I still remember the first time I saw my dog’s nose pressed against the car window, watching the world fly by—utterly alive, totally present, as if every mile was a love letter from the universe. If you’re anything like me, you’d do anything to give your dog more of that feeling—more freedom, more joy, more of the world.
But the “pet-friendly” stamp doesn’t always mean what you think. I’ve learned (the hard way) that most destinations say dog-friendly but bury size restrictions, extra fees, or “no large breeds” rules in the fine print. Here’s the real, hard-won shortlist: ten destinations that go above and beyond for dogs and their people—whether your co-pilot is a 5-lb teacup or a 110-lb gentle giant.
Let’s get into the summer’s absolute best, with Kruiz-vetted tips for each spot—from flying with pets across the country to traveling the world with a dog by your side.
10. Sedona, Arizona, USA
Why it’s on the list: Epic red rock hikes, year-round patios, and one of the most welcoming pet communities in the Southwest.
Big Dog Policy: Nearly all outdoor patios and parks welcome dogs of any size. Uptown’s El Portal Hotel is explicitly big-dog friendly—no weight/breed restrictions and no pet fee for the first dog.
Small Dog Perks: Tiny paws are allowed on almost all shuttles and Jeep tours (in a carrier or lap).
Travel Nuance: Sedona’s hiking trails require leashes, but leashed big dogs aren’t turned away. Be cautious with summer heat—paws can burn, and some trails have limited shade.
Standout Fact: Sedona’s dog-friendly lodging options outnumber its people-only hotels. If you’re traveling the world with a dog, Sedona’s open-hearted hospitality will feel like home.
9. Lake District, England
Why it’s on the list: A bucket-list getaway for active dogs. Vast lakes, meadows, and pubs where muddy paws get treats.
Big Dog Policy: The UK is exceptionally tolerant—almost all “dog friendly” means any size or breed (unless labeled “small breeds only”).
Small Dog Perks: Buses, ferries, and many trains welcome small pups in carriers.
Travel Nuance: Pubs often provide water bowls and dog beds. Many Airbnbs have enclosed gardens, which is rare for most other places.
Standout Fact: The National Trust maintains over 100 miles of open trails that explicitly allow off-leash exercise (as long as your dog is under control). This is a must-see if you’re dreaming of flying internationally with your dog and exploring animal travel on a grand scale.
8. San Diego, California, USA
Why it’s on the list: Consistently ranked top dog city in America for a reason: beaches, breweries, parks.
Big Dog Policy: Fiesta Island and Dog Beach in Ocean Beach have no size limits and allow off-leash running for all dogs.
Small Dog Perks: Most patios allow lap dogs or small pups in strollers inside. Some tour boats (like Flagship Cruises) are small-dog exclusive.
Travel Nuance: Many hotels charge a per-dog, per-stay fee (not per night). Confirm before you book, as some beach hotels quietly cap at 40 lbs.
Standout Fact: San Diego International Airport has multiple “pet relief areas” inside security and is ranked the most pet-friendly airport in the U.S.—a game-changer for anyone flying with pets.
7. Banff, Alberta, Canada
Why it’s on the list: Majestic mountain trails, glacier lakes, and truly dog-obsessed hospitality.
Big Dog Policy: Most hiking trails and gondolas (including the Banff Gondola) welcome large, leashed dogs—no weight restriction.
Small Dog Perks: Small dogs ride free on Roam transit buses if in a bag or on your lap.
Travel Nuance: National parks require leashes everywhere and wildlife encounters are possible, so recall training matters!
Standout Fact: Several luxury hotels (Fairmont Banff Springs, Rimrock) offer dog beds, treats, and dog-sitting—regardless of size. Banff is a dream for pet travel companies and anyone passionate about animal travel adventures.
6. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Why it’s on the list: Possibly the most dog-inclusive city in Europe, with dogs on trams, in cafés, and even in museums.
Big Dog Policy: Dutch law treats big dogs and small dogs equally—large breeds can ride public transit, dine on most terraces, and are rarely refused.
Small Dog Perks: Small dogs can travel on your lap for free on almost all transport.
Travel Nuance: Dogs are welcome off-leash in most parks; leash rules only apply in city center.
Standout Fact: The world’s only dog-friendly canal cruise departs from Amsterdam’s Singel canal, complete with “puppuccino” stops. Whether you’re flying internationally with a dog or planning a European road trip, Amsterdam will never disappoint.
5. Portland, Oregon, USA
Why it’s on the list: America’s highest dog-park-per-capita, next-level breweries, and off-leash freedom.
Big Dog Policy: The city’s “no breed or size restriction” ethos is real. Hotels like Hotel Monaco welcome all breeds with open arms—no weight cap.
Small Dog Perks: Tiny dogs are often “VIPs” in boutique hotels and can join in-room dining.
Travel Nuance: Public transit (TriMet) requires dogs to be in carriers or muzzled, so plan ahead if you have a big pup.
Standout Fact: Portland’s Lucky Labrador Brewing Company was one of the first in the U.S. to allow dogs inside (and still does, if leashed). If animal travel means brewery stops and dog parks, this is your place.
4. Berlin, Germany
Why it’s on the list: An off-leash culture and citywide love for dogs of every size.
Big Dog Policy: Berlin has no city-wide breed or weight bans. Off-leash parks and beer gardens are everywhere.
Small Dog Perks: Most indoor restaurants allow lap dogs, and small breeds can ride public transit for free.
Travel Nuance: Hotels are open to all sizes, but always double-check if you have a “giant” breed (some chains have exceptions).
Standout Fact: Some S-Bahn train stations have “Hundetoiletten”—special dog restrooms. For those traveling the world with a dog, Berlin sets the bar high for comfort and ease.
3. Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Why it’s on the list: Urban hiking, dog beaches, and a climate that’s gentle on paws.
Big Dog Policy: Off-leash zones in Stanley Park and Kitsilano Beach accept all dogs, no size restrictions.
Small Dog Perks: Many ferries and water taxis accept small dogs in carriers, even during rush hour.
Travel Nuance: Some high-rise hotels have breed or weight limits, so always confirm at booking.
Standout Fact: Vancouver hosts the annual “Pet-A-Palooza”—Canada’s largest outdoor dog festival. This city was made for animal travel and bucket-list pet vacations.
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, USA
Why it’s on the list: Widely considered the most dog-friendly town in America, where “no dogs allowed” is practically a crime.
Big Dog Policy: Carmel Beach is off-leash for all dogs—no matter the size. Most inns have no weight/breed limits.
Small Dog Perks: Shops and art galleries routinely put out treats and water for pups; many have “small dog in bag? come on in” signs.
Travel Nuance: Restaurants welcome dogs on nearly every patio, and some even offer canine menus.
Standout Fact: Cypress Inn, co-owned by Doris Day, is legendary for its dog-loving staff—expect a treat at check-in. Carmel is where every pet travel company should send clients for that “storybook” experience.
1. Zurich, Switzerland
Why it’s the best: Here, “dog-friendly” means “dog is a guest.” Dogs dine inside restaurants, ride trains, and can even swim in lakes alongside you.
Big Dog Policy: Swiss regulations are among the world’s most tolerant. All breeds and sizes are accepted on public transport, in hotels, and in parks.
Small Dog Perks: Many hotels offer “dog welcome packages” (beds, bowls, treats) at check-in, especially for small breeds.
Travel Nuance: There are “doggy tickets” for trains (half fare for all dogs, no size restriction). Zurich even has a dog-park beach right in the city center.
Standout Fact: Switzerland’s animal welfare laws are the gold standard—hotels and restaurants are fined for denying entry to well-behaved dogs without valid reason. If you’re flying internationally with your dog, Zurich is the gold standard for animal travel.
Conclusion
There’s a reason every Kruiz trip starts with the question: How will your dog remember this? Because the magic isn’t just the destination—it’s the memory you co-create along the way, the tail wags at sunset, the messy car rides, the impromptu meetups with locals who get it.
Whether you’re flying with pets domestically, flying internationally with your dog, or seeking the guidance of a pet travel company to start traveling the world with a dog, these destinations are more than animal travel—they’re memory-makers for both of you.
So this summer, don’t just travel “dog-friendly.” Travel where your dog—and your heart—will feel fully welcome. Let your next adventure be the one your dog never forgets. And when you catch that nose pressed up to the window again, you’ll know you picked right.
Ready for your next memory? Let’s Kruiz. Try our app today available in iOS or Android.