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.

Doggedly exploring Amador County

Amador County's Shenandoah Valley is buzzing with dog-friendly wineries, craft breweries and a new boutique inn. Most tasting rooms welcome four-legged guests, and historic Sutter Creek adds charm with its 62-building Main Street.

See more on Highway 4

Highway 4 through Calaveras and Alpine counties packs in wine tasting in Murphys, off-leash hiking on the Arnold Rim Trail, and a stunning scenic drive over Ebbetts Pass. Rent a cabin and give yourself a full week.

Mother and daughter with a dog resting on a pier — Adobe Images

Gotta lake it

Gold Country lakes offer cool relief for dogs and their people all summer long. From Folsom Lake's miles of shoreline to hidden Long Lake near Soda Springs and Bass Lake's pontoon boat rentals, there's a splash spot for every pup.

Home Society Silicon Valley

Cheechoo, an 8-year-old pit bull mix at Humane Society Silicon Valley, overcame a tough flea allergy and graduated from obedience training with flying colors. This belly-rub-loving gentleman with excellent leash manners is ready for his forever home.

Rattlesnake 101 for you and your dog

Rattlesnakes are California's only native venomous snake, and encounters peak in spring and summer. A veterinarian covers prevention tips, bite symptoms to watch for and what to do if your dog is struck while out on the trail.

Take a walk on the wave side

When the heat rises inland, the coast calls. Half Moon Bay's six-mile Coastside Trail, dog-friendly beaches at Montara and Bean Hollow, and patio dining with ocean views make it an ideal cool-weather escape with your pup.

Cricket and Splash boating on Sardine Lake.

Get your Buttes in gear

The Lakes Basin Recreation Area in Plumas and Sierra counties is a high-country paradise with dozens of alpine lakes and miles of dog-friendly trails. The Sierra Buttes Lookout hike ranks among the best day treks in the state.

Dogs ride and hike free at Palisades Tahoe

Dogs ride the aerial tram for free at Palisades Tahoe, where summer fun includes hiking the scenic Shirley Lake Trail, splashing in swimming holes and exploring miles of high-altitude trails from the 8,200-foot High Camp recreation area.

Kayla’s life-saving contribution

Kayla, DogTrekker's beloved Lab, sensed something was wrong with co-founder Roxanne and persistently pawed at her chest one night. That alert led to the early detection of breast cancer, and her doctors believe Kayla saved her life.

Kayla, Director of Barketing Emeritus

A tribute to Kayla, DogTrekker's "research Lab" and director of barketing, who traveled California paw-testing hotels, trails and beaches since the site launched in 2011. Known by name at hotel front desks statewide, she inspired everything DogTrekker became.

Fourth of July dog safety tips

Fireworks can terrify dogs, so keep your pup safe this Fourth of July by staying home, creating a quiet indoor space, blocking outside noise and skipping the table scraps. Microchipping helps reunite you if your dog bolts.

A Mammoth adventure!

Reader Stacy D. and her pup Ginger share their Mammoth Lakes adventure, including stops at Bodie State Park, Mono Lake, Convict Lake and Rock Creek Lake. They based their trip at the cozy, dog-friendly Edelweiss Lodge.

Take your dog to work day!

Take Your Dog To Work Day, held the Friday after Father's Day, invites employers to welcome four-legged friends to the office. Created by Pet Sitters International, the event promotes dog adoption and brings fun to the workplace.

More wet ways to play

Stand-up paddleboarding with your dog is catching on across California. From SUP PUPS clinics at Lake Tahoe to Dog-Paddle Saturdays in San Rafael, there are plenty of ways for you and your pup to ride a board together.

Go with the rivers’ flow

Grab a paddle and bring your dog along for a float on California's best rivers. From canoe trips on the Russian River near Healdsburg to outrigger canoes on Mendocino's Big River and rafting the Truckee at Tahoe, wet fun awaits.

Dogs splashing on the beach chasing each other

Off-leash beaches for chasing waves

California's 840-mile coastline has some wonderful off-leash beaches for dogs who love chasing waves. From Mendocino's Seaside Beach to Carmel's famous strand, Pfeiffer Beach in Big Sur and Coronado Dog Beach in San Diego, here are top picks by region.

Tahoe under paws: Lake Tahoe dog beaches

Lake Tahoe has several dog beaches, but off-leash spots are rare. A locals' favorite is the sandy strand at Nevada Beach, where dogs fetch sticks from crystalline water. Other options include Coon Street Dog Beach and Patton Beach.

Acupuncture for dogs

Acupuncture can help dogs manage pain from arthritis, soft tissue injuries and other chronic conditions, especially when traditional medications fall short. Dr. Angela Gaeto of Helen Woodward Animal Center explains how this ancient practice works for your pup.

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Dog stories

Dog stories near me..

Dog stories

Dog stories

Dog stories