Pet-friendly Portland OR: things to do in Portland with dogs

Updated 6 Dec 2024

Live in Portland OR, and want to make the most of your city with your canine companion in tow? Stick with us and explore this ultimate guide to pet-friendly Portland OR, where we dive into the dog friendly restaurants Portland has to offer, along with cafes, bars, stores, dog parks, hiking trails and so much more.

Best dog parks Portland, Oregon

The first thing you’ll need to get clued-up on when researching pet-friendly Portland OR is the local dog parks. Take a look below for a list of the dog parks Portland has to offer so that planning your next day out with your canine companion is simple.

Mt Tabor Off-Leash Dog Park

If you’re looking for off-leash dog parks in Portland Oregon, Mt Tabor park has an off-leash dog area where you can safely let your dog run freely. If you decide to let your dog off the leash, make sure they’re recall-trained.

Location: 2219 SE 68th Ave, Portland, OR 97215

Sellwood Riverfront Park

This Portland dog park boasts a river walk and a non-fenced area where you can walk your dog. The car park is busier on weekends, so plan your trip ahead of time.

Location: 1221 SE Oaks Park Way, Portland, OR 97202

Normandale Dog Park

If you’re looking for fenced dog parks in Portland, Oregon, check out Normandale dog park - it even has segregated areas for different-sized dogs.

Location: 1100-1298 NE 57th Ave, Portland, OR 97213

Chimney Park

Head to Chimney Park if you’re looking for a big open space, plus the park has a walking path around the edge which is great for training your dog.

Location: 9360 N Columbia Blvd, Portland, OR 97203

Fernhill Park dog off-leash area

Find a water fountain and a huge open space to walk your dog, and visit during fall if you enjoy watching the seasons change.

Location: 4050 NE Holman St, Portland, OR 97211

Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Head to downtown Portland for a walk along the Willamette river for water-side views, water features and open spaces.

Location: 98 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204

Council Crest Park

This might be one of the most scenic dog parks Portland, Oregon has to offer. Find panoramic views of nearby mountains, picnic tables, public artwork and off-leash areas where you can safely let your dog off the leash.

Location: 1120 SW Council Crest Dr, Portland, OR 97239

Rock Creek Dog Park

Explore three off-leash areas for your dog, along with water stations and a huge open space for games of fetch.

Location: THPRD Center at PCC Rock Creek

Lynchwood Park

Great for a hot day, the main park is shaded by huge fir trees along its wide paths. The fenced dog park is next door, where you’ll find water pools for dogs and benches where you can relax.

Location: SE 170th Ave, Portland, OR 97236

Gabriel Off-Leash Dog Park Summer

A great open space to let your dog off the leash and meet other dog owners, plus you’ll find picnic benches, porta potties and a water spigot near the tennis courts. 

Location: 7000-7198 SW 45th Ave, Portland, OR 97219

Dog-friendly restaurants Portland, Oregon

Explore these restaurants in pet-friendly Portland, OR, and be sure to phone up before taking your dog along, just in case the joint's rules and regulations have changed.

The Rambler

Housed in a converted bungalow, this homey tavern is a dog-friendly restaurant in Portland, Oregon serving up burgers, chicken, craft beer and cocktails.

Location: 4205 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97217, United States

Screen Door Eastside

If you’re after dog-friendly Portland restaurants serving up southern-style food, this is your place. Choose from biscuits and gravy, waffles, fried chicken and so much more for brunch or dinner.

Location: 2337 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214, United States

The Dog House PDX

If you’re after dog-friendly Portland restaurants serving up quick, classic American cuisine, check out this place where you’ll find well-known comfort foods, like burgers and hot dogs.

Location: 5029 SE Division St, Portland, OR 97215, United States

Mother's Bistro & Bar

Enjoy homey comfort foods such as soup, mac and cheese, stir fry, steak and frites and more at this dog-friendly restaurant in Portland, OR, where your pooch can join you on their dog-friendly patio.

Location: 121 SW 3rd Ave, Portland, OR 97204, United States

Backyard Social

If you’re into small plates, craft beer and cocktails, this trendy joint allows you to bring your dog if you’re seated on one of the sidewalk tables.

Location: 1914 N Killingsworth St, Portland, OR 97217, United States

The Eastburn

Choose from a range of real ales and homey classics, and enjoy with your canine companion on their heated outdoor patio.

Location: 1800 E Burnside St, Portland, OR 97214, United States

Island Cafe

Cafe might be in the name, but this is a dog-friendly restaurant in Portland’s marina. This place doesn’t take reservations, but once you’re in you can choose from sandwiches, burgers and seafood baskets.

Location: 250 NE Tomahawk Island Dr #22, Portland, OR 97217, United States

Produce Row Cafe

This gastropub offers a range of wholesome dishes - many classic. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor space that’s completely covered, should the weather not be on your side.

Location: 204 SE Oak St, Portland, OR 97214, United States

Ankeny Tap & Table

If it’s upmarket fare you’re after, this gastropub might be up your street - also serving a range of beers, dogs are welcome outdoors.

Location:2724 SE Ankeny St, Portland, OR 97214, United States

Fun dog-friendly activities in Portland, Oregon

Want to plan a day out in pet-friendly Portland, OR with your pooch? Explore these activity ideas below where your dog is more than welcome.

Pittock Mansion

If history is your thing, check out Pittock Mansion, a French Renaissance-style chateau. It was originally built for Henry Pittok, a London-born publisher, and his wife in 1914. Dogs are welcome in the grounds, so it’s a great way to spend a sunny afternoon with your canine companion.

Date and time: Open 10am-5pm every day, apart from Tuesdays where the opening hours are 12pm-5pm.

Location: 3229 NW Pittock Dr, Portland, OR 97210

Rose City Food Park

If you’re a foodie and you’re after a dog-friendly day time activity, take your pup for a walk around this dog-friendly food pod, where you’ll find over 15 carts to choose from.

Date and time: 7am-8pm everyday

Location: 5235 NE Sandy Blvd, Portland, OR 97213

Portland Flea Market

Portland Flea Market is a great way to spend the day if you’re an avid shopper and love hunting for pre-loved items in the company of your furry friend. Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash, and you’ve got your dog-friendly Portland day out sorted.

Date, time and location: Times and locations vary, so stay up to date on the Portland Flea website.

Portland Farmers Market

If you love nothing more than scouting out local produce, head to the next Portland Farmers Market - the ideal dog-friendly activity in Portland. 

Date, time and location: Times and locations vary, so stay up to date on the Portland Farmers Market website.

Best dog-friendly hikes in Portland, Oregon

Getting to know pet-friendly Portland, OR means exploring the area's epic walking trails - take a look below for a few ideas.

Wildwood Trail

Keep your dog on a leash and head to Portland’s Forest Park for stunning greenery and choices of a short loop to a lengthy trek.

Location: Forest Park, Portland

Powell Butte Summit Loop

There are a range of short loops you can explore in this area, but on a clear day, you can use the mountain finder to spot Mount Hood, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, and Mount Jefferson in the distance.

Location: Summit Lane, Portland

Cathedral Park Loop

This is a scenic, low-key loop next to the Willamette River, and amounts to 3.2km. Popular amongst dog walkers, this loop is also frequented by birders and the fishing community.

Location: Cathedral Park, Portland

Columbia Children’s Arboretum

Considered an easy route, this walk is perfectly dog-friendly, and ideal if you’re looking for a gentle walk.

Location: 10040 NE 6th Dr, Portland, OR 97211

Rivergate Trail

Located in Smith and Bybee Natural Wetland area, this is generally considered an easy route, and is popular amongst birders and dog walkers alike.

Location: 5300 N Marine Dr, Portland, OR 97203

Cannon Beach, Oregon

If you’re looking for a dog-friendly hike near Portland, Oregon, head down to Cannon Beach where dogs on a leash or under voice control are welcome. You might even be lucky enough to see the sea lions, seals and pelicans at low tide.

Location: Cannon Beach, Oregon

Columbia River Gorge

This is a great location if you love long walks and amazing scenery! Just a 20-minute drive from Portland, this spot boasts several waterfalls and even has dog-friendly places to eat. 

Our member @Maggie8K told us of her walks enjoyed in the area, where you can find very ‘Portland-like’ eateries, such as SugarPine serving up ice cream, sandwiches and more. Here’s what Maggie8K has to say about this generations-old eatery.

“Very Portland-like — indoor and outdoor seating, hipster music and vibe, including ice cream sundaes dressed to look like the forest floor. There were decorative meringue “mushrooms,” for instance. They served tasty meals, too, as well as dozens of microbrews. Loads of people brought their pooches.” - @Maggie8K

Dog-friendly gardens Portland, Oregon

Washington Park Loops

Keep your dog on a leash and explore Washington Park’s arboretum, Japanese garden, amphitheater, rose garden and picnic areas.

Location: 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland

Tryon Creek

There are multiple loops to choose from in Tryon Creek Park, and many are popular amongst cyclists and dog walkers. The inner loop is generally considered best for older dogs and smaller dogs who fare better with a shorter, gentler walk.

Location: Tryon Creek State Park, Portland

Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden

Explore some of the garden’s many walking trails and marvel at over 2500 plant species that bloom during spring.

Location: 5801 SE 28th Ave, Portland, OR 97202

International Rose Test Garden

If you’re after a gentle stroll that’s easy to get to, this 1914 rose garden in Portland is dog-friendly, and boasts over 10,000 plants.

Location: 400 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, OR 97205

And it’s not just us recommending these spots - our member @toml found multiple pet-friendly spots while house sitting in Portland, and recommends the city’s outdoor parks. 

“Rhododendron Garden and Rose Garden are great - you can take dogs on leads to both, but you can’t take the dog on public transportation unless in a carrier so you’d need a car or use Lyft/Uber pet unless you are in the neighborhood.” - @toml

The best dog-friendly cafes in Portland, Oregon

One of the best ways to spend quality time with your canine companion in pet-friendly Portland, OR is to settle down with a coffee! Take a look below at some of the dog-friendly cafes Portland, OR has to offer.

Tin Shed Garden Cafe

This dog-friendly cafe in Portland serves up classic American food along with a few options for dogs as well - reservation can be made here.

Location: 1438 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211

The Dragonfly Coffee House

Located just inside of northwest Portland, this dog cafe in Portland, Oregon boasts a relaxed atmosphere and pairs its coffees (which are served in 90s-style soup bowl mugs) with its pastries. And naturally, dogs are welcome.

Location: 2387 NW Thurman St, Portland, OR 97210

Anna Bananas

Reviewed as ‘non-gentrified’, this dog-friendly Portland cafe serves up its drinks alongside breakfast food and free dog treats.

Location: 1214 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Snow Bunny Coffee

Find seasonal drinks along with Korean options, plus plenty of room for canine companions, as well as a handy dog park, just across the street.

Location: 1415 NW 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Stepping Stone Cafe

Another dog-friendly cafe in Portland’s northwest area, this is a cozy spot serving up coffee as well as American classics, like pancakes and waffles.

Location: 2390 NW Quimby St, Portland, OR 97210

Upper Left Roasters

If house-roasted coffee is your thing, Upper Left Roasters might be your new local dog-friendly cafe hangout. It’s a great place to stop for breakfast, as this spot serves a range of toasts.

Location: 1204 SE Clay St, Portland, OR 97214

Honey Latte Cafe

Located just down the road from Upper Left Roasters, this spot is reviewed to have friendly staff, and offers a water bowl for dogs.

Location: 1033 SE Main St, Portland, OR 97214

Tiny's Coffee North East

These laid-back digs serve up not only coffee, but a range of classic cafe meals, along with beer and wine.

Location: 2031 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97212

Cricket Cafe

Reviews describe this place as ‘very dog friendly’, plus alongside their coffee, they serve an array of popular breakfast foods.

Location: 3159 SE Belmont St, Portland, OR 97214

Dog events in Portland, Oregon

One of the best ways to experience pet-friendly Portland is to go along to one of the city’s dog-friendly events. Not only is it a great way to meet other pet parents, it’s an opportunity to socialize your dog, too.

5k Beer Run x Level Beer

This one is for the dog and beer lovers! Bring your dog along to run 5km and get rewarded with a free craft beer at the finish line - for over 21s, of course. This event also boasts live music, local vendors and a variety of food trucks and giveaways.

Cost: $35

When: October

Location: 5211 NE 148th Ave, Portland, OR 97230

Pawsitivity Costume Contest

If you love dressing your pup up in fancy dress, and they enjoy it too, make the most of your dog’s superpower and win prizes with the Pawsitivity contest.

Cost: Free

When: October

Location: 19900 Willamette Dr, West Linn, OR 97068

Great Pyrs & Paws dog rescue fundraiser

Go for the beer, raffle prizes and a silent auction, all in the name of a good cause - a fundraiser for Great Pyrs and Paws dog rescue.

Cost: Free

When: October

Location: Craft Pour House, Southwest Regatta Lane, Beaverton

Doggie Dash

This is a fundraiser for the Oregon Humane Society, a pet festival where you’ll find live music, food trucks and contests.

When: May

Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park

Bone Ball

This is a fundraiser for One Tail at a Time PDX, where you’ll find vegan food, a raffle and of course, lots of dogs.

When: May

Location: Tom McCall Waterfront Park

The best dog-friendly bars in Portland, Oregon

Maybe a bar is more your thing? Explore the bars pet-friendly Portland, OR has to odder below.

Cycle Dog - Earth Friendly Pet Company Tavern And Dog Park

This indoor dog park, Portland Oregon is a showroom for a variety of dog products that pet parents and their dogs have the chance to try out. Naturally, there are drinks - alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to choose from.

Location: 2056 NW Pettygrove St, Portland, OR 97209, United States

Breakside Brewery - NW Slabtown

If industrial-chic taprooms are your thing, check out Breakside Brewery - one of the dog-friendly bars Portland, OR has to offer.

Location: 1570 NW 22nd Ave, Portland, OR 97210, United States

Lucky Labrador Beer Hall

If you couldn’t tell by the name, this is a dog-friendly Portland bar, and it serves up well-reviewed food including pizza, salad and soups.

Location: QUIMBY 1945, 1945 NW Quimby St, Portland, OR 97209, United States

Victoria Bar

If there’s one thing that dog-friendly Portland is good for, it’s heated patios for dog owners and their pups, and Victoria Bar is no exception.

Location: 4835 N Albina Ave, Portland, OR 97217, United States

The Fields Bar & Grill

Like many dog-friendly bars in Portland, Oregon, dogs are welcome in their outdoor seating area, where you can choose from a range of American dishes and drinks.

Location: 1139 NW 11th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States

River Pig Saloon

If you’re after dog-friendly bars in Portland with a cabin feel and homestyle food, bring your pooch and sit outdoors at River Pig Saloon.

Location: 529 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, United States

Goose Hollow Inn

If a laid-back atmosphere is more your thing, this tavern has a large outdoor deck where dogs are welcome, and you can enjoy a reuben of your choice and a cocktail or two amongst the inn’s cluttered decor.

Location: 1927 SW Jefferson St, Portland, OR 97201, United States

Radio Room

This is a slightly alternative dog-friendly bar in Portland, Oregon, as it’s located in a remodeled gas station, and is known for its bloody Marys. Serving up happy hour food, dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area.

Location: 1101 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, United States

Bye and Bye

If it’s vegan fare you’re after, this dog-friendly Portland bar offers a lot of choice, and dogs are welcome in both outdoor patios.

Location: 1011 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211, United States

Hungry Tiger

Another great one if you’re looking for a dog-friendly Portland bar with vegan food - this spot welcomes pups in their dog-friendly patio, and is kitted out with a pool table and pinball game.

Location: 213 SE 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97214, United States

And for a few recommendations from a true local, here’s what our member - @PVGemini who has lived in Portland for 32 years - has to say.

“Generally Portland is very dog-friendly. Many, many places have outdoor seating and allow dogs, if you like to go to brewpubs, coffeehouses, restaurants. Check out Elephant’s on NW 22nd, and Lucky Lab.” - @PVGemini

Dog-friendly wineries in Portland, Oregon

Wineries and vineyards are a great way to experience your local culture, but they’re also a fantastic dog walking opportunity! Take a look below for a list of dog-friendly wineries near Portland, Oregon.

Anne Amie Vineyards

Location: 6580 NE Mineral Springs Rd, Carlton, OR 97111

Opening times: Open Friday-Monday, 10am - 4pm

Helvetia Vineyards & Winery

Location: 23269 NW Yungen Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97124

Opening times: Open everyday, 12pm-5pm

Apolloni Vineyards

Location: 14135 NW Timmerman Rd, Forest Grove, OR 97116

Opening times: Open Friday-Monday and Thursdays 11am-5pm, closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Björnson Vineyard

Location: 3635 Bethel Heights Rd NW, Salem, OR 97304

Opening times: Open 11am-5pm everyday

Colene Clemens Vineyards

Location: 22501 NE Dopp Rd, Newberg, OR 97132

Opening times: Open 11am-5pm everyday

Ruby Vineyard

Location: 30088 SW Egger Rd, Hillsboro, OR 97123

Opening times: Open 11am-5pm everyday apart from Wednesdays

ENSO Winery

Location: 1416 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97214

Opening times: Open 4pm-8pm Monday-Thursday, 4pm-10pm Fridays, 2-6pm Sundays, closed on Sundays

Elk Cove Vineyards

Location: 27751 NW Olson Rd, Gaston, OR 97119

Opening times: Open 11am-5pm everyday

Beacon Hill Winery & Vineyard

Location: 22251 NE Laughlin Rd, Gaston, OR 97119

Opening times:  Open 11am-5pm everyday, apart from Monday and Tuesdays

Six Peaks Winery

Location: 19495 SW Vista Hill Dr, Hillsboro, OR 97123

Opening times: Open 11am-4pm Friday-Sunday

What stores are dog friendly in Portland, Oregon?

When you’re looking for the best pet-friendly Portland OR activities, consider a trip to a few dog-friendly shops, if window shopping is your thing or you simply need to get some groceries or gifts. 

It’s always worth noting that many shops in major cities, like Portland OR are dog-friendly, with many welcoming dogs that are kept on a leash. Our best advice is to ask before going in with your dog, or phone up beforehand if you need to travel to the store.

Now without any further ado, as part of our pet-friendly Portland guide, explore the dog-friendly stores below. 

Portland Saturday Market

Type of store: Outdoor market

Location: 2 SW Naito Pkwy, Portland, OR 97204

Curiosities Vintage Mall

Type of store: Antiques shop

Location: 12550 SW Main St #100, Tigard, OR 97223

New Seasons Market - Williams

Type of store: Supermarket

Location: 3445 N Williams Ave, Portland, OR 97227

Green Bean Books

Type of store: Book store

Location: 1600 NE Alberta St, Portland, OR 97211

Hello From Portland

Type of store: Souvenir shop

Location: 120 NW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Multnomah French Quarter

Type of store: Food court

Location: 3518 SW Multnomah Blvd, Portland, OR 97219

Made Here

Type of store: Gift shop

Location: 40 NW 10th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Wild Mountain Wax

Type of store: Candle store

Location: 6416 SE Foster Rd Portland, OR 97206

Filson

Type of store: Outdoor clothing shop

Location: 526 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Tips on things to do in Portland from dog owners and pet sitters

Want to hear from locals in Portland, experienced in finding the best spots and navigating the city with a dog? Take a look below for thoughts and tips from our community forum from real pet owners and sitters on things to do in Portland.

“Maplewood Coffee and Tea, John’s Marketplace, several food trucks, Lucky Lab, Papa Murphy’s pizza, Old Market Pub.” - Portland recommendations from @PVGemini

“One of my favorites is the Lan Su in downtown Portland, Oregon” - @MtnSk8tr

“Portland, Oregon (USA) has a wonderful Japanese garden. It is huge – 12 acres – so prepare to linger many happy hours there” - @MtnSk8tr

Our member @catgoddess_99 has enjoyed multiple house sits in Portland, so knows the city well. Explore their recommendations for pet-friendly Portland for a true local view on the city!

“If anyone sits in the Portland, Oregon, area, I recommend Broder Söder, which serves Scandinavian brunch. There are several locations and to me the best one is located in Southwest Portland, at Nordia House, which is a cultural center with walkable grounds and Nordic attractions, such as a giant troll. At that location, they offer outdoor seating and welcome dogs during part of the year, when the weather is nice. Generally, the Portland area is more dog friendly than various other parts of the U.S.” - @Maggie8K

“I just finished a series of sits in Portland. I love this city as it has a variety of neighborhoods and districts that boost quaint cafes, great restaurants, and amazing places to walk.

Outside of the city there is a plethora of day trips to take advantage of. Starting with Multnomah Falls which is an incredible waterfall with numerous hiking trails, or head out to the coast the day. My faves are Astoria on the Columbia River resembling a mini San Francisco, then Cannon Beach is Oregon's answer to Carmel by the sea and Manzanita, a lovely little beach hamlet minutes away from Cannon beach.
I also highly recommend Autumn in Portland, who needs New England because the autumn colors in Portland were outstanding.” - @catgoddess_99

Tips for pet parents

As a pet parent in Portland, OR, it’s important to establish a few local, dog-friendly Portland spots for yourself, so that you know where you can and can’t bring your canine companion. 

Be sure to scout out a cafe, a few restaurants, stores and of course - dog parks - so that both you and your dog are entertained while living in Portland OR.

And as clued-up as you can be on local dog-friendly places to go, you can’t always bring your pup with you. 

This especially rings true when time for a vacation abroad rolls around, and you’ve got to find the best pet care option for your doggo.

And as a responsible pet parent, you want the best for your dog, so it’s worth knowing that vets agree pets are happier at home, surrounded by all the comforts that make them feel safe and secure.

That’s why - when you can’t take your dog along - we always recommend connecting with a pet sitter to give your dog all the care and attention they need while you’re away.

To find out more about how to connect with verified pet sitters, take a look below.

Tips for pet sitters

As a pet sitter, it’s always a good idea to scout out local dog-friendly spots, like all the pet-friendly Portland digs we’ve explored above.

Ask the pet parents where they’re comfortable with you taking their furry friend, and get exploring. There really is nothing quite like living like a local in a new city - and there’s no better way to do that than to check out the local dog-friendly restaurants Portland has to offer, along with cafes, shops and more while you’re pet sitting.

If you haven’t quite started pet sitting yet but you’re intrigued by the idea of exploring new destinations with a place to stay in exchange for pet care, take a look below to find out how it works.

Useful resources

• How much do dog sitter charge
• How to find a pet sitter for free
• How to complete and share your welcome guide