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.

Coastal cabins and cottages

California's coast is lined with dog-friendly cabins and cottages, from retro-themed seaside inns on the Mendocino coast to charming 1940s cottage motels in Pacific Grove and vacation rentals along Big Sur.

A skilled veterinarian gently cradles a lively Jack Russell Terrier within the comforting confines of an animal-friendly clinic.

Congratulations Dr. Erin Troy!

DogTrekker's Vet Buzz contributor Dr. Erin Troy of Muller Veterinary Hospital in Walnut Creek was named a top-five finalist out of 2,100 nominees in the American Veterinary Medical Foundation's Favorite Veterinarian Contest.

Tails in Tahoe

Fall at Lake Tahoe means golden aspens, cooler trails, and thinner crowds. From easy lakeshore strolls at Kiva Beach and the Rainbow Trail at Taylor Creek to backcountry routes into Desolation Wilderness, the hiking options with your dog are practically…

San Francisco is for dog lovers

San Francisco offers dogs an embarrassment of riches, from off-leash romps at Fort Funston and Crissy Field to the stunning Lands End Trail and 24 miles of paths winding through the historic Presidio.

Moseying through Mendocino County

A dog-friendly road trip up the Mendocino coast covers bluff trails in Gualala, the Stornetta National Monument near Point Arena, Victorian Mendocino village, and Fort Bragg, with cozy inns and vacation rentals along the way.

Young people toasting red wine on dinner party mood - Multiracia

Farm-to-glass delights

Sacramento's farm-to-glass wine scene includes two urban wineries with dog-friendly patios downtown, Revolution Wines and Cabana Winery, plus a growing cluster of boutique wineries in the nearby Clarksburg region along the scenic Sacramento River corridor.

Dog-friendly wineries in Sonoma County

Sonoma County's wine country pairs world-class vintages with a warm welcome for dogs. From the canine-celebrating Mutt Lynch Winery to Kunde Family's guided dog hikes through the vineyards, tasting has never been more fun.

A beautiful black german shepherd in a tie dyed sh

Dog-friendly wineries in Mendocino County

Mendocino County's wine country welcomes dogs at tasting rooms from Frey Vineyards, America's first organic winery, to Goldeneye in Anderson Valley and historic Parducci Wine Cellars, the county's oldest winery.

Yearning for Yolo

Yolo County rewards those who pull off the highway with dog-friendly tasting rooms in Winters, farm tours in the Capay Valley, new wineries along the Sacramento River in Clarksburg and patio dining throughout.

Calistoga on a leash

Calistoga at the north end of Napa Valley charms visitors with castle-like wineries, bocce courts, Michelin-starred patio dining and a walkable downtown. Dogs are welcome at tasting rooms, restaurants and lodgings throughout town.

Dog-friendly wineries: Just a click away

DogTrekker.com highlights the best dog-friendly wine regions across California, from Mendocino and Sonoma to Napa, Gold Country, and the Central Coast, with an interactive map to help you plan your next tasting adventure with your pup.

Bet on Bodega Bay

Bodega Bay in Sonoma County makes a perfect coastal getaway with your dog. Enjoy bird-watching trails, sandy beaches at Doran Regional Park, spectacular coastal views on the Pinnacle Gulch Trail, and fresh crab sandwiches at outdoor-friendly eateries.