Top 10 cities for dogs

Fri, 17 May 2013 16:11:06 +0000

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Methodology

Estately measured the quality of dog living in each metropolis with a little science, a little meteorology, and some basic canine love. “We scoured the country, factoring in weather, Walk Score, yard size, dog activities, Meetup groups, and the availability of dog sitters onRover.com. After a lot of debate we settled on these 17 urban dog paradises.”

More on the top 10 picks

1. Portland, OR

The Rose City boasts 33 dog parks, “the most per capita of any large city in the United States.” Dogs can also enjoy 19 pet massage therapists while owners enjoy a personal social network for dog lovers. Together they can drink and dine at Tin Shed Garden Café(with a dog and person menu) the Kibbles-N-Bits breakfast at Lucky Labrador Brew Pub or dog snack plate at the Pied Cow. And, according to Estately’s real estate listings, the average lot size is a spacious 8,283 square feet. Plenty of room for yards and bounding four legged family members.

2. San Diego

Sunny days in the surf: what dog wouldn’t be in heaven? This city also offers and dining on dog-friendly patios. San Diego also hosts the National Dog Party Day, the Surf Dog Surf-A-Thon and “is moving to ban the sale of pets bred in commercial breeding facilities.

3. Seattle, WA

In a tribute to fairness, Estately (based in Seattle) puts the Emerald City in 3rd place. Yes, it rains a lot, but like SF, Seattle still hosts more dogs than children in its limits. And, “unlike in many other cities, dogs are welcome on Seattle’s bus lines, ferries, light rail, and even local seaplanes.” Owners and pets alike enjoy 32 different Meetup groups for dog lovers, as well as dog-friendly businesses like BARK! espresso, and Scraps Dog Bakery.

4. Austin, TX

For the dog who loves good food like Bow-Wow Chow, a food truck specifically for dogs, and discovering bands at South by Southwest, Austin offers 11 dog parks, lots of water for cavorting, pet boutiques, health food stores for Fido, and more than 35 pet photographers. “Austin is home to Kramer the Austin Famous Rock Dog, the Easter Pet Parade Costume Contest, the Austin Dog Fair, and many more dog celebrations.

5. San Francisco, CA

San Francisco has 27 dog parks, the third most of any city in the U.S. with 27, and Walk Score has it ranked second nationally for walkability for ambling with your pet. Perhaps the destination is the beach, or a dog-friendly bar like The Stray Bar, a restaurant with welcoming patio, or one of our dog-friendly gyms .

6. Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque boasts 33,000 acres of public parks, “about a 1/4 acre for every dog, cat and bird!” Not a lot of rain here, so plenty of chances be outdoors too.The Mayor’s Dog Ball is held annually to raise money in support of a spaying and neutering program.

7. Tucson, AZ

Sunny up to 350 days of the year, this city rarely rains out dog walks. Tucson offers lots of doggy patios for drinks and chow together, and hosts an annual Pitbulooza in honor of National Pit Bull Awareness Day. Part of the city’s tourism propaganda includes this tidbit: “The pampered pooch can even enjoy a spa treatment or shopping spree at one of numerous pet boutiques.”

8. Boston, MA

Despite having few off-leash dog parks, Boston is a leafy green city on a river and harbor, so lots of doggy fun can be had. “Boston is home to the first subway built in America and dogs are allowed to ride it during off-peak hours. Additionally, there are cruises of Boston Harbor that include time for dogs to play pirate and explore an uninhabited island.” Owners and pets alike enjoy the Liberty Hotel hosts a weekly “Yappier Hour,” a happy hour with food and drinks for both people and their four-legged friends.”

According to this Block Avenue article, Boston neighborhoods with high numbers of pet dogs can be a sign of high home ownership.

9. Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix is home to many retirees with time to spend with their canine companions. According to Estately’s real estate listings, the average lot size is a spacious 8,977 square feet (plenty of room for pets) and this is warm, dry climate for dig life outdoors as well. Cool side note: The Arizona Diamondbacks let you to take your dog out to the ballgame with their annual Bark in the Park event.

10. Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis is a pooch-positive culture, with dog-friendly restaurants, parks and hiking trails.” The downside is harsh winters can leave dogs trapped inside for long stretches, but when the sun is out there are fun activities like the Canine Carnival, various breed-specific Meetups, and Beer With Your Buddy—the opportunity to drink a brew at the pub while your four-legged pal socializes.”

Article source: http://blog.sfgate.com/ontheblock/2013/05/17/top-10-cities-for-dogs/

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Top 10 cities for dogs