City Guide: Dog Friendly Los Angeles

Serena Faber Nelson Founder & Pet Lifestyle Writer

Pet lifestyle expert Serena Faber-Nelson is the founder of Pretty Fluffy. A contributor to Everyday with Rachael Ray, Modern Dog Magazine, Cesars Way and more; her modern, stylized take on DIY dog treats has seen her recipes viewed millions of times over.

Serena is the author of the go-to dog mom bible, Dog Mama, and the popular dog treat recipe book, Healthy Homemade Dog Treats.

Los Angeles—where dreams come true… for dogs.

After living here for over ten years, I can attest to the fact that Los Angeles is truly a dog-friendly city. And why wouldn’t it be? There’s just more land and space to play in than NYC, almost year-round sunshine, you can even rub paws with a celebrity’s dog or two and you’ll find the highest amount of gluten-free + organic dog bakeries here.

Griffith Park is massive. Over 4,210 acres of land which makes it one of the largest urban parks in North America. Explore with your pup, even check out the Travel Town Museum which features an old railroad track or have a grassy picnic.

If you’re into hiking, get your workout and Instagram photos in (crazy view of LA) at Runyun Canyon. Parts of the trail were recently repaved with macadam, not asphalt, which gets less hot and helps regulate temperature for doggies!

After playing on the off-leash beaches of Malibu and running into pawparazzi in Beverly Hills, don’t forget to visit Lake Hollywood and take a pic together under the Hollywood sign! Although Lake Hollywood Park is a leash-only park, it is friendly and full of pups. 3160 Canyon Lake Dr.

Ahh, Rodeo Drive. At the base of Rodeo Dr sits the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (yes, a la Pretty Woman!) It’s also dog-friendly, by the way, with no pet fee (dogs 15 lbs max). 9500 Wilshire.

Just across the street, stop for lunch at Two Rodeo Drive for their upstairs outdoor patio and soak in the view. They offer 2 hr complimentary valet parking. Stroll along this historic road and take a peek inside the flagship stores of Chanel, Hermes, Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Harry Winston and more.

Keep walking a few blocks north (9388 S Santa Monica Blvd) and you’ll find Pussy & Pooch — a pet lifestyle boutique with high-end, modern products.

Out of all the shopping areas of LA, I find Melrose Place to be the most charming and oh so “European.” You’ll find a beautiful, tree-lined street, floral alley ways and chic brands like Chloe, Isabel Marant, Oscar de la Renta, Bottega Veneta, Marc Jacobs and more.

Get all your shopping done at The Grove! Grab a frozen yogurt (dairy-free!) from Pressed Juicery and hang out in the grassy area adjacent to the main fountain. There are wooden chairs or take a blanket–courtesy of the Grove–and stretch out. The promenade even offers complimentary doggie treats.

Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Filled with unique boutiques and brands, one of my favorite dog stores is Modern Dog. This sweet little bungalow is filled with gorgeous products for the design-conscious buyer. 1611 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

After checking out the trendy Fred Segal’s in Hollywood, get some italian fare at the lively Mauro’s. Celeb-spotting yes, but my fave thing here is the pomodoro spaghetti with broccoli and peas added in. Just try it. 8112 Melrose Ave.

Experience farm-to-table comfort food at Eveleigh and a large outdoor grassy patio–perfect for the pups! 8752 Sunset Blvd. Check out my top 10 Dog Friendly Eats in Hollywood.

Ready to head on over to the East side? Morrison in Los Feliz is your local, neighborhood haunt with burgers, pub eats and beer. And how cute is it that they offer your pooch their own menu with a selection of beef, chicken or hot dogs? Oh, and it’s all served on a silver platter. 3179 Los Feliz Blvd.

The LINE hotel only opened its doors 3 years ago and since then it has made its mark in Los Angeles, highlighting Koreatown as a hip, vibrant spot to explore. Inspired by the culture of Los Angeles, the 12-story building features concrete walls and industrial aesthetic. Read more here. Pet fee: $50 per pet, per stay.

With 12 lush acres, the Beverly Hills Hotel has so many gorgeous pockets to explore and walk around in, especially near the bungalows. Enjoy the giant palm trees, the pleasing pink + green shades and palm leaf prints. I just love the iconic, old Hollywood vibes of this hotel. Read full review. Pet fee: $35 per pet, per stay.