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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.

Image from Of leash laws, bears and campground petiquette on DogTrekker

Of leash laws, bears and campground petiquette

California campgrounds welcome dogs, but smart planning keeps everyone safe. From cable tie-outs and stake-out posts to bear-aware food storage, here are practical tips for camping with your pup in the great outdoors.

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Save on camping with America the Beautiful pass

The America the Beautiful Senior Pass costs just ten dollars for a lifetime of free access and half-price camping at over 2,000 national recreation sites. Annual passes, military passes and fourth-grader passes are also available for the whole family.

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The glamping route

Glamping puts a stylish spin on camping, and Northern California has plenty of dog-friendly options. From safari tents in Gold Country to restored Airstream villages on the Russian River, these properties combine outdoor fun with creature comforts. "Glamping," a hybrid…

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Big Sur alert

Storm damage and the destruction of Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge left much of Big Sur inaccessible, but a few dog-friendly campgrounds remained open via alternate routes. Here's what DogTrekkers needed to know before heading south on Highway 1.

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MacKerricher State Park.

Exceptions to California State Parks rules

Most California state parks keep dogs off dirt trails, but a few welcome leashed pups on paths beyond the pavement. Samuel P Taylor, South Yuba River and MacKerricher state parks stand out as happy exceptions worth a visit.

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Crystal blue persuasion

The Crystal Basin Recreation Area off Highway 50 holds more than 700 campsites around five scenic reservoirs in the Eldorado National Forest. Two lakes offer direct trail access into Desolation Wilderness, where dogs can hike off-leash beside you.

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The lowdown on dog-friendly public lands

Dogs are allowed at most California campgrounds, but trail access varies widely depending on who manages the land. National forests, BLM lands and regional parks tend to offer the most freedom for you and your four-legged hiking partner.

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Meet Maya, new Director of Barketing™

DogTrekker.com's founders introduce Maya, a 5-year-old English Lab adopted from Monterey Bay Labrador Retriever Rescue. Despite some car anxiety and leash issues, Maya won their hearts and stepped into the role of Director of Barketing.

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Madera County: South entrance (Hwy 41)

Oakhurst in Madera County serves as the main gateway to Yosemite's south entrance, with dog-friendly inns, wineries, a historic railroad and nearby Bass Lake. From budget-friendly stays to five-star luxury, this corridor has options for every DogTrekker.

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Tuolumne County: North entrance (Hwy 120)

The Highway 120 corridor through Tuolumne County blends Gold Rush history with outdoor adventure on the way to Yosemite. Ride a stagecoach in Columbia, swim at Rainbow Pool and bed down at dog-friendly hotels in Groveland and Jamestown.

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Mariposa County: West entrance (Hwy 140)

Highway 140 through Mariposa County leads to Yosemite's Arch Rock entrance, passing dog-friendly lodgings, scenic Merced River trails rich with wildflowers, and charming gateway towns. It's a route packed with places to stay and hike with your pup.

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Couple with dogs - YMCTB (1)

Dogs in the Park

Yosemite National Park has strict pet rules, but leashed dogs can still enjoy paved trails to Lower Yosemite Falls, Bridalveil Falls and Mirror Lake. Dog-friendly campgrounds and vacation rentals inside the park make overnight stays possible.

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Ear infections in dogs: Causes, symptoms and treatment

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons dogs visit the vet. A veterinarian explains the causes, symptoms and treatments, from foxtails to yeast infections, and when recurring problems may signal an underlying allergy.

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SF SPCA veterinary hospitals are the bestest

The SF SPCA Veterinary Hospital on its Mission Campus is the second largest animal care facility in North America. Accredited by the AAHA, it offers routine checkups, dental work, diagnostics and emergency care, with all profits supporting animals in need.

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Maya at Whiskeytown Falls.

Redding: Waterfall capital of California

Redding and the Shasta Cascade region boast over 225 miles of trails and some of California's best waterfalls. Spring is prime time to hike with your dog to cascades at Whiskeytown Lake and along the McCloud River.

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Bay Area German Shepherd rescue 2017

Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue takes a fresh approach to rehoming by letting owners keep their dogs while BAGSR finds the right match. The result is faster adoptions, fewer returns and smoother transitions for dogs like the lovable Rex.

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Tick-borne disease in dogs: Prevention and treatment

Ticks thrive after rainfall, putting dogs at risk for Lyme disease and other serious infections. A veterinarian covers the major tick-borne diseases in California, how to safely remove ticks, warning signs to watch for and the best prevention products.

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Wet ‘n’ wild in SoCal

Southern California's mountain waterfalls run strong after winter rains, and two standout hikes welcome leashed dogs. Escondido Canyon near Malibu features a 150-foot seasonal cascade, while Eaton Canyon Falls in Pasadena offers a family-friendly trail to a splashing 40-foot drop.

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