Houston has rapidly expanded into a pet-friendly city with many of the area’s local businesses opening up their doors and welcoming well-behaved pooches to join their human companions. From dog parks and diners to pet-friendly coffee shops and area bars, dogs are welcome on patios at many local places, and they are even welcome indoors at most pet stores and specialty shops. Here are some of the best of the best when it comes to Houston’s dog-friendly businesses and locations.

Dog Parks in Houston

There are more than a dozen designated dog parks in Houston and several public parks with separate areas for pooches to run and play both on- and off-leash. Several parks boast dog-friendly features while also being family friendly as well.

Photo Courtesy of Preston Speaks

Millie Bush Dog Park

One of the top picks for locals close to West Houston and the suburb of Katy is Millie Bush Dog Park. With 13 acres of grassy spaces and watering holes, showers and fountains to play in, it’s a top pick for local dogs. There are separate areas for small and large dogs, showers for cleanup after playtime, and shaded areas to take respite after a nice hike on the groomed walking trails.

Photo Courtesy of Levy Park

Levy Park

Near Downtown in the Upper Kirby district is Levy Park, a newly revamped Houston park that features play areas for both large and small dogs that feature double-gate safety features, exciting water features, and open spaces for dogs. However, this is a wonderful place to bring family and friends, as Levy Park also features kid-friendly areas with cushioned climbing walls, tunnels, and an interactive garden which is complemented by cooling interactive water features. Catch regular performances by local talent at the lawn seated and pup-friendly, on-site amphitheater.

Pet-Friendly Houston Restaurants and Bars

Just about any locally owned restaurant or coffee shop welcomes pups on the patio and many will cater to them with water bowls, doggie treats, and even shots of sweet whipped cream to make them feel right at home.

Photo Courtesy of Fun Junkie

Good Dog

A favorite of locals and dogs alike are the Woodland Heights and Montrose locations of Good Dog, a locally owned and operated pet-friendly restaurant in Houston. There’s no need for pet owners to beg for Texas-made franks and gourmet hot dogs nestled in locally crafted artisan buns and topped with homemade condiments. However, their signature salads and house-smoked hot wings may be a different story, especially with 20 crafted draft beers on hand to complement them.

Photo Courtesy of Barnaby's Cafe

Barnaby's Cafe

For those looking for a bit more menu variation and a fine selection of wines at a pet-friendly Houston restaurant, Barnaby’s Café offers seven locations with patio service for dogs. While owners enjoy the sumptuous meals and libations, pets are treated to water bowls and snacks under shaded tables.

Photo Courtesy of Last Concert Cafe

Last Concert Café

Last Concert Café in Downtown Houston is an icon of local flavor and features great Tex-Mex food and local and regional artists perform there regularly. The outdoor recreation area there is enormous and boasts sand volleyball courts in front of the stage and is surrounded by picnic tables and a friendly staff.

Pet-Friendly Coffee Shops in Houston

When you simply cannot go another moment without a caffeine fix, but know better than to leave your pooch in the car on a typical hot and humid day in Houston, head over to the Black Hole, where in-house crafted sandwiches, wraps, and phenomenal coffee are delivered by an informed and friendly staff. Bring your dog and sit on the patio and you can request a complimentary whipped cream shot and water for Fido.  Equilibrium, a.k.a EQ Heights, offers T-bone look-a-like doggy treats and ice cold water along with freshly brewed java and amazing ‘people food.’