Austin is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country. Here are the top spots to stay at and explore with your pup in the Texas capital.
If you’re looking for a city that embraces dogs at every turn, Austin makes it easy. Whether in South Congress or East Austin, you’ll find off-leash parks and shaded trails where four-legged friends can thrive. We’ve rounded up the best places to explore along with resources for vets, grooming, training, and more.
In Austin, daily life flows seamlessly with your dog by your side. Mornings can start with a latte on a sunlit patio, afternoons bring long walks along the lake or shaded trails, and evenings often end with craft beer and live music—all shared with your pup.
Hotel Van Zandt
This boutique hotel offers a modern vibe and allows two dogs of any size with no extra fee. You’re steps from the Lady Bird Lake Trail, making it a perfect place to stay if you want scenic early morning walks.
Archer Hotel Austin
Located in the trendy Domain district, this upscale hotel welcomes dogs up to 50 pounds. The neighborhood is walkable with green spaces and pet-friendly shops nearby.
Austin has a thriving coffee scene, and nearly every neighborhood café makes room for pups. Whether you’re starting the morning with a quick espresso or lounging on a shaded patio, your dog will feel right at home.
Mozart’s Coffee Roasters
A spacious lakeside café with plenty of outdoor seating, Mozart’s welcomes dogs to sit by your side as you sip your coffee with a waterfront view.
Radio Coffee & Beer
Known for great coffee and a rotating lineup of food trucks, the outdoor picnic tables here are shaded (necessary in the Texas sun) and dog-friendly.
Austin’s outdoor culture means there are endless trails and parks where you and your dog can get fresh air. From long hikes to shaded strolls, there’s something for every energy level.
Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail
The city’s most iconic walk with 10 miles of paths looping around the lake. Expect skyline views, bridges, and plenty of fellow dog walkers.
Zilker Metropolitan Park
Zilker is a 350-acre park at the heart of Austin with fields, trails, and Barton Springs nearby. On weekends, it’s one of the most popular dog-walking destinations.
Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park
Located in North Austin, this wooded park offers over 15 miles of trails. It’s a favorite for hikers, bikers, and dog owners seeking shade.
For off-leash fun, Austin has some of the best dog parks in Texas. Whether your pup loves chasing a ball or just sniffing around, these parks offer safe spaces to play.
Norwood Estate Dog Park
One of the city’s most popular fenced dog parks, with large shaded areas and plenty of room to run. Separate areas for large and small dogs keep play safe.
Red Bud Isle
A 13-acre off-leash park and peninsula surrounded by Lady Bird Lake. Dogs can swim, fetch, and cool off in the water during hot Texas afternoons.
Yard Bar
Part dog park, part bar, this fenced venue combines off-leash play with food and drinks for humans. Entry requires a day pass or membership.
Austin’s dining scene is famously casual and dog-friendly. Nearly every patio welcomes pups, and some even provide water bowls and dog menus.
ABGB
The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. offers award-winning pizza and craft beer. Its spacious outdoor area is always filled with dogs and their owners.
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
With over 200 beers on tap and one of the largest patios in Austin, this spot was designed for dogs and their humans. They even have a special “woof-wurst” sausage just for pups.
TLC Austin
This seafood spot has a massive patio where dogs are welcome, and the casual menu makes it a great place for an afternoon hangout.
Austin’s shopping areas often blend outdoor and indoor spaces, making them especially dog-friendly. Many boutiques and local shops welcome leashed pups.
Domain NORTHSIDE
This walkable outdoor district is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and green spaces. Dogs are common on the promenades, and many stores provide water bowls.
South Congress Avenue
The city’s most iconic shopping street is lined with quirky shops and local brands. Most patios and outdoor vendors welcome dogs.
With mild winters and plenty of sunshine, Austin is made for outdoor adventures. Beyond its trails and parks, you’ll also find lakes, rivers, and nearby hiking spots perfect for a day out.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
Seven miles of rugged trails, swimming holes, and shaded areas make this a favorite for active dogs. Popular spots include Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls.
McKinney Falls State Park
Just outside city limits, this state park features waterfalls, limestone pools, and miles of hiking where leashed dogs can explore.
Mount Bonnell
For the best views in Austin, climb the stairs up to this scenic overlook. It’s a short but steep climb, and dogs are allowed on leash.
Happy hour in Austin often includes dogs on the patio. From breweries to beer gardens, there are countless options to enjoy a drink while your pup relaxes nearby.
ABGB
Along with pizza and live music, this brewery offers a huge outdoor space filled with dogs. It’s one of the most pup-friendly patios in the city.
Meanwhile Brewing
This sprawling brewery has food trucks, a large green space, and shaded seating. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout the property.
Caring for a pup in Austin goes beyond patios and parks. The city is full of trusted vets, groomers, trainers, and supply shops that make it easy to keep your dog healthy and happy, whether you’re a longtime resident or just settling in.
Austin Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Center
This state-of-the-art facility handles everything from emergency situations to advanced specialty care. With around-the-clock service, it’s a dependable place for urgent needs.
Austin Vet Care
Conveniently located in multiple neighborhoods, Austin Vet Care provides wellness exams, dental cleanings, diagnostics, and routine care in a welcoming environment.
Firehouse Animal Health Center
Known for its compassionate team, Firehouse blends preventive medicine with surgical and dental care. They also emphasize client education, making it a trusted choice for everyday visits.
Dirty Dog
This Austin favorite offers both DIY wash stations and professional grooming. Whether you’re tackling a muddy pup yourself or handing them off to the pros, it’s a flexible option.
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming
With several locations across town, Woof Gang pairs gentle grooming with a curated selection of pet supplies. It’s a reliable go-to when you need both a fresh cut and a few extra goodies.
The Canine Center for Training & Behavior
Focused on positive reinforcement, this training center offers everything from puppy classes to agility courses.
Sit Means Sit Austin
A structured training program with private lessons, group classes, and board-and-train packages. It’s especially popular for owners looking to tackle tough behavioral challenges.
Barking Springs Dog Ranch
Shady play yards, attentive staff, and plenty of space make this ranch-style facility a fun, safe environment for daycare or overnight boarding.
Taurus Academy
With multiple Austin locations, Taurus offers daycare, training, and luxury boarding suites. Dogs are grouped by size and temperament, ensuring playtime stays safe and social.
Camp Bow Wow
This national favorite is known for its live webcams, so owners can check in on their dogs anytime. Playgroups, boarding, and enrichment keep pups engaged while you’re away.
Tomlinson’s Feed
An Austin staple, Tomlinson’s stocks natural foods, supplements, and eco-friendly products. Knowledgeable staff help match dogs with the right diet and gear so you never have to second guess your purchase.
Healthy Pet
Carrying everything from grain-free food to sustainable toys, Healthy Pet is a go-to for owners who prioritize natural, high-quality products.
Woof Gang Bakery
Known for its handmade treats and festive cakes, Woof Gang doubles as a boutique shop where you can also find toys, leashes, and other pet essentials.
Austin’s culture makes it easy for dogs to be part of the city’s rhythm. From running along the trails at Lady Bird Lake to grabbing tacos on a South Lamar patio or spending Saturday at a brewery, life here is built with pets in mind.
Dog owners will find no shortage of everyday conveniences—like reliable vets and supply shops—alongside plenty of opportunities to explore. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime local, Austin makes it simple to include your dog in everything from weekend adventures to daily routines.
