Pet-friendly Washington DC: Things to do, restaurants & more

Updated 27 Feb 2026

Live in the US capital with a furry friend, or thinking about house sitting and a pet sitter in Washington DC? You’re in the right place! Explore this ultimate guide to pet-friendly Washington DC to discover the dog-friendly restaurants DC has to offer, along with hikes, breweries, attractions, things to do and more.

Dog-friendly restaurants in DC

Good grub’s made even better with a four-pawed pal by your side, so check out these dog-friendly restaurants in Washington.

The Coupe

Furry friends are welcomed with a bowl of water and some treats on the dog-friendly patio of this American-style diner, which serves everything from cocktails to milkshakes, breakfast burritos to salad bowls, and fried chicken sandwiches to steak frites.

Location: 3415 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20010, United States

Art and Soul

Located near Capitol Hill, this award-winning restaurant specializes in breakfast, brunch, and bar bites, plus it’s got a dog-friendly patio and a special menu for pooch pals. 

Location: 415 New Jersey Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

The Pembroke

Dig into fresh salads, homemade pastas, and meat and fish dishes on the gorgeous patio of this French restaurant, located in the Dupont Circle Hotel.

Location: 1500 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

Green Pig Bistro

Whether you’re stopping by at brunch time for deviled eggs and shrimp & grits or you’re looking for a tasty short rib risotto and gnocchi with pork belly, the staff here have always got time for your four-pawed pal on the dog-friendly patio.

Location: 2900 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201, United States

Dog Daze

Dog Daze in Washington is more than a dog-friendly restaurant — it’s a canine social club where members can bring their pups along for off-leash fun at the outdoor area. Enjoy a coffee, sando, pizza or cocktails (or all four!) while your pup gets the chance to socialize with other dogs.

Location: 1100 Rhode Island Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

Martin's Tavern

In Georgetown you’ll find Martin’s Tavern — a classic DC dog-friendly restaurant where you can choose from hearty American comfort foods.

Location: 1264 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

Shaw's Tavern

In Shaw, you’ll find this dog-friendly restaurant where pups are welcome at the outdoor seating area. A locally-loved gastropub, this spot offers up hearty classics including meatloaf, shrimp and grits, and fried chicken.

Location: 520 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Founding Farmers

Take a walk along Pennsylvania Avenue and you’ll find Founding Farmers — a farm-to-table restaurant where dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area. 

Location: 1924 Pennsylvania Ave NW #3607, Washington, DC 20006, United States

The Pub & The People

If you love a dog-friendly gastropub, you won’t be short on places to dine in DC. Check out The Pub & The People for salads, sandwiches, risotto and more.

Location: 1648 North Capitol St NW, Washington, DC 20002, United States

Osteria Morini

Book a table at the outdoor seating area with your furry friend if you’re into Northern Italian cuisine. Osteria Morini will have you choosing from a menu of freshly-made pasta dishes and mouth-watering appetizers.

Location: 301 Water St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Tortino

And if you can’t get enough of Italian bites, check out Tortino, too. Choose from a Tuscan-inspired menu of seasonal risottos, fresh salads, house-made soups and hand-crafted pasta dishes.

Location: 1228 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Dog-friendly hikes in Washington, DC

When the dog park just isn’t cutting it and you both need to stretch your legs, it’s time to hit one of these dog-friendly hikes, Washington.

Rock Creek Trail

Rock Creek Park is a refreshing breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. With miles of scenic hiking trails to explore, free parking, and plenty of spots for pups to splash in the stream, it’s the perfect place to explore and unwind. 

Location: 1730 Juniper St NW, Washington, DC 20012, United States

Length: Varies

Mount Vernon Trail

One of the best dog-friendly walks in Washington, this picturesque trail runs along the Potomac River, stretching from historic Mount Vernon at one end to downtown Washington at the other.

Location: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy, Mount Vernon, VA 22121

Length: 18 miles each way

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve

There’s plenty to explore on the leash in this nature preserve, whether you and your canine companion stick to the trails or end up splashing through the water!

Location: 7400 VA-193, McLean, VA 22102, United States

Length: 336 acres of woodland to explore

Explore Theodore Roosevelt Island

Grab your leash, poop bags and sunscreen, and explore Theodore Roosevelt Island with your furry friend. It’s minutes away from downtown DC, offering a peaceful wooded escape complete with trails and riverwalks, perfect for a day out with your pup.

Location: Washington, DC, USA

Potomac Heritage Trail 

Just a 40-minute drive away from the city, the Potomac Heritage Trail is a multi-use hiking area, where dogs are welcome on a leash. Explore the spot to get out of the city’s hustle and bustle, and into nature.

Location: Cascades, VA 20165, USA

Capital Crescent Trail

Drive 20 minutes out of the city and you’ll come to Capital Crescent Trail — a moderate hike that follows a historic rail line, and a favorite among local dog walkers.

Location: 3500 K St NW, Washington, DC (Common starting point)

Great Falls Park

Keep your canine companion on a leash and drive just 30 minutes out of the city to explore Great Falls Park — a stunning area where you can hike to views of Potomac River waterfalls.

Location: 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102, United States

Shenandoah National Park

If you’re prepared to venture a little further afield, drive just over an hour to get to Shenandoah National Park, where dogs are welcome to explore on a leash. Dogs are allowed on nearly all of the park’s 480 miles of trails, but always check the signage. The park is home to stunning wooded hikes, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Skyline Drive.

Location: Virginia, United States

Fun dog-friendly activities in Washington, DC

If you’re looking for dog-friendly museums in Washington DC, keep in mind that dogs generally aren’t allowed inside buildings. With that said, there’s a whole lot you can do when it comes to cultural experiences with your pup — giving you a taste of local history with your furry friend by your side. Explore some of the dog-friendly activities Washington DC has to offer below.

National Mall

Stroll around the dog-friendly grounds of this historic landmark to admire monuments like the Lincoln Memorial before a game of fetch on the lawn.

Cost: Free

Date and time: Open daily

Location: Washington, DC, United States

National Arboretum

Established in 1927, DC’s National Arboretum is the perfect place for a scenic day out with your dog in the city. Keep your dog on a leash and explore the 451-acre grounds, keeping your eyes peeled for key attractions, including the National Capitol Columns, various gardens including Fern Valley, and the extensive trail system. 

Location: 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

Go on a pedicab tour

Rest your legs and enjoy a tailor-made tour of some of the most impressive sights from the back of a pedicab, which dogs are welcome on at no extra cost.

Cost: Hour-long tours start at $175

Date and time: Daily 9am-10pm

Location: Free pick up from your location

Boating in DC

Go kayaking, canoeing, rowboating or paddle-boarding with your pup pal, who’ll be in safe hands with a life jacket made specially for dogs.

Cost: Starts from $22

Date and time: Open seasonally from April-October

Location: Over 7 locations, including Key Bridge, the Wharf, and Fletcher’s Cove.

Dog-friendly breweries in Washington, DC 

Craving craft beer and wondering what DC is brewing up? No problem — there are a few breweries and taprooms in DC that welcome dogs. Just be sure to ask a staff member before finding a seat with your furry friend.

Other Half Brewing Washington DC

Other Half Brewing is one of the most popular breweries in DC, and dogs are welcome! Head to Ivy City in Northeast Washington for a draft beer or two, and watch the game with the company of your furry friend.

Location: 1401 Okie St NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

Right Proper Brewing Company

Since its beginnings as a neighborhood brewpub in 2013, Right Proper Brewing Company has become a favorite among Shaw’s locals. Stop by for housemade beer and an easygoing brunch and dinner menu.

Location: 624 T St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Lost Generation Brewing Company

Swing by Lost Generation Brewing Company if you’re in Shaw to try the eclectic beer menu — choose from hoppy lagers, sour beers, experimental stouts and more.

Location: 327 S St NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

Aslin Beer Company

If you find yourself thirsty in Logan Circle, stop by Aslin Beer Company — one of Washington DC’s dog-friendly breweries with housemade drafts, coffee, and an indulgent dinner menu of sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs and more.

Location: 1740 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

DC Brau

Head to DC Brau in the summer months when the dog-friendly outdoor tables are open to try award-winning beers that have been brewed with passion since 2011.

Location: 3178-B Bladensburg Rd NE, Washington, DC 20018, United States

Dog parks in Washington, DC

The best way to tire out your canine companion? Head to one of the best dog-friendly Washington parks, of course.

Shirlington Dog Park

This beautiful off-leash park in Arlington has a stream for dogs to splash around and play in, plus hiking trails and seating areas for pup parents.

Location: 2710 S Oakland St, Arlington, VA 22206, United States

Westgrove Dog Park

A hidden gem in Alexandria with huge open fields, this park is ideal for pooch pals who love to run free and enjoy endless games of fetch.

Location: 6801 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria, VA 22307, United States

S Street Dog Park

A local favorite for pet parents in the city, this fully fenced urban dog park offers plenty of space for pooch pals to run around and socialize.

Location: S Street Park, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Shaw Dog Park

This is one of Washington DC’s most popular off-leash parks, featuring a double-gated entrance for safety, a separate small dog area, and plenty of benches for pup parents to take a load off.

Location: 1673 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Benjamin Banneker Dog Park

This fenced-in dog park has it all – agility equipment, benches, picnic tables, running water, waste stations, and plenty of surrounding trails for furry friends who need a break from all the socializing.

Location: 1700 N Sycamore St, Arlington, VA 22205, United States

Congressional Cemetery Dog Park

Looking for something a bit different? Dogs can roam off-leash through this unique historic site, filled with beautiful old headstones.

Location: 1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Newark Street Dog Park

This well-maintained dog park in Northwest DC features separate areas for dogs big and small, and shaded seating for pet parents.

Location: Newark St NW and 39th St NW Washington, DC 20008, Washington, DC 20016, United States

Matapeake Park Dog Beach

If you’re looking for dog-friendly beaches, Washington locals have to drive a little way out of the city. This clean, spacious dog beach is around an hour from the city, and offers shade to relax in and shallow water for furry friends to test their doggy paddle. 

Location: 1112 Romancoke Rd, Stevensville, MD 21666, United States

Dog-friendly coffee shops in DC

You and your pup always deserve a treat, and luckily, Washington is packed with dog-friendly cafes where you can grab a coffee while your pooch pal relaxes by your side. Below find a few dog-friendly coffee shops in DC, and remember to always check with a member of staff before taking a seat with your furry friend.

Lost Dog Cafe - Alexandria

Grab a spot on the dog-friendly patio and enjoy a laid-back lunch with your pup – plus, this cafe raises money for dog and cat rescue charities. Good food, a great cause, and dog-friendly – it’s a total no-brainer.

Location: 808 N Henry St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Wine & Butter Cafe & Market

This deli-come-coffee-shop serves pastries, sandwiches, and pizzas, and offers plenty of people-watching and dog-spotting opportunities on the dog-friendly terrace.

Location: 1023 E Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Big Bear Cafe

A neighborhood favorite in Bloomingdale with a dog-friendly patio and locally sourced menu items, perfect for breakfast, lunch, and candlelit dinners.

Location: 1700 First St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

The Coffee Bar

Grab a seat at one of the outdoor tables at this popular coffee shop in DC for breakfast pastries, homemade granola — and of course the company of your furry companion.

Location: 1201 S St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Lulu's Cafe

This family-run cafe is rooted in the local community — it’s loved by locals for its fresh coffee and lovingly-made snacks.

Location: 1922 I St NW Floor 1, Washington, DC 20006, United States

Chez Lily

Stop by Chez Lily in the heart of Mount Vernon Triangle for a caffeine kick between dog walks! Furry friends are welcome — in fact, “Lily” is the name of the owner’s pup.

Location: 425 I St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

Soho Tea & Coffee

If you’re looking for a coffee shop that’s open late, stop by Soho Tea & Coffee which is open until 10 pm. Stop by for a coffee, sandwiches or a glass of wine, and take a seat at one of the eight outdoor tables with your furry friend.

Location: 2150 P St NW, Washington, DC 20037, United States

Brew on U

For a quaint coffee shop off the main street, check out Brew on U — alongside coffee, they’re loved by locals for their empanadas.

Location: 1931 13th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

Annual dog events in Washington, DC

Here are some of the must-attend dog events happening all year round in Washington DC.

Pups in the Park

This special event held at Nationals Park lets you bring your dog to enjoy a baseball game alongside fellow pet lovers, with all proceeds donated to the Humane Rescue Alliance.

Cost: $10 for pups and $35 for humans (2024)

Date and time: Select game days

Location: Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

Wiener 500 Dachshund Dash

Adorable Dachshunds race for the title of fastest pup in this annual Oktoberfest event. All furry friends are welcome to come and watch, but you’ve got to be a Dachshund to take part!

Cost: Free for spectators

Date and time: Every October

Location: 101 District Square SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

Kids and Family Festival at Shipgarten

Furry family members can join in the fun at these weekly themed festivals, which offer activities like face painting and live magic for kids and pup cups and kongs filled with peanut butter for pooch pals.

Cost: Free entry

Date and time: Various dates throughout the year

Location: 7581 Colshire Dr, McLean, VA 22102, United States

Dog-friendly bars in Washington, DC

Why leave your furry bestie at home when you could grab a drink together? Here are some of the best dog-friendly bars in Washington, where you can sip, snack, and socialize alongside pup pals.

The Wonderland Ballroom

Spend some time on the dog-friendly patio as you listen to local bands and DJs spinning their decks in this casual beer garden.

Location: 1101 Kenyon St NW, Washington, DC 20010, United States

Wet Dog Tavern

This is the place to be for pet parents, pup lovers, and of course, their four-legged friends! The dog-friendly patio is the main draw here, where pooch pals will have plenty of opportunities to meet other furry friends. 

Location: 2100 Vermont Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

the brig

This traditional tavern serves different types of German beer, pretzels, bratwurst, and of course, pups are welcomed with treats and a bowl of water – what more could you want? 

Location: 1007 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

The Midlands Beer Garden

There’s plenty of room for four-legged friends to relax in this spacious beer garden while their pawrents enjoy tasting the craft beers. 

Location: 3333 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20010, United States

Dog-friendly wineries in Washington, DC

Washington has plenty of dog-friendly wineries where you can savor a glass while your pup soaks up the scenery. Here are some must-visit spots!

Maryland Meadworks

Live music, friendly staff, a dog-friendly indoor space, and a selection of mead made locally (plus alcohol-free options) make this a top spot to quench your thirst.

Location: 4700 Rhode Island Ave Suite Bee, Hyattsville, MD 20781, United States

Windridge Vineyards

Head out into the countryside to do some wine tasting with your four-pawed pal by your side, plus you’ll find cozy fire pits, live music, and a variety of food trucks to choose from.

Location: 15700 Darnestown Rd, Darnestown, MD 20874, United States

Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard

A great place to sit back and enjoy the views after a long hike with your pooch, this vineyard has friendly staff, pizza trucks, and wine by the glass or bottle – of course.

Location: 18125 Comus Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842, United States

Tips for pet parents in Washington, DC

Things can be a little different with a four-pawed pal in tow, here are a few things to remember:

• Check local regulations: Washington DC has specific laws for leashed dogs, and many parks require permits for off-leash areas. Check the DC Department of Parks and Recreation for details.
• Bring the essentials: Always carry waste bags and water for your furry friend, especially on long walks. 
• Plan ahead for your vacation: If you're traveling, don’t forget to find a trusted pet sitter to keep your furry family member safe and happy at home.

Tips for pet sitters

New to Washington? Here are a few tips to bear in mind when dog sitting in the city:

• Explore dog-friendly parks: Make the most of the pet-friendly green spaces, which give you plenty of room to explore while your furry friend gets a good leg stretch and sniff.
• Stick to your furry friend’s routine: Keeping a pup on their regular schedule makes for a smoother pet sitting experience, and ensures everyone’s happy.
• Find a place to stay in exchange for pet care: Find a new, more exciting way to discover the city with a furry (or feathered) friend for company.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Washington, DC

Thinking about house sitting near Washington DC, 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.

• A guide to dog-friendly Alexandria, VA
• Dog-friendly Baltimore: things to do in Baltimore with a dog
• Dog-friendly Richmond, VA: things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Philadelphia: Things to do in Philadelphia with a dog
• A dog-friendly guide to Pittsburgh: Things to do in Pittsburgh with your dog
• Pet-friendly Virginia Beach: beaches, restaurants and walks