According to the Insurance Information Institute, 68 percent of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet. So when looking for a place to live, pets often get equal consideration as the humans in the household. 

Scottsdale dog owners already have a great idea why their city won best in show from Wallethub as the most pet-friendly city in America. An abundance of services, plenty of green space, and quality veterinary care are just some of the reasons. With so many parks, businesses, and opportunities that cater to your pet, it’s hard to know where the most pet-friendly areas in this city might be. Neighborhoods.com has identified five reasons why Scottsdale is so doggy-friendly. 

Dog-Friendly Trails

Trail in the Phoenix / Scottsdale Area

There are abundant trails in and around Scottsdale for active owners and their pets. Sunrise Trail near the  Eagle Ridge neighborhood offers a great trek for experienced hikers and energetic pups. The trail totals four miles in length with a 1,100-foot elevation change and plenty of scenery to keep you and your pet entertained. Bring plenty of water as the trail is mostly uphill. Dogs must be leashed, but you’ll find a variety of active owners doing there best to keep up with their furry friends.

The Arizona Canal Trail is the best place for owners who like to run with their pets. The full length is 69.7 miles from the Southern Canal Path to the Skunk Creek Trail of Peoria. The section along Old Town and Whitwood neighborhoods also offer a variety of pet-friendly businesses where you can hop off the trail for a quick bite to eat. Be aware of speeding cyclists along the path, though most are cautious with the slower walking travelers.

Dog-Friendly Shopping

Have your dogs posed with Santa(?) for great holiday pictures at Dogs Etc.

Scottsdale residents do appreciate being able to shop with their pups, whether it’s for high-end luxury items or browsing through art galleries. 5th Avenue Shops and Boutiques near the Hidden Village neighborhood even has a specialty pet boutique called Dogs Etc., where you’ll find everything from gourmet treats to pet-themed gifts.

Dog-Friendly Patios

Dog awaits human scraps at outdoor patio

Witnessing someone enjoying a meal with their canine companion is no longer considered an anomaly these days, especially in Scottsdale where they’ve definitely loosened the collar on pet-friendly patios. Take a seat on the patio of Randy’s by the Chateau de Vie neighborhood, and your server will immediately bring out a fresh bowl of water for your pet. Family-owned for 30 years, the eatery serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with plenty of room between tables to allow multiple pets. The staff here are very friendly with your pets and will likely spend just as much time catering to them as they do you. 

Old Town has over 25 restaurants with pet-friendly patios willing to pamper your pooch. Many provide water and treats and only ask you keep them leashed. Cold Beer and Cheeseburgers was rated five bones on Bring Fido and provides plenty of Instagram-worthy opportunities to make your friends jealous of your handsome hound.

Dog-Friendly Parks

Friendly dog enjoying the Love statue in a Scottsdale park

You can’t consider a city dog-friendly without the presence of multiple dog parks. Vista del Camino Dog Park near the Mereway Manor and McDowell Parkway neighborhoods allows pets and their humans to enjoy off-leash time. This half-acre park provides water stations, shade trees, and benches. Dogs are also welcome in the larger park area with paved paths and a manmade lake.

For a larger park, head to Chaparral Park near the Laguna San Juan neighborhood, where four acres of grass, water fountains, and play features will entertain you and your pet for hours. Should you have a dog on the shy side you may want to avoid the “active” park and head to the “passive” park intended for smaller dogs and those not up for shenanigans. 

Dog-Friendly Hotels

Dog checks in to his suite / Courtesy of Fairmont Hotels

Scottsdale boasted an estimated 4.5 million overnight U.S. visitors and 4.3 million day trip visitors in 2016, so naturally, there are a variety of resorts, hotels, and lodges in town. While some pet owners don’t have the luxury of vacationing without the furriest member of their family, many pet owners prefer it. The luxury hotel Fairmont Scottsdale Princess near the Crown Point neighborhood features Posh Paws, an on-site pet program, as well as amenities like beds and serving bowls. The best part is their willingness to provide a pampered stay, with staff willing to walk your pooch as well as individualized cuisine to make your dog feel more at home.

La Quinta Inn & Suites near Paradise Park Trails is also a great location to spend the weekend with your pet. The rates are reasonable, and it offers all the much-needed amenities of a staycation, such as a resort-style pool, spa, and easy access to nearby attractions. Pets are very welcome, and it’s not unheard of to see pups lounging near their humans by the pool. The courtyard also welcomes dogs, and there’s no additional fee for staying with pets.