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.

Keep your sun-loving dog safe

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.

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Yosemite and Mariposa County: Awesome dog-friendly guide

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.

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Dog-friendly roadside attractions in California

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…

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Discover California’s dog-friendly waterfalls: A nature lover’s guide

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.

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San Francisco: The ultimate dog-friendly destination

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.

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Pick a park and take a walk

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.

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Dog-friendly Sacramento: Two rivers run through it

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.

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Explore Sacramento and Folsom

Sacramento and Folsom both played key roles in the Gold Rush and celebrate that legacy today. Stroll Old Sacramento's waterfront, browse Folsom's revitalized Sutter Street, and connect the two cities via the 32-mile American River Parkway with your dog.

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Skunk Train named top scenic train ride

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.

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Redding: perfect pit stop for you and your dog

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.

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Fall fun with your dog at South Lake Tahoe

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.

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The joy of a ‘foster fail’ in dog rescue

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.

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How to pick the right rescue dog for you

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.

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Exploring Greater Palm Springs with your dog

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.

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Big Bear Lake, the ultimate dog-friendly destination year-round

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.

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Dog-friendly Ukiah: A dog lover’s paradise in Mendocino County

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.

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Calistoga in Napa Valley: a very dog-friendly wine city

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.

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Kids and dogs: tips for safe California outings

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.

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