pup for a scenic ride through redwood canyons and over mountain summits.
Sacramento sits within easy reach of Folsom Lake, Apple Hill wineries, Gold Country, and the Sacramento River Delta. These day-trip destinations offer hiking, paddling, seasonal tastings, and plenty of dog-friendly stops along the way.
Spring brings ticks, heartworms, foxtails, and other hazards for dogs heading outdoors. Stay ahead of seasonal risks with tick preventatives, regular checkups, and smart trail habits to keep your pup healthy all season.
Sacramento’s craft beer and wine scene is surprisingly dog-friendly. From Track 7 Brewing and Urban Roots downtown to Scribner Bend Vineyards in the Delta, taprooms and tasting rooms across the region welcome leashed pups.
The East Bay Regional Park District spans 73 parks and over 1,250 miles of trails across Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Spring brings wildflowers, green hills, and perfect conditions for hiking with your dog.
Wild Blue Dogs Summer Camp at Lake Tahoe offers a week of activities, training, and beach time with your dog while supporting canine cancer research. Private beach access and pup-friendly lodging round out the experience.
A deadly parasitic worm has been found in the Colorado River near the California-Arizona border. The parasite causes canine schistosomiasis, which can be fatal if untreated. Here’s what dog owners near the river should know.
Spring kicks off a packed calendar of dog-friendly events across California, from the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash and SF Giants Dog Days at Oracle Park to adoption fundraisers, costume contests, and brewery tasting tours. Here are our top picks through…
The California deserts offer pet-friendly lodging from Death Valley to Greater Palm Springs. Stay at rustic motels near Joshua Tree, luxury resorts in Anza-Borrego, or the Ace Hotel in Palm Springs with your dog by your side. Find pet-friendly accommodations…
A new cancer vaccine for dogs is showing remarkable results in clinical trials, boosting 12-month survival rates from 35 to 60 percent for certain cancers. The research may also advance human cancer treatment.
Sacramento’s dog-friendly hotels range from the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Park to the riverfront Westin and boutique Kimpton Sawyer. Expect welcome treats, pet beds, and easy access to parks and walking trails downtown.
Big Bear Lake has over 100 miles of dog-friendly hiking trails through pine forests, high desert, and alpine meadows. From easy loops like Woodland Trail to the challenging climb up Cougar Crest, there’s a route for every pup.
Big Bear Lake and Monterey Bay both offer great spots for dogs to swim and paddle. Rent kayaks and paddleboards at Big Bear’s marinas or hit the sandy shores near Monterey for some saltwater splashing with your pup.
Now celebrating its 90th anniversary, the impressive East Bay Regional Park District spans more than 125,000 acres in Alameda and
Sacramento’s tree-lined trails, fenced dog parks, and riverfront pathways make it a standout for outdoor fun with your pup. Explore the 32-mile American River Parkway or play at one of nearly a dozen off-leash parks.
Wild Blue Dogs Camp at Lake Tahoe runs weeklong sessions packed with dog training, agility, kayaking, and beach time. The nonprofit raises funds for canine cancer treatment, making every visit count for a good cause.
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area welcomes dogs on trails and in most of its waters, just 25 miles from Sacramento. With 75 miles of shoreline, hiking paths, picnic areas, and campgrounds, it’s a top day-trip destination.
Greater Palm Springs offers dog-friendly desert hikes with mountain panoramas and fresh desert air. Try the Homme/Adams Park loop with its off-leash area, the challenging Homestead Trail, or 17 miles of paths at Mission Creek Preserve. The California desert region…
From Joshua Tree’s Barker Dam Trail to Anza-Borrego’s palm oasis hike and Lake Cahuilla’s shoreline, the California deserts serve up five outstanding adventures for dogs and their humans. Leash up and explore. Hike the Barker Dam Trail, Joshua Tree National…
Cold weather, deicers, and icy surfaces can be tough on your dog. Protect their paws with balm or booties, wipe feet after walks, and consider a waterproof coat for short-haired breeds when snowflakes start to fly.
South Lake Tahoe in winter means cross-country skiing, lakeside walks, and cozy fireplaces shared with your dog. Pet-friendly properties like the Beach Retreat, Fireside Lodge, and Desolation Hotel make the south shore an ideal cold-weather base for snow-season adventures.
California’s SNO-Parks offer budget-friendly winter fun for you and your dog. For as little as $15 a day, enjoy skiing, sledding, snowshoeing and romping through snowdrifts at 18 sites scattered across the Sierra from Sierra County to Mammoth Lakes.
Pleasant Hill makes a fantastic Bay Area base camp for dog owners. With off-leash trails winding through Briones Regional Park’s 6,250 oak-studded acres and welcoming hotels and restaurants downtown, this Contra Costa County gem has everything pups and people need.
Napa Humane’s Pawsport returns in 2024 as a month-long wine tasting event. For $60, enjoy 2-for-1 tastings at participating wineries, dog treats, retail discounts and more while supporting life-saving programs for Napa Valley companion animals.
The Shasta Cascade region spans eight Northern California counties filled with mountains, forests, rivers and high desert. For dog lovers, it means room to roam, small-town hospitality, swimming holes and long trails with dramatic volcanic scenery around every bend.
Plumas County sits between Mount Lassen and Lake Tahoe, with national forest covering over 75% of the land. Dogs can hike canyons and ridges, splash in Lake Almanor, explore charming Quincy and enjoy pet-friendly lodges and breweries throughout the county.
Butte County blends college-town culture with outstanding outdoor recreation. Base yourself in Chico for brewery patios and Bidwell Park, hike lava-formed landscapes at North Table Mountain, or head to Lake Oroville for houseboating and camping with your pup.
Siskiyou County raises the bar for dog-friendly travel with swimming holes, brewery patios, waterfall hikes, and cozy lodging near Mount Shasta. Follow the McCloud River past three waterfalls, explore old-growth forests, and unwind with a pint at a dog-welcoming alehouse.
Redding anchors Shasta County with 225 miles of trails within 15 minutes of town, the iconic Sundial Bridge and dog-welcoming hotels like the Sheraton. Hike Whiskeytown, tour Shasta Dam and let your pup earn an official B.A.R.K. Ranger tag.
Take the 2024 DogTrekker Reader Survey and help shape future travel stories. Your feedback supports our ongoing work with dog rescue organizations across California, and every response helps us continue covering dogs who need forever homes.
The inaugural Big Bear Puptopia Festival brings stunt dog shows, an agility course, a giant ball-filled dog bowl, a K9 Lounge and a dog spa to Veteran’s Park this July.
Nick’s Cove on Tomales Bay lost its beloved Boat Shack to a January fire, and plans are underway to rebuild. Supporters can help by dining at the restaurant, booking one of the twelve waterfront cottages or purchasing gift cards.
Lassen County pairs volcanic landscapes with genuine dog-friendly fun. Let your pup run off-leash at Susanville Bark Park, hike the 25-mile Bizz Johnson Trail over trestle bridges, fish at Eagle Lake and camp under the stars at lakefront campgrounds.
Butte County serves up Gold Rush history, college-town energy and beautiful hiking in the southern Shasta Cascade region. Walk your dog through Bidwell Park, explore lava flows at North Table Mountain, then refuel at a dog-friendly Chico brewery patio.
Modoc County offers high-desert solitude near the Oregon and Nevada borders. Spot over 200 bird species at the wildlife refuge, soak with your dog at Surprise Valley Hot Springs, hike the Modoc National Forest and stargaze under wide-open skies.
Tehama County rolls out the red carpet for dogs just 90 miles north of Sacramento. Hike forest trails along Mill Creek, stroll Sacramento River paths in Red Bluff, and taste wines at Burnsini Vineyards.
Trinity County is remote, rugged and beautifully uncrowded. Fewer than 14,000 people live here, leaving the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Gold Rush-era towns and pristine Trinity Lake wide open for hiking, boating, swimming and paddleboarding with your dog.
Plumas County stretches between Mount Lassen and Lake Tahoe, with national forest covering more than 75% of the landscape. Paddle Lake Almanor, hike the 11-mile recreation trail, camp at Rocky Point, and explore the charming town of Quincy with your…
Greater Palm Springs has scenic trails perfect for dogs. The Homme/Adams Park Loop features an off-leash area at the base of the mountains, the Homestead Trail delivers panoramic views and Mission Creek Preserve offers over 17 miles of desert hiking.
Greater Palm Springs is home to dog-welcoming breweries where you can sip craft beer with your pup beside you. La Quinta Brewing Co., Coachella Valley Brewing, and Babe’s Bar-B-Que all offer outdoor seating with mountain views. Raise a glass (and…
Siskiyou County borders Oregon in the Shasta Cascade region and treats dogs like family. Hike the McCloud River falls loop, explore old-growth forests on Gray Butte Trail, and camp at Lake Siskiyou.
Shasta County puts 225 miles of trails, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area and massive Shasta Lake within easy reach of Redding. Hike to waterfalls, kayak alpine lakes, cross the Sundial Bridge and treat your pup to yappy hour at the Sheraton.
Big Bear Lake in the San Bernardino National Forest has trails for every skill level. Hike Pine Knot Trail to a 7,784-foot viewpoint, tackle Castle Rock Peak, or take the family-friendly Woodland Trail loop.
Greater Palm Springs has no shortage of dog-friendly patios where you and your pup can soak up the sun. From coffee spots under palm trees to gourmet evening dining under the stars, this oasis delivers. Welcome to the ultimate guide…
Palm Springs offers great on- and off-leash options for dogs. Run free at the well-maintained Palm Springs Dog Park, hike Tahquitz Canyon for waterfall views or walk the South Lykken Trail for panoramic vistas of the Coachella Valley.
DogTrekker’s most popular 2023 destination stories span the Golden State, from Sacramento’s walkable dog scene to Placer County’s mountain trails and beyond. These paw-tested reader favorites are packed with ideas to inspire your next California road trip.
November is National Adopt a Senior Pet Month, a time to help older dogs find loving homes. Senior pets face the highest risk of euthanasia in shelters, yet they bring a lifetime of devotion, loyalty, and gentle companionship to the…
Mendocino County’s standout dog-friendly hotels include the Stanford Inn, Little River Inn, Noyo Harbor Inn and Beachcomber Motel properties. Expect coastal charm, garden patios, welcome treats for pups and easy access to beaches, trails and waterfront dining.
The Mendocino County Beer Trail winds from Fort Bragg’s foggy coast through redwood forests to sunny inland valleys. Hop between Anderson Valley Brewing, North Coast Brewing and smaller taprooms, with dog-friendly patios and scenic trails between every stop.
Mendocino County shines during the Harvest Mendocino festivities, with culinary events for foodies and wine lovers. Beyond the tastings, hike the 10-mile Big River Trail, visit the Point Cabrillo Lighthouse and tour dog-friendly wineries along Highway 101 and 128.
Mendocino County welcomes dogs to some wonderfully unique activities. Ride the Skunk Train through redwoods, pedal railbikes with dog trailers, paddle Big River in canine cruiser outriggers and browse pup-friendly shops from Fort Bragg to Point Arena.
Few places are prettier than Yosemite in fall. Blue skies and mild temperatures make for pleasant outdoor activities, while vast stands of maples and dogwoods put on a colorful show. Traffic is lighter during the fall season, and hotels…
DogTrekker partnered with Lily’s Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary to raise $75,000 during the fifth annual Saving Senior Dogs Week. Ten California rescues and others nationwide benefited from donations that help the most vulnerable older dogs find loving homes.
Greater Ontario, California has plenty of pet-friendly hotels for you and your dog. The Ontario Airport Hotel, Ayres Hotel Ontario Mills and Sheraton Ontario Airport Hotel all offer comfortable rooms and amenities that make traveling with your pup stress-free.
Greater Ontario’s dog-friendly trails range from lakeside strolls at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park to mountain hikes in the San Gabriels. The paved Pacific Electric Trail is great for easy walks and jogs, while more rugged paths offer breathtaking panoramic views.
Concord’s Taco Trail features over 40 family-owned taquerias serving everything from al pastor to filet mignon tacos, and most are dog-friendly. Walk it off at nearby parks, trails and open spaces like Black Diamond Mines and Lime Ridge.
Greater Ontario sits at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers ideal fall weather for dog-friendly outings. Romp at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park, hike foothill trails, and browse farmers markets.
The modern present meets a Gold Rush past in downtown Sonora, recognized by Sunset for its shopping, dining and headline-making hotels.
Yosemite View Lodge has welcomed humans and their four-legged companions for nearly five decades. It offers abundant amenities with 335 rooms and suites, making it the perfect year-round choice. View Lodge has welcomed humans and their four-legged companions for nearly…
For a one-of-a-kind park experience, book a custom-outfitted Airstream at AutoCamp Yosemite. This sustainably minded, super-cool property
Sit, play and stay longer at The Redwoods in Yosemite, which offers a free seventh night when you settle in for a week. Located inside Yosemite National Park,
Tenaya at Yosemite is tucked in a wooded setting minutes south of the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. Pup-friendly overnight options here include
Our friends at the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau have dished up this dog-friendly Yosemite itinerary for DogTrekker readers!
North Lake Tahoe and DogTrekker share a commitment to responsible outdoor recreation. Take the Traveler Responsibility Pledge, hike the Tahoe Rim Trail, cool off at dog-welcoming beaches, and help keep Tahoe blue through mindful, sustainable travel with your dog.
From rooftop dog runs in San Francisco to waterfront cottages on Tomales Bay, these ten California hotels truly welcome four-legged guests. Expect welcome kits, dedicated dog menus, private dog parks and staff who treat your pup like a VIP.
Calistoga’s founding story features Sam Brannan and his loyal Newfoundland, Leonitus, who helped shape the town into a thriving resort community. Today, pet-friendly inns, wine tasting rooms and restaurants carry on that dog-welcoming tradition in Napa Valley.
Napa Humane’s 12th Annual Walk for Animals is a fun fundraising stroll through Yountville that goes miles for local companion animals. Register, walk, enjoy raffles and contests, and use code DOGTREKKER for $5 off your registration.
The Stanford Inn in Mendocino makes paddling with your dog easy. Rent a canine cruiser outrigger from Catch a Canoe and explore 8.3 miles of Big River Estuary, then return to a resort that welcomes pups warmly.
The Stanford Inn pairs ocean-view suites and wood-burning fireplaces with a dog-welcoming atmosphere on the Mendocino coast. Enjoy complimentary breakfast, plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant, a heated saltwater pool and easy access to coastal trails and beaches.
The Stanford Inn is a family-friendly retreat with four state parks within two miles, a heated saltwater pool, scavenger hunts, and canine cruiser canoes on Big River. Dogs perch on a stable middle deck while families paddle miles of estuary…
Sustainability defines the Stanford Inn experience, from biodynamic gardens and plant-based dining at Ravens Restaurant to environmental workshops and wellness programs. Dogs are welcome throughout, with organic treats and a staff that genuinely loves four-legged guests.
Greater Ontario has pet-friendly restaurants with outdoor patios, including Lazy Dog Cafe in Rancho Cucamonga. Browse Victoria Gardens with your pup, burn off energy at local dog parks, then settle into one of several dog-welcoming hotels for the night.
Greater Ontario’s 300 days of sunshine and mild climate make it ideal for outdoor adventures with your dog. Hike the Pacific Electric Trail, cool off at Lake Gregory, or head up to Lake Arrowhead.
Greater Ontario is a pet-friendly gateway to Southern California adventure. With affordable hotels, free parking and easy access to lakes, deserts, vineyards and the Pacific Ocean, it’s the perfect base for exploring SoCal with your dog in any direction.
Little River Inn has welcomed dogs to the Mendocino coast for over 80 years. This locally owned gem offers ocean-view cottages, garden patio dining, welcome treats for pups and easy access to state beaches.
California’s varied terrain offers incredible hiking for dogs and their people. This roundup covers 10 standout trails, from the rugged Black Butte summit in Shasta-Trinity to the wildflower-lined Mount Judah Loop near Truckee and waterfall hikes along the McCloud River.
Adopting a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do, but preparation matters. This guide walks you through assessing your readiness, researching breeds, and visiting shelters to find your perfect match.
California summers bring heat, ticks, snakes, and other hazards that can affect your dog. From hot pavement burns to bee stings and toxic algae, here’s what every pet parent needs to know.
As temperatures rise across California, rattlesnakes become more active on hiking trails. The East Bay Regional Park District shares essential safety tips for protecting yourself and your pup, including what to do if a snake bite occurs.
Fireworks cause more pets to go missing around the Fourth of July than any other time of year, with shelters reporting a 30 to 60 percent surge in lost animals. Here are tips to keep your dog safe.
Summer is packed with dog-friendly events across California, from Bark at the Park in San Francisco to the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon in San Diego. Browse adoptathons, fundraisers, costume contests, and more happening through the fall.
Pawsport Yountville is a dog-friendly wine tasting weekend in Napa Valley benefiting Napa Humane. Visit six pup-welcoming tasting rooms and restaurants in charming Yountville, with exclusive tastings, goodie bags, and dog treats included in each ticket.
California’s mountain towns offer breathtaking trails, crystal-clear lakes, and welcoming communities for dogs and their people. From Tahoe City and South Lake Tahoe to Mammoth Lakes and Big Bear, these high-altitude getaways promise year-round adventure.
Spring brings spectacular waterfalls to Yosemite, and several of the best are accessible to leashed dogs. Bridalveil Fall and Lower Yosemite Falls offer easy paved paths with stunning views, while nearby Mariposa County has plenty of dog-friendly places to stay.
Plan a full day out with your dog in Vacaville, from morning coffee and the Centennial Dog Park to wine tasting in Suisun Valley, craft beer at The Brass Tap, and hiking at Lagoon Valley Park.
Suisun Valley near Vacaville is home to seven dog-friendly wineries where you can sip local wines with your pup by your side. Family-owned favorites like Wooden Valley Winery and Vezer Family Vineyard welcome leashed dogs on their scenic grounds.
The Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast offers two adventure packages for dog lovers. The Water Dog package includes ocean kayaking, while the River Dog package features an outrigger canoe trip with your pup.
Wild Blue Dogs hosts an all-inclusive dog camp on Lake Tahoe’s Nevada shore, featuring agility classes, nose work, kayaking, and more led by certified trainers. Proceeds support canine cancer research, making this a vacation with real purpose.
Family Dog Rescue in Sonoma is a sanctuary for dogs with special needs, founded by cancer survivor Angela Padilla. The nonprofit provides medical care, behavioral training, and a personalized adoption process for dogs that other shelters often overlook.
Placer County has dog-friendly hotels and rentals from Roseville to Lake Tahoe. Options range from the retro-cool Foothills Motel in Auburn and modern Basecamp Hotel in Tahoe City to pet-welcoming cabin and lakefront home rentals throughout the region.
Placer County’s farm-to-table food scene welcomes dogs at breweries, restaurants, and wine trail stops. Highlights include Dueling Dogs Brewing Co. on a 10-acre Lincoln ranch, The Monk’s Cellar in Roseville, and lakeside barbecue in Tahoe City.
Placer County is full of dog-friendly water fun, from rafting the American River and fishing at French Meadows Reservoir to kayaking on Lake Tahoe. Folsom Lake and Sugar Pine Reservoir also welcome leashed pups for swimming, hiking, and boating.
From Hidden Falls Regional Park near Auburn to the Miners Ravine Trail in Roseville, Placer County is loaded with dog-friendly hikes and outdoor adventures. Explore 30-plus miles of trails, seasonal waterfalls, and scenic American River views with your pup.
The Borrow a Buddy program at Fort Bragg’s Beachcomber Hotel Group lets guests without dogs spend time with adoptable pups from the Mendocino Coast Humane Society. Take a deserving shelter dog to a local beach, winery, or state park for…
Fort Bragg on the Mendocino coast is an affordable, standout destination for dog travelers. The Beachcomber Hotel Group’s three properties offer welcome kits for pups, play areas, and easy access to Glass Beach, the Skunk Train, and coastal trails.
The Animal Rescue Foundation’s Animals on Broadway fundraiser at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek features a pet walk, live music, food trucks, vendor booths, and pet adoptions. Proceeds support ARF’s lifesaving programs for homeless Bay Area animals.
The Redwoods in Yosemite and Tenaya at Yosemite, featuring Tenaya Lodge and Explorer Cabins, are members of the Yosemite Mariposa County Tourism Bureau (YMCTB), the destination marketing organization for Mariposa County.
Mariposa County, home to Yosemite National Park, is often known as the “Mother of Counties.” This historic segment of California was one of the original counties established after statehood in 1850.
Yosemite Falls is the highest waterfall in North America and the sixth tallest in the world. DogTrekkers are especially fond of Lower Yosemite Falls, which is easily accessible for humans and hounds via a one-mile loop trail.
Bridalveil Fall is beautiful to behold and famously photo-friendly in the spring. The sound of water splashing and crashing against rocks creates an immersive experience as you approach the waterfall.
California’s Gold Country, home to the Gold Rush in 1849, combines history, nature, authentic American West small towns, a sensational culinary scene, wine, microbreweries, and majestic scenery in a captivating way that no other California region rivals. The gold…
Modern dog training research shows that the old alpha-dominance approach can actually increase stress and anxiety in dogs. A positive, reward-based method built on trust, socialization, and clear communication leads to a more confident, well-behaved companion.
Emotional support animals and service animals have very different legal protections. California’s AB 468 law cracks down on fraudulent ESA letters, and understanding the distinction matters for dog owners navigating housing, travel, and public access rights.
What if dogs domesticated us instead of the other way around? The coevolution hypothesis suggests dogs and humans evolved together over 33,000 years, each shaping the other’s development through a mutually beneficial relationship of protection, hunting, and companionship.
California offers countless adventures for dogs and their owners, from the off-leash sands of Rosie’s Dog Beach in Long Beach to the trails of Garland Ranch Regional Park in Carmel.
Keeping your dog healthy in California means staying current on vaccinations, flea prevention, and heartworm protection. Rabies shots are required by law, and your vet can recommend additional vaccines and parasite control based on your dog’s lifestyle and risk factors.
California wine country is full of wineries that welcome dogs. From Hall Wines in Napa Valley and Castello di Amorosa in Calistoga to Mutt Lynch Winery in Windsor, here are ten great spots to sip with your pup.
Many dog owners love sharing their bed with their pup, and the bonding can be real. But there are trade-offs to consider, from disrupted sleep and allergies to the simple joy of nighttime cuddles.
Spring event season is here, and California’s dog-loving community has plenty to look forward to. From the Sacramento SPCA Doggy Dash to DogFest in San Francisco, these fundraisers and adoption events bring people and pups together for a great cause.
The Mendocino coast is a paradise for dogs and their people. Pedal railbikes through redwood groves, kayak Big River with your pup aboard, stroll the fragrant botanical gardens, and explore pristine beaches along one of California’s most scenic and welcoming…
National Puppy Day is the perfect time to consider adopting a new furry family member. Shelters and rescue organizations across California, from Sonoma County to San Diego, have puppies and dogs waiting for loving homes.
Concord’s newest hotel, the Hampton Inn, offers outstanding dog-friendly service just a mile from Todos Santos Plaza. It joins four other pet-welcoming properties in town, and the free Concord Perro Trail guide maps out dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and tap rooms.
Downtown Concord’s colorful mural scene makes for a fun, dog-friendly walking tour near Todos Santos Plaza. Grab a mural map, stroll past eye-catching street art, and stop at dog-welcoming spots like Side Gate Brewery and Beer Garden along the way.
Concord’s Todos Santos Plaza has been a community gathering place since 1869. Leash up your dog and take a free audio walking tour past Spanish-inspired architecture and a jazz memorial honoring Dave Brubeck.
California is packed with dog-friendly vacation spots, from Marin County’s beaches and hiking trails just across the Golden Gate Bridge to Santa Cruz’s surf-friendly shores. Here are some of the best pet-welcoming destinations across the Golden State. California is a…
The French Bulldog has dethroned the Labrador Retriever as America’s most popular breed after 31 years. But the Frenchie’s rise has sparked debate over breeding practices and the health problems common in flat-faced dogs, from breathing issues to spinal conditions.
Hitting the road in an RV with your dog can be a fantastic adventure with the right preparation. From gradual acclimation to packing comfort items, these tips will keep your pup happy on the open road.
Choosing the right collar for your dog matters more than you might think. From standard flat collars and limited-slip martingales for escape-prone pups to head halters and harnesses, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each style.
Gum disease, ear infections, and obesity are the three most common health problems in dogs, according to veterinary research. Regular dental care, ear cleaning, and a balanced diet go a long way toward prevention.
Del Norte County offers dog-friendly adventures from redwood gondola rides at Trees of Mystery to rugged coastal trails and craft beer patios in Crescent City. Take the SkyTrail through an ancient canopy, hike the California Coastal Trail, and play fetch…
Lake County boasts the most dog-friendly wine country in the U.S., with over 30 wineries welcoming pups. Explore private trails at Six Sigma Ranch, paddle spring-fed Blue Lakes, and linger over alfresco dining at patio restaurants throughout the county.
Mendocino County’s coast is an adventure playground for dogs. Ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood groves, paddle a handcrafted outrigger canoe on Big River, grab fish and chips overlooking Noyo Harbor, and stay in an ocean-view vacation home nearby.
Humboldt County pairs towering redwoods, wild beaches, and craft breweries into one great dog-friendly destination. Hike old-growth forest, explore Black Sands Beach at Shelter Cove, and wind down with brews at Gyppo Ale Mill.
Family Dog Rescue has moved from San Francisco to Sonoma, expanding its mission to give homeless dogs a second chance. The nonprofit welcomes dogs of all kinds and uses a personalized adoption process to match each pet with the right…
California poppies are beautiful on spring hillsides, but they are toxic to dogs if eaten in large quantities. Symptoms can include vomiting, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. Keep your pup leashed near blooming areas and contact your vet if you suspect…
Getting outdoors with your dog is great for both of you, but it comes with responsibility. Obey leash laws, clean up after your pup, and respect wildlife so public lands stay open for everyone.
California’s coastline is full of amazing dog-friendly beaches. Fort Funston and Baker Beach in San Francisco, Montara State Beach, Kiva Beach at Lake Tahoe, and Carmel Beach are favorites where pups can run and play.
Del Mar Beach and La Jolla Cove near San Diego are two stunning coastal spots to visit with your dog. Enjoy scenic bluffs, ocean walks, and dog-friendly parks like Ellen Browning Scripps Park.
California state parks offer wonderful outings for dogs and their owners. From the secluded sands of Bean Hollow State Beach to the trails of Hearst San Simeon, here are eight of the best to visit.
California wine country has plenty of room for your dog at the tasting table. Robert Mondavi in Napa, Dutcher Crossing in Dry Creek Valley, and three more wineries offer outdoor patios and doggie treats.
How often should you bathe your dog, and what products work best? Most dogs need a bath every four to six weeks using a gentle, dog-specific shampoo. Here are practical tips for long-haired breeds, water-shy pups, and choosing the right…
A desert trip with your dog takes extra planning. Bring plenty of water, watch for cacti and extreme heat, take frequent shade breaks, and check that trails and campsites are pet-friendly before you go.
Greater Palm Springs rolls out the welcome mat for dogs with pet-friendly patios, luxury hotel stays, and outdoor adventures. From craft cocktails at Boozehounds to off-leash romps at Palm Springs Dog Park, this desert destination has something for every pup.
Keeping your dog safe on the road takes planning. From managing car sickness to packing the right supplies and making regular rest stops, these tips will help ensure a smooth trip for you and your pup.
A persistent cough in your dog could signal anything from kennel cough and allergies to heartworm disease or parasites. Learn about the most common causes, what symptoms to watch for, and when to call your vet.
Here in California, 2023 kicked off with a flurry of snowfall and storms. That means packed ski resorts and endless winter activities for families and their four-legged friends.
Heading to snow country with your pup? Protect their paws from salt and de-icers, gear up with booties and waterproof coats, and know when to skip the walk for indoor play.
Redding and the Shasta Cascade region shine in winter with skiing at Mount Shasta, sledding at Eskimo Hill, and snow play in Lassen National Forest. Pet-friendly hotels like the Sheraton Redding even offer dog menus and weekly yappy hours.
Separation anxiety can leave your dog scratching doors and acting out when you leave. With patience, gradual training, and the right tools like pet cameras and engaging toys, you can help your pup feel calm and confident on their own.
Winter in Yosemite means quiet trails, frosty landscapes, and pup-friendly fun around every bend. Leashed dogs are welcome on paved roads and paths throughout the valley, and nearby lodges offer dog-friendly rooms perfect for warming up after a day of…
Lake Tahoe in winter means plowed trails, snowshoeing with your dog, and even skijoring across snowy landscapes. With over 20 miles of cleared paths and pet-friendly lodges from Truckee to South Lake Tahoe, cold-weather fun comes easy here.
California SNO-Parks are among DogTrekker’s most popular picks each winter. These snow-covered playgrounds on U.S. Forest Service land welcome dogs for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Grab a permit and arrive early for the best parking and fresh powder.
After severe storms caused downed trees, flooding, and mudslides, most East Bay Regional Parks closed for safety. The Park District urges visitors and their dogs to stay out of closed areas due to hidden hazards.
Ring in the new year with fresh dog-friendly travel plans across California. DogTrekker.com has been revamped to help you find hikes, beaches, wineries, hotels, and more to enjoy with your furry family members throughout the state.
New Year’s Eve can be stressful for dogs between fireworks, noisemakers, and party guests. Keep your pup safe by creating a quiet retreat, watching for sneaky treat-stealing, and never letting them outside when the midnight noise begins.
California is loaded with dog-friendly lakes for swimming, fetching, and cooling off. From Lake Tahoe’s alpine beaches to the warm waters of San Luis Reservoir and Big Bear Lake, here are the best spots for a water day with your…
From the off-leash beaches of Carmel-by-the-Sea to the trails of Yosemite and Big Bear Lake, California is packed with dog-welcoming destinations. Here are five top spots where your pup will feel right at home.
Puppies get all the attention, but older dogs make wonderful companions. They’re often already house-trained, calmer in new situations, and less expensive to care for. Adopting a senior dog saves a life and brings a loyal friend into yours.
The Shell Beach Coastal Access Trail at Sea Ranch in Sonoma County offers a scenic walk through pine forests and meadows to a sandy beach with tide pools. Dogs are welcome on leash, and parking is free with trail access…
Wawona is a quieter side of Yosemite with dog-friendly trails, giant sequoias, and the historic Yosemite History Center. The Redwoods In Yosemite offers pet-friendly vacation rentals just five miles from the south gate, surrounded by towering trees.
Family-owned Yosemite View Lodge sits along the Merced River just two miles from the park entrance. With pet-friendly rooms, river-view balconies, dog-friendly walking paths, indoor pools, and an on-site cocktail lounge, it makes an ideal base for any season.
The Redwoods In Yosemite offers over 110 vacation rentals inside the national park, with more than two dozen welcoming dogs. Each cabin features a full kitchen, outdoor deck, and easy access to pup-friendly trails right outside your door.
Tenaya at Yosemite rolls out the red carpet for dogs with Fido Friendly Rooms, snowshoeing in the Sierra National Forest, and pampered pet packages. It is a true four-season resort where two-legged and four-legged guests feel equally at home.
Fall brings golden foliage and cooler weather to Yosemite, making it ideal to visit Tenaya Lodge with your dog. Hike Jackson Road, take a scenic train ride through Sierra National Forest, and soak in autumn magic.
The Concord Visitor Center hosted its first Perro Costume Contest and Parade at Salvio Pacheco Square. Dogs competed in categories like Best DIY Costume and Owner Dog Look-Alike, with proceeds benefiting Early Alert Canines.
Senior dog Sid was rescued from a shelter and entered Muttville’s fospice program, where he spent his final year exploring, snuggling, and being loved. This touching video tells the story of his second chance at a good life.
DogTrekker launched a challenge benefiting Saving Senior Dogs Week, donating $1,000 to help rescue organizations that focus on older dogs. Senior pups are the least likely to be adopted and most at risk in shelters, making this cause especially important.
Fall is prime time for dog-friendly wine tasting in California. Skip the crowds and pricey fees with laid-back visits to wineries near Sacramento, in Vacaville’s Suisun Valley, and along Mendocino County’s scenic Highway 101 and 128 wine roads.
Temecula Valley wine country, about 60 miles north of San Diego, offers more than 40 dog-friendly wineries, relaxed Old Town dining, and welcoming lodging. With a Mediterranean climate year-round, it’s a great getaway for you and your pup.
The Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail stretches 30 miles between San Jose and Gilroy, with over 30 wineries and a rich history. Many tasting rooms welcome dogs, and a Wine Trail Passport makes repeat visits easy.
Mendocino County’s 12 wine-growing regions produce standout wines along Highways 101 and 128. Dogs are welcome at nearly every winery, tasting is often free, and the vibe is refreshingly casual. Plan a trek from Hopland to Anderson Valley and beyond.
Sacramento makes a perfect base for dog-friendly wine tasting. Sip on the patio at Revolution Winery in Midtown, then head to the Apple Hill region near Placerville for fall farm visits and hillside vineyard views.
Southern California’s desert regions come alive in winter, and dog-friendly Temecula is at the center of it all. Stroll Old Town with your pup, visit pet-welcoming wineries, hike desert trails, and enjoy patio dining with vineyard views. California’s desert regions…
Mammoth Lakes is a year-round paradise for dogs, with countless hiking trails, crystal-clear mountain lakes for swimming, and a town full of dog-loving people and pet-friendly hotels. Summer or winter, your pup will have the adventure of a lifetime here.
San Francisco’s Muttville Senior Dog Rescue celebrated 15 years and over 10,000 dogs rescued. Thanks to their success, shelters across the country now see people specifically asking to adopt senior dogs for the first time.
On the last day of your Yosemite Mariposa County trip, grab coffee at Sticks Coffee, then let your dog explore the Sierra National Forest. Cap it off with lunch at Coulter Cafe or Timberloft Pizzeria.
Your Yosemite Mariposa County road trip starts here. Check into a pet-friendly hotel, stroll charming main streets lined with water bowls, and grab craft brews at 1850 Restaurant. Then gaze up at the Sierra skies and dream about tomorrow’s adventures.
Tuolumne County puts Yosemite, Gold Country, and High Sierra adventures within easy reach. Just two and a half hours from the Bay Area, this dog-friendly region offers year-round outdoor recreation, wine tasting, history, and camera-ready scenery around every bend.
Bass Lake in Madera County, just 35 miles from Yosemite, is a fantastic spot for paddleboarding with your dog. This video shows how to play like a local on the lake’s calm, clear waters.
Less than 35 miles from Yosemite’s front gate, Bass Lake offers crystal-clear waters, dog-friendly trails, and a laid-back local atmosphere. Whether you’re swimming, hiking, or just exploring the shoreline, it’s a perfect day trip or weekend escape with your pup.
Mammoth Lakes is pure dog paradise, from the sandy shores of Horseshoe Lake to scenic trails through lodgepole pine forests. Pack up the dog bowl and treat your pup to the ultimate Eastern Sierra adventure.
From Mammoth Lakes’s gondola rides and Devil’s Postpile to Bishop’s famous bakery and the ancient bristlecone pines, the Eastern Sierra is packed with dog-friendly stops. Continue south to Lone Pine, gateway to Death Valley and classic Western movie country.
Mono Lake’s otherworldly tufa towers and Lee Vining’s gateway to Yosemite’s Tioga Road highlight this stretch of the Eastern Sierra. Don’t miss the Saddlebag Lake Loop Trail or the famous Whoa Nellie Deli, where road food reaches gourmet heights.
Bridgeport in the Eastern Sierra offers dog-friendly lodges, the ghost town of Bodie State Historic Park, and the pristine Virginia Lakes at 9,000 feet. With rustic cabins, trout-filled waters, and quiet mountain scenery, it’s an unforgettable stop on Highway 395.
The Eastern Sierra is a year-round playground for dogs, but fall steals the show. Late September through mid-October brings California’s best foliage, with golden aspens lining streams beneath granite peaks along Highway 395.
Little River Inn rolls out the red carpet for dogs with kayaking packages on the Mendocino Coast. The Water Dog Sea Cave package includes a two-night ocean-view stay, dog-friendly dining, and a guided kayak tour through sea caves.
This year, it’s time to treat yourself to a family- and dog-friendly California experience that lets everyone feel like a kid again.
Home to towering waterfalls and 200-foot-tall giant sequoias, there’s no place like Yosemite. And Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite puts you just two miles from Yosemite National Park.
Fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy at Tenaya Lodge. If you’re planning to visit Yosemite National Park, including Badger Pass and other areas in the park that have restrictions on dogs,
Not surprisingly, a place as big as Yosemite is home to plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for children of all ages. Of course, there’s the seemingly endless natural beauty
Dog waste on hiking trails is a bigger problem than most people realize, with millions of tons produced each year. Camp California shares practical tips for packing out pet waste and keeping trails clean for everyone.
Adding a dog to your camping trip means extra planning, from travel logistics to bear-proofing your campsite. Here are practical tips on containment, crating, leash laws, wildlife safety, and assembling a dog first-aid kit for the outdoors.
From Mammoth Lakes to Lake Tahoe to the Highway 88 corridor, California offers incredible dog-friendly campgrounds in diverse settings. Here are some of our favorite spots to pitch a tent, park an RV, or rent a cabin with your pup.
Snagging a dog-friendly campsite in California takes some strategy. From Reserve America to Recreation.gov to glamping options, here’s where to search for reservations at public, private, and luxury campgrounds that welcome four-legged guests.
Redding is the gateway to Upstate California, where rugged mountains, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls await you and your dog. Hike the Sacramento River Trail, boat on Shasta Lake, or tackle the three McCloud River falls.
Redding’s hotels go above and beyond for canine guests, with amenities from dog beds to dedicated pet menus. The Sheraton at the Sundial Bridge even serves frozen desserts for dogs, while the Best Western Plus offers affordable pet-friendly rooms.
New to Redding? Start at the Shasta Cascade Welcome Center, then walk the Sundial Bridge over the Sacramento River. From Whiskeytown Falls to botanical gardens to local breweries, here are our top picks for first-time visitors with dogs.
Just south of Sacramento, the Clarksburg wine region along the Sacramento River Delta offers dog-friendly tasting rooms, great food, and a slower pace. From Scribner Bend Vineyards to the Old Sugar Mill, bring your pup and a picnic.
Dog access to California’s parks and beaches has come under increasing pressure in recent years. The fight over the Golden Gate National Recreation Area showed what’s at stake. Here’s how responsible dog owners can protect outdoor access for all.
California’s Central Valley holds surprises for dogs and train lovers alike. Ride vintage electric cars at the Western Railway Museum near Suisun City, or hop aboard the Sacramento River Fox Train for a leisurely round trip through Gold Rush country.
Not sure how your dog will handle a train ride? The miniature steam train at Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley makes a great test run. The park itself offers swimming, hiking, and a botanical garden across more than 2,000 acres.
Tuolumne County’s Gold Country is home to two must-visit heritage railroads. Railtown 1897 State Historic Park features Hollywood’s famous Movie Railroad, while the Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad offers narrated steam train rides near Yosemite.
Roaring Camp Railroads in Santa Cruz County sends steam trains through towering redwoods on tracks once used for logging. The 75-minute ride to Bear Mountain includes a picnic stop, and the historic village offers kid-friendly activities and hiking.
The Skunk Train has rolled through Northern California redwood forests for over 130 years, departing from Fort Bragg and Willits. Dogs ride free in open-air cars, taking in views of towering trees, river canyons, and 30 bridges along the way.
Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World, boasts a generous lineup of dog-friendly restaurants and wineries. Enjoy al fresco dining and vineyard visits along the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail any time of year.
Planning a road trip through Gilroy? Several hotels and RV parks welcome dogs, from the Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn to Betabel RV Park with its enclosed off-leash dog area.
Redding and Upstate California offer a refreshing change of scenery for dogs and their people. Walk the Sacramento River Trail, marvel at Shasta Dam, explore Whiskeytown Lake, and chase waterfalls along the McCloud River.
Highway 1 along the California coast offers far more than stunning views. From dog-friendly beaches in San Luis Obispo County to redwood forests and wineries in Santa Cruz, there are endless reasons to explore with your pup.
The Mendocino Coast is a perfect summertime retreat, and the dog-friendly Little River Inn makes an ideal base. Their Water Dog package pairs ocean-view rooms with kayak tours through sea caves, plus easy access to beaches and state parks nearby.
Mammoth Lakes lives up to its name with endless alpine splash spots for dogs. Ride the Panoramic Gondola to the summit, hike to Twin Lakes, or let your pup swim at Horseshoe Lake and Convict Lake.
Marin County’s Measure A funds parks, open space, and farmland through a quarter-cent sales tax. DogTrekker supported the original measure in 2012, and this extension ensures continued care for the trails and preserves you and your pup enjoy.
Mendocino County is packed with dog-friendly adventures, from the classic Skunk Train to kayaking sea caves with the Little River Inn’s Water Dog package. Add uncrowded beaches, botanical gardens, and Glass Beach to fill out a memorable visit.
Highway 128 winds from Cloverdale through the Anderson Valley wine country to the Mendocino Coast. Along the way, dog-friendly wineries like Navarro, Toulouse, and Husch welcome pups with treats, water bowls, and shaded picnic spots.
Wild Blue Dogs, a nonprofit fighting canine cancer, hosts a week-long fall camp on the shores of South Lake Tahoe. The all-inclusive event features private beach access, hiking, education sessions, and plenty of fun for dogs and their people.
Concord offers several dog-friendly hotels close to hiking, dining, and East Bay adventures. The Hilton sits right on the Iron Horse Trail, while other properties like the Concord Plaza Hotel provide pet relief areas and free trail maps.
Concord is a hiker’s paradise with trails at Briones Regional Park, Lime Ridge Open Space, and city dog parks. You can also leash up for a self-guided historical walking tour starting at Todos Santos Plaza in the heart of town.
Located just two miles from Yosemite National Park, dog-friendly Tenaya Lodge specializes in memorable summer moments for the entire family.
Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite is loaded with kid-friendly fun, from poolside movies and underwater music to guided flashlight hikes through the Sierra National Forest. The whole family, dogs included, can refuel at the on-site Timberloft Pizzeria.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite pampers dogs with beds, treats, and an indoor kennel for when you explore pet-restricted park areas. The Pampered Pet Package treats your pup like royalty, and Jackalope’s Bar and Grill has outdoor seating for dogs.
Dog-friendly cabins and cottages are the top lodging choice for DogTrekker readers. From waterfront cottages at Nick’s Cove in Marin to Explorer Cabins near Yosemite to a luxury farm stay in Gold Country, here are three standout picks.
Greater Palm Springs in spring means sunny skies, blooming wildflowers, and plenty of dog-friendly fun. Let your pup run off-leash at spacious dog parks, hike desert trails at Mission Creek Preserve, and dine together on pet-friendly patios. Spring is officially…
The Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite were built for pet lovers. Set on 27 wooded acres with fire pits and a creek, the Fido-Friendly Package includes pet fees, a plush dog bed, and treats.
Nick’s Cove on Tomales Bay in Marin County pairs luxury waterfront cottages with a celebrated oyster bar and restaurant. Seven of the twelve cottages welcome dogs, complete with pet beds, treats, and patio dining overlooking the bay.
Sacramento’s dog-friendly hotel scene stretches from downtown to the riverfront. The Kimpton Sawyer puts you steps from Old Sacramento, while the Westin offers riverfront trails and fire pits. Capitol Park and the American River Parkway are close by.
Old Sacramento’s Gold Rush-era buildings now house shops, breweries, museums, and restaurants with dog-friendly patios along the river. Stroll the wooden boardwalks, snap selfies by the Delta King riverboat, and walk across the Tower Bridge together.
Sacramento’s tree-lined parks offer shady relief for dogs even on the hottest days. From the 166-acre William Land Regional Park to Capitol Park’s labeled gardens to the 32-mile American River Bike Trail, the City of Trees has room to roam.
Solano County’s Suisun Valley is a wine country hidden gem just off Interstate 80 near Vacaville. With vineyards dating to the 1880s and a growing roster of dog-friendly tasting rooms, it’s well worth pulling off the highway to explore.
Concord is an East Bay city with craft breweries, great hiking, and quick access to thousands of acres of open space. Stay at the dog-friendly Hilton and hit the trails at Briones or Lime Ridge.
The East Bay Regional Parks District offers 125,000 acres of open space near Concord. Lime Ridge has 25 miles of dog-friendly trails, Briones features hilly canyons, and Mount Diablo rewards with one of the most expansive views in California.
Yes, we had a dry January, but the big storms in late December filled lakes and streams and created a hefty Sierra snowpack. The payoff: Waterfall season! Here are some late winter/early spring hikes with watery rewards at the end…
Eaton Canyon Falls near Pasadena is a free, dog-friendly hike to a 40-foot waterfall at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains. The 3.5-mile round trip starts easy and flat before climbing a shaded canyon with wildflowers in early spring.
The 7 Falls Trail in Los Padres National Forest outside Santa Barbara is a 3.2-mile, dog-friendly hike best tackled after a rain. Expect rock-hopping, stream crossings, and about 800 feet of elevation gain to reach the cascading reward.
Late winter and early spring bring Yosemite waterfalls roaring to life. The paved, dog-friendly trail to Lower Yosemite Fall is just half a mile from the lodge, and in February you might catch the famous Horsetail Fall glowing like a…
Cataract Falls on Mount Tamalpais is the Bay Area’s most popular waterfall hike, with nine cascades plunging through a mossy, fern-draped forest. The 2.6-mile out-and-back trail is strenuous but spectacular, especially after a good rain.
Lake Tahoe has dog-friendly lodging for every budget, from the Ritz-Carlton to cozy B&B cottages on the West Shore. In winter, enjoy plowed walking trails, cross-country skiing, and heated patio dining in Truckee before cozying up by a fireplace.
Mammoth Lakes welcomes winter DogTrekkers with dozens of dog-friendly lodgings and endless open spaces. Cross-country ski from your cabin at Tamarack Lodge, snowshoe around Convict Lake, or explore miles of plowed trails through stunning Eastern Sierra scenery.
California’s 19 Sno-Parks offer affordable plowed parking and trail access for skiing, snowshoeing and sledding with your dog. At just five dollars a day, these snow-zone playgrounds stretch from Sierra County to Mammoth Lakes, with favorites clustered around Lake Tahoe.
Tenaya at Yosemite offers a cozy winter retreat for families and their dogs, with spacious rooms, Sierra forest trails, satisfying dining, and spa treatments. Fireside evenings and crisp mountain mornings make this the kind of getaway that becomes a tradition.
Winter officially begins on December 21, but you wouldn’t know it by the snowflakes piling up throughout the Yosemite region. This beautiful region is home to a DogTrekker favorite, Tenaya Lodge.
If you’re planning to visit Yosemite Park, including Badger Pass and other areas in the park that have restrictions on dogs, you have the option of reserving a limited spot at Tenaya Lodge’s indoor dog kennel.
After spending an active day skiing, snowboarding, exploring Badger Pass on a guided cross-country tour, or snowshoeing near Tenaya Lodge, you’ll be ready to relax at the Ascent Spa at Tenaya Lodge.
Yosemite’s Badger Pass Ski Area is set to open this weekend, and you’ll find plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for children of all ages. Embark on downhill skiing and snowboarding adventures (or set beginners up with some lessons!), slide down the…
Santa Cruz County is home to more than 70 small-production wineries and tasting rooms, many of them dog-friendly. Follow the Organic Wine Trail or the Corralitos Wine Trail for a relaxed afternoon of sipping with your pup at your side.
Gilroy sits in the heart of the Santa Clara Valley, one of California’s oldest wine-growing regions with more than 35 family-owned wineries. Many welcome dogs, and a Wine Trail Pass gives you year-round tasting access with dog-friendly stops clearly marked.
Mendocino County serves up memorable dog-friendly dining with a view. Savor fresh seafood on the Harbor View Bistro’s second-story deck, try award-winning vegan fare at Ravens Restaurant, or dine under a heated tent at the Little River Inn.
Get out on the water with your dog in Mendocino County. Little River Inn pairs kayaking on the Albion River with a two-night stay, while Catch A Canoe offers a canine cruiser catamaran on the Big River estuary.
Mendocino County offers dog-friendly lodging for every taste and budget, from the Stanford Inn and Little River Inn to the pet suites at Beachcomber Motel. With ocean views and direct beach access, your pup will feel at home.
Head to Mendocino County, where dog-friendly trails wind along the coast and through shady inland forests. The Noyo Headlands Coastal Trail offers ocean views, while the Shakota Trail follows the wooded shores of Lake Mendocino.
Folsom pairs a charming Old Town with miles of dog-friendly trails along the American River Parkway and Folsom Lake. Add in taprooms, restaurants with patios, and the Johnny Cash Trail for a full weekend with your pup.
Sacramento rewards DogTrekkers with shady Capitol Park strolls, dog-friendly patios in buzzy Midtown, and the Old Sacramento Waterfront along the river. Leash up and explore leafy neighborhood parks like McKinley, Curtis Park and the sprawling William Land Park.
Yosemite is home to a number of dog-friendly trails. Leashed dogs are allowed at picturesque Yosemite destinations including
Think about it this way. You’re with your dog just about every day. Do you really want to be apart from them on vacation? At Tenaya Lodge, you don’t have to leave a friend behind. Here, friendship travels. Explore…
In Yosemite, you’ll embark on a getaway you and your little buddy will never forget. Together, you can explore the wonders of the Sierra region at a full-service resort that offers 75 acres of outdoor recreation and accommodations.
Tenaya Lodge, set among 50 acres of Sierra National Forest just two miles from Yosemite, rolls out the red carpet for dogs. Their pet package includes beds, bowls, treats, plus dog-sitting and kennel services.
Anybody who has ever traveled with their canine companion knows that some accommodations are more dog-friendly than others. At Tenaya Lodge, you can fetch a trip you’ll both enjoy. If you like adventuring with your dog and have always…
Fort Bragg Noyo Harbor Inn puts you steps from a fishing village, state park beaches, the Skunk Train, and Glass Beach. Off-leash dog areas at Noyo Beach and Seaside Beach make this Mendocino Coast stretch a pup paradise.
The Harborview Bistro and Bar at Noyo Harbor Inn serves locally sourced seafood and farm-fresh dishes on a dog-friendly patio overlooking the river. Chef Duboc pulls fish from the harbor and herbs from the inn gardens.
Ride the historic Skunk Train through old-growth redwoods on Mendocino County’s dog-friendly logging-era railroad. Choose the coastal Pudding Creek Express from Fort Bragg or the inland Wolf Tree Turn from Willits, both showcasing ancient forests and stunning scenery.
Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite offers dog-friendly rooms and Explorer Cabins on 27 forested acres. Their Fido Friendly Package comes with pet beds, bowls, and treats, plus kennel services for when you visit the park or spa.
Summer at Lake Tahoe means beach romps, mountain hikes, and tram rides with your dog. Splash at dog-friendly beaches, hike Shirley Canyon Trail to High Camp at Palisades Tahoe, or join Wild Blue Dogs camp.
Concord makes a convenient, affordable base for Bay Area DogTrekkers. Hike scenic regional parks, follow the Taco Trail through nearly 40 local restaurants, and settle into dog-friendly hotels with easy access to the Iron Horse Trail and Mount Diablo views.
Contra Costa County is packed with pup-friendly taprooms and craft breweries, and Concord makes an ideal base. Hike the Iron Horse Trail or stroll through Mount Diablo State Park to work up a thirst before hitting the taps.
The Contra Costa County Beer Trail maps more than 40 breweries and taprooms, many dog-friendly. Grab a mobile passport, collect stamps at spots like Concord Tap House and Epidemic Ales, and earn prizes.
Waterfalls near Redding are flowing and swimming holes await. Hike behind the cascade at Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir, then take your dog to see three levels of McCloud River Falls on a scenic round-trip hike.
The Sacramento River Rail Trail near Redding follows a historic railroad route along turquoise Keswick Reservoir for 11 paved miles. The trail passes a 1923 tunnel and relics from the copper mining era.
The Stanford Inn in Mendocino makes walking with your dog a wellness practice. Trails through Mendocino Headlands State Park and Van Damme State Beach are a short drive away, offering ocean views and forest beauty.
The Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino pairs wellness with dog-friendly hospitality. Swim in the saltwater pool, dine on organic vegan fare at Ravens Restaurant, and let your pup curl at your feet in the lobby.
The Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino is a playground for all ages, including four-legged family members. Paddle the Big River on a canine cruiser catamaran, bike coastal trails, or browse the lobby bookshop.
From Woods Lake Campground near Carson Pass to Nevada Beach on Lake Tahoe’s shore, California has paw-tested campgrounds worth returning to year after year. Pfeiffer Big Sur offers magical redwood settings, while Bothe-Napa Valley puts you minutes from wine country.
Heading out camping with your dog for the first time? Plan ahead with cable tie-outs, a crate for sleeping, and a first-aid kit. Pack food and water from home, store everything bear-proof, and review leash laws.
Not a tent person? California glamping has you covered, from safari-style canvas tents at Inn Town Campground in Nevada City to Airstreams at AutoCamp near Yosemite, the Russian River, and Santa Barbara. Many welcome dogs.
Bots are snatching up popular campsite reservations before humans can click, but don’t give up. Try lesser-known campgrounds on public and private lands, go midweek, check for cancellations, or wait until after Labor Day when competition thins out considerably.
Spring is prime time to road-trip Highway 140 to Yosemite with your dog. Small towns like Mariposa and Fish Camp offer dog-friendly lodging from luxury Tenaya Lodge cabins to Airstreams at AutoCamp, all surrounded by blooming wildflowers and gushing waterfalls.
Highway 1 leads to Santa Cruz, where 15 dog-friendly beaches, the iconic West Cliff Drive stroll, and miles of coastal scenery await. From Seabright State Beach to Lighthouse Field, there is sand and surf for every DogTrekker.
Mariposa County beyond Yosemite’s boundaries is packed with dog-friendly fun. Hike through Sierra and Stanislaus National Forests, stroll historic Gold Country towns like Mariposa and Coulterville, and find water bowls waiting outside charming local shops and eateries.
Tenaya Lodge in Fish Camp offers dog-friendly rooms and 50 Explorer Cabins surrounded by Sierra spaces. The Fido Friendly Package includes a bed, bowl, and treats for your pup, with hiking just steps from your door.
Is Yosemite dog-friendly? That’s one of the questions most asked by DogTrekker readers. The answer depends on how “Yosemite” is defined.
The Yosemite Mariposa region offers dog-friendly lodging for every style, from Tenaya Lodge’s resort rooms and Explorer Cabins to Airstreams at AutoCamp and pet-friendly vacation homes at The Redwoods in Yosemite. Filter options online to find your perfect fit.
Highway 128 winds 55 scenic miles through southern Mendocino County, passing Anderson Valley wineries where dogs are genuinely welcome. Navarro Vineyards offers treats and an exercise area for pups, while Husch and Toulouse pour tastings amid vineyard views.
Redding anchors a road trip through the Shasta Cascade, where 225 miles of trails radiate from town. Walk the Sundial Bridge, drive up Mount Shasta, swim at Lake Siskiyou, and hike to McCloud River waterfalls.
Redding in March means green hills, blossoming orchards, and comfortable temperatures for dog hiking. Walk the Sundial Bridge, follow the Sacramento River Trail toward Shasta Dam, or loop through the McConnell Arboretum.
Sacramento farm-to-fork dining thrives on dog-friendly patios across the city. From Burgers and Brew to Bike Dog Brewing taproom and Tequila Museo Mayahuel fine Mexican fare, there is a patio seat waiting for you and your pup.
California’s 19 Sno-Park sites offer plowed parking and trails for skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking with your dog across the Sierra. Daily permits cost five dollars, and your California pass also works in Oregon and Idaho. Popular picks include Blackwood Canyon…
Cooper the Lab mix lived ten adventure-packed years as an avid DogTrekker, from winery visits at Gundlach Bundschu in Sonoma to Shirley Canyon hikes at Palisades Tahoe and beach romps at Fort Funston. His owner Niki shares how DogTrekker shaped…
Silicon Valley hides a wine region in plain sight. The Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail links 34 family-owned wineries near Gilroy, many welcoming dogs. At Kirigin Cellars, bring a tennis ball for fetch between tastings.
Skip the high-priced Napa hotels and base yourself in Vacaville for half the cost. Nearby Suisun Valley offers dog-friendly wineries with outdoor tastings, while Lagoon Valley Park and Rockville Hills Regional Park give your pup room to stretch and explore.
Fall brings crisp weather and light crowds to Mariposa County near Yosemite, making it ideal for a dog-friendly getaway. Choose from Airstream glamping at AutoCamp, vacation homes at The Redwoods, or the luxury of Tenaya Lodge.
October is the perfect time to visit the Suisun Valley between Vacaville and Davis. Vineyards blaze with fall color, pumpkin patches are in full swing, and dog-friendly wineries welcome you and your pup for tastings and bocce.
Santa Cruz County’s mountain wineries offer far more than a beach-town reputation suggests. The Santa Cruz Mountains appellation and Corralitos Wine Trail feature a dozen dog-friendly wineries along winding roads, pouring pinot noirs and chardonnays kissed by coastal fog.
The Santa Clara Valley, better known as Silicon Valley, is one of California oldest wine regions with 34 family-owned wineries near Gilroy. A Wine Trail pass lets you taste all year, and Kirigin Cellars even hosts AKC events.
Mendocino County 11 wine appellations blaze with fall color in October. Drive the Highway 128 Wine Trail through Anderson Valley or head inland along the Hopland Wine Road, stopping at dog-friendly tasting rooms along the way.
If you enjoy adventuring with your dog and have always wanted to experience Yosemite National Park, then Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite is for you.
Mendocino County offers plenty of open-air, dog-friendly activities perfect for getting outside safely. Ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood forests, stroll uncrowded beaches in Fort Bragg, or wander the blooming pathways of Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens with your pup.
Mendocino County is worth an overnight stay, and dog-friendly lodging options abound. From secluded modern cottages at Sheep Dung Properties to oceanfront pet suites at the Beachcomber Motel, there is something for every travel style and budget.
Mendocino County is the perfect place to try forest bathing with your dog. The region misty redwood forests, fresh air, and wide-open spaces offer a deeply restorative experience for you and your pup.
Mariposa County’s towns all make great walks for you and Fido. In Mariposa, the shop-lined streets, Art Park and Mariposa Creek Walk make for a nice way to explore the quaint mountain community and several restaurants boast outdoor seating areas…
Winner of the 2015 Sunset Travel Awards for Best Resort for Pets, Tenaya Lodge knows how to take care of your dog! Their Fido Friendly Pet Package includes lodging and the one-time $100 pet fee for up to two dogs.
What better way to enjoy the mountains for bipeds and quadrupeds alike than by being out on a hike? In Mariposa County’s scenic Merced River Canyon, several dog friendly recreation areas exist including the Merced River Hike at the Briceburg…
What better way to beat the California summer heat than with a swim? There are great swimming holes all over Mariposa County, but maybe none that are better for dogs than Lake McClure and Lake McSwain in the southern Sierra…
Concord has plenty to get tails wagging, from off-leash romps at Baldwin Dog Park to miles of trails at Lime Ridge and Shell Ridge Open Space. Drive up Mount Diablo for panoramic views or cruise the Iron Horse Trail.
Concord is a proactively ADA-accessible city with wheelchair-friendly trails perfect for visitors with disabilities and their dogs. From the Mary Bowerman Trail atop Mount Diablo to dozens of East Bay Regional Park loop trails, accessible outdoor fun awaits.
Skip the takeout containers and treat yourself and your pup to a dog-friendly patio meal in Concord. Nearly every restaurant with outdoor seating welcomes well-behaved dogs, from Lazy Dog and Hop Grenade to Eureka and Guadalajara Grill.
The Milo Foundation continues rescuing and adopting animals from its Mendocino Sanctuary and Point Richmond locations. Adoptions and fostering are booming, but the organization is struggling financially and needs donations to keep its doors open.
When sweet Cali, an eight-year-old Lab, arrived at Monterey Bay Lab Rescue with badly infected ovaries, emergency surgery saved her life. Now happily adopted, she spends her days gardening and going to the beach with her new mom.
Marin Humane has moved many programs online and seen a 40 percent increase in requests for free pet food and veterinary help. With the cancellation of their Woofstock fundraiser, they need donations now more than ever to keep serving animals.
A drive along Highway 1 through Mendocino County rewards you and your dog with sandy stops at every turn. Enjoy off-leash romps at Noyo Beach and Seaside Beach or leashed walks at MacKerricher State Park.
In September 2021 we stayed at Benton Hot Springs in Mono County CA for our 25th wedding anniversary. Highlights include traveling through Yosemite, finding petroglyphs, hiking and just soaking up the high desert beauty.
DogTrekker has supported California shelters and rescue organizations since 2011, and every new newsletter subscriber helps us reach more dog lovers. Share our free newsletter with your pup-loving friends to boost visibility for dog-friendly businesses across the state.
Little River Inn on the Mendocino coast offers two dog-friendly cottages beyond its well-known rooms. Rosie Cottage features ocean views and vaulted ceilings, while the Llama Barn Suite comes with a private hot tub.
The Sacramento River National Recreation Trail stretches nearly 19 miles from Redding’s iconic Sundial Bridge to massive Shasta Dam. Along the way, you and your dog can take in stunning architecture, riverside swimming spots and views of California’s largest reservoir.
Santa Cruz County is packed with dog-friendly hikes. Walk through redwoods along the Pipeline Trail at Henry Cowell, find a hidden koi pond at Pogonip Open Space, or hop aboard the Roaring Camp steam train with your well-behaved pup.
Byrne-Milliron Forest in Santa Cruz County combines hiking with outdoor art, featuring sculptures of sprites and goddesses along the trails. Dogs with solid recall can go off-leash, and nearby Henry Cowell Redwoods and Nisene Marks offer even more trail options.
Spring is the perfect time to visit Yosemite with your dog. Waterfalls rush, wildflowers bloom, and leashed dogs are welcome on most paved roads and paths in the valley. Mariposa County along the way adds dog-friendly lodging, dining and hikes.
Sacramento American and Sacramento rivers meet at Discovery Park, where the 32-mile Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail offers riverside scenery and wildlife. Start in Old Sacramento or loop William Land Park south of downtown.
Gilroy is more than garlic. Mount Madonna County Park offers 4,605 acres of trails through redwood forest, oak woodland, and grassy meadows. Nearby Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch adds 33 more miles of dog-friendly paths.
The drive to Mammoth Lakes on Highway 395 is half the adventure, with stops at Mono Lake and Convict Lake. Once there, your dog can join you for snowshoeing, hiking, and cross-country skiing in the Inyo National Forest.
Big Bear Lake sits at 6,743 feet in the San Bernardino mountains and welcomes dogs year-round. Snowshoe forest roads, walk lakeside trails, then warm up in a pet-friendly cabin before hitting one of the many restaurants with dog-friendly patio seating.
Winter is a great time to visit Redding with your dog in uncrowded conditions. Snap photos on the Sundial Bridge, hike the Sacramento River Trail, then chase waterfalls at Hedge Creek Falls and McCloud River Falls.
Concord rewards DogTrekkers who linger with scenic trails, craft breweries, and a famous Taco Trail featuring 40 restaurants. Hike Lime Ridge or Black Diamond Mines, then let your dog go off-leash at Fernandez Ranch.
Santa Cruz serves up dog-friendly patio dining with ocean views and cozy outdoor heaters. Try the Crow’s Nest Beach Market on the harbor, grab a Spicy Cowboy at colorful Snap Taco downtown, or find your own favorite along the coast.
Santa Cruz County delivers 29 miles of coastline with 15 dog-friendly beaches. Start at Mitchell Cove, the top dog beach, then cruise Highway 1 for more sandy stops. Head inland to Henry Cowell Redwoods for a steam train ride.
Santa Cruz has dog-friendly hotels for every budget. The boutique Hotel Paradox is steps from downtown, Chaminade Resort offers on-site trails and dog menus, and Ocean Echo Inn puts you blocks from the beach. All welcome your four-legged travel companion.
Diabetes in dogs is manageable with the right diet. Fresh, whole-food meals low in carbohydrates and rich in lean protein can make a real difference. This article covers nutritional guidelines and includes a balanced turkey and sardine recipe.
Placer County stretches from near Sacramento to Tahoe’s north shore, offering dog-friendly trails at Auburn State Recreation Area and the lesser-known Cronan Ranch. Near the lake, Truckee and Palisades Tahoe round out the options for outdoor adventure with your pup.
Tuolumne County in Gold Country is the gateway to Yosemite, where leashed dogs can walk paved valley paths. Outside the park, dog-friendly lodging and the lesser-known Hetch Hetchy area, which requires no reservation, make this region well worth the trip.
BADRAP has set up a matching system connecting helpers with pet families facing financial hardship. Whether donating pet food, groceries or directing people to low-cost vet services, a small act of support can help keep families and their pets together.
Muttville Senior Dog Rescue finds homes for over 1,000 senior dogs each year. When the stay-at-home order hit, they placed all 86 shelter dogs into foster homes within 48 hours and adapted their adoption process to keep saving lives remotely.
Faraday, a gentle soul rescued after years wandering California vineyards, was diagnosed with heart disease and given six months to live. Taken in by Lily’s Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary, he has thrived in hospice care and gained an international following.
A bored dog stuck indoors can become stressed and destructive. Keep your pup engaged with hide-a-treat puzzles, burrowing toys and scavenger hunts around the house. Practicing commands or teaching new tricks also provides great mental stimulation for both of you.
Fort Bragg’s Beachcomber group includes three dog-friendly hotels near the ocean, each with special pet amenities. The Beachcomber Motel offers fenced pet suites with ocean views, while guests without dogs can borrow an adoptable pup from the local shelter.
Fort Bragg serves up dog-friendly outdoor dining all over town. Silver’s at the Wharf has a heated pet-friendly patio overlooking Noyo Harbor, and nearby options range from seafood at Sea Pal Cove to craft beer at North Coast Brewing Company.
Two must-do activities in Fort Bragg with your dog: stroll through Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens, known for rare rhododendrons on a bluff above the sea, and ride the historic Skunk Train through redwood forests on a four-hour, 40-mile round trip.
Fort Bragg beaches give dogs plenty of sand time. Glass Beach dazzles with smooth, colorful sea glass, Noyo Beach offers off-leash fun where the river meets the Pacific, and Seaside Beach has roomy stretches for running free.
Fort Bragg offers miles of dog-friendly coastal trails. The Haul Road Recreation Trail crosses a converted railroad trestle with ocean views, while the Noyo Headlands segment of the California Coastal Trail adds five paved, ADA-accessible miles.
Dr. Kwane Stewart, known as The Street Vet, walks California’s streets treating pets belonging to homeless individuals. Since 2011, he has cared for about 400 animals, covering vaccination and medication costs out of his own pocket.
Ticks carry serious diseases like Lyme and Ehrlichia, so removing them quickly is important. Grab the tick close to the skin, pull firmly, seal it in a bag, and wash your hands. A tick removal tool makes the job easier.
Redding is surrounded by stunning waterfalls worth a visit with your dog. Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir is a quick stop off I-5, while the three-tiered McCloud River Falls offer a scenic hike through top swimming hole country.
The eight-county Shasta Cascade region is packed with dog-friendly scenic drives and natural wonders. Take the Everitt Memorial Highway up Mount Shasta, gawk at Burney Falls, cruise the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, or search for Bigfoot in Siskiyou County.
Redding makes a great family base camp with dogs. Stay at the pet-friendly Sheraton near the Sundial Bridge, explore riverside trails and botanical gardens, then take the kids to Caldwell Park or rent a dog-friendly houseboat on Shasta Lake.
Redding calls itself the Trail Capital of California, with 80 miles of paths within city limits. The Sacramento River Trail runs 17.5 miles from the Sundial Bridge to Shasta Dam, with more options on nearby BLM lands.
Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World, welcomes dogs to wineries along the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail, restaurants with patios, and hiking trails at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch and Mount Madonna.
Should your dog share your bed? An SF SPCA behavior expert debunks the dominance myth, weighs legitimate safety concerns, and explains how co-sleeping can strengthen your bond and even improve your rest.
Concord, just 30 miles from San Francisco, pairs a booming craft beer trail with thousands of acres of open space near Mount Diablo. Dog-friendly hotels, breweries, and the Iron Horse Trail make it an easy getaway.
Beyond the well-known East Bay Regional Parks, two EBMUD recreation areas offer great outings for leashed dogs. Lafayette Reservoir features a paved shoreline loop, while San Pablo Reservoir and nearby trails provide quieter options.
The East Bay Regional Park District spans 1,250 miles of trails across 65 parks, and most allow off-leash dogs in undeveloped areas. From Lime Ridge Open Space to Black Diamond Mines, the options near Concord are outstanding.
The John Muir Land Trust protects over 2,500 acres of open space in Contra Costa County, including 1,200-acre Fernandez Ranch and ridge-top Acalanes Preserve. Many properties allow off-leash dogs away from developed areas.
Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite’s south entrance rolls out the red carpet for dogs with pet-friendly rooms, new Explorer Cabins, dog massages, and gourmet treats. It’s a Four-Diamond resort that makes your pup feel just as pampered as you.
Greater Palm Springs offers dog-friendly adventures well beyond hiking trails. Watch championship polo in Indio, tour vintage warbirds at the Palm Springs Air Museum, camp at Lake Cahuilla, or stroll through Moorten Botanical Garden with your leashed pup.
Greater Palm Springs is packed with dog-friendly hotels, from the retro-chic Caliente Tropics Resort to the rustic Sparrows Lodge and the luxurious Hyatt Regency Indian Wells. Many offer welcome treats, dog beds, and easy access to grassy play areas.
Greater Palm Springs culinary scene is booming with dog-friendly patios. Sip craft brews at Desert Beer Company or La Quinta Brewery, grab fare at Tac/Quila, or try modern Chinese cuisine at Roly China Fusion. Greater Palm Springs’ thriving culinary scene…
Before signing your dog up for a kissing booth, consider what’s going on in that mouth. A veterinary technician explains how dental bacteria can lead to bad breath, abscessed teeth, and even heart problems, and why regular cleanings matter.
The Guerneville area in Sonoma County is ideal for a cozy cabin getaway with your dog. Creekside Inn, Cottages on River Road, and Fern Grove Cottages all welcome pups, with Russian River wine country and the coast just minutes away.
The Shasta-Cascade region offers spectacular waterfalls, dog-friendly cabin retreats near Shasta Lake, and fly-fishing at Hat Creek, all within striking distance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Winter is a perfect time to head north with your pup.
California’s Central Coast is loaded with dog-friendly cabin and cottage lodging, from Santa Cruz and Monterey to Big Sur, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Here are favorite retreats for you and your pup along this scenic stretch of coastline.
Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite welcomes dogs with pet-friendly rooms, standalone Explorer Cabins with bunk beds for families, house-made doggie treats, a pampered pet package, and even dog massages at their Ascent Spa. It is the ultimate four-legged retreat.
NorSled rescues huskies, malamutes, and other Nordic breeds that end up in shelters after overwhelming unprepared owners. Thanks to generous vets and donors, dogs like Canyon, a young husky hit by a truck, get life-saving surgery and loving forever homes.
Cold weather doesn’t mean your dog’s exercise routine has to stall. An SF SPCA behavior expert shares tips for rainy-day walks, indoor fetch, and mental enrichment like frozen Kongs and snuffle mats to keep your pup happy all winter.
Winter is the best time to visit Yosemite with your dog, when crowds thin and the scenery is stunning. Dogs can walk paved trails to Lower Yosemite Fall and Bridalveil Fall, and gateway town Groveland has charming dog-friendly hotels.
Skip the parking headaches at Lake Tahoe by picking up a Sno-Park permit for just five dollars a day. These plowed winter lots provide access to sledding hills, cross-country ski trails, and snowshoe routes, and all are dog-friendly.
Lake Tahoe maintains a network of plowed winter trails perfect for walking your dog without skis or snowshoes. The Tahoe City Lakeside Trail, Truckee River Legacy Trail, and paths in Incline Village are all great options.
Wild Blue funds canine cancer research and provides treatment grants to dog owners who can’t afford care. Their week-long dog camps at Lake Tahoe raise money while giving you and your pup an unforgettable vacation for a meaningful cause.
Oakland’s beloved Redwood Regional Park has been renamed after Dr. Aurelia Reinhardt, the only woman on the East Bay Regional Park District’s first board of directors. She championed acquiring the parkland that now welcomes 1.4 million visitors a year.
San Diego offers countless dog-friendly hotels, from no-fee Kimpton properties in the Gaslamp Quarter to boutique spots like Hotel Republic with its Thursday Yappy Hour. Budget-friendly chains welcome pets too, making it easy to find a place for every wallet.
San Diego’s beaches are a paradise for dogs. Ocean Beach allows off-leash romping around the clock, Fiesta Island offers 1.5 miles of waterfront freedom, and Coronado and Del Mar provide seasonal off-leash access on gorgeous sandy stretches.
San Diego proudly calls itself the Craft Beer Capital of America, and almost all of its brewpubs welcome dogs. Societe Brewing, Bagby Beer in Oceanside, and Mission Brewery near Petco Park are great places to start.
The Westin Mission Hills in Rancho Mirage partners with Animal Samaritans to host adoptable dogs near the front desk. Guests get to walk and snuggle adoption candidates, and so far 143 dogs have found forever homes through the program.
The Cove Oasis Loop in La Quinta is an easy 1.8-mile gravel path at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Best enjoyed in the early morning, this flat trail is perfect for a relaxed walk with your leashed dog.
Lily’s Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary has declared the last week of October as Saving Senior Dogs Week. This national campaign raises awareness for homeless senior dogs and funds for the fewer than 40 rescues dedicated to saving them.
Nearly 80 percent of dogs eat grass, and most don’t vomit afterward, so the upset-stomach myth doesn’t hold up. An SF SPCA veterinarian explains that grass-eating can signal stress, sensory curiosity, or GI issues, but is usually perfectly normal.
The Homestead Trail in Palm Desert climbs 689 feet up Shadow Mountain to a giant illuminated cross with stunning views below. Start at Homme Adams Park, where dogs can run off-leash across 27 acres of open space. The dog-friendly Homestead…
Desert hiking with your dog requires extra precaution. Bring at least two liters of water, avoid midday heat, watch for rattlesnakes and cacti, protect paws from hot sand, and always monitor your pup’s energy levels for signs of overheating.
Concord and Pleasant Hill sit at the base of Mount Diablo, where summit views stretch 200 miles on clear days. The 32-mile Iron Horse Trail, Todos Santos Plaza, craft breweries, and dog-friendly restaurants round out a great East Bay outing.
The Tri-Valley east of San Francisco combines dog-friendly wine country, craft beer trails, and tens of thousands of acres of open space where dogs can roam off-leash. Pleasanton Ridge, Dublin Hills, and Del Valle Regional Park are standout picks.
Oakland pairs urban pleasures like Jack London Square dining and ale and wine trails with easy access to open-space preserves full of redwoods and ridgeline views. Dog-friendly hotels, breweries, and seasonal events make it a tail-wagging destination.
The Explorer Cabins at Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite are dog-friendly two-bedroom retreats in a mountain forest setting. Guests enjoy a communal clubhouse with daily breakfast and evening wine receptions, plus a dedicated Camp Host ready with adventure tips.
All dogs shed, but the amount varies widely by breed. An SF SPCA veterinarian explains normal shedding cycles, what to watch for with undercoats and longer-haired breeds, and why a balanced diet is key to maintaining a healthy, glossy coat.
NorCal Poodle Rescue helps poodles and poodle mixes who end up matted, neglected, or traumatized in shelters. Through a network of fosters and volunteers, dogs like Ozzy and Whisper get a second chance at life and love.
Saying goodbye to a beloved dog is one of the hardest things we face. An SF SPCA veterinarian offers guidance on recognizing when quality of life has declined and explains options for compassionate euthanasia, including in-home services.
At Stanford Inn’s acclaimed vegan restaurant The Ravens in Mendocino, dogs can lounge by your side at lobby tables while you enjoy plant-based dishes made with ingredients from the on-site organic garden. Takeout lunches for the trail are available too.
Catch a Canoe at Stanford Inn offers a handcrafted redwood “canine cruiser” with a padded deck so your dog can ride in comfort along the Big River estuary. Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and bicycles are also available for exploring Mendocino’s coast.
The East Bay SPCA offers revamped dog training classes in Dublin and Oakland, from entry-level Skill Builders to specialty courses for reactive dogs. All classes use positive reinforcement methods and are taught by experienced, credentialed instructors.
Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino has welcomed pets for nearly 40 years. Guest rooms come with food bowls, organic treats, and furniture covers, while the 10-acre property invites leashed dogs to roam past gardens and ocean views.
Dogs can’t sweat, so summer heat poses real risks. A veterinarian shares tips on providing shade and water, avoiding hot asphalt, skipping midday outings, and recognizing heat stroke signs like prolonged panting and a temperature above 103 degrees.
Helen Woodward Animal Center in San Diego County has spent over 45 years rescuing animals and running community programs. Their work includes the Pets Without Walls program for homeless pet owners and extra care for dogs needing surgery.
Suisun Valley in Solano County offers unpretentious wine country just a short drive from Vacaville, San Francisco, and Sacramento. With half a dozen dog-friendly tasting rooms and farm stands selling fresh produce, it’s a perfect fall day trip.
The Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is a surprising getaway of old-time lift bridges, small towns, and levee roads. Dog-friendly wineries have popped up on both sides of the river, with live music, wood-fired pizza, and vineyard views to enjoy.
The Shasta Cascade region east of Redding is one of California’s fastest-growing wine areas. From the volcanic-soil Manton Valley AVA to downtown Redding tasting rooms and Butte County vineyards, dog-friendly wineries are waiting to surprise you.
The Santa Cruz Mountains are home to certified organic vineyards and dog-friendly tasting rooms with stunning views. From Cooper-Garrod above Saratoga to Alfaro near the coast, you and your pup can sip and savor all year long.
Reader Bruce shares a photo and story from his trip with dog Eva to Hell’s Kitchen off Highway 4. DogTrekker loves hearing paw-tested stories from readers about their favorite dog-friendly places in California.
The Assisi Loop is a safe, non-pharmaceutical device that uses pulsed electromagnetic field therapy to reduce inflammation and pain in dogs. It can help with arthritis, soft tissue injuries, anxiety, and neurological conditions right at home.
Sheep Dung Properties offers dog-friendly cottage rentals in Mendocino County’s Anderson Valley. Choose from ranch cottages on 500 acres outside Boonville or an in-town rental with a soaking tub, all fenced and dog-proofed for worry-free stays.
Best Friends Animal Society’s No Kill Los Angeles initiative has raised L.A.’s shelter save rate to over 93 percent through partnerships, spay-neuter programs, and a robust adoption network. Volunteers are always needed to help keep animals safe.
Dog and Pony Ranch in Amador County offers a one-of-a-kind farm experience. Your pup can hike 60 acres, swim in a dog-friendly pond, and meet horses, llamas, and mini-donkeys at this property designed from the ground up for four-legged guests.
After summer crowds thin out, California’s Central Coast is ideal for a dog-friendly getaway. From Santa Cruz cottage rentals and KOA campgrounds to retro motels in Pacific Grove and cabin-style inns in Carmel, options abound for you and your pup.
El Dorado County’s Apple Hill region near Placerville comes alive in fall with more than 50 farms and a new Hard Cider Trail featuring six dog-friendly producers. Nearby cabins and glamping spots make it easy to stay the weekend.
Lake Tahoe’s South Shore has dog-friendly cabins, cottages, and lodges for every budget. With a pet concierge service at the Hard Rock Hotel, off-leash beach time at Nevada Beach, and plenty of patio dining, summer here is made for dogs.
Orphan Dog in Lake County rescues dogs from local shelters and provides medical care and fostering until they find forever homes. Since 2004, they’ve saved over 4,500 dogs and run free spay-neuter clinics to keep animals out of shelters.
If your dog suddenly starts limping on a walk, stop and let her rest. Check paws for foxtails, cuts, or debris. Common causes range from soft tissue sprains to joint disease, so a vet visit is important for proper diagnosis.
Lake County has plenty of dog-friendly campgrounds for summer fun. Private resorts like The Narrows offer full hookups and waterfront access, while Clear Lake State Park has 149 drive-up sites with swimming and hiking nearby.
Lake County’s dog-friendly restaurant patios serve everything from cult-following barbecue at Danny’s Roadside Kitchen to healthy bowls at Wholly Bowl in Lakeport. Enjoy lakeshore views, casual American fare, and European bistro breakfasts with your pup.
Nearly a dozen communities ring Clear Lake in Lake County, each with its own dog-friendly appeal. From Lakeport’s dog parks and boat rentals to Kelseyville’s wineries and Clearlake’s waterfront cabins, there’s plenty for you and your pup to explore.
Shasta Lake, California’s largest reservoir, is the state’s houseboat capital. Dogs are welcome aboard, and with boats ranging from basic fishing models to floating luxury suites with hot tubs, it’s a novel way to vacation with your pup.
Dogs age much like humans, only faster. The top concerns for senior pups are obesity, arthritis, heart enlargement, cataracts, and hearing loss. Keeping your dog slim and active with regular vet checkups ensures comfortable golden years.
Bass Lake near Yosemite has warm water, dog-friendly resorts, and vacation rentals surrounded by Sierra National Forest. Rent a pontoon boat, hike to a fire lookout, or relax at a nearby winery while your pup enjoys the mountain air.
Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite has opened 50 new dog-friendly Explorer Cabins with fireplaces, covered porches, and communal fire pits in a mountain forest setting. Combined with the lodge’s dog-sitting services and patio dining, it is a top-tier retreat for traveling…
Clear Lake in Lake County is a natural freshwater paradise about 75 miles north of Santa Rosa. Rent a dog-friendly pontoon boat, stay in waterfront cabins, sample local wines, and let your pup splash at Clear Lake State Park.
Research shows dogs are highly attuned to their owners emotions and can mirror long-term stress levels. When you are calm and relaxed, your dog feels safer too. A deep breath before greeting your pup can make a real difference.
Fireworks can terrify dogs whose sensitive hearing makes the explosions overwhelming. Talk to your vet about calming medication, keep your dog indoors during displays, and make sure ID tags and microchip info are current in case of a panicked escape.
Tri-Valley Animal Rescue in the East Bay pulled scruffy terrier mix Poco from the shelter, nursed him back to health, and fixed his painful teeth. This sweet, gentle fellow gets along with everyone and is ready for a loving home.
Mendocino Village is packed with dog-friendly options, from the Stanford Inn to bluff-top hikes at Mendocino Headlands State Park. Paddle a canine cruiser canoe up the Big River estuary or dine with your dog at Ravens restaurant.
Fort Bragg on the Mendocino coast welcomes dogs with luxury motels featuring pet suites and leash-free dog parks. Explore the botanical gardens, run free at Noyo Beach, and hike the unusually dog-friendly trails at MacKerricher State Park.
Little River on the Mendocino Coast rolls out the red carpet for dogs. Stay at the historic Heritage House Resort or the five-generation Little River Inn, where pets get welcome treats, designated exercise areas, and even indoor dining privileges.
Gualala, just over the Sonoma County line in Mendocino County, is a boho coastal town with dog-friendly lodgings, beaches, and restaurants. Go beachcombing at Gualala Point Regional Park or stay at the ocean-view Whale Watch Inn with your pup.
Summer hikes with your dog are wonderful, but watch out for foxtails, heatstroke, bee stings, and rattlesnakes. Know the warning signs for each hazard and how to respond quickly so you can keep having fun on the trail.
Catch A Canoe in Mendocino rents Canine Cruiser outrigger canoes with a raised, padded deck where dogs ride as you paddle the calm Big River estuary. Pair it with a stay at the nearby Stanford Inn by the Sea.
Lake County offers plenty of water fun beyond Clear Lake. Nearby Blue Lakes feature clear, spring-fed swimming and electric boat rentals that welcome dogs. Waterfront cabins and cottages at several dog-friendly resorts make it easy to stay lakeside.
A four-hour float down a secluded stretch of the Russian River near Healdsburg is a must-do for water-loving dogs. Custom inflatable canoes keep everyone stable while you swim, picnic, and play fetch at sandy beaches along the way.
Before hitting the trail with your dog, pack a first aid kit with sterile water, bandage wrap, gauze, scissors, antibiotic ointment, diphenhydramine, and a muzzle. Training a reliable recall command is another essential safety measure for outdoor adventures.
From the Mendocino coast to Lake Tahoe, Big Sur, and the Eastern Sierra, California’s most scenic dog-friendly campgrounds put you right in the action. These five picks offer beaches, waterfalls, redwoods, and mountain lakes for you and your pup.
Glamping with your dog is booming in California. AutoCamp’s vintage Airstream parks, safari-style tents at Camp Nauvoo, and platform tents at Mendocino Grove all welcome four-legged guests who prefer plush beds over sleeping bags. Vintage travel-trailers, “glamping” tents and luxury…
You do not need to drive hours for a great dog-friendly camping trip. Folsom Lake, Samuel P. Taylor, Point Mugu, and Campland on the Bay in San Diego all offer close-in outdoor fun with your pup.
The Santa Cruz SPCA opened a modern facility in 2020 with spacious animal habitats, indoor and outdoor play areas, and rooms for community programs. The shelter also offers pet food assistance, youth education, and training resources for new pet owners.
Santa Cruz County keeps getting more dog-friendly. Dogs can now hike a 7-mile route at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, romp at Ozzi Memorial Dog Park near Capitola, and hang out at the Heart of Soquel Park.
Foxtails are a serious warm-weather hazard for California dogs. These sharp grass seeds can penetrate skin, lodge in ears, noses, and between toes, and travel deep into tissue. Check your dog thoroughly after every outdoor outing during foxtail season.
Santa Cruz County’s fog-kissed climate produces excellent pinot noir and chardonnay, and many wineries welcome dogs. Follow DogTrekker’s wine trail itinerary or visit Alfaro and Nicholson on the Corralitos Wine Trail for organic wines and relaxed patio tasting.
Santa Cruz County’s 29 miles of coastline include 15 dog-friendly beaches. Walk West Cliff Drive’s coastal path, explore Seabright and Davenport beaches on-leash, and choose from dozens of pet-welcoming hotels, inns, and cottages for your stay.
Pyometra is a life-threatening uterine infection in unspayed female dogs, most common two to eight weeks after a heat cycle. Know the warning signs, including lethargy, discharge, and fever, and get to a veterinarian immediately if you suspect it.
Chester, a young Catahoula mix, went from running the streets to training with inmates through Friends of the Animal Community’s PUPP program in Tuolumne County. After 12 weeks of intensive work, he’ll graduate with his Canine Good Citizen certificate.
The town of Murphys on Highway 4 has more than 20 dog-friendly wine tasting spots along Main Street. From Twisted Oak’s playful vibe to Ironstone Vineyards’ museum housing a 44-pound gold specimen, Calaveras County wine country is full of surprises.
Tuolumne County’s wine and craft beverage trail features dog-friendly stops like Indigeny Reserve, a 160-acre property producing hard cider and spirits outside Sonora. In historic Jamestown, three tasting rooms and a steam train ride await you and your pup.
Sacramento’s craft beer scene is thriving, with over 40 breweries and nearly all of them dog-friendly. From Ruhstaller’s downtown taproom to Bike Dog Brewing’s Doggie Sundays, the city’s hop-growing heritage makes it a great destination for beer-loving dog owners.
Finding the right vet starts with recommendations from fellow dog lovers. Meet a few veterinarians before choosing, bring your dog’s medical records, and look for someone who communicates well, shows empathy, and connects genuinely with your pet.
Peace of Mind Dog Rescue in Pacific Grove has spent over a decade saving senior dogs and helping senior people keep their pets. From vet bill assistance to a Perpetual Care program, they ensure no dog faces uncertainty alone.
DogTrekker’s co-founder shares insider tips for visiting Monterey County with your dog, from boarding options near the aquarium to indoor dog-friendly restaurants perfect for cooler days along the Central Coast.
From degloving injuries and fractures to swimmer’s tail and happy tail syndrome, here is what every dog owner should know about common tail injuries, how to spot them, and when to head straight to the vet.
Monterey County’s wine scene is wonderfully dog-friendly, from the intimate tasting rooms along the River Road Wine Trail to Carmel Valley’s laid-back vineyards and the strollable Wine Walk by the Sea in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Carmel City Beach tops the list of Monterey County splash spots where dogs run free on powdery sand. Beyond that famous strand, leash-friendly beaches from Asilomar to Pfeiffer Beach offer stunning scenery for you and your pup.
Monterey’s Cannery Row is a dog-friendly destination packed with waterfront restaurants, wine tasting rooms, shops, and pet-welcoming hotels. Stroll the historic mile of coastline and soak in the seaside atmosphere with your pup.
The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail stretches 18 miles of paved, scenic coastline perfect for walking with your dog. Pair it with an inland hike at Garland Ranch Regional Park for off-leash trails through redwoods and open savannahs.
Finding out you’re allergic to your dog is tough, but it doesn’t always mean giving them up. From managing symptoms with medication to adjusting your living situation, there are practical options worth exploring before rehoming.
Pleasant Hill in the East Bay offers affordable dog-friendly hotels, patio restaurants like Wence’s Oyster Bar, and the 63-acre Paso Nogal Open Space with fenced dog parks. A solid base for exploring the Bay Area with your pup.
Briones Regional Park near Pleasant Hill offers 6,255 acres of rolling green hills with panoramic views and off-leash trails. Nearby, the 32-mile Iron Horse Regional Trail follows an old rail corridor through charming East Bay towns.
Concord in the East Bay blends a thriving craft beer scene, dog-friendly patio dining at spots like Tower Grille and Lazy Dog, fenced dog parks, and affordable lodging into a surprisingly fun getaway with your four-legged friend.
Concord and its neighboring communities sit among thousands of acres of protected open space, from the Contra Costa Canal Trail to Lime Ridge and Diablo Foothills Regional Park. Spring is prime time for green hills and wildflowers.
Alvin is a lovable 15-pound terrier mix who gets along with everyone but can’t resist chasing chickens. Pets Without Partners in Redding is helping him find a critter-free home where his winning personality can shine.
Whether you’ve already fallen for a specific dog or you’re open to possibilities, choosing your next rescue companion starts with honest self-assessment. A veterinary behaviorist explains how to work with adoption counselors to find the right match.
Shasta Lake is California’s houseboating capital, and several marinas rent pet-friendly vessels ranging from basic fishing boats to triple-decker floating palaces. After a wet winter, the lake is full and reservations are going fast.
The eight-county Shasta Cascade region serves up wild country with seven national forests, scenic byways, and views of 13,162-foot Mount Shasta. Dog-friendly hotels, trails, and small-town charm make it ideal for adventurous road trips with your pup.
Redding is an easy drive from Sacramento with gorgeous spring scenery along the way. The Sheraton at the Sundial Bridge and the eco-friendly Gaia Hotel offer dog-friendly lodging with riverside trails and patio dining right outside your door.
The Sundial Bridge in Redding is a stunning pedestrian span doubling as the world’s largest sundial, with dog-friendly trails along the Sacramento River. Nearby, you can walk the length of massive Shasta Dam and connect to miles of trails.
Found a lost dog with no collar or working phone number on the tag? A vet tech explains your best options, from filing found reports at local shelters and scanning for microchips to posting on neighborhood social media groups.
Greater Palm Springs offers dog-friendly hiking trails for every fitness level, from the slot canyons of East Indio Hills Badlands to the sunrise views on Chuckwalla Trail Loop and a stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail at Whitewater Preserve.
Greater Palm Springs pampers pups at beautifully restored hotels like the Ingleside Inn, La Serena Villas, and Sands Hotel. Expect dog beds, treats, and stylish mid-century surroundings that may make you and Fido never want to leave. In Greater Palm…
Year-round sunshine makes Greater Palm Springs perfect for al fresco dining with your dog. From the sociable patios at The Grill on Main to polo matches and drinks at Tack Room Tavern, dog-friendly spots abound. Perfect weather for eating al…
Wild mushrooms can be deadly for dogs, and the toxic Death Cap variety is especially dangerous because its fishy odor attracts curious pups. If your dog eats any wild mushroom, seek immediate veterinary care and bring a sample along.
A vet tech outlines the three most important first-aid skills for dog owners: CPR, applying direct pressure to wounds, and staying calm. Taking a pet first-aid class could buy your dog critical time in an emergency.
The Sacramento River Delta is just minutes from downtown and loaded with dog-friendly wineries, live music patios, and funky eateries. From Scribner Bend Vineyards to Husick’s BBQ in Clarksburg, a taste of rural California awaits.
Sacramento has dog-friendly lodging for every budget, from the boutique Kimpton Sawyer downtown to riverside hotels with trail access along the American River Parkway. Many welcome dogs at no extra charge. From the downtown core to the farthest reaches of…
Sacramento’s Midtown neighborhood is a walkable paradise of dog-friendly patio dining, craft breweries, beer gardens, and coffee shops. From stylish Mexican at Zocalo to communal tables at Golden Road Brewing, the options are almost endless.
Sacramento shady parks and trails are made for dog walking. Start at William Land Park or hike the 32-mile American River Parkway from Old Sacramento to Folsom Lake. Cross Tower Bridge for skyline views and food trucks.
Planning a snow day with your dog? A California SNO-Park permit gets you access to plowed parking lots at 18 Sierra Nevada locations near prime snow-play areas and ski trails. Day passes are just fifteen dollars.
What happens after your dog’s surgery matters as much as the procedure itself. A veterinarian shares practical rehab tips, from preventing slips on hardwood floors with yoga mats to using harnesses and ramps for safe mobility at home.
Several Lake Tahoe cross-country ski resorts welcome dogs on groomed trails. Tahoe Donner offers eight dog-friendly routes plus fire-pit relaxation after your run, while Tahoe Cross Country and Kirkwood sell doggy day passes for their own designated trail networks.
Snowshoeing with your dog is easier than you think. Rent snowshoes from a local ski shop, pick a dog-friendly trail like Paige Meadows or Hope Valley, and use a hands-free skijoring leash to keep your poles working.
After a snowstorm, North Lake Tahoe plows several walking trails so you and your dog can get outside without snowshoes or skis. Options include the Palisades Tahoe bike path, the Truckee River Legacy Trail, and many more around the lake.
Living with a deaf dog is more rewarding than you might expect. A vet tech shares four tips, from teaching hand signals and alerting your dog to your presence to keeping them leashed on hikes for safety.
When the Camp Fire destroyed over 14,000 homes, the all-volunteer North Valley Animal Disaster Group in Chico deployed rescue teams and set up emergency shelters for thousands of displaced animals. They rely on donations to keep saving lives.
The East Bay’s trail network makes Concord a great launching point for dog-friendly hikes. Lime Ridge Open Space, Shell Ridge, and Briones Regional Park all offer acres of open terrain with off-leash options for well-behaved dogs.
Sleep in a vintage Airstream trailer with your dog at locations across Southern California. AutoCamp in Joshua Tree, Caravan Outpost in Ojai, and Hotel Paseo in Palm Desert all offer retro-chic, pet-friendly accommodations with modern comforts. Retro is all the…
Having a dog can lower your blood pressure, boost your social life, and get you outside more often. A vet tech explains why daily walks and canine companionship lead to a healthier, happier life for both of you.
Five Greater Palm Springs hotels go above and beyond for dogs, from The Saguaro’s no-fee policy for pets of any size to La Quinta Resort’s PAWS program and Westin Mission Hills’ on-site adoption partnership with a local shelter.
Halloween brings hidden dangers for dogs, from chocolate candy and xylitol to spooky costumes that can cause stress. A veterinarian shares practical tips to keep your pup safe during the holiday, including what to do if they eat something toxic.
Gia, a stunning five-year-old German shepherd, was pulled from a high-kill shelter by German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. She is bright, aware, and loyal, and GSROC is looking for just the right person to give her a forever home.
Traveling with a puppy takes preparation. A vet tech covers the essentials, from making sure vaccines are current and scheduling frequent potty breaks to packing a Kong for crate time and keeping your adventurous pup safely leashed.
Yountville in Napa Valley is a strollable, dog-friendly culinary destination with luxury lodging at North Block Hotel and Bardessono, plus dozens of tasting rooms and acclaimed restaurants with outdoor seating for you and your pup.
Bed and Barrel at Stonehouse Cellars in Lake County Clearlake Oaks is a winery, tasting room, and B&B where dogs roam free. Nearby, Clear Lake and Blue Lakes offer swimming, fishing, and boat rentals for the whole family.
The Placer Wine Trail features 20 boutique wineries in the Sierra Foothills near Auburn. Most are family owned and dog-friendly, including Vina Castellano, where pups are welcome in the tasting room, on the patio, and out by the pond.
The Madrones in Philo, Mendocino County, bundles a tasting room, wood-fired restaurant, wellness spa, and five pet-friendly guest quarters into one Italian-style compound. Next door, The Brambles offers quirky Victorian cabins in the redwoods.
It was one of those “Yahoo” moments that I found out the way to bring my little Jo to Yosemite. It was rewarding being in Yosemite with my fur baby overlooking Half Dome.
Vacaville makes a smart, affordable base for wine country trips with your dog. Stay at half the price of Napa hotels and daytrip to dog-friendly wineries in nearby Suisun Valley, where family-owned tasting rooms welcome four-legged visitors.
Lagoon Valley Park near Vacaville blends history and outdoor fun, with a 2.5-mile lake trail and a 30,000-square-foot off-leash dog park. Nearby, the Western Railway Museum even lets dogs ride aboard historic streetcars.
More than two dozen Tri-Valley hotels welcome dogs, with pet fees ranging from nothing to $150. From budget motels to all-suite properties with full kitchens, there are plenty of options for every DogTrekker visiting the area. Sure, you could commute…
September is National Preparedness Month, and your pets need a disaster plan too. From evacuation kits with food, water and medical records to arranging safe shelter, here is how to keep your furry family members protected.
The 32-mile Iron Horse Regional Trail follows an old railway through the Tri-Valley, connecting towns and parks along the way. Stop in dog-friendly downtown Danville for patio dining, shopping and a romp at the Canine Corral dog park.
The Tri-Valley offers trails you follow by taste, not by foot. A beer trail with 22 craft breweries, a wine trail with 50-plus wineries, and a top-rated ice cream trail all welcome dogs at many stops.
The Tri-Valley sits alongside thousands of acres of East Bay Regional Parkland where dogs can hike off-leash under voice control. From Pleasanton Ridge to Del Valle Regional Park, wide-open spaces and scenic vistas await you and your pup.
Mendocino County has nearly four dozen dog-friendly wineries along the Highway 128 and Highway 101 corridors. From laid-back Navarro Vineyards in the Anderson Valley to family-owned tasting rooms in Hopland, wine touring with your pup is easy here.
Finding dog-friendly restaurants on the Mendocino Coast is easier than you think. From the heated patio at Silver’s at the Wharf in Fort Bragg to upscale seaside dining in Gualala, your pup can join you for meals with ocean views.
The Mendocino Coast has hotels that truly love dogs, greeting them with treats, beds and bowls. From the eco-luxury Stanford Inn to the Victorian-era Little River Inn and Fort Bragg’s Beachcomber properties, pet pampering is the standard here.
September is the sweet spot at Lake Tahoe, with fewer crowds and great deals on lodging. Swim and hike with your dog at beaches like Nevada Beach, Kiva Beach and Fallen Leaf Lake before summer fades away.
Play keeps your dog healthy, mentally sharp and bonded to you. Whether it is walks, swimming, fetch or puzzle toys, regular fun activity helps prevent obesity, anxiety and destructive behavior while keeping both of you in good shape.
Fall is prime time for a scenic drive through California’s mountains with your dog. Three standout routes cross the Sierra and Cascades, from the twisting Ebbetts Pass to Yosemite’s Tioga Road and the 500-mile Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway.
Skip the uphill hike and ride a dog-friendly gondola or tram at Mammoth Mountain, Northstar or Palisades Tahoe. Each resort offers enclosed lifts that welcome dogs, plus summit trails, restaurants and stunning mountain views at the top.
Early fall brings thinner crowds and autumn color to Yosemite, and there is more for dogs to do than you might expect. Leashed pups can walk to Lower Yosemite Fall and along the valley bike paths.
Come September, High Sierra cabin resorts open up with shorter stays and easier bookings. The Lakes Basin area between Sierra and Plumas counties offers everything from rustic sleeping rooms with rowboats to upscale lodges with on-site breweries and spas.
Jessica’s Haven and Rescue in San Rafael pairs rescue dogs with kids and adults with disabilities, creating meaningful bonds for both. Dogs get extra love and nurturing while special-needs visitors learn responsibility and soak up unconditional affection.
Amador County along Highway 49 is Gold Country at its finest, with historic hotels, robust zinfandels and dog-friendly tasting rooms. Time your visit for the annual Barbera Festival or enjoy wine and live music any weekend in Sutter Creek.
Calaveras County blends Gold Rush history with wine tasting and outdoor adventure. Walk your dog through Murphys’ 25-plus tasting rooms, hike near New Melones Lake or watch humans stomp grapes at the annual street fair in this Sierra foothills getaway.
El Dorado County is classic Gold Country, with the historic Cary House Hotel in Placerville, dog-friendly wineries along the Adventure Loop and living history events at Marshall Gold Discovery State Park where the Gold Rush began.
Sierra County’s tiny town of Downieville on the Yuba River makes a perfect fall base camp. Sleep in a streamside cabin, fish the river and hike the steep Sierra Buttes Lookout Trail for jaw-dropping views from nearly 9,000 feet.
Not all human medications are safe for dogs. Common painkillers like NSAIDs can cause liver and kidney failure in pets, while some drugs like Famotidine work the same way. Always check with your vet before giving your dog any medication.
When the Carr Fire tore through Northern California, Haven Humane Society sheltered over 700 displaced animals while community support poured in. Volunteers, supplies and partner rescues all rallied to help pets and families affected by the disaster.
El Dorado County’s Apple Hill region has over 50 family-owned farms, ranches and wineries that welcome leashed dogs. Visit in fall for fresh cider, pie and u-pick orchards, or anytime for wine tasting with scenic vineyard views.
Folsom blends Gold Rush history with modern outdoor fun. Stroll dog-friendly Old Town, hike 50-plus miles of paved trails including the Johnny Cash Trail, cool off at Lake Natoma and let your pup run free at Fido Field dog park.
Placerville, once known as Hangtown, is now one of Gold Country’s most dog-friendly towns. Check into the historic Cary House Hotel, dine on Main Street patios, hike along the American River and explore nearby Apple Hill with your pup.
Sacramento’s dining and brewery scene is booming, with dog-friendly patios everywhere you look. New spots like Mutts and Mugs dog park-pub, Two Rivers Cider Co. and Fountainhead Brewing give you and your pup plenty of reasons to visit.
Just 45 minutes east of San Francisco, the Tri-Valley rewards hikers and their dogs with wide-open parkland and scenic vistas. After hitting the trails, treat yourself along the region’s famous beer, wine and ice cream trails.
Lake County offers dog-friendly water adventures from Clear Lake to the spring-fed Blue Lakes. Rent electric boats, splash at state park beaches, hike wildlife areas and watch for bald eagles and wild tule elk at Cache Creek in cooler months.
Pet-friendly cabin resorts line the shores of Clear Lake and Blue Lakes in Lake County. From waterfront cabins with full kitchens and boat launches to the meticulously renovated Lodge at Blue Lakes, lakeside getaways with your dog abound.
A short walk on the Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail near Sebastopol leads to The Barlow, a lively complex of food producers, breweries, and artist studios where dogs are welcome at outdoor tables.
Lake County is one of California’s fastest-growing wine regions, with over 30 wineries welcoming dogs at their tasting rooms and picnic areas. Sample sauvignon blancs, petit sirahs and big reds while your pup relaxes beside you.
Bartholomew Park Winery near Sonoma Plaza sits within a 400-acre preserve locals call Bart Park. Hike the 3-mile loop through oak hills and redwood groves, then spread a picnic overlooking the vineyards at this little-known Sonoma gem.
Hike two miles up Mount Tamalpais to West Point Inn for a monthly pancake breakfast with sweeping views. Or head to Cavallo Point Lodge near the Golden Gate Bridge for trails and a dog-friendly patio restaurant.
The steep 4.4-mile hike up Shirley Canyon at Palisades Tahoe rewards you and your dog with cascading waterfalls, a mountain lake, and access to the High Camp complex at 8,200 feet. Ride the tram back down for free.
The Eastern Sierra’s Little Lakes Valley Trail winds past seven high-elevation lakes below 13,000-foot peaks, with wildflowers in summer and blazing fall color in October. Nearby Convict Lake offers an easy 3-mile loop with dramatic mountain scenery.
Tuolumne County’s mountain lakes offer swimming, hiking, camping and boating with your dog. From popular Pinecrest Lake to massive Lake Don Pedro, where you can rent a dog-friendly houseboat, there is a waterside adventure for every pup.
Tuolumne County’s bed-and-breakfasts and vacation rentals add a personal touch to your Gold Country getaway. From the AAA Four-Diamond McCaffrey House in Twain Harte to a mountaintop lodge near Yosemite, dogs are welcomed warmly at each.
Tuolumne County stretches from Gold Rush towns like Sonora and Jamestown into the High Sierra, with dog-friendly hotels, patio restaurants and miles of national forest trails. Drive Highway 108 over Sonora Pass for a truly spectacular day trip.
Rocket Dog Rescue has saved 10,000 animals over 17 years, pulling dogs from dire situations across the Bay Area. Their Urban Sanctuary in East Oakland serves as a trusted resource and a lifeline for dogs in need.
Raw food diets for dogs come with real risks, from bacterial contamination with Salmonella and Listeria to nutritional deficiencies in calcium and phosphorus. Before switching your dog’s diet, talk to your vet and look for AAFCO-approved products.
Rosie Dog Beach in Long Beach is the only legally off-leash beach in Los Angeles County, open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. For leashed beach walks, the Malibu coast offers scenic alternatives at Leo Carrillo State Park.
Carmel City Beach is perhaps the best-known off-leash dog beach in the country, a powdery mile-long strand within walking distance of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s shops and restaurants. Nearby, Big Sur’s Pfeiffer Beach offers dramatic sea stacks and pink sand.
Fort Funston in southwest San Francisco is off-leash heaven for dogs, buzzing with canine activity even on foggy days. Trails lead down to a wild, wave-swept beach that rejuvenates human spirits and sends tails into overdrive.
Off-leash beaches are rare on the Mendocino Coast, but Noyo Beach in Fort Bragg lets your pup run free on dark sand right in town. Larger Seaside Beach six miles north is another option.
Muir Beach in Marin County is a sandy crescent bordered by bluffs where dogs under voice control can romp off-leash. It is part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area, with miles of trails and views of the bridge.
Tenaya Lodge sits just outside Yosemite’s south entrance and rolls out the red carpet for dogs and families alike. On-site activities range from climbing walls to horseback riding, and the pet package includes a Fido-friendly room with treats and toys.
A lost dog while traveling is every pet owner’s nightmare. Preparation is key: carry a collar with your cell number, microchip your dog, bring a full-body photo and know how to quickly contact local shelters and animal control.
California offers plenty of paved, stroller-friendly trails where dogs are welcome too. From Lake Tahoe’s Lam Watah Trail to San Francisco’s Crissy Field and the historic Independence Trail near Nevada City, these paths work for wheels, feet and paws alike.
Planning a family road trip with kids and dogs takes strategy, especially when booking hotels. Here’s how to find truly dog-friendly lodging, from boutique brands like Kimpton to budget-friendly chains, plus what to ask before you reserve. Headed out on…
Marin County rolls out the welcome mat for families with dogs. From the shops and farmers market at Marin Country Mart in Larkspur to off-leash romps at Rodeo Beach and scenic trails through the Marin Headlands, there’s fun for everyone.
Before heading to the pool, beach, or lake with your pup, brush up on water safety. Not all dogs can swim, and even strong swimmers face risks from waves, rip currents, and pool exits. These tips help keep everyone safe.
San Diego-based California Labradors, Retrievers and More Rescue saves dogs who need it most, including injured, senior, and mixed-breed pups. Meet Mai Tai, a three-legged boxer with perfect manners ready for her new family.
A houseboat vacation means water, sun and quality time with your dog. Trinity Lake and Lake Don Pedro both offer dog-friendly houseboat rentals through Suntex Marinas, with fishing boats and pontoons available too. Here’s what you need to know.
Float the Russian River in a dog-friendly SOAR canoe from Healdsburg, stopping to swim and play at sandy beaches along a leisurely nine-mile stretch. Afterward, the town’s restaurants, brewpubs and dog-friendly tasting rooms are all within easy reach.
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