Best Dog-Friendly Downtown Dallas Locations

Every dog owner knows it’s Rover’s world and we’re just living in it. This couldn’t be truer in Dallas, where a good number of establishments have opened their doors to man’s (and woman’s) best friend. And those pet-owners looking for things to do certainly can make a day of it in Downtown — or make that Dog-town — Dallas.

If you’re out for a walk in Downtown’s Arts District, make time for My Best Friend’s Park. This dog-friendly area is nestled within Klyde Warren Park, meaning you and your loyal buddy can cool off in the fountains and then head over to the food truck area to share a taco. Looking to show off your dog’s agility — and burn off some extra canine energy? Sniff out the fun obstacle course at Main Street Garden’s Dog Run.

To fit in even more fitness with Fido, head over to Deep Ellum’s Bark Park. Located on Canton Street between Cesar Chavez Boulevard and Good Latimer Expressway, the Bark Park allows for off-leash romping. It also features plenty of shade, watering stations and even dog showers. Be sure to take in the dog-inspired public art with your visit.

However, if your dog’s prime walking days are behind him or her, worry not. Dogs are welcome onboard the vintage McKinney Avenue Trolley and can ride in style. MATA connects walkable portions of Uptown (home to chic boutiques, 5-star restaurants and some of the best theater troupes in the city) with the Arts District, itself a gateway to Downtown Dallas destinations of interest.

Off the Trolley line and back in Deep Ellum, you’ll find Urban Paws, a doggy pampering, daycare and “pet retreat” located at 2526 Elm Street. Townhouses with raised beds and views of Downtown Dallas’ skyline? We’re envious. And we haven’t even talked about the shampoo options yet!

If it’s emergency pet supplies you’re looking for, head over to Downtown Pawz at 1623 Main Street (Suite 106). They offer an extensive selection of natural foods, accessories and grooming products. You can even drop your quadruped companion off for a 20-minute walk with one of their professional leash-handlers.

What about dog-friendly eateries? Perhaps it should come as no surprise that Downtown’s Cane Rosso (2612 Commerce Street) is happy to fill your dog’s water dish. This Neapolitan-style pizza kitchen’s name translates as “red dog.” In fact, owner Jay Jerrier is such a dog lover that he’s started Cane Rosso Rescue, an organization that helps dogs find good homes.

At the historic West End’s chef-owned Y.O. Ranch Steakhouse, diners can expect craft cocktails, cut-to-order steaks, fresh fish… and for Fluffy to be begging for a scrap. Brunch fans should also make it a point to take a Sunday stroll over to the Dallas Farmers Market. The Shed and Market patios are dog-friendly spaces. For the purebred, the patio at Mercat Bistro (2501 North Harwood Street) offers a slightly more upscale dining experience. And, no, fur attire does not violate the Bistro’s dress code.

Finally, Lee Harvey’s is a stalwart of The Cedars neighborhood just south of Downtown. It’s known as much for its classic watering hole aesthetic (think beadboard paneling, vinyl booths and vintage neon beer signs) as it is for its huge gravel-covered patio and custom-welded chimineas. It’s also somewhere your dog is more than welcome to join you as your relax with a bottle of suds — and maybe even a burger, too.

What spots in Downtown Dallas really get your dog’s tail to wagging? From the Civic Center to Victory Park, what urban pet-friendly activities do you enjoy here in Dallas? Keep the conversation going by following us on Twitter or liking us on Facebook.