From riverside trails to dog-friendly patios, explore Jacksonville with your pup every step of the way.
Jacksonville blends expansive greenways, riverside strolls, and a laid‑back coastal vibe that’s tailor-made for pups. From charming neighborhood cafés to sprawling off‑leash parks and pet‑friendly beaches, J‑ville makes it easy to wag through the day.
Jacksonville’s layout makes it simple to enjoy a dog‑friendly day. Start with coffee on a shaded patio, explore the Riverwalk or parks like Hanna Park, stop for a pet‑friendly lunch, browse open‑air shops, and cap things off with a beer or sunset at a beach dog park. The city moves at dog pace—and that’s part of the charm.
Jacksonville offers a range of pet-friendly hotels that fit every budget and style. Whether you want to stay near the beach, in a walkable downtown area, or close to the city’s parks, these hotels make it easy to keep your pup by your side while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel
This downtown hotel is one of the few in Jacksonville with no pet fees, making it a rare find for budget‑conscious travelers. The central location places you near parks and dining, while inside, dogs are welcomed with open arms.
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Hyatt Place Jacksonville / St. Johns Town Center
At this modern, upscale location, pets are embraced and the pet‑friendly rooms come with no additional cost. It’s ideal for those who want stylish comfort and easy access to outdoor shopping and walking paths.
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Riverdale Inn
A guest favorite, Riverdale Inn offers warm hospitality and pet acceptance, even boasting a charming terrace that makes guests—and their pups—stay comfortable and cozy.
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Other honorable mentions
Jacksonville’s coffee scene is full of neighborhood cafés and outdoor patios where dogs are as welcome as the morning crowd. Whether you want a quick caffeine fix or a place to linger with friends, there’s a dog-friendly café on nearly every side of town.
Buddy Brew Coffee (e.g. Southern Grounds)
Cafés like Southern Grounds offer relaxed patios shaded by trees, where pour‑over coffee and pups go hand in hand. Locals especially love the open, friendly vibe.
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BrewHound Dog Park + Bar
A unique blend of café and dog park—you order your drink, and your dog can play off‑leash in a safe, contained yard right next door.
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With miles of riverfront paths, shady parks, and trails winding through quiet neighborhoods, Jacksonville gives you endless ways to get outside with your pup. If you want a long scenic hike or a simple evening stroll, there’s no shortage of options for stretching your legs together.
Jacksonville Riverwalk
This scenic riverside path stretches through Downtown, packed with green spaces and water views—ideal for relaxed or brisk walks with your dog.
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Bayshore Boulevard
One of the longest waterfront sidewalks in the nation, Bayshore is shaded, wide, and perfect for extended strolls alongside the ocean.
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Other honorable mentions
Some dogs need room to run, and Jacksonville delivers with off-leash dog parks, fenced play areas, and even spots for swimming. These spaces offer safe, secure environments where pups can chase tennis balls, meet new friends, and burn off energy while owners relax under shady pavilions or at picnic tables nearby.
Ed Austin Dog Park
This fenced, four‑acre park features a mix of open grass and shaded areas. It’s great for both fetch and socializing in a well‑maintained environment.
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John Gorrie Dog Park (Riverside Park)
Offering separate runs for large and small dogs, this park also provides water fountains and shaded spots—perfect for off‑leash fun.
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Other honorable mentions
Outdoor dining is a way of life in Jacksonville, and local restaurants make it easy to bring your dog along. Shaded patios, water bowls, and friendly staff mean your pup can lounge comfortably while you enjoy everything from fresh seafood to barbecue and tacos.
Wicked Barley Brewing Company
A casual brewpub with outdoor seating where pups can join while you sip a craft beer and order bar snacks like kimchi pork belly fries.
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The Bearded Pig
With barbecue classics like ribs and pulled pork, this restaurant’s covered and umbrella‑shaded patio welcomes dogs and offers hearty lunch options.
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Lola’s Burrito Joint
Known for tacos and burritos, this laid‑back spot features a funky vibe and dog‑friendly patio perfect for casual, pet‑accompanied meals.
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Other honorable mentions
Errands and window shopping don’t have to mean leaving your dog at home. Jacksonville’s outdoor shopping centers, local boutiques, and farmers markets often welcome leashed pets, with some stores keeping water bowls by the door or handing out treats at the register. It’s a great way to explore new neighborhoods while keeping your pup involved in the fun.
St. Johns Town Center
This sprawling outdoor mall is one of Jacksonville’s most popular shopping destinations, and many retailers welcome leashed dogs inside. Wide walkways, plenty of green space, and pet-friendly patios at nearby cafés make it easy to spend the day here.
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Riverside Arts Market
Held every Saturday under the Fuller Warren Bridge, this open-air market offers local produce, handmade goods, and live music. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout, and the shaded setup makes it comfortable for a weekend stroll.
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Shoppes of Avondale
Located in a historic neighborhood, this collection of boutiques and cafés has walkable sidewalks and plenty of shady spots to relax. Many store owners are happy to offer water or treats for visiting pups.
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Other honorable mentions
Hanna Park
This coastal gem features miles of nature trails, beach access, and shaded areas—making it perfect for a sandy adventure with your pup on leash.
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Big Talbot Island State Park
Known for its “Boneyard” beach scenery and peaceful trails, this is a quieter spot for a scenic walk with your dog near the ocean.
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Other honorable mentions
Breweries and bars across Jacksonville welcome dogs on patios, in beer gardens, and at a few off-leash venues designed just for pups and their owners. These spots make it easy to enjoy a craft beer or cocktail without leaving your dog at home.
BrewHound Dog Park + Bar
Perfect for winding down, this spot lets you enjoy drinks while your pup plays nearby in a safe, fenced space, combining happy hour with play hour.
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Kanine Social
Part dog park, part taproom, Kanine Social is Jacksonville’s go-to spot for dog owners who want to relax with a craft beer while their pups play off-leash.
Other honorable mentions
Jacksonville ensures pet owners have access to a robust network of care and resources—covering everything from veterinary needs to grooming, training, boarding, and shopping. Whether it’s a routine check-up or a weekend away, these trusted providers make daily dog ownership stress-free.
Jacksonville vets offer both compassionate community care and advanced medical services to meet any need. From comprehensive wellness to emergency care, you’ll find the right provider to keep your pup in top shape.
Timuquana Animal Hospital
Serving Jacksonville since 1984, this full-service clinic provides comprehensive veterinary care and urgent appointments in a friendly, community-focused environment.
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Normandy Animal Hospital
A walk-in clinic known for offering compassionate, no-appointment-needed service, owners can walk away knowing their pet will get professionalism and care provided without requiring scheduled visits.
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Coastal Veterinary Hospital & Pet Resort
Established in 1990, this full-service facility combines veterinary care with in-house grooming and boarding, making it a convenient multi-service location for dog owners.
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Jacksonville groomers offer everything from mobile spa-style services to boutique salons—perfect for pups who need anything from a quick wash to a full grooming session.
The Dog Spa
Jacksonville’s premier luxury grooming destination, this spot focuses on holistic pet well‑being with top-rate cuts and high-quality skin care.
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Doggy Dreams Mobile Grooming
Doggy Dreams provides stress-free, cage-free grooming right at your doorstep. Ideal for dogs who are anxious or prefer a home environment.
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Whether you're addressing basic manners or more complex behavior, Jacksonville offers experienced trainers with structured programs tailored to your pup’s needs.
Dog Training Elite
A family-owned training company with 40+ years of experience, Dog Training Elite offers in-home lessons, obedience, and service/therapy training designed around your dog’s behavior and your schedule.
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Sit Happens
Sit Happens specializes in private, in-home dog training led by certified trainers. Their personalized approach ensures behavior goals are met effectively.
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Karma K9
A decade-old, locally owned training company, Karma K9 delivers tailored behavior consulting and obedience programs throughout Jacksonville.
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K-9 Obedience Club of Jacksonville
This training center offers community-oriented group classes like “Star Puppy” and “Family Dog,” focusing on positive reinforcement and proper socialization to build foundational skills.
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Heading out of town or just need daytime help? Jacksonville’s trusted boarding and daycare facilities offer safe, engaging environments with attentive care.
Camp Bow Wow Jacksonville
Camp Bow Wow provides daycare, overnight boarding, and training programs in spacious play areas, letting your pup have fun while you're away.
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Happy Hound Dog Resort
A locally and veteran-owned facility, Happy Hound Dog Resort offers daycare and boarding in clean, safe settings that include VIP suites and live webcams for peace of mind.
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Dogtopia of Jacksonville
Dogtopia is a premier center offering daycare, boarding, and spa services. Be it a day trip or full-week care, they provide flexible, fun options for dogs.
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Jacksonville’s pet stores go beyond the basics, offering curated food, toys, and gear in both boutique and full-service formats.
Earth Pets
A locally owned pet supply store that offers natural food, grooming, and nutrition guidance—perfect for a quick stop while out with your pup.
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Pet Supplies Plus
This store carries a wide selection of pet food and supplies with a reputation for friendly service and easy access for pet owners.
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Jacksonville makes life with a dog easy thanks to its experienced network of vets, groomers, trainers, and boarding facilities, plus countless dog-friendly restaurants, parks, and trails. With so many services and activities designed for pups, it’s simple to keep your dog happy, healthy, and included in everyday adventures across the city.
