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A dog owner's guide to Atlanta, GA

A dog owner's guide to Atlanta, GA

Discover the best dog-friendly spots across Atlanta for you and your pup to explore together.

A dog owner's guide to Atlanta, GA
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Summary

  • Urban greenery and neighborhood charm are plentiful — Wander through parks like Piedmont or along the Eastside BeltLine, where city textures meet leafy tranquility.
  • Expect casual dining with dogs in tow — Many restaurants roll out the welcome mat for pups with items like dog bowls, shade, and slow lunchtime pacing.
  • Pet services are around every corner — Clinics, groomers, supply shops, and even dog-centric experiences give you everything you need within a walk or short drive.

With its leafy paths, sunny patios, and welcoming neighborhoods, Atlanta is a city where dogs aren’t just tolerated—they’re part of the community. From strolling the BeltLine to brunch on a Buckhead terrace, this guide highlights spots to stay, walk, dine, and explore across ATL with your pup by your side.

Planning the day with your dog

Start your morning with a walk along the Atlanta BeltLine, where coffee stands open early and locals jog past murals with dogs in tow. Stop for breakfast at a patio café before wandering through historic neighborhoods like Grant Park or Cabbagetown, where shade trees and colorful homes make the walk scenic and calm.

By afternoon, let your pup run off-leash at one of the city’s many dog parks, then cool down with a drink at a brewery or shaded beer garden. Evening brings outdoor dining at bustling spots like Krog Street Market or Ponce City Market, where patio tables stay lively well into the night.

Where to stay with your dog

Atlanta’s hotels make traveling with pets easy, offering everything from water bowls and welcome treats to direct access to walking trails and parks. Whether you want boutique charm or modern luxury, you’ll find plenty of stays that welcome both you and your pup.

Hotel Clermont

This boutique hotel on Ponce de Leon Avenue rolls out the red carpet for dogs with no weight limits or extra fees. Enjoy skyline views from the rooftop bar while your pup naps after a long walk on the BeltLine.

The Kimpton Shane

A Midtown favorite, The Kimpton Shane is known for its pet-friendly perks—think water bowls, pet beds, and a no-fee policy for furry guests of all sizes.

Loews Atlanta Hotel

Offering gourmet room service menus for dogs and walking maps of the neighborhood, Loews makes pet travel seamless and stylish.

Other honorable mentions

Where to get coffee with your dog

Atlanta’s coffee scene is full of locally owned gems, many with patios where dogs are welcome. Morning walks become even better when you can grab a cold brew or latte without leaving your pup behind.

Chrome Yellow Trading Co.

Located in the Old Fourth Ward, this café serves craft coffee with a side of Southern charm. The patio is shaded, stylish, and always full of dog lovers.

Taproom Coffee & Beer

Half café, half taproom, this spot offers quiet mornings with coffee and lively evenings with craft brews, all on a dog-friendly patio.

Other honorable mentions

Where to walk with your dog

Atlanta’s green spaces and scenic trails make daily walks with your pup anything but ordinary. Whether you want a short stroll under shaded trees or a longer weekend hike, the city offers paths that mix natural beauty with urban charm. Many of these spots feature water fountains, benches, and dog-friendly amenities, so you can turn a simple walk into a full day outdoors.

Atlanta BeltLine

This 22-mile loop connects neighborhoods, parks, and public art installations. Wide paths and plenty of water stops make it a local favorite for dog owners.

Piedmont Park

The city’s largest green space offers paved trails, off-leash areas, and stunning skyline views—perfect for a weekend walk.

Freedom Park

Stretching through multiple neighborhoods, Freedom Park has winding paths shaded by oak trees and quiet corners for relaxed strolls.

Other honorable mentions

Where to play fetch with your dog

Atlanta offers plenty of dedicated dog parks where your pup can run, chase, and play off-leash. Many of these parks include shaded seating or separate areas for small and large dogs, making it easy for owners to relax while their pets burn off energy.

Piedmont Dog Park

Located within the city’s most well-known park, this off-leash area features separate sections for large and small dogs, shaded benches for owners, and water fountains to keep pups hydrated after a game of fetch. It’s a lively, social spot for both dogs and people.

Fetch Park

Part dog park, part social club, Fetch Park offers turf fields for running, agility equipment for climbing, and shaded seating for owners. There’s even a full-service bar for humans, making it a fun destination for the whole crew. Day passes or memberships are required.

Freedom Barkway

A friendly neighborhood dog park in the Old Fourth Ward, Freedom Barkway has open spaces for fetch, shaded picnic tables, and a laid-back community vibe. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a quieter park with plenty of room to roam.

Other honorable mentions

Where to eat lunch with your dog

Atlanta’s restaurant scene makes dining with your dog easy, thanks to countless patios, shaded courtyards, and dog-friendly beer gardens scattered across the city. Many spots go the extra mile with water bowls, fans, and even special treats so your pup can relax while you enjoy a great meal.

Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall

Known as the “basecamp” for the BeltLine, Ladybird offers a massive outdoor patio that welcomes dogs with open arms. Long communal tables, string lights, and a lively atmosphere make it perfect for a weekend lunch after a walk along the Eastside Trail.

Park Tavern

Perched right on Piedmont Park, Park Tavern combines skyline views with a sprawling dog-friendly patio. From sushi to burgers, it’s a great stop after a game of fetch at the nearby dog park, and the shaded seating keeps everyone cool.

Muchacho

This cheerful café in Reynoldstown serves breakfast tacos, grain bowls, and colorful cocktails on a dog-friendly patio filled with sunshine. The laid-back vibe and easy BeltLine access make it a favorite for brunch with pups in tow.

Other honorable mentions

Where to shop with your dog

Atlanta’s neighborhoods are filled with open-air markets and dog-friendly boutiques where your pup can tag along while you browse. Many stores keep water bowls by the door, offer shaded seating areas, and welcome four-legged visitors with treats behind the counter.

Ponce City Market

This converted historic Sears building is now one of Atlanta’s most vibrant shopping hubs. Dogs on leashes are welcome in the common areas, including the expansive outdoor courtyards and food hall patios, making it easy to stroll, shop, and snack with your pup.

Westside Provisions District

With its mix of upscale shops, cafés, and local boutiques, this open-air district is perfect for a relaxed afternoon of window shopping. Many retailers have dog-friendly patios, and the pedestrian-friendly layout makes it easy to wander with your furry companion.

Krog Street Market

Set along the BeltLine, this market blends local food vendors with artisanal shops, all in a dog-welcoming environment. Outdoor tables and shaded areas mean your pup can relax while you explore.

Other honorable mentions

Where to enjoy the outdoors with your dog

Atlanta’s mild weather and abundance of green spaces make it easy to spend time outside with your pup. From scenic trails to peaceful parks and sprawling nature preserves, the city offers endless opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and exploring together.

Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail

This popular multi-use trail runs through some of Atlanta’s most vibrant neighborhoods, offering wide, paved paths perfect for leashed walks. Along the way, you’ll find murals, green spaces, and plenty of dog-friendly patios to stop and rest.

Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Just north of the city, this expansive park features wooded trails and river access points where dogs can hike alongside you or splash in the water on hot days. It’s a favorite weekend getaway for active pups and their owners.

Lullwater Preserve

Located on Emory University’s campus, this quiet, shaded retreat has forested walking paths, a historic stone dam, and open fields where leashed dogs can explore while you enjoy the scenery.

Other honorable mentions:

Where to grab a drink with your dog

Atlanta’s brewery and bar scene is as dog-friendly as it gets, with patios, beer gardens, and outdoor spaces designed to welcome your four-legged friend. Many spots offer water bowls, shaded seating, and even special treats for pups so you can relax with a drink while your dog enjoys the atmosphere.

New Realm Brewing

Perched on the BeltLine, this popular brewery has a massive rooftop deck and a sprawling outdoor beer garden where dogs are always welcome. With craft beers on tap and plenty of space to stretch out, it’s a weekend favorite for dog owners.

Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall

One of the first restaurants to embrace the BeltLine’s patio culture, Ladybird offers a campfire-inspired setting with outdoor tables and communal seating. Dogs can lounge under shady trees while you sip cocktails or craft beer.

Scofflaw Brewing Co.

Known for its laid-back vibe and rotating lineup of IPAs, Scofflaw’s large outdoor patio is fully dog-friendly. It’s the perfect spot for hanging out with friends—both two-legged and four.

Other honorable mentions

Other Essentials for Your Dog

Atlanta makes it simple to keep your dog happy, healthy, and well cared for. From trusted vets to specialty groomers, training experts, boarding options, and boutique supply stores, the city offers everything you need for your pup all in one place. 

Veterinary Care

Whether it’s a routine checkup or a late-night emergency, Atlanta’s veterinary clinics have you covered with skilled teams and modern facilities. In addition to the great choices below, Marietta local and betterpet expert Dr. Dwight Alleyne also suggests keeping urgent care facilities, such as Urgent Vet, Petfolk, and VEG, in mind.

  • BluePearl Pet Hospital. This 24/7 emergency and specialty hospital provides advanced care, including surgery, internal medicine, and critical care for pets who need immediate attention.
  • Inman Park Animal Hospital. A full-service neighborhood clinic offering preventive care, dental services, and wellness exams in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Grooming

Atlanta’s groomers make sure your dog looks sharp and smells fresh, offering everything from quick baths to full spa experiences.

  • Sassy Paws Pet Spa. This local favorite pampers pups with full grooming packages, including nail trims, blowouts, and even blueberry facials for a luxurious finish.
  • Hollywood Feed. Known for premium pet foods and grooming services under one roof, Hollywood Feed is perfect for a one-stop grooming and shopping trip.

Training

From basic obedience to advanced behavior work, Atlanta’s trainers help dogs build confidence and manners through proven techniques.

  • Peach on a Leash. Offering private lessons, group classes, and puppy training programs, Peach on a Leash tailors sessions to fit your dog’s personality and needs.
  • Atlanta Dog Wizard. Specializing in obedience and behavior modification, Atlanta Dog Wizard works with pups of all ages to address challenges big and small.

Boarding & Daycare

Whether you need daytime play or overnight stays, Atlanta has plenty of options to keep your pup happy while you’re away.

  • Doguroo. Featuring splash pools, climate-controlled playrooms, and webcams for owners to check in, Doguroo blends fun with peace of mind.
  • Puppy Haven. With multiple locations, luxury boarding suites, and structured playtimes, Puppy Haven is designed for both comfort and fun.

Pet Supplies

Atlanta’s pet supply shops offer everything from organic foods to durable toys and stylish accessories for every type of dog owner.

  • Highland Pet Supply. This neighborhood shop focuses on high-quality nutrition, eco-friendly toys, and knowledgeable staff who can help with product recommendations.
  • City Dog Market. A local favorite carrying healthy treats, grooming products, and custom gear to keep your pup looking sharp.

Experiencing Atlanta as a dog owner

Atlanta is a city that truly embraces its four-legged residents. Whether you’re wandering along the BeltLine, relaxing in one of the city’s many parks, or grabbing a bite at a dog-friendly café, there’s no shortage of places where dogs are welcome. With its mix of urban energy and green spaces, Atlanta gives pet parents the perfect balance of adventure and downtime for their pups.

Dog icon with leash