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.

Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite opens Explorer Cabins

Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite has opened 50 new dog-friendly Explorer Cabins with fireplaces, covered porches, and communal fire pits in a mountain forest setting. Combined with the lodge's dog-sitting services and patio dining, it is a top-tier retreat for traveling…

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How we know dogs can feel our emotional stress

Research shows dogs are highly attuned to their owners emotions and can mirror long-term stress levels. When you are calm and relaxed, your dog feels safer too. A deep breath before greeting your pup can make a real difference.

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Tri-Valley Animal Rescue 2019

Tri-Valley Animal Rescue in the East Bay pulled scruffy terrier mix Poco from the shelter, nursed him back to health, and fixed his painful teeth. This sweet, gentle fellow gets along with everyone and is ready for a loving home.

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Vet Buzz: Fireworks anxiety

Fireworks can terrify dogs whose sensitive hearing makes the explosions overwhelming. Talk to your vet about calming medication, keep your dog indoors during displays, and make sure ID tags and microchip info are current in case of a panicked escape.

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Dog-friendly brags in Fort Bragg

Fort Bragg on the Mendocino coast welcomes dogs with luxury motels featuring pet suites and leash-free dog parks. Explore the botanical gardens, run free at Noyo Beach, and hike the unusually dog-friendly trails at MacKerricher State Park.

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Mend your mind in Mendocino Village

Mendocino Village is packed with dog-friendly options, from the Stanford Inn to bluff-top hikes at Mendocino Headlands State Park. Paddle a canine cruiser canoe up the Big River estuary or dine with your dog at Ravens restaurant.

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Little River: A canine paradise on the Mendocino Coast

Little River on the Mendocino Coast rolls out the red carpet for dogs. Stay at the historic Heritage House Resort or the five-generation Little River Inn, where pets get welcome treats, designated exercise areas, and even indoor dining privileges.

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Start at the dog-friendly border town of Gualala

Gualala, just over the Sonoma County line in Mendocino County, is a boho coastal town with dog-friendly lodgings, beaches, and restaurants. Go beachcombing at Gualala Point Regional Park or stay at the ocean-view Whale Watch Inn with your pup.

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Vet Buzz: Dangers on the trail

Summer hikes with your dog are wonderful, but watch out for foxtails, heatstroke, bee stings, and rattlesnakes. Know the warning signs for each hazard and how to respond quickly so you can keep having fun on the trail.

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It’s splash time in Lake County!

Lake County offers plenty of water fun beyond Clear Lake. Nearby Blue Lakes feature clear, spring-fed swimming and electric boat rentals that welcome dogs. Waterfront cabins and cottages at several dog-friendly resorts make it easy to stay lakeside.

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River cruisin’ with your canine

Catch A Canoe in Mendocino rents Canine Cruiser outrigger canoes with a raised, padded deck where dogs ride as you paddle the calm Big River estuary. Pair it with a stay at the nearby Stanford Inn by the Sea.

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Get your float on in Sonoma Wine Country!

A four-hour float down a secluded stretch of the Russian River near Healdsburg is a must-do for water-loving dogs. Custom inflatable canoes keep everyone stable while you swim, picnic, and play fetch at sandy beaches along the way.

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Vet Buzz: Dog first aid kit

Before hitting the trail with your dog, pack a first aid kit with sterile water, bandage wrap, gauze, scissors, antibiotic ointment, diphenhydramine, and a muzzle. Training a reliable recall command is another essential safety measure for outdoor adventures.

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Airstreams, dog-friendly glamping and more

Glamping with your dog is booming in California. AutoCamp's vintage Airstream parks, safari-style tents at Camp Nauvoo, and platform tents at Mendocino Grove all welcome four-legged guests who prefer plush beds over sleeping bags. Vintage travel-trailers, "glamping" tents and luxury…

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Scenery rules at these dog-friendly campgrounds

From the Mendocino coast to Lake Tahoe, Big Sur, and the Eastern Sierra, California's most scenic dog-friendly campgrounds put you right in the action. These five picks offer beaches, waterfalls, redwoods, and mountain lakes for you and your pup.

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Visit a close-in, dog-friendly campground

You do not need to drive hours for a great dog-friendly camping trip. Folsom Lake, Samuel P. Taylor, Point Mugu, and Campland on the Bay in San Diego all offer close-in outdoor fun with your pup.

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Santa Cruz SPCA new forever home

The Santa Cruz SPCA opened a modern facility in 2020 with spacious animal habitats, indoor and outdoor play areas, and rooms for community programs. The shelter also offers pet food assistance, youth education, and training resources for new pet owners.

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Vet Buzz: Protect your dog from foxtails

Foxtails are a serious warm-weather hazard for California dogs. These sharp grass seeds can penetrate skin, lodge in ears, noses, and between toes, and travel deep into tissue. Check your dog thoroughly after every outdoor outing during foxtail season.

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