The best dog-friendly places in Seattle

Updated 24 Oct 2024

The Emerald City is buzzing with dog-friendly places. In Seattle, there’s a whole host of dog-friendly restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as off-leash dog parks, and a bunch of other pro-pup activities to enjoy with your favorite furry friend. But what are the best dog-friendly things to do in Seattle?

Don’t worry, TrustedHousesitters has done the paw work for you. We’ve sniffed through all the Seattle dog-friendly places currently open and on offer to all types of pups and people. Whether you’re seeking a sunny day stroll, a bountiful brunch, or just a nice day out, here are some of the most paw-some things to do with your dog in Seattle.

Is Seattle dog-friendly?

Yes! Seattle is considered a dog-friendly city. Dog owners in Seattle can choose from the city’s dog parks and off-leash areas, such as Golden Gardens and Watercrest Park to socialize with other pet parents. The city is also packed with a range of dog-friendly restaurants, cafes and bars, like the Barking Dog Ale House and The Yard Cafe. There are heaps of other dog-friendly things to do with dogs in Seattle, such as pooch-safe walks in nearby national parks and meetups, with dog-friendly beaches like Richmond Saltwater Park and Magnuson Park Off-Leash area.

Dog-friendly things to do in Seattle

Planning a day out with your favorite canine companion? You won’t be short of things to do in this city - check out our list below for a few of Seattle’s dog-friendly places.

Take to the skies on a Kenmore Air seaplane

Why take a boat when you can fly over Seattle? Kenmore Air offers private tours and trips around The Emerald City and surrounding areas of natural beauty. They are also dog-friendly for any thrill-seeking adventure pups!

Location: 950 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Visit Ballard Locks

The historic Ballard Locks offers a great experience for history buffs and animal lovers. Enjoy the local sea air whilst walking through the city’s oldest harbor and lock. Pups on leads are always welcome, and there’s no extra charge for them either. Learn about the local salmon population and even see them up close and personal through the Ballard Locks’ underwater viewing windows.

Location: 3015 NW 54th St, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Soak up some history on a haunted tour with Seattle Terrors

Are you a fan of the supernatural and spooky? Does your pup enjoy using their furry senses to sniff out ghosts and ghouls? You should take a look at the Seattle Terrors tours (if you dare!) which offer a creepy but picturesque walk around old Seattle. To tag along for the tour, pups need to be on a leash and their best behavior. There are no jumpscares or alarming sights that could spook your dog (or you), it’s more about the atmosphere and learning something new about The Emerald City.

Location: Outside the Four Seasons Hotel, 99 Union St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

Lake Washington

On the eastern shore of Seattle sits Lake Washington, where there are heaps of dog-friendly activities ideal for bonding with your canine companion. Head to the off-leash area of Magnuson Park, the fenced area of Luther Burbank Park, or explore Marymoor Park and its dog-friendly beaches.

Location: Lake Washington, Washington, USA

Olympic Sculpture Park

Consider yourself an art-lover? Head to Seattle’s Olympic Sculpture Park for a stroll where leashed dogs are allowed, and don’t forget your sketchbook!

Location: 2901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98121, United States

Washington Park Arboretum

If you’re on the lookout for dog-friendly attractions in Seattle, Washington, heading to a public park is always a win, and your furry pal is sure to appreciate the walkies. Dogs are welcome as long as they’re on a leash, but steer clear of the Japanese Garden, where no dogs are allowed.

Location: 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States

Ferry rides

Did you know that dogs are allowed on some of Seattle’s ferries? On Washington State Ferries, dogs are allowed inside, and on Hovertravel, dogs are allowed with foot passengers. Beware though - if your dog poops on a ferry, you might be charged a penalty.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Seattle

When you’re looking for things to do with dogs in Seattle, you’re bound to get hungry at some point! So to help plan your dog-friendly Seattle day out, explore our list of the dog friendly restaurants Seattle has to offer below.

Blazing Bagels

Since Nollies Seattle closed down in 2020, it’s been hard for locals to fill the tasty void left by the pro-pup legendary cafe. However, we now have a strong contender… Blazing Bagels is designed for dogs (and their humans too). Not only do they have their only tasty menu for us, but they also offer a mouthwatering list of bark bagels for your fur baby to snaffle.

Location: 6975 176th Ave NE Ste. 365 Redmond, WA 98052

Pike Place Market

Is Pike Place Market dog-friendly? Is it ever? Pike Place Market is a constant buzz of excitement with a wide variety of foods to taste and drinks to sample. Pups don’t have to wait outside, they’re welcome indoors to take in all those puptastic smells! Suitable for almost any meal, it’s easy to spend a whole day hanging out here.

Location: 85 Pike Street, Seattle, WA 98101

Dog Yard

This is a totally dog-dedicated bar and play area. Doggos can run around, make new friends, or chill with their humans. And we humans can soak up the sun, catch up with friends, or enjoy the vibe with a cocktail, mocktail, or beer in hand.

Location: 1546 NW Leary Way, Seattle, WA 98107

The Yard Cafe

If Latin & American food is your thing, check out this dog-friendly restaurant in Seattle where you’ll find craft beers and a pooch-friendly patio.

Location: 8313 Greenwood Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103, United States

HI LIFE

If it’s poke you fancy and you’re after dog-friendly restaurants in Bainbridge Island, HI LIFE has well-reviewed eats and welcomes dogs.

Location: 220 Olympic Dr SE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Emmy's Vege House

After a casual dining experience at one of the dog-friendly restaurants Seattle has to offer? Great - head to Emmy’s Vege House for a selection of vegetarian and vegan options.

Location: 100 Winslow Way W, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Magnuson Cafe & Brewery

Looking for dog-friendly restaurants in Sandpoint, Seattle? You’re spoilt for choice - explore Magnuson cafe and brewery for classic American dishes and beers on tap.

Location: 7801 62nd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Finch & Pine

On the lookout for dog-friendly restaurants in Capitol Hill? You won’t be short for choice. Check out Finch and Pine for Pacific Northwest eats.

Location: 711 Bellevue Ave E Ste 100, Seattle, WA 98102, United States

The Spot West Seattle

Living in the city and after the dog-friendly restaurants west Seattle has to offer? Check out The Spot, where your pooch is welcome and you can choose from classic brunch dishes and a range of cocktails.

Location: 2920 SW Avalon Way, Seattle, WA 98126, United States

Hattie's Hat Restaurant

After the dog-friendly brunch Seattle has to offer for a morning date with your doggo? Check out Hattie’s Hat restaurant for homey digs and brunch classics.

Location: 5231 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Fish Ladder Lounge

Looking for cozy, dog-friendly restaurants in Ballard, Seattle? Check out Fish Ladder Lounge and choose from a range of creative bites.

Location: 4910 Leary Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, United States

Off and on-leash dog park areas - dog parks Seattle

When looking for things to do with dogs in Seattle, a safe place to start is your local dog park or off-leash area in a larger park. It’s a great way to let your pooch run free, meet other pet parents and socialize your doggo with other pups.

Discovery Park

Seattle’s largest park offers a bunch of choices for nature lovers and hiking hounds. With beautiful views of Cascade and the Olympic Mountain ranges from mile-long beaches, this is perfect for picnics, swimming, and plenty of playing fetch time throughout the day. The trails also lead to West Point Lighthouse, also known as Discovery Park Lighthouse.

Location: Seattle, WA 98199, United States

Magnuson Park

On the shores of Lake Washington, Magnuson Park has over four miles of walking trails with a mixture of forest and grassland surroundings. You and your pooch can come here for the day or you may even decide to regularly return! Tranquil and quaint, this is a hot spot for zen doggos and humans.

Location: 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115, USA

Blue Dog Pond

Dog-designed and dedicated, the Blue Dog Pong is off-leash with plenty of watering holes for thirsty pooches. This is an ideal space for socializing your snuffle and meeting other pet parents. Be warned, this park can become very muddy after heavy rain - we know how amazing this will sound to pups, but pooch parents may wish to save on washing and visiting on a dryer day.

Location: 1520 26th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144, United States

Golden Gardens Off Leash Area

Luckily for pet parents wondering - are dogs allowed at Golden Gardens - the answer is yes, there is an off-leash area where dogs (and their humans) can run free and have fun. So, if you were looking for a dog park in Ballard, explore the hiking trails, picnic areas, wetlands and of course, the off-leash area of Golden Gardens.

Location: 8498 Seaview Pl NW, Seattle, WA 98117, United States

Northacres Off-Leash Dog Area

One of the most dog friendly things to do in Seattle is to visit your nearby off-leash area. So if you live anywhere near Northacres park (located in Haller Lake neighborhood), check out the fenced-off trails safe for dogs and their humans.

Location: 12718 1st Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125, United States

Dogwood Play Park Seattle

If you’re after an indoor dog park in Seattle, look no further than Dogwood Play Park! With both an indoor and outdoor area, dogs can run free and explore the park’s obstacles.

Location: 12568 33rd Ave NE, Seattle, WA 98125, United States

Westcrest Dog Park

Head to this local green space for skyline views of the city along with picnic tables and a playground. Naturally, only let your dog off the leash in the designated dog park.

Location: SW Henderson St, Seattle, WA 98106, United States

Denny Substation Dog Park

Explore this spot for locals, where you can socialize your pup with other dogs, and avoid the mud with the park’s astroturf.

Location: Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Kinnear Park

Like many of the dog-friendly parks Seattle has to offer, Kinnear Park has an off-leash area, plus you can explore the forested area and the park’s rewarding views across the water.

Location: 899 W Olympic Pl, Seattle, WA 98119, United States

Seacrest Park

If city views are your thing, head to Seacrest Park for views of downtown Seattle and the city’s skyline. Just be sure to enjoy your walk with your dog on a leash at all times.

Location: 1660 Harbor Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98126, United States

Dog-friendly bars Seattle

Dog-friendly Seattle is better experienced surrounded by craft beers to choose from, other pet parents and their four-legged friends, right? Explore the dog friendly bars Seattle, WA has to offer below.

• The Barking Dog Alehouse. 705 NW 70th St, Seattle, WA 98117, United States
• Old Stove Brewing Co — Pike Place. 1901 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101, United States
• Bainbridge Brewing. 9415 Coppertop Loop NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
• Can Bar. 9427 17th Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98106, United States 
• The Lookout. 757 Bellevue Ave E, Seattle, WA 98102, United States
• Beveridge Place Pub. 6413 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98136, United States
• Linda’s Tavern. 707 E Pine St, Seattle, WA 98122, United States
• Ounces Taproom and Beer Garden. 3809 Delridge Wy SW, Seattle, WA 98106, United States
• The Traveling Goat. 621 1/2 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Dog-friendly cafes Seattle

If you’re planning a day out with your furry family member, you’ll need a pit-stop at some point. And there’s no better way to socialize with other pet parents than to take your pooch to a dog-friendly patio in Seattle or a dog-friendly cafe. For a list of the dog-friendly cafes Seattle has to offer, take a look below - leashes at the ready!

• Bark Espresso. 11335 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98125
• Seafab cafe. 1001 NE Boat St, Seattle, WA 98105
• Cloud City Coffee. 8801 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115
• Citizen Collective. 706 Taylor Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109
• Ampersand Coffee on Alki. 2536 Alki Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98116
• C&P Coffee Company. 5612 California Ave SW, Seattle, WA 98136
• Makeda & Mingus. 153 N 78th St, Seattle, WA 98103
• Cafe Argento. 1125 E Olive St, Seattle, WA 98122
• Ballard Coffee Co. 5905 15th Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107
• Evoke Cafe Bar. 234 9th Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

Dog beaches Seattle

If you’ve got a Spaniel, Retriever, Red Setter, or a rather unusual Terrier who simply loves the water, you’re surely on the lookout for a dog beach in Seattle. Take a look below for a list of the dog beaches Seattle has to offer to plan an action-packed day out with your canine companions.

Magnuson Park Off-Leash Beach

Sitting at the edge of Seattle’s Magnuson Park, this off-leash dog beach is the perfect place to let your pooch run free. Explore the wider park and be sure to put your dog back on the leash in designated areas.

Location: Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Richmond Beach Saltwater Park

Head over to Richmond Beach (just a one-hour drive from central Seattle) with your furry pal if you’re looking for dog-friendly places in Seattle. Soak up the views of Puget Sound, and relax after a long walk in the park’s picnic shelters.

Location: 2021 NW 190th St, Shoreline, WA 98177, United States

Lowman Beach Park

This is a small park on Seattle’s coastline that allows dogs, and is complete with tennis courts and swings.

Location: 7017 Beach Dr SW, Seattle, WA 98136, United States

Double Bluff Beach and Off-Leash Area

The best way for your furry pal to enjoy the beach is off-leash, so at just an hour’s drive away from central Seattle, Double Bluff Beach off-leash area is well worth the journey.

Location: 6378 S Double Bluff Rd, Freeland, WA 98249, United States

Madrona Park Beach

If you’re looking for dog beaches in Seattle, Madrona is just a 10-minute drive from the city and offers impressive views of Lake Washington.

Location: 853 Lake Washington Blvd, Seattle, WA 98122, United States

Matthews Beach Park

Just along the water from Pontiac Bay, Matthews Beach Park is complete with lifeguards and hiking paths, along with relaxing views over the lake.

Location: 5100 NE 93rd St, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Goose Beach 

If you’re a local to Lake Union and you’re after dog-friendly places in Seattle, head down to Goose Beach for a short walk and a chance to socialize your doggo with other pups.

Location: 900 Westlake Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109, United States

Pet-friendly hotels in Seattle

If you ever need to be out of the house due to renovations or simply after a local getaway with your favorite canine companion, there are a few pet-friendly hotels in Seattle that will welcome your pup. Take a look below for a few suggestions.

Hotel Sorrento

As a self-proclaimed pet-friendly hotel in Seattle, Hotel Sorrento does not require a daily pup charge. Dogs of all sizes are welcome at this stylish art deco hotel which is known for its kindly staff and rich history.

Location: 900 Madison St, Seattle, WA 98104

Thompson Hotels Seattle

Another no-pup-charge hotel! A boutique hotel located around the block from Pike Place Market, this is in the center of happening Seattle. Snuggle in with your favorite fur family or try their highly-rated restaurant whilst you both put your feet up for the night.

Location: 110 Stewart St, Seattle, WA 98101, United States

The Maxwell Hotel

Although not free to dogs, a $25 daily pup charge fee isn’t still reasonable, particularly when they quote themselves as being ‘dog obsessed’. There’s even their Pineapple Pup Package dedicated to doggos to have as much fun as their fellow humans.

Location: 300 Roy Street, Seattle, WA, 98109

Annual dog events Seattle

All about socializing with other dog lovers, or have a group of pet parent friends and looking for dog-friendly activities in Seattle? No worries, the city isn’t short of annual dog events, so take a look at the list below and clear your calendar!

Barktoberfest, Seattle

Situated in Seattle’s Dog Yard Bar, Barktoberfest is a great chance to meet fellow dog lovers, socialize your pup and choose from a range of local beers.

Cost: $5 per person, $18 per dog

When: October

Location: Dog Yard Bar Seattle

Howl-O-Ween Luminaria Dog Walk

Looking for something to do next Halloween? Head to Washington Park Arboretum for spooky fun with other pet parents and their canine companions.

Cost: $20 per person, dogs go free

When: October

Location: Washington Park Arboretum, 2300 Arboretum Dr E, Seattle, WA 98112, United States

Magnuson Series Holiday Fun Run

Run, jog or walk with your pooch at this fun run in Magnuson Park, Seattle - your pooch will love the exercise, and it’s a great chance to meet other pet parents.

Cost: $30

When: December

Location: Magnuson Park, 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Great places to walk around with your dog in Seattle

Washington Park Arboretum

Nothing is quite as calming as a walk around an arboretum. On the shore of Wahington Lake and surrounding the University of Washington Botanic Gardens, this is an excellent place for you and Fido to feel at one with nature. See species of plants and trees found only in this part of North Eastern America, and watch the leaves changing in all their glory. 

Location: 2300 Arboretum Drive E, Seattle, 98112

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is arguably the most dog-friendly neighborhood in Seattle. A bold statement indeed, but we think it’s justified! It’s filled with dog-friendly places in Seattle, including bars, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries. If you’re in the mood for an urban dog walk, this is also a vibrant and colorful neighborhood to wander around.

Location: Capitol Hill, Seattle

Bainbridge Island

View West Seattle from the glorious shorelines of Bainbridge Island. Although still technically part of the city, you and your pupper could easily stay here for an extended holiday. Filled with pet-friendly restaurants and hotels, this place is brimming with outdoor activities and relaxing tours.

Location: Bainbridge Island, Washington

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Just a one-hour drive from Seattle, this natural wonder is well worth the journey for a memorable day out with your furry companion. Find alpine forests, a cave and lakes. Dogs must be leashed in some areas, and are prohibited in others, so plan your route accordingly and always check before turning down a new path.

Location: Wenatchee, WA 98807, United States

Coal Creek Falls

Be sure to keep your dog on a leash, and enjoy the tranquil views of Coal Creek Falls - just a 20-minute drive from central Seattle.

Location: Coal Creek Falls Trail, Bellevue, WA 98006, United States

North Cascades National Park

If hiking trails with impressive views is your thing, North Cascades will be well worth the drive from Seattle. Leashed dogs are allowed in some areas, such as Ross Lake and Lake Chelan recreation areas, and much of the surrounding forests. Plan your trip ahead of time to ensure you’re always in an area where pets are permitted.

Location: North Cascades National Park, Washington, United States

Green Lake Park

If you’re after dog-friendly things to do in central Seattle, a gentle stroll with your dog on a leash in Green Lake Park is a great way to spend an afternoon, and encounter other pet parents.

Location: 7201 East Green Lake Dr N, Seattle, WA 98115, United States

Tips for pet parents

Feeling set for a dog-friendly day out in Seattle with your favorite canine companion? Great - here are a few extra tips on staying dog-friendly in Seattle, ahead of your big day out.

• Always carry a leash. Even if your pooch has perfect recall, always carry a leash should you enter a leashed area with your pooch, or should they become distracted by a cat across the street!
• Check restaurant rules. Rules around dog friendliness change regularly, and so do owners of local establishments, so always double check before bringing your pooch along.
• Plan your route ahead of time. Many of the national parks near Seattle have varying rules around dogs, so plan your route ahead so that you don’t accidentally enter a zone that’s not safe for dogs.
• Plan ahead for your vacation. You might be all set for a day out with your pooch in Seattle now, but what about when it’s time for you to take a vacation? Well vets agree pets are happier kept at home, so instead of sending your furry companion to a lonely kennel, why not consider connecting with a verified, in-home pet sitter? Take a look below to find out how it works.

Tips for pet sitters

Thinking about traveling to Seattle and pet sitting in one of the most dog-loving cities in the US? Here are a few tips to note when planning your trip.

• Always check local rules and regulations. As a pet sitter, you’ll need to be sure that anywhere you take your new pet pal is safe for them, so always check before heading out that your planned coffee or lunch spot is dog-friendly, and never enter a tourist attraction without making sure dogs are allowed.
• Check out local dog events. If the pet parents are okay with it, take your canine pal along to a nearby dog event or dog park, where meeting fellow animal lovers is simple.
• Find a place to stay in exchange for pet sitting. With a platform like TrustedHousesitters, sitters can stay anywhere in the world in exchange for in-home pet care. So as a fellow dog lover looking for new experiences in Seattle, click below to find out how securing a house sit works.

Useful resources

• The 10 best dog friendly restaurants, Seattle
• Top 10 dog-friendly bars in Seattle
• 14 off-leash dog parks in Seattle