Travelling with your dog, or even just living in a city that welcomes them, makes all the difference for pet owners. Around the world, certain cities have gone above and beyond to create truly dog-friendly environments.
From public parks designed for off-leash play to pet-friendly cafés, beaches, and hotels, these destinations make dogs feel right at home. Whether you’re dreaming of a trip abroad or simply curious about where dogs live their best lives, these cities stand out for their hospitality, amenities, and love for four-legged residents.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from tourism, municipal, and animal welfare sources. Always check local regulations before travelling with your pet, as rules regarding transport, vaccination, and public access can vary.
1. San Francisco, California, USA
San Francisco often ranks among the most dog-friendly cities in the world. It offers numerous off-leash parks, dog-friendly beaches, and a wide selection of cafés and businesses that welcome pets.
According to Hepper’s 2025 Dog-Friendly Cities Report, San Francisco leads the U.S. for its combination of green spaces and pet-focused amenities. The city’s strong pet culture and accessibility make it a favourite for dog owners.
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam is a haven for dogs and their humans alike. Dogs are welcome on public transport with a ticket and in many cafés and shops across the city.
The abundance of open spaces, including Vondelpark and the Amstel River paths, gives pets room to explore. The city’s relaxed atmosphere and accessible outdoor lifestyle consistently earn it mentions on global pet-friendliness lists.
3. Toronto, Canada
Toronto combines city life with easy access to nature, making it ideal for dog owners. The city maintains over 60 off-leash dog parks, alongside many pet-friendly cafés and shops.
Local events such as Woofstock, one of North America’s largest dog festivals, showcase Toronto’s strong dog-loving community. According to Hepper and Relomy Pet, it’s one of the top-rated global cities for pet inclusivity.
4. Berlin, Germany
Berlin is frequently recognized as one of Europe’s most accommodating cities for dogs. Canines are allowed on most forms of public transportation when leashed, and several large parks such as Tiergarten and Tempelhofer Feld offer space to roam.
Berlin’s social culture, where cafés, restaurants, and even some offices welcome dogs, helps it earn its reputation as a pet-inclusive city.
5. Portland, Oregon, USA
Portland is regularly described as one of America’s most dog-focused cities. It reportedly has one of the highest numbers of dog parks per capita in the U.S., along with pet-friendly breweries, markets, and community events.
Residents embrace outdoor activities, and many businesses even provide treats or water bowls for canine visitors. The city’s commitment to green spaces makes it a natural fit for active dogs.
6. Paris, France
Paris has a long tradition of welcoming dogs into public life. You’ll frequently see pets accompanying their owners to café terraces, shops, and even some museums.
While dogs must be leashed in most public spaces, the city offers several enclosed parks where they can run freely. Parisians have embraced dogs as part of urban culture, making the city surprisingly accommodating despite its dense population and historic architecture.
7. Seattle, Washington, USA
Seattle’s outdoor culture extends naturally to its canine residents. The city boasts numerous off-leash areas, including popular spots like Magnuson Park, which features a massive enclosed beach area for dogs.
Coffee shops and breweries throughout the city often welcome pets, reflecting the laid-back Pacific Northwest attitude. The surrounding natural beauty provides endless hiking trails and waterfront paths where dogs and their owners can explore together year-round.
8. Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver’s stunning natural setting provides an ideal backdrop for dog ownership. The city maintains numerous off-leash areas, including sections of popular Stanley Park and beaches along the coastline.
The mild West Coast climate allows for comfortable outdoor activities throughout most of the year. Vancouver residents are known for their active lifestyles, and many businesses cater to pet owners with water stations, treat jars, and welcoming policies that reflect the community’s appreciation for dogs.
9. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne’s café culture naturally extends to its four-legged residents. The city features numerous dog parks and off-leash areas, along with cafés that provide water bowls and even special dog menus.
Melbourne’s temperate climate supports year-round outdoor activities, and the city’s layout includes many parks and green corridors. Community events often welcome dogs, reflecting the strong bond between Melburnians and their pets in this culturally vibrant Australian city.
10. Munich, Germany
Munich offers a remarkable quality of life for dogs and their owners. The expansive English Garden provides vast spaces for dogs to roam, while traditional beer gardens often welcome well-behaved pets.
Public transportation allows dogs with appropriate tickets, making city navigation simple. Munich’s blend of urban sophistication and Bavarian outdoor traditions creates an environment where dogs are considered part of family life, welcomed in many social settings throughout the year.
11. Austin, Texas, USA
Austin’s unofficial motto of keeping things weird extends to its enthusiastic embrace of dogs. The city maintains one of the highest ratios of dog parks per capita in the United States, including popular spots along Lady Bird Lake.
Many restaurants feature expansive patios that welcome pets, and some breweries even host regular dog-friendly events. Austin’s warm climate and outdoor lifestyle make it a natural choice for dog owners who want their pets included in social activities throughout the year.
