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With an abundance of parks, world-class restaurants, historical sites, and professional sports teams to boot, Atlanta is a city on the rise. Whether you’re new to the city or a longtime resident, there’s plenty to do with your dog at your side.
Soak up the sunshine and enjoy the mild winters in Piedmont Park, located right in the heart of Midtown and packed with walking trails and an off-leash dog park. Or take a walk on the BeltLine, a 22-mile walking and biking trail that unites the city’s neighborhoods. If you’re closer to Downtown, then Centennial Olympic Park, a 22-acre green space that celebrates the city’s rich Olympic history, is a must-visit with a leashed pup.
No car ride is complete without a stop at The Varsity, the world’s largest drive-in restaurant. The original location covers almost two city blocks and can accommodate about 800 diners at once, not including four-legged friends in the back seat. Don’t forget to grab a Coca-Cola while you’re there — the drink was invented in ATL!
Below, learn more about the city’s best restaurants, green spaces, and services that specialize in Southern canine hospitality.
Dog-Friendly Bars and Restaurants
Savor every moment of springtime sun on one of Atlanta’s many restaurants, cafes, and brewery patios with your dog at your side.
Bucket Shop Café
If you’re near Buckhead, a visit to Bucket Shop Café for a dog-friendly happy hour is a must. The dining spot offers a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy a meal with your furry friend on the outdoor patio. The menu features crowd-pleasers like Buffalo Chicken Dip, Fried Pickle Chips, and the famous Bucket Burger.
Park Tavern
For a slightly more touristy vibe, stop by Park Tavern (voted the best dog-friendly patio in ATL) after a visit to Piedmont Park.
Where to Dine and Drink with Your Pup
Best Groomers in Atlanta
You can always bathe and groom your pup at home—or you can take your dog to Perk-N-Pooch and enjoy a fancy coffee in a cozy chair while a professional groomer does all the work. If you’re looking for a stress-free environment that also provides daycare and boarding services, Pamper My Pet Grooming & Boarding is a perfect option. Drop your pup off in the morning for grooming and daycare and pick them up in the evening tired and clean. Easy peasy.
Where to Get Your Dog Groomed in Atlanta
Top Dog Parks in Atlanta
Atlanta has its dog parks, sure, but it also has ParkGrounds, a dog park-slash-cafe that serves all-day breakfast, and, Fetch Park & Ice House, an epic dog park-slash-bar. Entry to both locations does require some kind of purchase (ParkGrounds customers need to order something off the menu and Fetch Park offers a day pass or regular membership). But it’s well worth a small price to let your dog frolic around their canine compatriots, in the company of fellow pet parents, with snacks and beverages in hand.
Places to Let Your Pup Run Free
Atlanta-Area Veterinarians
It’s all fun and games until your pup needs to go to a vet. Fortunately, there are plenty of top-notch providers in the Atlanta area. Blue Pearl Pet Hospital Westside Atlanta provides 24/7 care every day of the year in case of emergencies, while East Atlanta Animal Clinic offers a wide range of services, including alternative treatments like acupuncture and pet-safe herbal therapies.
While Atlanta offers top-notch veterinary care, it must be noted that unexpected veterinary bills can add up quickly. Having dog insurance helps you can focus on your pup's health without worrying about the cost, providing peace of mind for pet parents in any situation.
5 Atlanta-Based Animal Shelters
Whether you’re looking to give back to local pets in the area or want to add another dog or cat to your clan, there are plenty of Atlanta shelters doing great work, and plenty of pets looking for new homes. Best Friends Lifesaving Center Atlanta has recently shifted to a foster-based program (versus a physical space) and works with local animal welfare organizations to help homeless pets find homes, while Furkids Animal Rescue & Shelters offers in-person volunteer programs for kids and adults of all ages.
Where to Find a New Best Friend or Help a Pet In Need
Dog-friendly events and festivals
Atlanta offers a variety of dog-friendly events and festivals throughout the year, where you and your furry friend can enjoy the city's vibrant culture together.
The Great Atlanta Dog Show
The Great Atlanta Dog Show is the perfect opportunity for your pup to shine. With categories like Sassy Senior and Magnificent Mix, this annual event lets dogs of all kinds show off their unique personalities. Plus, by participating, you’re supporting Transitions Pet Care, a nonprofit providing free pet care to owners facing major illnesses or recovering from surgery.
Upper Westside PupFest
The annual Upper Westside PupFest is a dog-friendly event featuring music, dog-friendly vendors, cooling stations, giveaways, and more. This annual event supports the Atlanta Humane Society through ticket sales, offering participants the chance to win prizes and gift cards. Even without a pup, attendees can enjoy plenty of photo opportunities and ways to contribute to a great cause.
Tips for dog owners in Atlanta
Caring for your dog in Atlanta comes with unique challenges, from the city’s climate to ensuring overall safety. Below are some key considerations to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.
Weather considerations
Atlanta’s hot summers and occasional winter chills require special attention to your dog’s well-being. During the hot summer months, provide your pup plenty of water, and avoid walks during peak heat to prevent serious health conditions like heatstroke.
In winter, consider protective gear like doggy sweaters or boots to keep your pup comfortable during cold-weather walks. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast, and plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
Health and safety tips
Protecting your dog's health and safety in a bustling city like Atlanta requires regular vet visits, flea and tick prevention, and being mindful of urban hazards like traffic and wildlife.
If you often walk your dog at night, it's important to take extra precautions to keep both of you safe. Consider using safety products like reflective gear and staying in well-lit areas—here are some helpful tips for walking your dog safely at night. Plus, always keep your dog on a leash and be aware of your surroundings to prevent accidents or attacks by stray animals.
Discovering Atlanta with your dog
Atlanta offers a wealth of dog-friendly spots, from vibrant parks and scenic trails to welcoming restaurants and events. Exploring the city with your furry friend can be incredibly rewarding for both of you.
As you and your dog embark on these adventures, remember that pet insurance can be a valuable safeguard, ensuring that unexpected health issues don’t disrupt your finances or your fun. (It's wisest to cover your pet while they’re young to avoid exclusions related to pre-existing conditions.) Having the right coverage can help keep your dog healthy and happy as you explore all that Atlanta has to offer.
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