Is Denver Dog Friendly? | Alana Hankins Group

Denver is one of the most dog-friendly cities in America. Whether you’re looking for fido-friendly neighborhoods and businesses, spacious homes for the entire family (including those with four legs and a tail), well-designed dog parks, plenty of room for exercise, or something else, the mile-high city has it all!

If you’re thinking about buying a home in Denver and are curious about how the city will suit your pets, this guide is for you!

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Denver’s Dog-Friendly Neighborhoods

For a lot of homeowners, dogs aren’t just pets, they’re members of the family. So, the family home has to meet their needs too. Luckily Denver has plenty of great homes for families with four-legged members.

In particular, areas like Pradera, which is more removed from the city center, are known for their larger homes with fenced yards, ideal for dogs to play and exercise safely. These communities also feature walking trails and open spaces that cater to an active lifestyle for both dogs and their owners.

Washington Park, while more urban, still provides a variety of housing options with yards or nearby access to green spaces. For dog owners seeking a suburban feel, The Pinery offers homes surrounded by natural beauty, and a dog park, creating an environment where dogs can thrive.

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Plenty of Space to Play

One of Denver’s biggest draws is its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, just a short drive from the city. This is a major advantage for dog owners who love outdoor adventures. The nearby areas, such as Roxborough State Park or Castlewood Canyon, offer plenty of opportunities for hiking with dogs. Many of these trails are dog-friendly, requiring leashes to ensure the safety of both pets and wildlife. In winter, dog owners can enjoy snowshoeing or simply playing in the snow with their pets in these picturesque settings.

Denver’s Top Dog Parks

Of course, you don’t always have to head to the mountains if you’re looking to get some exercise with your four-legged family. Denver itself is home to several parks and green spaces that make life with a dog enjoyable.

Washington Park, for instance, is one of the city’s most iconic outdoor spaces, stretching more than 155 acres in size. It features walking paths, open fields, and plenty of scenic spots to relax and enjoy the fresh air. While the park doesn’t yet have a dedicated off-leash area, it does have wide pathways and a dog-friendly culture, making it a local favorite.

If you prefer off-leash options, the Cherry Creek State Park Off-Leash Area is an absolute paradise for dogs and it’s not far from some of the city’s best neighborhoods – like the ones I mentioned above. Here, you’ll find over 105 acres of scenic (and safe) terrain for exploration and play. There are even swimming holes which make it easy to splash and cool down during warmer temperatures.

These two spots are local standouts, however, a few other Denver dog parks with positive reputations are Railyard Dog Park, Berkeley Lake Dog Park, and Chatfield Dog Park.

Are Denver Businesses Dog Friendly?

The city may have incredible outdoor spaces, but it’s not just Denver’s landscape that makes it so dog-friendly – it’s the local spirit too. If you ask Denverites, they’ll tell you that most people who live here love dogs.

Around the city, lots of shops, restaurants, and cafés welcome four-legged patrons, offering water bowls, treats, and designated dog-friendly seating areas. Some places even cater specifically to dogs, like specialty bakeries that whip up homemade canine-friendly treats and biscuits.

If you’ve ever visited Denver, you may have noticed that the city has a thriving craft beer scene. In fact, there are more than 150 breweries in the Denver area – many of which are dog-friendly! During the summer months, it’s not uncommon to see people enjoying locally brewed craft beer with their furry friends at their side.

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Events For Dog Owners in the Mile High City

Each year, Denver hosts a variety of events and festivals to celebrate its canine residents. The Doggie Dash and Festival, BarkHappy Meetups, and the Denver Pet Expo are just a few examples of the city’s dedication to its four-legged friends. Plus, some of these events even have charitable components, helping raise funds for local shelters and animal welfare organizations. It’s a great way to have fun while supporting a good cause.