Dog-friendly Phoenix: Things to do in Phoenix with a dog

Phoenix might be known for its breathtaking desert landscapes, but there’s a whole other side to the city that’s perfect for pups and their people! Whether you’re house sitting in Phoenix or a local pet parent sharing tips with your Phoenix pet sitter, here are the coolest dog-friendly spots in the Valley of the Sun.

Dog-friendly restaurants, Phoenix

We couldn’t start this guide to dog-friendly Phoenix with an empty stomach – these are some of the best eateries to visit with your pup.

The Farm at South Mountain

Sandwiches, salads, and soups are served in the quaint gardens of this farm-to-table restaurant, where furry friends are free to join.

Location: 6106 S 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States

Postino 

Enjoy Italian-style bites paired with a glass of wine while your pooch pal’s treated to plenty of water refills and friendly pats. With four dog-welcoming locations across Greater Phoenix, it’s a great spot for both humans and hounds. 

Location: Positano Central, 5144 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85012, United States

32 Shea

This cafe-style bistro is the ideal spot to rest those legs after a hike in the Phoenix Mountains Preserve. Open from breakfast time through to the early evening, dogs are welcome anytime in the outdoor seating area.

Location: 10626 N 32nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85028, United States

Cibo Pizzeria

Craving a delicious Neapolitan-style pizza? Cibo Pizzeria has a shaded patio where you and your pup can linger over Italian dishes and a well-curated wine selection.

Location: 603 N 5th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

Joe’s Farm Grill

Bring your dog to sit under the trees as you dig into farm-fresh comfort foods in the heart of the Agritopia community.

Location: 3000 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

Dog-friendly hikes, Phoenix

One thing to remember on any of these dog-friendly walks – Phoenix can get HOT! Make sure you bring plenty of water, stick to the shade, and avoid the hottest time of day (usually between 2-5 pm).

The Desert Vista Trail

This trail offers breathtaking desert views and plenty of shade, making it a great place for a morning or evening walk with your dog. Its gentle terrain is ideal for pups of all ages.
Location: 1901 W Desert Vista Trail, Phoenix, AZ 85085, United States
Length: 9.5 km

Mormon Trailhead

Views of South Mountain and the Phoenix metropolitan area make this a popular trail for runners, hikers, and people with pups on the leash.

Length: 6.5 km 

Location: 8610 S 24th St, Phoenix, AZ 85042, United States

Go John Trail, Cave Creek Regional Park

This moderately challenging loop winds past blooming wildflowers and towering cacti. It’s a great workout for you and your active pup, but expect to pay $7 for parking.

Length: 6.5 – 9.5 km 

Location: Go John Trail, Cave Creek, AZ 85331, United States

Pima Canyon Trailhead

South Mountain Park and Preserve has 16,000 acres of trails and roads to explore, but this one is particularly popular to catch the sunrise over the mountains.

Length: 11 km 

Location: 4500 E Pima Canyon Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85044, United States

Lookout Mountain Trailhead

Whether you’re on the hunt for a quick leg stretch or a longer hike, this trail is easily accessible from Phoenix and offers great views. 

Length: 3 – 11 km

Location: 15600 N 16th St, Phoenix, AZ 85022, United States

Dreamy Draw Recreation Area

A variety of hiking trails at different levels weave through relatively flat terrain, with views of the western valley and Phoenix.

Length: Varies

Location: 2421 E Northern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020, United States

Phoenix dog parks

Off-leash dog parks are like adventure playgrounds for pups – perfect for letting off some steam and meeting other furry friends.

Cosmo Dog Park

This 17-acre pup paradise features a dog-friendly lake, making it one of the only dog-friendly “beaches” Phoenix has to offer. It also includes agility equipment, multiple fenced areas, and a washing station for post-adventure clean-ups.

Location: 2502 E Ray Rd, Gilbert, AZ 85296, United States

Paradise Valley Park

A little green haven where pups can romp and play, this park has plenty of shaded open space along with water fountains and picnic benches.

Location: 17642 N 40th St, Phoenix, AZ 85032, United States

Steele Indian School Park Dog Park

Great for those in central Phoenix, this compact 2.5-acre park has off-leash areas with shade during the day and solar night lights for after dark.

Location: Band Building, 300 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85012, United States

Pioneer Community Park Dog Park

This friendly, neighborhood spot is safe and well-kept. It’s the perfect place for your furry friend to meet new pals while you chat with fellow pet parents.

Location: 8755 N 83rd Ave, Peoria, AZ 85345, United States

Chaparral Off-Leash Area

Pop Fido on the leash for a stroll around Chaparral Park before heading to one of the off-leash areas. Energetic pups are grouped together in one pen, while more reserved ones are kept in a quieter, separate area.

Location: 5401 Hayden Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85250, United States

Hance Park Dog Park

Located in the corner of Margaret T Hance Park, this dog park has two separate areas for small and large pups and GREEN grass – a rarity in dog parks!

Location: 323 W Culver St, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

Dog-friendly cafes, Phoenix

What do coffee and canine companions have in common? Well, you’ll find both of them at these dog-friendly cafes!

Morning Squeeze

Head to this dog-friendly patio to dig into brunch classics while Fido enjoys something from the Tail Wagger menu.

Location: 1 N 1st St #100, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Lola Coffee

Whether you’re hitting up Lola Coffee for their pup-friendly interior or the poetry nights, this cozy cafe is always a good idea (and they do really good cinnamon rolls).

Location: 1001 N 3rd Ave #6, Phoenix, AZ 85003, United States

Songbird Coffee & Tea House

You and your furry friend will be made to feel right at home in this friendly neighborhood cafe, so long as Fido can get along with the resident cat, Bob!

Location: 812 N 3rd St Ac, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Esso Coffeehouse

Bring your book and grab a great cup of coffee and a pastry in this chilled-out coffee shop, where furry friends are welcome.

Location: 4700 N 12th St suite 107, Phoenix, AZ 85014, United States

Copper Star Coffee

Whether you’re visiting the groomer next door or just stopping by, your four-pawed pal will be spoiled with homemade dog treats and pets!

Location: 4220 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013, United States

Dog-friendly things to do in Phoenix

There’s no shortage of fun, dog-friendly places in Phoenix – here are our top pics.

Go to a Dog Day at the Desert Botanical Garden

Both you and your four-pawed pal are free to explore the 140-acre desert garden on select Saturday mornings  – just be sure to steer clear of any prickly cacti! 

Cost: Adult $34.95, youth $19.95, dogs go free.

Date and time: Select Saturday mornings – see website for details.

Location: 1201 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

Visit Goldfield Ghost Town

Step back in time with your furry pal in this reconstructed 1890s town. Keep Fido on the leash to explore the historic buildings, join the Walking Ghost Tour, and even venture into the Mammoth Gold Mine.

Cost: Various depending on which parts you visit.

Date and time: Open seven days a week, check website for details.

Location: 4650 N Mammoth Mine Rd, Apache Junction, AZ 85119, United States

Go for a stroll around Encanto Park 

Take your favorite furry for a stroll on the leash around Encanto Park, a little oasis with a lake and plenty of greenery. 

Location: 2605 N 15th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85007, United States

Catch a baseball game

The Chase Field Stadium and Surprise Stadium both host dog-friendly nights on various dates throughout the year. 

Cost: From $32 per person/dog at Chase Field, from $12 at Surprise Stadium. 

Date and time: Specific dates throughout the year.

Locations: Chase Field Stadium, 401 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Surprise Stadium, 15850 N Bullard Ave, Surprise, AZ 85374, United States

Go to Phoenix Pup Festival

Featuring contests, games, races, and even a dog spa, this festival is all about spoiling our much-loved furries to raise money for less fortunate pups. 

Cost: Free entry with optional donations.
Date and time: Annually in early spring, check website for exact dates.

Location: 2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy, Tempe, AZ 85288, United States

Browse stalls at RoadRunner Park Farmers Market

Shop for meats, veggies, cheeses, baked goods, and dog treats at this local farmers market.

Cost: Free entry.
Date and time: Saturdays 8 am – 12 pm.

Location: 3502 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85032, United States

Have a picnic in Papago Park

Pack a picnic and climb up the mountain to catch the sunset through the hole in the rock with your furry friend on the leash.

Location: 625 N Galvin Pkwy, Phoenix, AZ 85008, United States

Dog-friendly bars, Phoenix

These spots not only serve great drinks and delicious bites but also welcome pups, making them perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.

OHSO Brewery + Distillery

With craft beer for you and water bowls and treats (made from spent beer grain) on tap for your furry friend, the dog-friendly patio at OSHO is a must! They even have an employee whose specific job is to take care of their dog charity fundraising. 

Location: 4900 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, United States

The Wandering Tortoise

This little brewery is dog-friendly inside and out – perfect for those hot summer days. Oh, and they serve a delicious selection of beers, all at reasonable prices.

Location: 2417 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States

Angel’s Trumpet Ale House

Stop by for a cold one at this downtown Phoenix spot, which features a dog-friendly patio, American-style pub grub, flights of beer – and happy hour is every day until 6 pm. 

Location: 810 N 2nd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

The Brill Line

Located inside The Churchill, this neighborhood joint serves craft cocktails and a rotation of 24 beers on tap, and it welcomes pooch pals – naturally.

Location: 901 N 1st St suite 106, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Indoor dog activities, Phoenix

When it’s just too hot to be out and about with your pooch pal, check out these indoor activities. 

Window shopping at Desert Ridge Marketplace

Take your four-pawed pal for a mooch around this outdoor mall, where many of the shops welcome dogs inside. There are also plenty of pet-friendly patios to grab a bite to eat if you work up an appetite.

Location: 21001 N Tatum Blvd, Phoenix, AZ 85050, United States

Stroll around Arizona Center shopping mall

Arizona Center is also filled with shops, restaurants, and open spaces to explore with your furry friend.

Location: 455 N 3rd St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Dog-friendly accommodation, Phoenix

When you’re on the road with your furry family member, it's always a bonus to know a couple of pet-friendly spots to stay the night.

Arizona Biltmore

This historic hotel combines pet-friendly accommodations with old Hollywood glamor. With gorgeous rooms, excellent dining options, luxurious pools, and a brand-new spa, it’s all about traveling in style with your pup. 

Location: 2400 E Missouri Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85016, United States

Kimpton Hotel Palomar Phoenix

This four-star hotel is conveniently located right in the heart of Phoenix and just ten minutes from the airport. Unlike many pet-friendly hotels, there’s no pet fee, plus they’ve got grassy areas for late-night potty trips and a dog-friendly dining area.

Location: 2 E Jefferson St, Phoenix, AZ 85004, United States

Tips on dog-friendly things to do in Phoenix from our members

These recommendations come from the dog owners and sitters in our community who know dog-friendly Phoenix inside out. For more firsthand tips, head to our Community Forum.

@KarenE recommends Phoenix’s Annual Doggie Street Festival –

“Billed as the “West’s largest adopt-a-thon and pet celebration”, these dog-friendly events include music, yummy treats for your dog, vet tips, pet products and services, kids’ art areas, speakers, contests and auctions.”

@denniscnewman provides us with an extensive list of things to do and see in the Arizona area, including hiking in Sabino Canyon, driving up Mt. Lemmon, and visiting the murals of Tucson. 

@Snowbird offers a word of warning – 

“My very first sit in 2014 was in Phoenix. When walking the neighbourhood in a high-end gated community a man passed by and warned us there were javelinas up ahead. Puzzled, we asked him to repeat what he’d said. We then explained that we weren’t local and so he took time to explain. We quickly turned and went back home.”

If you happen to encounter javelinas while out with your pooch pal, it's a good idea to keep your distance – they can act aggressively if they feel threatened.

Tips for pet parents

Traveling with your pet in Phoenix can be a breeze with a little planning (even in the heat!). Here are some tips to ensure you both have the best time.

Hydrate and rehydrate

Phoenix is known for its scorching temperatures. Pack extra water for both you and your pup, and take regular hydration breaks during your adventures.

Time your walks

Beat the heat by scheduling walks in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. This is especially important during the summer months.

Seek out the shade

Explore parks and trails that offer plenty of shade to keep your furry friend comfortable while exploring the desert landscape.

Plan ahead for your vacation

If you’re planning to travel and can’t take your pet along, why not get an in-home pet sitter? This means your furry friend can stay right at home with round-the-clock care and companionship from a sitter who’s verified and reviewed. Find out more below.

Tips for pet sitters

Pet sitting in Phoenix not only means you’ll have a unique place to stay with an adorable pet for company, but it’s also an excellent opportunity to explore the city like a local. Here are some tips to make the most of your pet sitting adventure:

Get to know local dog-friendly spots

Use our guide to dog-friendly Phoenix together with tips from your pet pal’s parents to discover the best spots to go with your new furry friend.

Follow the pet parent’s instructions

Our four-pawed pals are all different, which means their likes, dislikes, and routines will vary. Stick to the guidelines given by the pet parents, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

Experience Phoenix through house sitting

House and pet sitting here means you get to live the Phoenix lifestyle firsthand. Enjoy the city’s art, culture, and stunning desert landscapes, all while caring for an adorable pet. Find out more below.

Useful resources

• The best dog-friendly restaurants in Tampa
• 8 of the best dog parks on location in Los Angeles
• How to connect with local communities: a guide for solo female travelers