The Most and Least Dog Friendly States

Dogs are some of the most popular pets in America. Dogs provide owners with more stress-free lives. These cuddly and cute animals will always have your back and brighten your day when you’re feeling down. Because the popularity of having dogs as pets has skyrocketed in the past few decades, companies and governments have begun to adopt more pet-friendly statuses. Dog hotels have popped up. Veterinarians have begun to create more comprehensive health plans for pets. More dog parks have been built. Dog beaches are more common. However, there are still some states that lack the resources for dog owners. Let’s take a look at the most and least dog-friendly states in America.

5. New York

The Empire State is super dog-friendly. With a whopping 13,000 pet-friendly accommodations (including pet hotels), New York ranks close to the top with dog friendliness. There are also 37 dog-friendly parks in the state and you can even go to 561 restaurants and cafes that will welcome your precious Fido.

4. North Carolina

North Carolina is a great state for those that own dogs. Not only do you have 135 dog-friendly parks to choose from, but you can also go to the 2,863 restaurants and cafes that are open to dogs. If you are a traveler and take your dog with you, you can stay in one of the 1,297 dog-friendly hotels. Lastly, don’t miss the Bark and Zen: Pawsitive Wellness Expo in the state.

3. Texas

Texas is filled with many activities year-round that are catered or centered for dogs. This means that you can go to Dog Days events or the Pints and Pups with Round Rock Express, as well. The Lone Star also has over 20,000 pet-friendly accommodations, which also include doggie hotels. If you’re afraid that you may not find a dog park in concrete jungles in Texas, don’t worry, because there are 255 dog or pet-friendly parks.

2. California

California is one of the most dog-friendly states. Not only does the state have a whopping 388 large pet retailers, but it also has more than 24,000 pet-friendly accommodations including pet hotels. Dog parks are popular in California, as well as dog beaches. And because California is such a dog-friendly state, there is no shortage of restaurants and cafes where dogs are allowed.

1. Florida

According to Dogster, they came up with metrics to determine which states are dog-friendly, and which are not. Florida came out on top because of several factors. When it comes to pet accommodations, Florida has 32,841 pet hotels and rentals. The state also has 198 pet retailers (like Petco or Petsmart). It has 338 pet parks, which is important for dogs to carry out their exercise. Lastly, Florida boasts a large number (2,957 to be exact) of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes.

46. Delaware

Delaware is a small state, thus doesn’t have a lot of big retailers that cater to dogs. Unfortunately, there are only 207 cafes and restaurants that are dog-friendly. There are also very few dog-friendly events out there, but the ones the state has are fun and amazing.

47. Rhode Island

Unfortunately, Rhode Island isn’t super dog-friendly but it’s not because of not wanting to be dog-friendly, but it’s more because of the size of the state. There are only 10 large dog retailers and only 801 accommodations that are dog-friendly. Luckily, there is a Paws in the Park event that happens every year.

48. Wyoming

The state of Wyoming has a lot of open spaces. It’s a big state with lots of land for roaming around and exploring. If you have an energetic dog, they will love going on hikes with you and making the most of their time in Wyoming. Luckily, you can stay in 886 accommodations that are dog-friendly. However, because it ranks so few in other categories, it is considered one of the least dog-friendly states in the nation.

49. Alaska

Alaska is the biggest state in the US when it comes to the area. But it is also one with very few people living in it. Thus, there are only a few dog-friendly spaces available. You won’t find a large number of accommodations that are dog-friendly, but the number is still high. Luckily, because Alaska is known for outdoor activities, your dog will be able to do a lot of exercise while there.

50. North Dakota

Unfortunately for dog owners in North Dakota, it will be hard to find dog-friendly spaces here. There are only 477 dog-friendly accommodations in the states, but only five dog-friendly cafes or restaurants. It is also unfortunate that those providing dog resources are scarce in the state. Luckily, North Dakota is a state where there are a lot of outdoor activities, which means you can take your dog on hikes or walks in the many national or local parks.