ten things to do with your dog in phoenix

Phoenix consistently ranks in the top ten cities to travel with your dog. The city boasts over fifty pet-friendly hotels and several dog parks dotting the map as well as a variety of restaurants that will welcome your pooch with open arms. You'll also find some truly unique pet-friendly events. Here are ten favorites: 

1. Take a hike at South Mountain Park/Preserve. Leashed dogs are welcome to hike on these trails, and there are options for all ability and endurance levels. Be sure to be responsible and pick up after your dog! And be sure to bring enough water for yourself and Fido. Trailhead areas and entrances are open 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Trails remain open until 11:00 p.m. Main Entrance–10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85042. Pima Canyon Entrance–9904 S. 48th St., Phoenix, AZ 85044. 602.262.7393.

2. Uncle Bear's Brewhouse Grill is a great place to enjoy some grub on the pet-friendly patio. The restaurant is named after the owners' late Labrador, Bear, and the decor and canine-themed menu is perfect for dogs and their parents. Pub fare with a canine-themed twist is served, and the servers are happy to help with vegan options. Uncle Bears offers a great happy hour Monday-Friday from 3-7 p.m. and reverse happy hour from 10 p.m.-close. Uncle Bear's Brewhouse Grill–4921 E. Ray Road #103, Phoenix, AZ 85044. 480.961.2374

Sprinkles Cupcakes. Photo source: sprinkles.com.

3. Indulge together at Sprinkles Cupcakes! Not only does this bakery have amazing treats for humans, they also offer doggie cupcakes made with eggs, honey, vanilla and yogurt frosting. Are you drooling, yet? Sprinkles Cupcakes–4501 N. Scottsdale Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. 480.970.4321.

4. You and your pooch can have a relaxing break together at the Duck and Decanter, an espresso and wine bar as well as café with a Fido-friendly patio. Check their event calendar for a schedule of live music and pet-friendly events, including adoptions and fund raisers. Duck and Decanter–1651 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85016. 602.274.5429.

5. For a good romp, head to Cosmo Dog Park. This off-leash dog park boasts four acres of fenced play areas, including a separate area for small or shy dogs. There are pet drinking fountains and wash areas, as well as trash receptacles and lighting for nighttime fun. The best part is the man-made lake, which pooches are welcome to swim in. Cosmo Dog Park–2502 E. Ray Road, Gilbert, AZ  85296. 480.503.6200. See a map of Phoenix-area dog parks here.

Morning Glory Café. Photo source: thefarmatsouthmountain.com

6. Spend some time exploring The Farm at South Mountain. The grounds are beautiful for a relaxing stroll and include a mix of gardens, restaurants, and markets. There are three restaurants on the farm, and the Morning Glory Café and The Farm Kitchen are both dog-friendly. The Farm at South Mountain–6106 S. 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ 85042. 602.276.6360.

7. If shopping is your thing, pet-friendly Biltmore Fashion Park will please you and your pooch. The shopping center has a wide variety of stores and restaurants, some of which will provide your pooch with water and invite him in. There is even a Humane Society Adoption Center, if you're looking to pick up a new friend. Biltmore Fashion Park–2502 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix, AZ 85016. 602.955.8400.

Partners Aquatic Center for Dogs. Photo source: partnersdogtraining.com.

8. Especially if you're visiting in the summer, you'll want to keep your pooch cool in the desert. Try Partners Aquatic Center for Dogs. This training facility offers the only full size dock-jumping pool in Phoenix for both competitive pooches and for those just having fun. The fenced-in pool is competition size, and the dock has safety rails and stairs. The facility even offers swim lessons for dogs who don't know how. Partners Aquatic Center for Dogs–4640 E. Forest Pleasant Place, Cave Creek, AZ 85331. 480.595.6700.

9. The Phoenix Pet Expo only happens once a year, but it's a must. It's free to attend, and you and your pooch can enjoy contests, entertainment, and tons of product samples and information. Browse for a new friend in the giant adoption area. There are even grassy "potty" areas for the canine variety. Water is provided for the pups. Phoenix Pet Expo. Locations and dates vary. Check web site for current information. 800.977.3609.

Bark in the Park. Photo source: arizona.diamondbacks.mlb.com.

10. Sports fan? One Sunday each season, Chase Field and the Arizona Diamondbacks open their doors to pups and their parents for a baseball game coined Bark in the Park. If you come early, you can participate in the pre-game Puppy Parade around the warning track. The entrance for dogs is shaded, and water is provided. Registration is required. Bark in the Park, Chase Field–401 E. Jefferson St., Phoenix, AZ 85004. 602.462.6500.

Looking for more? Check out our pet-friendly events page.

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