The dog owner’s guide to Los Angeles
Where to eat, drink, hike, and adopt around greater Los Angeles.
Ahhh, sunny Los Angeles. With spring right around the corner (and daylight savings potentially sticking around forever), it’s only right we cover the original dog city. Built on clear-blue skies, windy drives, and Erewhon kale salads, LA has every dog-friendly activity an owner could dream of. So much so, it can all be a little overwhelming when you don’t know what you’re looking for.
Enter! Our newest guide: For when you find yourself in need of a “spin the globe, pick a spot” moment on a SoCal weekend.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Bars
With LA’s notorious reputation for perfect year-round skies, it’s no surprise that the city embraces outdoor patios and spatial awareness (we’re digging at you, New York). Nevertheless, there are those who welcome dogs and others who’d prefer to keep things two-legged.
In Atwater Village, park yourself at a half-shaded table on Salazar’s patio for an afternoon staycation (house-made chips are a must). Elsewhere, catch a game at Blue Dog Beer Tavern in Sherman Oaks or group-drink at Hatchet Hall in Culver City. If you can’t quite pin what you’re down for, head to Playa Provisions in Playa Del Rey — their marketplace, cafe, patio, ice cream shop, and sit-down restaurant all live under one dog-friendly roof.
For more sit-down dining (Third date, maybe?) try Melody Wine Bar in Silverlake or Manuela near downtown. If you’re coming down from a hike (more on that below), get your apres at The Trails at Griffith Park’s southernmost point, or Alcove Cafe a little further down. And if all fails, you can’t ever go wrong with an Erewhon-and-park moment.
Dog-Friendly Parks & Outdoors
While LA has no shortage of iconic views scattered about the city’s center, the best dog-friendly spots are usually a scenic drive away. But if you’re looking to stay local, the West Observatory Trail at Griffith Park is our obvious answer. It’s a mid-level hike with worth-it views up top — but bring lots of water and keep your dog on-leash to avoid wild animal run-ins. If you have an older dog, opt for the Bronson Canyon Caves near the southwest corner. There’s more natural rest stops built into the sloppy hills.
Next door (and likely less crowded), find sprawling open spaces and well-paved paths at Runyon Canyon Park. Follow the marked paths to the very end to enjoy the quieter, off-leash area.
On the other hand, if you’re down to get out of town for a minute (and let’s be honest, we could all use a break):
Eagle Rock Dog Park, closest to LA proper on this list, is a free dog park that’s undeniably good — if only because “free” and “LA” don’t often agree.
South of Long Beach, lay out at Rosie’s Dog Beach and let your dog go leashless within the allocated Dog Zone.
For when you’re *not* interested in racking up steps, meander through Kenneth Hahn Recreational Area near Culver City. The slow ponds and Japanese gardens make for excellent mind-clearing material.
Saving the best for last: Take a weekend to cruise Highway 1 until you hit Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu. Ignore the crowds and veer toward Staircase Beach, a hidden dog beach that’s chill, free, and has killer sunset views. After a long swim, head over to Broad Street Oyster Co. for a refresher.
Local Organizations & Shelters to Support
We at Maev are always on the lookout for more opportunities to support local community initiatives who help keep dogs safe, loved, and well-fed. In 2021, LA was officially named a “no-kill” city, as its animal shelters reached a 90% save rate.
If you’re looking to adopt or volunteer, consider No-Kill Los Angeles by Best Friends Animal Society, who were instrumental in helping LA achieve their landmark accomplishment. NKLA’s adoption center is now open to walk-ins!
