Pet-Friendly Guide to Portland, United States

Why Pets Love Portland

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Portland might be the most dog-friendly city in the United States. With more dog parks per capita than almost any other American city, a culture that genuinely welcomes four-legged guests in breweries, shops, and restaurants, and miles of hiking trails just minutes from downtown, Portland is a dream destination for pet parents. The city’s unofficial motto could easily be “bring your dog.”

The culture here is different. Dogs are not just tolerated — they are celebrated. You will see dogs in taprooms, in bookstores, at farmers markets, and riding the MAX light rail. Many Portland businesses keep water bowls by the door and treat jars on the counter.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

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Portland excels at welcoming pets in lodging. The Hotel deLuxe and Kimpton Hotel Monaco both have generous pet policies with no size restrictions and no extra fees. Many Airbnb and VRBO hosts in Portland are pet-friendly as well, especially in neighborhoods like Alberta, Hawthorne, and Mississippi.

Budget travelers will find pet-friendly hostels and motels along 82nd Avenue and in the outer eastside neighborhoods. Expect to pay $70-120 per night at mid-range pet-friendly hotels.

Dog Parks and Outdoor Spaces

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Portland’s crown jewel is Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the country with over 80 miles of trails. Dogs are allowed on-leash throughout. For off-leash fun, head to:

• Cathedral Park Off-Leash Area — Stunning views under the St. Johns Bridge
• Chimney Park — A fully fenced off-leash area in St. Johns
• Gabriel Park — Large off-leash section in Southwest Portland
• Sellwood Riverfront Park — Off-leash area along the Willamette River
• Powell Butte Nature Park — 600+ acres of trails with off-leash zones

Pet-Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

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Oregon law allows dogs on restaurant patios, and Portland takes full advantage. Nearly every brewery and restaurant with outdoor seating welcomes dogs. Standouts include:

• Lucky Labrador Brewing — A brewery literally named after a dog, with a huge patio
• Tin Shed Garden Cafe — Famous brunch spot with a dog menu
• Apex — Beer bar with a massive dog-friendly patio
• Base Camp Brewing — Taproom where dogs outnumber humans some days

Local Pet Rules and Regulations

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Dogs must be on-leash in all public spaces unless in a designated off-leash area. Multnomah County requires all dogs to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. The city is very strict about picking up after your pet — bag dispensers are everywhere, and fines for not cleaning up can reach $150.

Getting There With Your Pet

Portland International Airport (PDX) has a dedicated pet relief area inside the terminal. If driving, Portland is easily accessible via I-5 from Seattle (3 hours) or San Francisco (10 hours). The city’s public transit system, TriMet, allows dogs on MAX trains and buses as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.