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.

Santa Monica: a tail-wagging destination for pups and people

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.

Read more

Dogs and health: More than just companionship

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.

Read more

Seven important tips for California dog travel

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.

Read more

The East Bay SPCA now celebrating its 150th anniversary

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.

Read more

The thrill of dog agility

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.

Read more

Guide to dog-friendly dining in Greater Palm Springs

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…

Read more

Exploring dog-friendly Lake Tahoe: An adventurer’s guide

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…

Read more

Moorten Botanical Garden: a dog-friendly desert oasis

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…

Read more

Keep your dog safe from salmon poisoning disease

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.

Read more

All American River

Float six miles down the American River from Sunrise Bridge to River Bend Park on a dog-friendly raft rental from Sacramento. The gentle Class I water winds through a lush greenbelt with plenty of swimming stops.

Read more

Where to adopt a dog in Greater Palm Springs

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…

Read more

Tick season in California: removing ticks from your pet

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.

Read more

Day 4: The dog-friendly delights of Highway 128

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.

Read more

Day 3: Hiking, history and waterfront hotels

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.

Read more

Day 2: Beaches and botanical wonders in Fort Bragg

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.

Read more

Day 1: Inland wine trails and train rides

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.

Read more

Activities in Sacramento’s big backyard

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.

Read more

Spring safety tips for dog owners

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.

Read more