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.

Woof it up with these scenic Shasta Cascade excursions

The eight-county Shasta Cascade region is packed with dog-friendly scenic drives and natural wonders. Take the Everitt Memorial Highway up Mount Shasta, gawk at Burney Falls, cruise the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, or search for Bigfoot in Siskiyou County.

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Go for a gusher with your dog

Redding is surrounded by stunning waterfalls worth a visit with your dog. Hedge Creek Falls in Dunsmuir is a quick stop off I-5, while the three-tiered McCloud River Falls offer a scenic hike through top swimming hole country.

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Put tails to trails in and around Redding

Redding calls itself the Trail Capital of California, with 80 miles of paths within city limits. The Sacramento River Trail runs 17.5 miles from the Sundial Bridge to Shasta Dam, with more options on nearby BLM lands.

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Redding family fare (dogs included of course!)

Redding makes a great family base camp with dogs. Stay at the pet-friendly Sheraton near the Sundial Bridge, explore riverside trails and botanical gardens, then take the kids to Caldwell Park or rent a dog-friendly houseboat on Shasta Lake.

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Sniff your way to the garlic capital

Gilroy, the Garlic Capital of the World, welcomes dogs to wineries along the Santa Clara Valley Wine Trail, restaurants with patios, and hiking trails at Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch and Mount Madonna.

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Concord: Hike, drink, dine and unwind

Concord, just 30 miles from San Francisco, pairs a booming craft beer trail with thousands of acres of open space near Mount Diablo. Dog-friendly hotels, breweries, and the Iron Horse Trail make it an easy getaway.

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The pros and cons of sleeping with your dog

Should your dog share your bed? An SF SPCA behavior expert debunks the dominance myth, weighs legitimate safety concerns, and explains how co-sleeping can strengthen your bond and even improve your rest.

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Dog-friendly EBMUD: What is it?

Beyond the well-known East Bay Regional Parks, two EBMUD recreation areas offer great outings for leashed dogs. Lafayette Reservoir features a paved shoreline loop, while San Pablo Reservoir and nearby trails provide quieter options.

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Naturalist John Muir’s dog-friendly legacy

The John Muir Land Trust protects over 2,500 acres of open space in Contra Costa County, including 1,200-acre Fernandez Ranch and ridge-top Acalanes Preserve. Many properties allow off-leash dogs away from developed areas.

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Pick a dog-friendly trail, any trail

The East Bay Regional Park District spans 1,250 miles of trails across 65 parks, and most allow off-leash dogs in undeveloped areas. From Lime Ridge Open Space to Black Diamond Mines, the options near Concord are outstanding.

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Tenaya Lodge: the Yosemite home for you and Fido

Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite's south entrance rolls out the red carpet for dogs with pet-friendly rooms, new Explorer Cabins, dog massages, and gourmet treats. It's a Four-Diamond resort that makes your pup feel just as pampered as you.

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Unique outdoor adventures

Greater Palm Springs offers dog-friendly adventures well beyond hiking trails. Watch championship polo in Indio, tour vintage warbirds at the Palm Springs Air Museum, camp at Lake Cahuilla, or stroll through Moorten Botanical Garden with your leashed pup.

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Where to dine with your pup

Greater Palm Springs culinary scene is booming with dog-friendly patios. Sip craft brews at Desert Beer Company or La Quinta Brewery, grab fare at Tac/Quila, or try modern Chinese cuisine at Roly China Fusion. Greater Palm Springs’ thriving culinary scene…

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Need-to-know dog-friendly digs

Greater Palm Springs is packed with dog-friendly hotels, from the retro-chic Caliente Tropics Resort to the rustic Sparrows Lodge and the luxurious Hyatt Regency Indian Wells. Many offer welcome treats, dog beds, and easy access to grassy play areas.

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Good and bad of dog kisses

Before signing your dog up for a kissing booth, consider what's going on in that mouth. A veterinary technician explains how dental bacteria can lead to bad breath, abscessed teeth, and even heart problems, and why regular cleanings matter.

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Growling for Guerneville in Sonoma County

The Guerneville area in Sonoma County is ideal for a cozy cabin getaway with your dog. Creekside Inn, Cottages on River Road, and Fern Grove Cottages all welcome pups, with Russian River wine country and the coast just minutes away.

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Waves away with your dog on the Central Coast

California's Central Coast is loaded with dog-friendly cabin and cottage lodging, from Santa Cruz and Monterey to Big Sur, San Luis Obispo, and Santa Barbara. Here are favorite retreats for you and your pup along this scenic stretch of coastline.

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Go north, DogTrekkers, go north!

The Shasta-Cascade region offers spectacular waterfalls, dog-friendly cabin retreats near Shasta Lake, and fly-fishing at Hat Creek, all within striking distance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Winter is a perfect time to head north with your pup.

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