Charlie in Tahoe. Carole (CC)
Tahoe abounds with dog-friendly places to stay, but for location and convenience, it's hard to beat Zephyr Cove Resort, a cluster of cabins in a scenic lakeshore location on the Nevada side of the lake, just minutes from South Shore casinos.
Most of the nicely updated cabins have kitchens, which makes the what-to-do-at mealtime question a lot more manageable during snow season, when area restaurants have yet to open their dog-friendly decks.
Dogs aren't allowed on the swimming beach at Zephyr, but you can walk north, over and around an area defined by shapely granite boulders, to a secluded piece of shoreline where it's OK for Dash to explore without a tether around his neck. Zephyr Cove cabins are reasonably priced from around $100 per night midweek at this time of year, plus a $15 per night pet fee.
If you're looking for upscale South Shore lodging, make tracks to Fireside Lodge Bed-and-Breakfast, a log cabin-style lodge remodeled with river-rock fireplaces and knotty pine woodwork to capture the essence of Tahoe. Owners David and Christine Latshaw welcome well behaved dogs to their "doggone friendly" property and are happy to recommend hikes, ski trails, restaurants and other canine-friendly activities. Rates from $119 include an expanded continental breakfast. Pet fee is $20 per night, pus a $100 refundable deposit.