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Dog-Friendly Places in New York: A Guide for Families
New York City, often hailed as the city that never sleeps, isn’t just for its bipedal residents. It is a metropolis that also opens its arms to our four-legged friends.
From spacious parks to pet-friendly cafes, the Big Apple is full of places where your four-legged friends can wander, play, and make new friends. Here are some of the most dog-friendly places the city has to offer.
Psst… Here’s what you need to know about a possible school bus strike.
Central Park: the canine oasis
Central Park isn’t just a green respite for New Yorkers. It is also a shelter for dogs. With 840 acres of grassy hills, wooded trails, and winding trails, this iconic park offers a haven for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
THE Central Park Conservatory has designated several off-leash areas, such as North Meadow and Bernard Family Playground, where your pup can roam freely and socialize with other dogs.
Prospect Park: Brooklyn’s dog playground
Venturing into Brooklyn, Prospect Park offers a vibrant and dog-friendly environment. Long Meadow Dog Beach is a popular off-leash area where your canine companion can frolic in the water during designated times.
Prospect Park is also known for hosting “Smorgasburg”, a dog-friendly food market where you and your pup can indulge in a variety of delicious treats every Sunday. Also see the Kensington Dog Race at the Prospect Park Parade Ground.
Washington Square Park: urban dog shelter
Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park attracts dog owners looking for a vibrant urban setting. Dogs are welcome in most parts of the park, but they must be on a leash.
The central canine attraction of the park is the Washington Square Park Dog Play Areawhich hosts a race for small dogs and another for larger dogs.
Meals suitable for dogs: treats for everyone
New York’s culinary scene is also dog-friendly. Many of the city’s cafes and restaurants have adopted dog-friendly policies, offering outdoor seating areas where your four-legged friend can join you.
Lunch for a barking dog on the Upper East Side is a great example, bringing you delicious brunch options while also offering a special menu for your pup.
Likewise, on the Upper West Side, you can stop at Dark Lab Coffee for espresso cups and satisfied puppies.
Dog-Friendly Stores: Retail Therapy Together
New York’s fashion-forward reputation also extends to its pets. From high-end pet shops to quaint boutiques, there’s something for everyone.
Discover the aisles of Canine Stylesa New York institution since 1959, offering everything from stylish collars to cozy sweaters. Cookies & Bathpremium pet care retailer, offers a range of grooming and wellness products for your pup.
Dog-friendly transportation: exploring the city together
The easiest way to explore the city with your pet is to walk. New York subways and buses recently imposed a rule that dogs “must be in a bag or other container and carried in a manner that does not disturb other riders.”
Although many New Yorkers have imagined smart ways to get around this ruleIf your companion is too large to fit comfortably in a carrier, it’s a good idea to find alternative modes of transportation.
Plus, the Staten Island Ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, and dogs are welcome to join the journey if muzzled.
dog etiquette
While New York City welcomes dogs with open arms, a responsible pet owner should keep a few things in mind. Always obey leash laws, especially outside of designated off-leash areas. Carry waste bags to clean up after your pup and be respectful to other park visitors and guests.
Additionally, make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and that he is well socialized to minimize any unwanted interactions.