Dog-Friendly Spots in NYC: A Guide for Families
New York City, often hailed as the city that never sleeps, is not just for its two-legged inhabitants. It’s a metropolis that opens its arms to our four-legged friends as well.
From spacious parks to pet-friendly cafes, the Big Apple boasts a plethora of places where your furry companions can roam, play and make new friends. Here are some of the most delightful dog-friendly spots the city has to offer.
Psst… Here’s what you need to know about the possible school bus strike.
Central Park: The Canine Oasis
Central Park isn’t just a green respite for New Yorkers. It’s a haven for dogs too. With 840 acres of grassy knolls, wooded paths and meandering trails, this iconic park offers a paradise for dogs of all shapes and sizes.
The Central Park Conservancy has designated several off-leash areas, such as the North Meadow and the Bernard Family Playground, where your pup can roam free and socialize with other dogs.
Prospect Park: Brooklyn’s Canine Playground
Venturing into Brooklyn, Prospect Park provides a dynamic and dog-friendly environment. The Long Meadow Dog Beach is a popular off-leash area where your canine companion can frolic in the water during designated hours.
Prospect Park is also known for hosting “Smorgasburg,” a dog-friendly food market where you and your pup can indulge in a variety of delectable treats every Sunday. Also check out the Kensington Dog Run at the Prospect Park Parade Ground.
Washington Square Park: Urban Canine Haven
Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is a magnet for dog owners seeking a vibrant urban setting. Dogs are welcome in most parts of the park, although they must be on a leash.
The park’s central canine attraction is the Washington Square Park Dog Run, which hosts one run for small dogs and another for larger dogs.
Dog-Friendly Dining: Treats for All
NYC’s culinary scene extends its welcome to dogs as well. Many cafes and eateries across the city have embraced dog-friendly policies, offering outdoor seating areas where your furry friend can join you.
Barking Dog Luncheonette on the Upper East Side is a prime example, serving up delicious brunch options for you while providing a special menu for your pup.
Likewise, in the Upper West Side, you can stop by the Black Lab Café for expresso cups and contented pups.
Dog-Friendly Stores: Retail Therapy Together
New York’s fashion-forward reputation extends to its pets, too. From high-end pet boutiques to quaint shops, there’s something for every stylish pup.
Check out the aisles of Canine Styles, a New York institution since 1959, offering everything from elegant collars to cozy sweaters. Biscuits & Bath, a high-end 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 navigate the city with your pet is on foot. NYC subways and buses recently imposed a rule that dogs “must be in a bag or other container and carried in a way that doesn’t annoy other riders.”
Though many New Yorkers have come up with clever ways around this rule, if your companion is too large to fit comfortably in a travel carrier, it’s a good idea to find alternative modes of transportation.
Additionally, the Staten Island Ferry offers a breathtaking view of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, and dogs are welcome to join the journey if they are muzzled.
Doggy Etiquette
While New York City welcomes dogs with open arms, a responsible pet owner should keep a few things in mind. Always adhere to leash laws, especially outside designated off-leash areas. Carry waste bags to clean up after your pup and be respectful of other park-goers and diners.
Additionally, ensure your dog’s vaccinations are up-to-date and that they are well-socialized to minimize any unwanted interactions.
