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.

Chow down in Greater Ontario

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.

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Getting outdoors in Greater Ontario

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.

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Greater Ontario, gateway to the SoCal experience

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.

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Four-paw fun with a view at Little River Inn

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.

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10 dog-friendly hiking trails in California

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.

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Essential guide to adopting a rescue dog in California

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.

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Summer pet safety: A guide for California pet owners

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.

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Rattlesnake advisory summer 2023

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.

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Fireworks and Fido: 4th of July impact on dogs

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.

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Welcome to summer events!

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.

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Pawsport Yountville: Dog-friendly wine tasting weekend

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.

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Majestic, dog-friendly California mountain towns

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.

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Spring in Yosemite: Spectacular waterfalls!

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.

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A dog day in Vacaville

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.

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Dog-friendly wineries near Vacaville

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.

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Your dog deserves a vacation too!

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.

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Lake Tahoe’s best-in-show dog camp

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.

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Family Dog Rescue: A Sonoma haven for special dogs

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.

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