Dog stories
Our DogTrekker writers know dog-friendly California like your pup knows the treat jar—intimately and enthusiastically. Whether sniffing out beaches in San Diego, dog-friendly wineries in Sonoma, hiking trails in the Sierra, or cozy mountain cabins near Big Bear Lake, we're your trusted guides for dog travel. From bustling cities to hidden wilderness gems, we fetch reliable tips, insights, and local secrets to make traveling with your four-legged friend effortless. Trust DogTrekker to lead you and your pup to tail-wagging dog travel adventures across dog-friendly California.
A dreamy setting for romantic retreats
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…
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Mindful hospitality with a pet-centric pedigree
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.
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Paws-itively impressive green practices
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.
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Introducing the DogTrekker Southern California portal
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…
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DogTrekker® 15th anniversary
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 --…
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GOCAL goes pet friendly
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.
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Remembering Maya: DogTrekker’s beloved director of barketing
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…
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Make Noyo Harbor Inn your ulti-mutt fall getaway
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.
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Huntington Beach: Surf City, sunsets and sandy paws
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…
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Big Bear Lake: mountain fun with your pup
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…
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Greater Palm Springs: Oasis for paws and people
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.
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Winter and spring in Yosemite Mariposa: pet-friendly adventures
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.
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Dog-friendly summer fun in GOCAL
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.
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The simple phone script that bypasses hotel pet restrictions
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.
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Deadly hitchhikers: tick-borne diseases that could cripple your dog
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.
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Bark and Meow Around the Block
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…
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Many dog owners miss signs their pets are overweight
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.
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Wag, Wine & Dine 2025
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.
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