Regarding relocating, pet owners often have a unique set of considerations. Finding a city that welcomes your furry friends with open arms is crucial. Numerous cities across the globe have recognized the importance of being pet-friendly cities. These cities offer essential amenities like pet parks and veterinary services and foster a community culture where pets are celebrated and integrated into daily life.

Let’s dive into the best ten pet-friendly cities, each offering lush green spaces, pet-centered facilities, and a warm community spirit.

 

1. Portland, Oregon, USA

Portland, Oregon, is a pet lover’s paradise with over 15 dog parks, including the expansive Laurelhurst Park and the unique Couch Park, catering to every canine personality. The city is also home to more than 1,000 pet-friendly establishments, including eateries and breweries, where pets are warmly welcomed, showcasing the city’s unwavering commitment to a pet-inclusive lifestyle.

Portland’s calendar is filled with monthly pet-centric events like dog yoga and costume contests, guaranteeing there’s always something exciting and engaging for pets and their owners. This rich tapestry of pet-friendly amenities, activities, and events, combined with a community that enthusiastically embraces pet culture, firmly establishes Portland as an idyllic destination for pet lovers.

 

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a city where pets are not just allowed but celebrated. With over 120,000 dogs residing in the city, Amsterdam’s streets and canals beautifully exemplify its pet-loving spirit. The city proudly boasts more than 200 charming pet-friendly cafes, such as the renowned “BarKING Barista,”. Where dogs can relish a cappuccino while their owners sip lattes.

Vondelpark, spanning 47 hectares, is a paradise for dogs to roam freely. Unique experiences like “Sail with your Dog” canal cruises add to the city’s charm. A staggering 85% of Amsterdammers believe dogs enhance city life, underscoring the city’s inclusive and exceptionally welcoming attitude towards pets. Amsterdam offers an unmatched European pet-friendly experience.

 

3. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo, a city famed for its neon-lit streets and towering skyscrapers, is also a paradise for pet lovers, boasting a 13.7% dog ownership rate and over 170 dedicated pet cafes. Tokyo’s urban landscape offers a unique experience, with cozy, dog-friendly cafes perfect for enjoying matcha lattes with your pup. The city’s green spaces, like Yoyogi Park and Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, are ideal for leisurely walks and playtime. 

With trendy pet apparel stores in Shibuya and luxurious dog spas. Tokyo caters to every aspect of pet care, providing a unique, diverse, and comprehensive experience for pets and their owners. The city’s pet-friendly public transportation system and various exciting pet events significantly add to the convenience, enjoyment, and overall excitement of being a pet owner in Tokyo.

 

4. Austin, Texas, USA

Austin, Texas, renowned for its pet-friendly culture and music scene, is celebrated as the #4 “Most Dog-Friendly City” in the U.S.U.S. by Rover.com. Over 60% of Austin households own pets, and the city offers more than 200 dog-friendly restaurants and patios. Austin’s warm climate and sprawling green spaces like Zilker Park provide over 300 miles of leash-friendly trails, creating a year-round pet haven. 

From ‘Yappy Hour events to gourmet dog bakeries, Austin caters to every pet’s needs. Ensuring a delightful and inclusive experience for pets and their owners while fostering a strong community spirit among pet lovers. The city’s diverse and thriving pet service industry. Offering everything from dog walkers to specialized boutiques and comprehensive veterinary care, further amplifies its pet-friendly atmosphere.

 

Related: Everything you need to Know Before Relocating to Austin, Texas

 

5. Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Calgary is a haven for dogs, with its breathtaking Canadian Rockies backdrop and an extensive park system featuring over 52 off-leash areas. The city’s vibrant canine community is further enriched by more than 123 dog-friendly restaurants where pets can join their owners for meals. The numerous pet-centric events and activities that integrate pets into the city’s social fabric.

The city’s sprawling green spaces and easy access to natural trails provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Calgary’s commitment to a pet-friendly environment is evident in its thriving dog population. Making it a top choice for pet-loving residents and visitors alike. Calgary’s focus on inclusivity for all pet sizes and breeds bolsters its reputation as a diverse and welcoming haven for dog owners.

 

6. Rome, Italy

Rome, known for its ancient history and vibrant culture, is pet-friendly. Over 60% of Roman households have pets, and the city accommodates them with many pet-friendly hotels and Airbnbs. Public transportation in Rome welcomes leashed dogs, making city exploration easy for pet owners. The numerous lush parks provide perfect spots for relaxing strolls with furry companions.

The city’s charm shines in its daily life, where outdoor cafes and restaurants offer water bowls and treats for furry visitors, and local shops invite well-behaved pets. Parks like Villa Borghese and Parco del Colle Oppio provide vast green spaces for dogs to enjoy. This warm embrace of pets integrates seamlessly with Rome’s rich heritage. Offering a unique and inviting atmosphere for pets and their owners.

 

Also read: What are Effective Strategies to Minimize Costs and Risks in Global Talent Relocation?

 

7. San Francisco, California, USA

San Francisco, recently acclaimed as the #1 best big city for dogs by Rover.com in 2023, exemplifies a uniquely progressive approach to pet-friendliness. Home to over 250,000 registered dogs, the city proudly boasts over 80 dog-friendly parks. Including the vast and famous Golden Gate Park and numerous inviting dog-friendly beaches like Ocean Beach and Crissy Field.

The pet-friendly vibe extends to diverse, inclusive shopping experiences. With inviting centers such as Westfield San Francisco Centre and Ghirardelli Square welcoming furry visitors. Delightful and varied dining options like The Buena Vista Cafe offer special treats for canine connoisseurs, firmly solidifying San Francisco as a haven for pets and their appreciative, devoted owners.

 

8. Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne, known for its lively culture and natural beauty, is also a paradise for pets, with 35% of the city covered in parks and gardens. It stands out with Australia’s highest pet ownership rate, with 52% of households having pets. The city boasts 14 dedicated dog beaches and numerous green spaces like the Royal Botanic Gardens, ensuring ample room for pets to play and explore. 

Pet-friendly amenities abound, including many cafes and restaurants where pets are warmly welcomed. With its pet-loving community, Melbourne ensures your furry friend enjoys every moment, from leisurely walks to dining experiences. If you want to learn more about Melbourne, read our complete Melbourne City Guide. Melbourne’s pet-friendly public transport lets you explore with your dog.

 

9. Berlin, Germany

Berlin celebrated for its historical allure and vibrant culture, is also a haven for pet lovers, especially dog owners. The city has over 120 lush parks and a pet-accommodating public transportation system, making it ideal for pets and their owners. Furry companions are seen as valued community members, welcomed in places like Tiergarten, Berlin’s largest inner-city park, and over 300 pet-friendly restaurants. 

The open-mindedness of Berlin extends to its welcoming cafes and eateries, where pets are not just allowed but genuinely cherished. Berlin is a top global destination for those who want to live in a city where humans and their canine friends thrive together. The city’s green spaces, accounting for 44% of its area, provide ample room for pets to play and explore, further enhancing the quality of life for pet owners in Berlin.

 

10. Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh, renowned for its historic charm and stunning beauty, is also exceptionally welcoming to pets. With over 400 green spaces and many pet-friendly pubs and restaurants, it’s the perfect city for pet owners seeking a blend of urban and natural environments. From the vast meadows of The Meadows to the scenic Arthur’s Seat, furry friends can enjoy endless adventures. 

The warm hospitality extends to treats and belly rubs at more than 100 pet-friendly establishments. Even Edinburgh Castle welcomes well-behaved dogs on leashes, and The Meadows hosts regular dog-walking meetups. Edinburgh is a pet-loving traveler’s paradise with dog-friendly hotels and vacation rentals, ensuring a memorable stay for pets and owners alike.

 

Recommended read: Winter Move? Here’s How to Ensure Warmth and Safety for Everyone and Everything

 

Tips for Relocating with Your Pet

Relocating with your pet can be a challenging process. Still, with proper planning and preparation, you can make the transition as smooth as possible for you and your furry friend, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the journey.

Here are some tips to ensure a successful move with your furry friend:

 

• Before relocating, research a pet-friendly city with ample green spaces, amenities, and a welcoming pet-friendly community.
• Schedule a visit to your veterinarian for a thorough check-up and ensure your pet’s vaccinations are current. Obtain copies of your pet’s medical records.
• Ensure your pet wears a collar with updated ID tags with your new contact information.
• Consider microchipping your pet for added security. Ensure your contact details are up to date in the microchip database.
• Pack a travel bag for your pet with essentials such as food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and a comfort item.
• Choose a pet-friendly mode of transportation and book accommodations that welcome pets. Ensure your pet’s crate or carrier is well-ventilated and comfortable.
• During the journey, secure your pet safely in a crate or with a harness to prevent escapes.
• Locate nearby veterinarians, groomers, pet stores, and dog parks in your new city.

 

 

Effortless Pet-Friendly Relocation with Relo.AI 🐶

At Relo.AI, we specialize in ensuring a seamless and considerate pet-friendly relocation process customized to accommodate the specific needs of your furry companions.

Relocating with pets presents unique challenges, whether relocating your family to a new city or adapting to a different work environment. 

Our platform is designed to provide personalized support for you and your pets, ensuring a stress-free transition. 🐾

Our comprehensive pet-focused relocation services include:

 

• Detailed planning and logistics for pet-friendly moves
• Assistance in finding pet-friendly accommodations
• Tips for helping your pets acclimate to new environments and cultures
• Support with pet transport logistics, including vehicle preparation
• Guidance on ensuring a safe and comfortable move for your pets

 

We understand the challenges of relocating with pets and are committed to simplifying the process while keeping it pet-friendly and affordable. 🐕

Looking for a stress-free, pet-friendly relocation? Schedule a consultation to learn how Relo.AI can help. 📅

Begin your pet-friendly relocation journey by completing our form. 

 

Wrapping Up!

Each of these pet-friendly cities offers a unique blend of amenities, spaces, and attitudes that cater to the needs of pets and their owners. When considering a move with your furry friends, these cities should be at the top of your list. Remember, a pet-friendly city benefits your furry companion and enhances your quality of life through community, activities, and shared love for animals.