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.

Regional parks tightening leash?

The East Bay Regional Parks are a magnet for dog lovers, offering off-leash trails, beaches, lakeside camping, and wide-open spaces across Alameda and Contra Costa counties. But a master plan update could bring tighter leash restrictions to these beloved parks.

Mother and daughter with a dog rowing a boat — Adobe Images

Lake Del Valle: Paradise for water dogs

Del Valle Regional Park in Livermore offers 5,000 acres, a five-mile lake, off-leash trails, and one of the few places where your dog can join you on a rental boat. Pack a picnic, bring a fishing rod, and plan to…

Dog-friendly road trip through the Sacramento River Delta

The Sacramento River Delta is a watery maze of old-time bridges, levee roads, and farm towns where time moves slowly. Drive Highway 160 with your dog, stroll through historic Locke, and sample Delta wines.

What to do when your dog gets skunked

Skunk mating season means heightened spray risk for curious dogs on walks and hikes. Here's what actually works to neutralize that awful odor, plus a warning about rabies if your pup gets bitten.

Cabins in the woods: Tahoma Meadows and Desolation Hotel

Tahoma Meadows B&B Cottages on Lake Tahoe's West Shore and Desolation Hotel in Hope Valley both welcome dogs warmly and serve as great base camps for winter adventures. Cross-country ski or snowshoe nearby at Meeks Bay, Blackwood Canyon, or the…

Do we hear an echo? Check out Echo Lakes!

Echo Lakes near Highway 50 at Echo Summit offer a flat, frozen surface perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing with your dog. Trek downhill to Lower Echo, then continue to the upper lake for stunning Sierra scenery.

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How Lily’s Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary began

Lily's Legacy Senior Dog Sanctuary grew from one woman's bond with a 12-year-old golden retriever found wandering in Santa Rosa. Founded in 2009, the rescue gives large-breed senior dogs loving homes or lifetime care.

Let’s talk turkey

Give your dog a Thanksgiving treat with this simple recipe using holiday leftovers. Ground turkey, carrots, peas, and stuffing bread cubes topped with homemade gravy make a wholesome meal that will have your pup licking the bowl clean.

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BADRAP: Oakland’s pit bull rescue and advocacy group

BADRAP, the Oakland-based pit bull rescue and advocacy group, has spent over two decades helping bully breeds land in loving homes. Known nationally for saving Michael Vick's dogs, they also offer free training classes.

South Yuba River Independence Trail: A dog-friendly adventure

The South Yuba River Independence Trail in Nevada County features reconstructed wooden flumes, scenic river views, and a swimming hole perfect for dogs. This historic canal path, now the nation's first wheelchair-accessible wilderness trail, welcomes leashed dogs year-round.

Discover a verdant oasis in the South Bay for your next canine adventure, meandering through a network of trails in a forest of towering oak trees. Observe the intricate patchwork of vibrant green moss adorning each tree trunk, creating an enchanting realm that captivates both human and hound alike. The rich brown carpeting that lines the trail- compiled entirely by nature's own fallen leaves - provides ample cushioning for paws and footwear alike. This woodland retreat presents countless sights, sounds and smells to entertain your dog's senses while also offering plenty of peace and tranquility.

South Bay ramble

Pulgas Ridge Open Space Preserve in the San Mateo County hills features a rare 16-acre off-leash area where dogs can roam freely. Trails wind through oak woodlands with Santa Cruz Mountain views.

A chocolate-hued canine, sporting a stylish collar, amicably ambles toward the camera along a leaf-strewn forest pathway kissed by sunset's warm glow. The faint silhouette of their companion softens in the distance, their arms laden with delectable East Bay Treats - perfect nibbles for your four-legged friend on such adventure-filled outings.

East Bay treats

The East Bay Regional Park District spans over 100,000 acres across 65 parks, with most areas open to dogs. Start at Tilden Regional Park in the Berkeley Hills for panoramic views and woodland trails.

Experience the joy-filled sight of a golden retriever scampering gleefully towards you, its tail wagging merrily. In the backdrop, a lively group of dogs adds to the playful ambiance of the sun-kissed, pet-friendly dog park. This place is an enticing option for your beloved pet's recreative and socializing needs.

Paws for a park

Sonoma County's parks offer everything from coastal trails to wooded ridgelines for you and your dog. Hike Hood Mountain, explore Tolay Lake's grasslands, or walk 17 miles of coastline at Sonoma Coast State Park.

Winter dog-walking gear: Harnesses, boots and LED collars

A no-pull harness, comfortable rain boots for the dog walker, and a blinking LED collar light make practical winter gifts. These simple items keep walks safer and more enjoyable during the short, wet days of the season.

Golden Gate Labrador Retriever Rescue

Golden Gate Labrador Retriever Rescue finds homes for Labs in need across the Bay Area and Sacramento region. Whether a dog was surrendered or abandoned, the all-volunteer group carefully matches each Lab with the right forever family.

San Francisco haunts

San Francisco's spookier side is surprisingly dog-friendly. Visit the Presidio Pet Cemetery with its 400-plus headstones, explore the crumbling ruins of Sutro Baths, paddle Stow Lake in Golden Gate Park, or join a Haunted Haight walking tour with your pup.

Golden State Greyhound Adoption

Golden State Greyhound Adoption places retired racing greyhounds in Bay Area and Sacramento homes. These sweet, gentle dogs adapt well to home life after their track careers end, and volunteers foster each one until the right permanent family comes along.

Enter a doggie paradise at dusk in the stunningly lush, flower-filled gardens surrounding the multi-story Stanford Inn. The vibrant blossoms create a delightful visual spectacle, providing an exciting adventure for both you and your four-legged friend to discover.

The Stanford Inn – authentically eco-minded

The Stanford Inn by the Sea in Mendocino has practiced sustainability since the 1980s, with organic gardens, vegan dining at Ravens Restaurant, biodiesel trucks, and green cleaning. Dogs are welcome at this eco-minded resort overlooking Mendocino Bay.

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Dog stories

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Dog stories

Dog stories

Dog stories