Dog-friendly Reno, NV: Things to see & do with a dog

Whether you’re house sitting as a pet sitter in Reno or you’re lucky enough to be a local with a pup of your own, we’re about to dive into everything you need to know about pet-friendly Reno. Known as The Biggest Little City in the World, Reno’s packed with dog-friendly restaurants, bars, walking trails, and activities that make exploring with your four-legged furry a walk in the park. Here’s the ultimate guide to dog-friendly Reno…

Dog-friendly restaurants in Reno

There are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants and patios in Reno to choose from – here are some local favorites where you and your four-legged friend will feel right at home. 

Wild River Grille

Set inside the historic Riverside Hotel, Wild River Grille serves lunch and dinner daily. Pooch pals are welcome on the patio overlooking the Truckee River, where they can enjoy iced water and even a plain patty. House specialties for humans include meatloaf, braised short ribs, and wild mushroom ravioli.

Location: 17 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501

Noble Pie Parlor

Famous for their wings and East Coast–style oven-fired pizzas, Noble Pie Parlor is ideal for a casual bite to eat. Choose a slice or a whole pie and settle in at one of the shaded outdoor picnic tables with your pup by your side.

Location: 777 S Center St #100, Reno, NV 89501

Süp

The shaded dog-friendly patio of Süp is a popular spot for a light lunch or early dinner. You can expect to see salads, sandwiches, and a soup menu that varies from day to day.

Location: 669 S Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501

Yosh’s Unique Deli

Here, you’ll find a comfortable outdoor area with plenty of space for pups and their humans. The team experiments with a new sandwich, salad, and bread each week, so you’ll never get bored!

Location: 85 Foothill Rd Ste 4, Reno, NV 89511

Taco Shop

Tucked away in a speakeasy-style setting, Taco Shop serves Mexican fare like fish tacos, carne asada, and their signature green salsa. The cute patio is dog-friendly and a great spot to enjoy quality food at reasonable prices.

Location: 811 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501

Great Full Gardens – Midtown

Health-conscious diners will love the wide selection of vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, Paleo, and Keto options here. Pups can slurp water on the patio while you enjoy everything from fresh bowls of greens to wild-caught seafood dishes.

Location: 555 S Virginia St #107, Reno, NV 89501

The Fox Restaurant & Brewery

With a rooftop patio that welcomes dogs, The Fox is the place for classic pub fare with a view. Burgers, wings, and pizzas are menu staples, but don’t skip sweet treats like the fudge brownie sundae and the fruit cobbler.

Location: 124 Wonder St, Reno, NV 89502

PJ & Company

Open from morning until late Monday through Saturday (closing early on Sundays), come to PJ & Company for a huge menu of diner-style dishes. The setting is informal and friendly, and the dog-friendly patio means pups can join too!

Location: 1590 S Wells Ave, Reno, NV 89502

Walden’s Coffeehouse

This cozy cafe serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch alongside coffee made from organic, locally roasted beans. The warm, welcoming atmosphere makes the quality ingredients taste even better, and with a dog-friendly outdoor area, well, you just can’t say no!

Location: 1170 S Wells Ave, Reno, NV 89519

Dog parks in Reno, Nevada

After a good meal, your pup’s probably ready to stretch their legs and let loose. Reno has a handful of dog parks where pups can run, play, and make new friends off-leash – here are some top spots to check out.

Rancho San Rafael Off-Leash Dog Park

Located inside one of Reno’s biggest parks, Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, this designated doggy area is ideal for pups who need to let off steam. It’s essentially a wide open field; just note that the area isn’t fully fenced.

Location: 2398 Coleman Dr, Reno, NV 89503

Link Piazzo Dog Park

Small and large fenced areas make it easy for pups to play safely with others their size. The mix of grassy and desert-like terrain adds variety, and the surrounding area is perfect if you want to continue your outing on nearby trails.

Location: 4740 Parkway Dr, Reno, NV 89502

Virginia Lake Dog Park

Located right next to Virginia Lake Park, this scenic dog park has room to play off-leash and a few bits of agility equipment for extra fun or training. Afterward, leash up and enjoy the mile-long dog-friendly trail that circles the lake.

Location: 102 Mountain View Dr, Reno, NV 89509

Biggest Little Dog Park

Right in the heart of the city, this Reno dog park is small but practical. It has two separate areas for pups, a double-gated entrance for safety, and handy extras like doggy bags and water fountains.

Location: 301 N Virginia St, Reno, NV 89501

North Valleys Off Leash Dog Field

This spacious, fenced field has plenty of flat, grassy room for furry friends to run and mingle.  The nearby trailhead is ideal for those wanting to explore further afield.

Location: 8315 Wise Ave, Reno, NV 89506

Best places for dog walking in Reno

Reno is full of gorgeous scenery, and luckily, furry friends are welcome to join on leash in many of the most beautiful areas. Here are the best places to hike in Reno, NV, all with your leashed pooch pal in tow.

Mayberry Park, Reno, NV

Trails along the Truckee River range from easy to moderate, making it accessible for people and pups of all levels. Parking is free, but facilities are limited, so come prepared with water and snacks.

Location: 101 Woodland Ave, Reno, NV 89523

Bartley Ranch Regional Park, Reno, Nevada

Gentle trails wind through open fields and past historic buildings in this peaceful park. There are plenty of picnic areas if you want to stop for lunch and enjoy the surroundings.

Location: 6000 Bartley Ranch Rd, Reno, NV 89511

Hidden Valley Regional Park

Start with some off-leash fun at Link Piazzo Dog Park, then head out on the rugged trails for a more challenging hike. 

Location: 4740 Parkway Dr, Reno, NV 89502

Idlewild Park

This well-kept neighborhood park has shady trails, river access, and lots of relaxing green spaces. The paths are shared with other dog walkers and bikers, so keeping your pup leashed is a must.

Location: 2055 Idlewild Dr, Reno, NV 89509

Hunter Creek Trail

This moderately challenging hike is around seven miles in total. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of Reno and the surrounding mountains and forest, and you’ll be rewarded with a waterfall at the end. The climb is uphill and offers little shade, so bring extra water for both you and your pup.

Location: Reno, NV 89519

Sparks Marina Park

The paved, two-mile loop circles the lake where you’ll see people fishing, paddleboarding, or sailing. One section of the marina is fenced for dogs to play off-leash, with grassy areas and water access for a cooling dip. 

Location: 300 Howard Dr, Sparks, NV 89434

Tunnel Creek Trailhead

A short drive from Reno,  this 3.3-mile trail leads to Monkey Rock, a boulder that looks uncannily like a gorilla. From there, you can continue onto the Tahoe Rim Trail or Flume Trail for even more adventure.

Location: 1102 Tahoe Blvd, Incline Village, NV 89451

Mt. Rose Trail

For stunning views of alpine scenery, take the Mt. Rose Trail. It’s a relatively gentle 4.5 miles each way, but the incline does get steeper on the second half. You and your pooch will find water along the way to cool off in.

Location: 24705 Mt Rose Hwy, Reno, NV 89511

Dog-friendly bars in Reno

The best bar is the one your furry friend can join you at! These bars, pubs, and breweries welcome four-legged fluffs on their outdoor patios, and some even inside!

Pignic Pub & Patio

Here, four-legged friends are welcome not just outside, but inside too! The menu is full of shareable plates, sandwiches, and burgers, and behind the bar, you’ll find a mix of draft beers, cocktails, and happy hour deals. There are also plenty of screens for game day!

Location: 235 Flint St, Reno, NV 89501

Brasserie Saint James

Set in the historic Crystal Springs ice and water building, this brewpub has a dog-friendly outdoor seating area. Enjoy a seasonal rotation of draft beers, or sip on bourbon, wine, or cocktails while you dig into rustic pub food.

Location: 901 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501 

Prost Biergarten

This German beer garden has an open pet-friendly patio and a solid lineup of German and Belgian beers. Pair your pint with authentic bites like schnitzel, wurst sausages, and giant pretzels for the full experience.

Location: 180 W Peckham Ln #1070, Reno, NV 89502

The Eddy

You’ll find plenty to see and do at this community space, which welcomes pups and kids during the day. There’s local art, yard games, live music, free fitness classes, and more to keep you busy! You can enjoy drinks from three different bars, and with 24 craft beers on tap, 10 fine wines on tap, and plenty of handcrafted cocktails, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Bring your own food or grab a bite from the rotating food trucks.

Location: 16 S Sierra St., Reno, NV 89501

Sierra Tap House

Voted 1 of the 5 best tap houses in Reno, this watering hole is found on the banks of the Truckee River. Its sunny dog-friendly terrace is perfect for sinking beer from the tap, and with board games, shuffleboard, and regular event nights, you definitely won’t be bored here!

Location: 253 W 1st St, Reno, NV 89501

Alibi Ale Works – Truckee Public House

This Truckee-based brewery crafts its beers using fresh Lake Tahoe water, with an upscale food menu designed to complement the drinks. Pooch pals are welcome on the shaded patio, where water bowls are always waiting. 

Location: 10069 Bridge St, Truckee, CA 96161

Dog-friendly places in Reno

Looking for more dog-friendly things to do in Reno? Here are a few ideas!

Spend the day at Lake Tahoe

You’ll find plenty of outdoor dog-friendly activities at Lake Tahoe, including trails and dog-friendly beaches. If you’re up for a challenge, take on the 10-mile Mount Tallac hike, or opt for the Van Sickle Trail if you’d rather something more lowkey. Refuel on the dog-friendly patio at The Getaway Cafe before heading to Kiva Beach or Zephyr Cove Park, where dogs can splash and swim.

Mt Tallac Trailhead: South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

The Getaway Cafe: 3140 US-50, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Zephyr Cove Park: 233 Warrior Way, Glenbrook, NV 89413

Get out on the water

Two great spots to try paddleboarding or kayaking with your pup are Sparks Marina Park and the calmer areas of Lake Tahoe. Wherever you go, don’t forget a pup-sized life jacket to keep them safe on the water.

Location: 300 Howard Dr, Sparks, NV 89434

Have some fun in the snow

If you and your four-legged furry like cold weather, the snowy mountains open up a whole new world of playtime. Pups are permitted on leash in Tahoe National Forest, they’re free to romp and play in the fresh powder.

Location: Nevada City, CA 95959

Visit Virginia City

Step back in time with a visit to this historic mining town about 40 minutes from Reno. Stroll the wooden boardwalks, explore Victorian-era buildings (some with haunting reputations!), and pop into the dog-friendly shops together.

Location: Virginia City, NV 89440

Tips for pet parents in Reno

• Be mindful of wildlife. Reno’s close to the mountains, so coyotes, snakes, and even the occasional bear aren’t uncommon. Keep dogs on leash in rural areas and stay alert on hikes.
• Use Reno dog parks wisely. Popular spots like Rancho San Rafael and Virginia Lake get busy during peak times. Visit during the early hours if your pup prefers smaller crowds.
• Plan ahead for your next getaway. Life with a pup in Reno is full of adventures, but what happens when it’s time for vacation? Since vets agree that pets are happiest at home, why not find a trusted in-home pet sitter to look after them in their favorite place while you’re away? Click below to find out more.

Tips for pet sitters in Reno

• Watch the summer heat. Reno summers can get hot, especially on paved surfaces. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid burned paws, and always carry water when you’re out and about.
• Don’t miss a trip to Lake Tahoe. Many trails and beaches at Lake Tahoe are dog-friendly – Kiva Beach and Zephyr Cove are our top picks. 
• Explore Reno through house sitting. How does discovering “The Biggest Little City in the World” with a furry companion by your side sound? House sitting in Reno is a great way to explore everything the city has to offer, all while caring for a pet who’ll be excited to join on your adventures. Click below to find out how to start your Reno house sitting journey.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Reno, NV

Thinking about house sitting in Reno, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• Dog-friendly guide to Sacramento: Things to do in Sacramento with a dog
• Dog-friendly Santa Cruz: Things to do in Santa Cruz with a dog
• Dog-friendly San Jose: Things to do in San Jose with a dog
• Dog-friendly Berkeley CA: things to do in the city
• Dog-friendly Oakland: things to do in Oakland with a dog