Dog-Friendly Santa Rosa, CA: Things To Do In Santa Rosa With a Dog

Nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, dog-friendly Santa Rosa is the ulti-mutt playground for pups and their people. In this guide, we’ll share some of the best dog-friendly places in town, from open green spaces to drool-worthy foodie spots.

Plus, if you’re hunting for house sitting gigs or a dependable Santa Rosa pet sitter, we’ll provide some tips for that later.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Santa Rosa

Who says date night can’t include your dog? The only thing better than the food in Santa Rosa is the fact that your pup gets to join – these dog-friendly restaurants are the real bone-appétit deal.

The Spinster Sisters

This community-oriented restaurant has a spacious, dog-friendly garden which offers plenty of space for furry friends to settle in while you enjoy a rotating lineup of fresh salads, seafood, and specials.

Location: 401 S A St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States

Bird & The Bottle

Run by James Beard Award semifinalists, Bird & The Bottle serves flavors from Asia, the American South, and the East Coast, alongside Jewish comfort food. The dog-friendly patio is a great spot to unwind just east of downtown – just follow their pet rules to help keep the space enjoyable for all.

Location: 1055 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

Monti’s

Located in Montgomery Village Shopping Center, Monti’s serves Mediterranean-inspired fare, including seafood, pasta, and wood-fired pizzas. The patios are covered and dog-friendly, with heaters for year-round dining.

Location: 714 Village Ct, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, United States

Crepevine

Crepevine is a casual, family-run spot with a menu full of fresh, house-made dishes – from sandwiches and pastas to sweet and savory crepes. Ingredients are locally sourced wherever possible, and furry friends are welcome outside.

Location: 740 Farmers Ln, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, United States

Santa Rosa nature

Dog-friendly hikes in Santa Rosa

These dog-friendly trails in Santa Rosa offer everything from shady creek paths to hill climbs in state parks – just make sure to keep your furry friend on the leash where necessary.

Spring Lake Regional Park Loop

Spring Lake Park has 9.7 miles of trails to explore, but the 2.3-mile loop around the lake is especially popular. You’ll find wildlife, shaded picnic areas, and plenty of other dog walkers, joggers, and cyclists enjoying the park. Check out the Water Bark events, when furry friends are free to swim in the lagoon outside the summer swimming season.

Length: 2.3 miles

Location: 5585 Newanga Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, United States

Taylor Mountain Regional Park

This 1,100-acre preserve features well-maintained trails with a mix of gradual inclines and steeper uphills. Since cattle graze freely in the area, four-pawed pals must be kept on a leash.

Length: Varies

Location: 2080 Kawana Terrace, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail

This peaceful, mostly flat trail winds through grasslands dotted with oaks and eucalyptus trees. On clear days, you might spot Mount Saint Helena in the distance. Pooch pals are welcome on most of the trail, except for the pedestrian-only section.

Length: 1.8 miles

Location: 6303 CA-12, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, United States

Nagasawa Park

This quiet neighborhood park is named after Kanaye Nagasawa, a pioneering Japanese winemaker. Benches overlook the lake, and there are a couple of short, dog-friendly trails.

Length: Short

Location: 1313 Fountaingrove Pkwy, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, United States

Brush Creek Trail

This local trail follows the waterway through quiet neighborhoods and natural spaces. It starts out gently but includes a few steeper, rocky sections that may require a bit of scrambling – best suited for active pups and humans.

Length: 2.8 miles

Location: 2990 Yulupa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA

Dog parks in Santa Rosa

If your pup’s been itching to ditch the leash and go full zoomie mode, this section’s for you. Santa Rosa is dotted with off-leash dog parks where fetch fanatics and scent aficionados can be their truest furry selves.

Rincon Valley Community Dog Park

This dog park has separate zones for small and large pups, along with a wood-chip mound for climbing and exploring. Shady oak trees, picnic benches, restrooms, and a small pond make it a great spot for pooch pals and their people.

Location: 5108 Badger Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, United States

Coffey Park Dog Park

This fenced dog park has a friendly group of regulars. While shade is limited, it’s a popular place to meet other local pet parents, featuring open fields, walking areas, and a playground.

Location: Dogwood Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, United States

Roberts Lake

Also known as the Rohnert Bark Off-Leash Dog Park, this area has two separate enclosures for big and small dogs. It’s clean and well-used, though foxtails can appear in the warmer months – something to watch for during your visit.

Location: 5010 Roberts Lake Rd, Rohnert Park, CA 94928, United States

Galvin Community Park Off-Leash Area

You’ll find this small designated doggy area just past the tennis courts, complete with water fountains, a well-stocked dog waste station, shaded seating, and clean, grassy turf.

Location: 3330 Yulupa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, United States

Doyle Dog Park

With wide-open space for fetch and separate areas for small and large dogs, Doyle Dog Park is great for social pups. A friendly crowd gathers most afternoons, making it a nice spot to connect with locals.

Location: 700 Doyle Park Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95405, United States

Dog-friendly cafes in Santa Rosa

Mornings are ruff without coffee, but the good news is you can head to one of these Santa Rosa cafes with your pooch in tow.

Grossman’s Noshery & Bar

This casual New York-style deli serves brunch classics along with dumplings (perfect with a shot of frozen vodka), caviar, soups, and salads. The outdoor picnic tables are particularly popular on weekends – get there early to grab a seat with your pup!

Location: 308 Wilson St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States

Jeffrey’s Hillside Cafe

Serving breakfast and lunch every day from 8 am until 1:30 pm, you can enjoy eggs, pancakes, hash, sandwiches, and more on the small, dog-friendly patio.

Location: 2901 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, United States

Dierk’s Parkside Cafe

Dierk’s is often full of locals – and for good reason – it has an old-school breakfast and lunch menu and a dog-friendly terrace! Expect fair prices and classics like corn-beef hash, biscuits and gravy, and fluffy pancakes.

Location: 404 Santa Rosa Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

Brew Coffee and Beer House

Brew feels like stepping into someone’s living room – it’s laid-back, friendly, and full of character. The dog-friendly patio is covered, heated, and a good size, and locals love the avocado toast and breakfast sandwich.

Location: 555 Healdsburg Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States

Criminal Baking Company

Known for its creative baked goodies (including gluten-free and vegan options), Criminal Baking Co. earns praise from pet parents thanks to its relaxed backyard-style patio, where pups are welcome to lounge while you enjoy your meal.

Location: 808 Donahue St, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States

Dog-friendly bars in Santa Rosa

There’s nothing like sipping on something with your four-legged friend beside you. These Santa Rosa bars and breweries make sure happy hour is extra happy, with pup-friendly outdoor seating, water bowls, and the occasional head scratch.

Russian River Brewing Company

One of the most iconic breweries in the region, Russian River Brewing is the birthplace of the legendary Pliny the Elder. The outdoor area is dog-friendly, and you can pair your pint with classic pub fare.

Location: 725 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

Willi’s Wine Bar

A Sonoma County favorite since 2002, Willi’s is known for its globally inspired small plates, curated local wine list, and expertly crafted cocktails. The best seat in the house is out on the dog-friendly patio.

Location: 1415 Town and Country Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

Cooperage Brewing Company

A rotating lineup of IPAs, stouts, and small-batch specialties is paired with food from visiting trucks. The outdoor beer garden is a great place to hang out with friends on two legs and four.

Location: 981 Airway Ct STE G, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, United States

Fogbelt Brewing Company

Settle in on the dog-friendly patio with a cold beer and a plate of something delicious – burgers, fries, and salads are all on the menu. Dogs get their own water bowls, and the atmosphere is casual and friendly.

Location: 1305 Cleveland Ave STE A, Santa Rosa, CA 95401, United States

Beer Baron Bar & Kitchen

This downtown bar is known for its craft cocktails, extensive beer selection, and impressive whisky offerings. Come here a little earlier than usual for happy hour, tasty bar bites, and dog-friendly seating outside.

Location: 614 4th St, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

A Santa Rosa vineyard

Dog-friendly wineries in Santa Rosa

As the largest city in Sonoma County – California’s wine country – Santa Rosa is home to a number of wineries that welcome both wine lovers and four-legged companions.

St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

Tucked at the base of Hood Mountain, this winery offers scenic outdoor tastings where dogs are welcome to join. The signature cabernet is a favorite, and sweeping views and a relaxed atmosphere will make you want to stay all afternoon.

Location: 100 Pythian Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95409, United States

Chateau St. Jean Winery

French-inspired architecture and beautiful grounds set the stage for a gorgeous afternoon of wine tasting, accompanied by a selection of cheese boards and sandwiches.

Location: 8555 Sonoma Hwy, Kenwood, CA 95452, United States

Bricoleur Vineyards

Tasting experiences take place in a renovated horse barn, which overlooks the vineyards, lake, and gardens. The friendly team will talk you through the history of the property while you enjoy a selection of wine and food pairings.

Location: 7394 Starr Rd, Windsor, CA 95492, United States

Moshin Vineyards

This small winery in nearby Healdsburg is dog-friendly both indoors and out. It’s relaxing and peaceful with friendly staff – ideal for a casual tasting experience away from the crowds.

Location: 10295 Westside Rd, Healdsburg, CA 95448, United States

Matanzas Creek Winery

The grounds here are filled with lavender and offer sweeping views of the valley. While furry friends aren’t allowed at special events, they’re welcome during regular visits.

Location: 6097 Bennett Valley Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95404, United States

Annual dog events in Santa Rosa

Santa Rosa hosts a handful of dog-friendly events throughout the year – some educational, some just for fun, and all focused on bringing the community (and their dogs) together.

Bilingual Dog Training at Andy Lopez Unity Park

These free training sessions are taught in both English and Spanish, and focus on positive reinforcement, clear communication, and lots of treats. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, making it a great place to build a stronger bond with your pup – no matter your experience level.

Cost: Free

Date and Time: Ongoing

Location: 3399 Moorland Ave, Santa Rosa, CA 95407, United States

Sonoma County Human Race Dog Walk

Part of the larger Human Race fundraising event, this dog walk welcomes participants and their pups to walk together in support of local nonprofits.

Cost: $28.74 for early bird registration, $50.14 on race day.

Date & time: 8am, May 10, 2025

Starting point: Old Courthouse Square, Santa Rosa, CA, USA

A vineyard in Santa Rosa

Tips for pet parents

Be aware of foxtails (spring-fall). Foxtails are common in Santa Rosa’s grassy areas, especially parks and trails. The barbed seed heads can lodge in dogs’ ears, paws, or noses and cause serious injury.
Pick up free dog waste bags from parks. Santa Rosa does a great job of stocking dog waste stations in public parks – just don’t forget to use them. Keeping spaces clean helps preserve access for everyone.
Plan ahead for trips away. What happens when it’s time for a getaway and your pup can’t tag along? Pets thrive at home – that’s why our sitters stay with pets in their very own home. Whether it’s a weekend wine tour or a more extended trip, you can rest easy knowing your four-legged family member is happy, safe, and belly-rubbed while you’re away.

Pet sitters in Santa Rosa

How it works

Tips for pet sitters

Check for ticks after outdoor adventures. Ticks are common in Sonoma County, especially in wooded areas and tall grass. Pet parents will likely be on top of tick preventatives, but always check your furry friend after hikes.
Check dog-friendly policies. While many restaurants, cafes, and wineries welcome pooch pals, always check their policy ahead of time (especially for indoor seating or tasting rooms). A quick call or website check can save a wasted trip.
Explore Santa Rosa through house sitting. House sitting in Santa Rosa is your chance to live like a local somewhere new while caring for a furry friend. Keep pets and their pawrents happy and stress-free while you explore an amazing city with a place to stay included.

House sitting in Santa Rosa