Dog people - this one’s for you! Portland and Vancouver have certainly earned their reputation as ultimate havens for pups and their people. Both cities offer an impressive array of amenities, shops and features that make these areas truly special for our four-legged friends.

Abundant Green Spaces

Both cities boast an extensive network of parks and off-leash areas where dogs can run free and socialize. Here’s a list of a few of the largest parks with the best fencing and other amenities.

Clark County Dog Park
Dakota Dog Park
Thousand Acre Dog Park
Chimney Dog Park
Normandale Dog Park

Dog-Friendly Culture

What sets both Portland and Vancouver apart is the widespread acceptance of dogs in everyday spaces. It’s not uncommon for residents to bring their furry friends along to restaurants, cafes, bars and shops. Most will welcome your pets with open arms, often providing water bowls and treats. A few dog-friendly activities in town that we love include:

Dog-friendly breweries and coffee shops with dedicated pet areas (Lucky Lab is a Portland Institution and Ghost Runners Brewery in Vancouver is not to be missed).
Bring your pup along to your favorite sports game! The Portland Pickles allow you to buy a dog ticket and bring your furry friend to enjoy the fun.
The numerous pet boutiques offering locally-made treats and accessories (Meat for Cats + Dogs and The Fillling Station in Portland and Zenith Dog Grooming in Vancouver)

Strong Pet Community

The social aspect of dog ownership thrives in Portland and Vancouver, with regular community events and meetups.

Regular doggie meetups at local parks
Annual pet-focused festivals and parades (hello Corgi walk!)
Active social media communities for local dog owners to find new adventures for their pups.

Outstanding Pet Services

This region offers exceptional pet care services, ensuring our furry friends receive the best attention possible.

High-quality veterinary clinics and extensive access to specialty care
A vast network of professional dog walkers and pet sitters
Specialized dog training facilities
Numerous dog daycares and even overnight boarding.

Weather-Friendly Infrastructure

Both cities have adapted to accommodate dog walking in various weather conditions:

Check out Good Dog PDX or Cycle Dog for indoor parks perfect for rainy winter days. Bonus, enjoy a beverage while your dog plays!
Well-maintained trails suitable for year-round use, give Pacific Park in Vancouver or Forest Park in Portland a try this fall.
Covered areas at neighborhood parks, perfect for a covered game of fetch with your furry friend.

Public Transportation

Both cities allow small dogs on public transportation, making it easier for pet owners to travel with their companions. Most buses and light rail systems welcome well-behaved dogs contained within a carrier, or service animals that are leashed. Read more here: Trimet / C-Tran

The delightful combination of extensive green spaces, numerous pet-friendly businesses, strong community support, and excellent services truly makes both Portland and Vancouver stand out as exceptionally remarkable cities for dog owners. Whether you're a long-time resident enjoying the rich local culture or just a visitor passing through for a weekend adventure, these vibrant cities offer an unmatched environment that both you and your beloved canine companion can thoroughly enjoy together. The numerous parks, dog-friendly cafes, and supportive community events create a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates the bond between people and their pups.