Dog stories
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.
Dogcation adventures at the Stanford Inn and beyond
DogCation contest winner Jolene shares her Mendocino County adventure with two pups at the Stanford Inn by the Sea. Highlights included canoeing up the Big River, riding the Skunk Train from Willits, and spending days on Fort Bragg's off-leash beaches.
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Cushing’s disease in dogs: Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
Cushing's disease in dogs causes increased thirst, appetite, lethargy, and skin changes that can look like normal aging. A veterinary exam with specialized testing can confirm the diagnosis, and medications can manage cortisol levels and improve quality of life.
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Rush on up to Redding
Redding is your gateway to the Shasta Cascade region, starting with a stroll across the stunning Sundial Bridge and 19 miles of Sacramento River trails. Walk across Shasta Dam, enjoy dog-friendly patio dining, and stay at welcoming local hotels.
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Go boho on the Bohemian Highway
The 10-mile Bohemian Highway in Sonoma County winds through artist-filled communities, organic farms, and one-of-a-kind shops. Stay at the Creekside Inn in Guerneville, explore funky Occidental, stock up on sourdough in Freestone, and finish with coastal views at Goat Rock.
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You can bet your Bodega on this
Bodega Bay in Sonoma County is a prime spot for crabbing off the jetty with your leashed dog when Dungeness season opens in November. Between whale watching, beach walks at Doran Regional Park, and fresh crab, a coastal weekend awaits.
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Urban rambles in Sonoma County
Petaluma, Santa Rosa, and Sebastopol each bring their own dog-friendly charm to a Sonoma County visit. Petaluma boasts one of the state's largest dog parks, while Santa Rosa celebrates Snoopy and Sebastopol's Barlow district pairs craft beer with artisan shopping.
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Redwoods, rivers, Rover and you
Beyond the Russian River, Sonoma County's northern coast around Gualala offers whale watching, redwood groves, and sandy beaches for a peaceful dog-friendly getaway. Stay at the Whale Watch Inn, hike the Bluff Trail, and explore Gualala Point Regional Park.
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Pica in dogs: why they eat non-food items
Pica, the habit of eating non-food items, is a common and potentially life-threatening condition in dogs. Learn the warning signs like vomiting and lethargy, what causes this behavior, and why getting prompt veterinary attention is essential to your dog's safety.
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Traveling with a dog in Huntington Beach, California
Huntington Beach lives up to its reputation as one of California's most dog-friendly cities. Let your pup run free on the 1.5-mile Dog Beach, explore fenced dog runs in Central Park, and dine at pet-welcoming patios.
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Make time for wine in Lake County
Lake County's fast-growing wine region offers laid-back, dog-friendly tasting with more than two dozen wineries to visit. Sample standout sauvignon blancs and bold reds at spots like Six Sigma Ranch, Thorn Hill Vineyards, and historic Langtry Farms.
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Socializing your dog
Socializing your dog is essential whether you have a puppy or an adult. Introduce puppies to new experiences gradually with positive reinforcement during their first six months. For adult dogs, work with trainers to reshape negative associations.
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Sunny Tri-Valley wineries welcome dogs
The Tri-Valley region east of San Francisco is home to more than 50 wineries in the historic Livermore Valley, with two dozen welcoming dogs. Sip zins at Chouinard's barn tasting room, enjoy bocce at Garre, and take in vineyard views.
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Hop on over to Hopland
Mendocino County's Hopland Wine Road features 18 tasting rooms, most of them dog-friendly, along Highway 101. Stop at McFadden Farm Stand for organic wines, enjoy the firepit patio at McNab Ridge, and sample history at Milano Family Winery.
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Carneros, here we come
Carneros, the wine region spanning southern Napa and Sonoma counties, is the closest wine country to the Bay Area. Dog-friendly tasting rooms at Cuvaison, Starmont, Cline Cellars, and Cornerstone Sonoma make for a great outing.
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Separation anxiety in dogs
When your dog can't handle being away from you, separation anxiety may be the cause. Destructive chewing, barking, and house soiling are common signs. Your vet can help with medication paired with crate training and behavior modification.
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Make time for Mount Shasta
Mount Shasta's 14,179-foot peak dominates the landscape and draws visitors seeking natural beauty and spiritual energy. Drive up the Everitt Memorial Highway for jaw-dropping views, hike the Gray Butte Trail, and stay in walkable Mount Shasta City.
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Old-fashioned fun at Shasta Cascade cabin resorts
The Shasta Cascade region is home to old-fashioned cabin resorts perfect for a fall getaway with your dog. From Trinity Alps Resort to Railroad Park Resort's vintage cabooses in Dunsmuir, these rustic retreats offer fishing, hiking, and charm.
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Rev up in Redding
Redding is your gateway to the Shasta Cascade region, starting with a stroll across the stunning Sundial Bridge and 19 miles of Sacramento River trails. Walk across Shasta Dam, enjoy dog-friendly patio dining, and stay at welcoming local hotels.
Read more