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.

Cupid calls in Mendocino

Mendocino County's Sheep Dung Properties offer architecturally stunning cottages on fenced rural land perfect for a romantic getaway with your dog. Nearby, Howard Creek Ranch Inn and Andiron Seaside Inn provide coastal retreats with antique charm.

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Managing your dog’s weight: diet and exercise tips

If your dog has lost their waistline, a few simple changes can help. Reduce kibble portions slightly, cut back on treats, and gradually increase daily walk time. Your vet can check for thyroid issues and set a target.

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Paws, poles and snowshoes

Snowshoeing with your dog is a great winter activity around Lake Tahoe. Popular spots include Blackwood Canyon, Echo Lakes, Page Meadows, and Hope Valley. Stick to packed trails and keep dogs away from cross-country ski tracks.

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Sequoia Humane Society

The Sequoia Humane Society in Eureka is a no-kill shelter that keeps dogs and cats as long as needed to find forever homes. They also offer spay and neuter assistance, microchipping, and the Tailwaggers Thrift Shop.

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Hunting for bigfoot

Humboldt County's Redwood Coast is cool enough to keep your dog comfortable while you check out the Bigfoot Museum in Willow Creek. Nearby, Sequoia Park and Arcata Community Forest offer great dog-friendly walks through ferny woodlands.

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Avenue of the Giants

The 31-mile Avenue of the Giants in Humboldt County winds through magnificent old-growth redwoods and wonderfully kitschy roadside attractions. Drive through the Chandelier Tree and explore a 250-acre redwood wilderness with your dog.

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Good doggone fun

Got extra cash to spend on your adventure dog? The Garmin Astro uses GPS to track your pup's movements on hikes, while the GoPro Hero camera lets you see the world from your dog's point of view.

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Sleeping with Sparky in Carmel

Carmel has more than 20 hotels and inns that genuinely welcome dogs, from the legendary Cypress Inn to Carmel Mission Inn with its 37-acre park trail. This is a town where four-legged guests are truly cherished.

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Say hello to Folsom

Folsom offers dog-friendly fun year-round, from hiking and water sports at Folsom Lake to strolling the revitalized Sutter Street historic district. Let your pup run free at Fido Field, then grab lunch at a sidewalk cafe.

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Toolin’ around Tuolumne

Tuolumne County's Gold Rush towns come alive with dog-friendly history. Ride vintage trains at Railtown 1897, tour Columbia State Historic Park by stagecoach, and stay at the Groveland Hotel with its award-winning wine list.

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Sniffing out scenery in Sierra County

Sierra County, home to fewer than 4,000 people, feels like your own private Gold Country in fall. A 170-mile loop along the Yuba-Donner Scenic Byway takes you through Downieville, the Gold Lakes Basin, and Sierra City.

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Fall walk with Fido

October brings stunning fall color to Gold Country and the Sierra. Aspens peak early at Hope Valley and Carson Pass, maples light up Nevada City later, and the Eastern Sierra puts on the West's finest autumn show.

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What to do when your dog gets skunked

When your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, act fast. Mix one quart of hydrogen peroxide with a quarter cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of Dawn dish soap. Saturate your dog, wait ten minutes, and rinse.

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South Yuba River State Park

South Yuba River State Park in Nevada County strings together swimming holes, hiking trails, and gold-panning spots along the scenic Yuba River. Dogs are welcome nearly everywhere, making it a perfect weekend pairing with Grass Valley.

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Samuel P. Taylor State Park

Samuel P. Taylor State Park in Marin offers dog-friendly camping, the five-mile Cross Marin Trail, and an ideal base for exploring nearby Point Reyes beaches. Hike the redwoods, then head to Kehoe Beach for a romp.

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The grape side of Mendocino

Mendocino wine country offers small, family-owned wineries where dogs are treated like family. From organic Saracina on Highway 101 to laid-back Yorkville Cellars and Foursight Wines in Boonville, tasting is often free and the vibe refreshingly casual.

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Highway to heaven

The Everitt Memorial Highway winds 14 miles up Mount Shasta's flanks, delivering jaw-dropping views and dog-friendly trails at the Old Ski Bowl. The Gray Butte Trail crosses sacred ground and old-growth forest to reach a breathtaking saddle at 9,129 feet.

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Ruffing it in Redding

Redding's stunning Sundial Bridge anchors a network of dog-friendly trails along the Sacramento River. Stroll the glass-decked span, explore the McConnell Arboretum, then follow the 19-mile Sacramento River Trail all the way to massive Shasta Dam.

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