Jacksonville, Florida, offers a variety of dog-friendly venues and activities for you and your canine companion to enjoy together. With so many dog-friendly places in Jacksonville, FL, we thought we’d give you a helping paw! Here's a curated guide to some of the best options.
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Dog parks and trails in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Arboretum & Gardens
This 120-acre urban woodland features over 3 miles of rustic hiking trails through diverse ecological habitats. Leashed dogs are welcome to explore the trails and relax on benches throughout the park.
Location: 1445 Millcoe Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225, United States
Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park
Spanning 450 acres, this park offers a water park, freshwater lake, pet-friendly campground, hiking and biking trails, and one of Jacksonville's best surfing beaches. Leashed dogs are allowed in most areas of the park, including the beach.
Location: 500 Wonderwood Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32233, United States
Ed Austin Dog Park
A family sports venue with a 4-acre dog park where your pet can exercise and socialize.
Location: 3450 Monument Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32225, United States
John Gorrie Dog Park of Riverside Park
Features two enclosed dog runs with water fountains, tennis balls, and shade trees, divided into separate areas for small and large dogs.
Location: 631-745 College St, Jacksonville, FL 32204, United States
Dog-friendly restaurants in Jacksonville
The Bearded Pig
Offers a spacious outdoor patio where dogs are welcome to sit by your side.
Location: 1808 Kings Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32207, United States
M Shack
A casual spot known for its burgers and shakes, with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area.
Location: 641 Crosswater Pkwy, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081, United States
Mambos Cuban Express
A Cuban restaurant with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area.
Location: 11105 San Jose Blvd #2, Jacksonville, FL 32223, United States
The Blue Fish Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Offers a dog-friendly outdoor patio where you can enjoy seafood with your pet.
Location: 3551 St Johns Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32205, United States
Taverna
An Italian restaurant with a dog-friendly outdoor seating area.
Location: 1986 San Marco Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207, United States
Fun dog-friendly activities in Jacksonville
Riverside Arts Market
A weekly arts-and-crafts market featuring live music, food, art, and fresh produce. It's a dog-friendly space where many vendors have bowls of water available for passing canines, and there are usually a few places where you can shop for dog treats and accessories.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Saturday 10 am to 3 pm
Location: 715 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville, FL 32204, United States
Five Points
A trendy neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, antique shops, and boutiques. Stroll the leafy streets with your four-legged friend, then settle in for a meal. Restaurants with pet-friendly patios include Black Sheep, River & Post, Bread & Board, Corner Taco, Timoti’s, and M Shack.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Every day, times vary
Location: Jacksonville, FL 32204, USA
Dog-friendly cafes in Jacksonville
Le Petit Paris Cafe
A stylish French café with a dog-friendly outdoor patio.
Location: 7111 Bentley Rd #1, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States
Social Grounds Coffee Company
A cozy, welcoming coffeehouse that allows dogs inside. It’s a military-veteran-owned business known for offering a variety of coffee drinks, baked goods, and even "pup-ccinos" for your furry friend. It's an excellent spot for a relaxing coffee break with your dog.
Location: 1712 N Main St, Jacksonville, FL 32206, United States
Bold Bean Coffee Roasters - Riverside
Known for its high-quality, sustainably sourced coffee, Bold Bean Coffee Roasters has a dog-friendly outdoor seating area. It’s a great place to enjoy a handcrafted espresso or cold brew while your dog enjoys the fresh air.
Location: 869 Stockton St, Jacksonville, FL 32204, United States
Sipper's Coffeehouse
A quaint coffeehouse with a welcoming outdoor seating area for dogs. Enjoy your coffee or tea while relaxing with your pup. It’s a small but charming café, offering fresh pastries and light bites to complement your drink.
Location: 7643 Gate Pkwy N, Jacksonville, FL 32256, United States
The Brick Coffee House
A pet-friendly café that allows dogs at their outdoor tables. The café serves a wide variety of coffee drinks along with breakfast and lunch options. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it perfect for a casual outing with your dog.
Location: 214 N Hogan St, Jacksonville, FL 32202, United States
Annual dog events in Jacksonville
Mutt March
A fun-filled event where dogs and their owners participate in a parade, costume contests, and various activities.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: Usually in April
Location: TBC
Diamond D Dog Fest
An exclusive event featuring agility demonstrations, dog lake swimming, vendors, food trucks, and scenic hikes. Visit their website for more details.
Cost: TBC
Date and time: October 11th, 2025, 10 am to 3 pm
Location: 5903-1Solomon Rd. Jax, FL 32234
Brunch & Barks - Dog Adoption Event
An event combining brunch and dog adoption opportunities is usually held in March. Visit their website for more details.
Cost: Free entry
Date and time: March 9th, 2025, 11 am
Location: Gemma Fish + Oyster, 2039 Hendricks Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32207
The best dog-friendly bars in Jacksonville
Kanine Social
An indoor and outdoor park where dogs and their owners can enjoy a beer, play games, or spend the day. The facility includes a craft beer and coffee bar, two 7,000-square-foot parks (one indoor and climate-controlled), a separate play area for small dogs, and self-wash bathing stations.
Location: 580 College St, Jacksonville, FL 32204, United States
BrewHound Dog Park + Bar
Combines a dog park with a bar, offering a unique experience for both you and your pet.
Location: 1848 Kings Cir S, Neptune Beach, FL 32266, United States
Kickbacks Gastropub
Known for its extensive beer selection and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Location: 910 King St, Jacksonville, FL 32204, United States
Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Jacksonville from dog owners and pet sitters
Whether you're a pup parent or dog sitter in Jacksonville, here are some useful tips to help you navigate living with your furry companion in the area.
Tips for pet parents
Always check park dog policies
Before visiting, it's advisable to check the specific pet policies of each venue, as rules can vary. Additionally, some establishments may require dogs to be on a leash or have other specific guidelines. Always clean up after your pet and ensure they are well-behaved to maintain a welcoming environment for all visitors.
Avoid hot pavement
The heat can make the pavement too hot for your dog’s paws. Try to walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the pavement is cooler. If it’s too hot for your bare feet, it’s likely too hot for your dog as well.
Plan for Hurricane Season
Jacksonville, like much of Florida, is vulnerable to hurricanes. It’s important to have an emergency plan in place for your dog. Keep a pet emergency kit that includes food, water, medications, and any other supplies your dog may need in case of evacuation. Keep your dog’s collar updated with an ID tag and consider microchipping them in case you get separated during an emergency.
Plan ahead for your vacation
If you're planning to travel, leaving your pet at home with a trusted sitter is often the most stress-free option. Staying in familiar surroundings can help your pup feel secure. Services like TrustedHousesitters connect pet parents with reliable sitters who’ll treat your pet like their own. This approach - which is approved by vets - helps pets stay comfortable and stress-free while you’re away.
How to connect with pet sitters in Jacksonville
Tips for pet sitters
Hydration is key
Jacksonville's summers can get quite hot, with temperatures soaring above 90°F (32°C) frequently. Make sure your dog has access to water, especially during walks or outdoor playtime. Consider carrying a portable water bowl for your dog when you’re out exploring, and never leave them in a car, even for a short time.
Leash laws and dog-friendly spaces
In Jacksonville, dogs are generally required to be on a leash in public spaces unless you are in a designated off-leash park. Always keep your dog on a leash when walking through neighborhoods, parks, or other public places to comply with local laws and keep your dog safe.
Make the most of the outdoors
Jacksonville has a variety of outdoor spaces for you and your dog to explore. Whether it’s a walk along the Riverwalk or a hike in the Jacksonville Arboretum, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy nature with your dog. If you like water activities, consider kayaking or paddleboarding with your dog at Hanna Park or Fort George Island.
Experience Jacksonville through house sitting
There’s nothing quite like experiencing a place as a house sitter. There are often plenty of options for pet sitting in Jacksonville, particularly over holiday periods. Go on, have a look, and find your Fort Worth pet-sitting adventure today!
How to find house sits in Jacksonville
