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Is Miami dog-friendly?
Luckily, the answer is yes! There are plenty of places to go in this vibrant city with your dog if they love to get out and about.
Miami loves dogs, and you’ll find dog parks, dog beaches, dog boutiques, dog-friendly restaurants and hotels, and even dog-friendly shopping malls. Miami’s a blingy place, so you might have to dress your furry friend up a bit to get into the best places Just kidding! But if you’re looking for a diamond-studded collar, rain boots, or a simple rhinestone-studded shirt, you’ll have no trouble finding whatever you need to make Fido and Fifi look their best.
Even if your dog prefers to stay au naturel, you can find plenty of places to take him where he can hang out with other dogs and people and enjoy Miami life. Of course, there are plenty of groomers, doggie spas, and dog-friendly hotels as well.
Many restaurants with outdoor seating allow dogs, and well-behaved dogs on leashes are often welcome at outdoor festivals and events. But it’s always smart to call ahead and make sure before you go.
Here are some dog-friendly places in Miami where your dog will surely be welcome:
Best Dog Parks & Dog-Friendly Parks in Miami
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Miami-Dade County has at least 28 dog-friendly parks.
Kennedy Park
Kennedy Park in Coconut Grove and West Kendall District Park offer separate areas for small and large dogs to play off-leash.
West Kendall Park
The West Kendall Park is practically a doggie theme park with water sprays, and play equipment including tire and window jumps.
Tropical Park
Tropical Park, in the west Miami area, has a spot called the Bark Park where there are separate areas for small and large dogs as well. There’s also a dog-washing area just outside the park for cleaning your pooch off if he gets dirty while playing.
Perrine Wayside Park
Perrine Wayside Park is a three-acre park designed for dogs, complete with a lake where they can swim. It has separate areas for small and large dogs, too.
A “dog park,” by the way, means the dogs can run off-leash. In contrast, a “dog-friendly park” means dogs are welcome on leashes. Here’s a list of 28 dog parks and dog-friendly parks in and around Miami.
Dog Beaches in Miami
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Many dogs like to swim, but most public beaches do not allow dogs, on or off leash. So, you need to find a dog-friendly beach in Miami, some of which are only open to dogs during specified hours.
Haulover Beach Park
Haulover Beach Park has a dog park where dogs can run off-leash on the beach across from the bark park, between lifeguard towers 2 and 3. This park is available to dogs every day between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Hobie Beach Park
Hobie Beach Park, on the Rickenbacker Causeway on the way to Key Biscayne, also allows dogs to play on the beach off-leash.
Miami Beach
Miami Beach has a “bark beach” open from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday just east of the North Shore Open Space Park between 81st and 82nd streets. Dogs must have proof of rabies shots and need a pass to go on that beach.
Dog-Friendly Shopping & Promenades in Miami
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Lincoln Mall Road
The Lincoln Road Mall is one of the best places to take dogs in Miami Beach. Dogs are welcome at most of the sidewalk cafes, and you can enjoy lots of great people-watching (and dog-watching) here.
Village of Merrick Park
If your dog likes to shop, he’s also welcome at the Village of Merrick Park in Coral Gables, including inside some stores and sidewalk cafes.
The Falls
Small dogs in strollers, carriers, or in owners’ arms are welcome at The Falls in South Dade. Stores that welcome dogs inside will have “dog-friendly” signage on their storefront.
Bal Harbour Shops
If he can afford it, you can take your dog to the Bal Harbour Shops where he is allowed inside some high-end shops and outdoors at some restaurants.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Miami
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Miami has some of the best dog-friendly restaurants, and a few even have special dog menus.
Taurus
If you want to take your dog out for a beer, the Taurus in Coconut Grove welcomes dogs inside the bar and was once named the Dog Friendliest Place in Miami by the Miami New Times. The dogs don’t get their beers, however. You can share yours, but it’s probably not the best idea.
LoKal Burgers & Beer
At LoKal Burgers & Beer in Coconut Grove, not only can you get a craft beer, but your dog can get a special non-alcoholic beer for dogs, as well as choose from meatloaf or chicken and rice on the doggie menu.
Shake Shack
Shake Shack in Miami Beach offers a special custard with peanut butter and dog biscuits for dogs.
Ms. Cheezious
Ms. Cheezious on the Upper Eastside allows dogs in the courtyard, plus often puts on dog-friendly events.
Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
If you’re interested in a more upscale dining experience, you and your canine companion can visit the courtyard of Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink in the Design District, where you can enjoy fine cuisine while your dog can sample the fresh-baked dog biscuits.
