Dog-friendly Washington DC: Things to do in Washington with a dog
House sitting in Washington and wondering where to go with your furry friend? Or perhaps you’re a pet parent who’s already got a Washington pet sitter lined up, and you want to show them the best spots to explore with your four-pawed family member.
Either way, we’ve got you covered! Our guide to dog-friendly Washington is packed with everything you need to have a tail-waggingly good time — from scenic parks and fun activities to cafes and dog-friendly restaurants Washington has to offer.
Best dog parks in Washington
The best way to tire out your canine companion? Head to one of the top dog-friendly parks in the area.
Shirlington Dog Park
This beautiful off-leash park in Arlington features a stream for dogs to splash around in, plus hiking trails and seating areas for pup parents.
Location: 2710 S Oakland St, Arlington, VA 22206
Westgrove Dog Park
A hidden gem in Alexandria with huge open fields — ideal for pups who love to run free and enjoy endless games of fetch.
Location: 6801 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307
S Street Dog Park
A local favorite for pet parents in the city, this fully fenced urban dog park offers plenty of space for dogs to run and socialize.
Location: S Street Park, Washington, DC 20009
Shaw Dog Park
One of Washington DC’s most popular off-leash parks, featuring a double-gated entrance for safety, a separate small-dog area, and plenty of benches for rest breaks.
Location: 1673 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Benjamin Banneker Dog Park
This fenced-in park has it all — agility equipment, benches, picnic tables, running water, waste stations, and surrounding trails for dogs needing a break from socializing.
Location: 1700 N Sycamore St, Arlington, VA 22205
Congressional Cemetery Dog Park
For something unique: dogs can roam off-leash through this historic site filled with beautiful old headstones.
Location: 1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Newark Street Dog Park
A well-maintained Northwest DC park with separate areas for large and small dogs, plus shaded seating for pet parents.
Location: Newark St NW and 39th St NW, Washington, DC 20008
Matapeake Park Dog Beach
Looking for dog-friendly beaches? This clean, spacious dog beach is about an hour from downtown. It offers shade and shallow water perfect for practicing the doggy paddle.
Location: 1112 Romancoke Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666
Dog-friendly restaurants in Washington
Good grub is even better with a four-pawed pal by your side. Here are some top picks recommended by FurPetVo members on furpetvo.com.
The Coupe
Furry friends are welcomed with a bowl of water and treats on the dog-friendly patio. This American-style diner serves cocktails, milkshakes, breakfast burritos, salad bowls, fried chicken sandwiches, and steak frites.
Location: 3415 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010
Art and Soul
Located near Capitol Hill, this award-winning restaurant specializes in breakfast, brunch, and bar bites. It features a dog-friendly patio and even offers a special menu for canine guests.
Location: 415 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001
The Pembroke
Enjoy fresh salads, homemade pastas, and meat or fish dishes on the gorgeous patio of this French restaurant inside the Dupont Circle Hotel.
Location: 1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
Green Pig Bistro
Whether you stop by for brunch — think deviled eggs and shrimp & grits — or dinner — like short rib risotto or gnocchi with pork belly — the staff always makes time for your pup on the dog-friendly patio.
Location: 2900 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Fun dog-friendly activities in Washington
Once you’ve explored the parks and dined at pup-approved spots, here are more ways to make memories together.
National Mall
Stroll the dog-friendly grounds of this iconic landmark. Admire monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, then toss a ball for a game of fetch on the expansive lawns.
- Cost: Free
- Hours: Open daily
- Location: Washington, DC
Pedicab tour
Rest your legs and enjoy a custom sightseeing tour from the back of a pedicab — dogs ride along at no extra cost.
- Cost: Hour-long tours start at $175
- Hours: Daily, 9 am–10 pm
- Details: Free pickup from your location
Boating in DC
Go kayaking, canoeing, rowboating, or paddle-boarding with your pup — just be sure they wear a properly fitted dog life jacket for safety.
- Cost: Starts from $22
- Season: Available April–October
- Locations: Over 7 spots including Key Bridge, The Wharf, and Fletcher’s Cove
Best dog-friendly walking trails in Washington
When the dog park isn’t enough and you both need to stretch your legs, try one of these scenic, pup-approved hikes.
Rock Creek Trail
Rock Creek Park is a refreshing breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. With miles of scenic hiking trails, free parking, and plenty of spots for pups to splash in the creek, it’s a must-visit for active dog owners.
