Austin is full of dog lovers and dog-friendly businesses that we love. If you are in Austin for a day or longer, here are a few things to do with your dog in Austin, the best places in town that will let you bring your pup along.
Things To Do With Your Dog in Austin
The weather in Austin is dog-friendly almost all year long making it perfect to get outside with your pup. There are a few weeks that might be too cold, but other than that you need to keep an eye on the heat. For hot summer days, go out early or stay out late to have some good times when it isn’t so hot. If it is hot outside, there are plenty of places around with streams and rivers to jump into to keep your pet cool.
Barton Creek Greenbelt: While your dog must be on a leash, the Barton Creek Greenbelt is very welcoming to dogs. Along the trail, you will find plenty of watering holes except in dry years when all you will find are rocks.
Our dogs love going for a shaded hike here and jumping in the water to cook down.
Auditorium Shores: Located in the heart of Austin is an off-leash park your dog will love. The 4.5-acre park is located right on the water where it is easy for your dog to hop into Lady Bird Lake. Do check before you go if there are any advisories since some toxic algae has been in the area at different times.
The Capitol Building: You may not be able to take a tour of the building, but you can explore the grounds of the impressive Capitol building with your pup.
Shopping at the Domain: In North Austin, the Domain is the best place to go shopping and one of the few malls where your pooch will be welcome. Nordstrom has hosted doggy fashion shows and other events like Dogtoberfest that take place throughout the mall area.
As you can see, there are Austin provides plenty of places to take your dog with you. This list only scratches the surface of the things you can do with your dog around the city.
Where to Dine with Your Dog in Austin
Pieous: Not actually located in Austin, Pieous is an amazing pizza place in Dripping Springs that serves thin-crust pizza cooked on a wood-burning stove. The pizza and pastrami are more than worth the drive and your dog will be able to sit on the patio.
Yard Bar: Located in North Central Austin, Yard Bar has an enclosed dog park and picnic tables inside so you can relax and get a drink and something to eat while your dog gets to socialize with a bunch of other dogs. There is a $5 fee for the day, but that covers upkeep and takes care of the “Bark Rangers” that supervise your dogs while they play to make sure there aren’t any fights. If you want, you can even treat your dog to something off the dog menu.
Taco Joint: If you go to Taco Joint, I recommend the street taco or the El Senior Crockett. For your pup, you will find a nice seating area outside, water bowls, and a dog bowl on the menu.
Torchy’s: Torchy’s tacos are an Austin favorite for good reason. You’ll love the flavors of the tacos, queso, and guacamole. Most of Torchy’s locations have a patio where dogs are welcome.
P Terry’s: A local chain of burger stands focused on quality ingredients and simple fresh food. Go to a P Terry’s and your dog will thank you. Each dog goes away with a big dog biscuit.
Bangers: Located just southeast of downtown and within walking distance, Bangers has an enclosed dog park for your pup. They have a menu of German sausages for you and additional dog-friendly sausages for your dog. When you are done at Bangers, take a walk around Rainey Street where you will find plenty of other dog-friendly restaurants and bars.
We love Austin and love taking our dog around when we can. Hope this helps you get started planning your trip with your dog!
He is an expert travel advisor and enthusiast. He has traveled extensively in the USA, Central America, South America, and Europe. He has visited every Sandals Resort and is one of a select few Diamond Elite members of the Sandals Chairman’s Royal Club.
Dan graduated from Johnson & Wales University with an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Later he graduated from the University of Utah with a bachelor’s degree in International Studies with a focus on people and culture.