Most Dog-Friendly Cities in the U.S.: A 2019 Data Analysis from Redfin and Rover

Based on a 2019 analysis by Redfin and Rover, Seattle, Chicago, and Denver are the most dog-friendly cities in the United States. The study, which evaluated over 14,000 cities, combined Rover's data on dog walking activity and services with Redfin's analysis of real estate listings and neighborhood walkability. A key finding is that urban cores, not suburbs, often provide the best environments for dogs, driven by factors like abundant green spaces and high Walk Scores®—a measure of a neighborhood's walkability to amenities. Mixed-breed dogs and Labrador Retrievers were the most popular breeds nationwide.

What Makes a City Dog-Friendly?

The ranking considered several factors to determine dog friendliness. Rover provided data on the volume of dog walks, the number of available dog walkers and sitters, and the average duration and distance of walks. Redfin supplemented this by analyzing how frequently the keyword "dog" appeared in real estate listings for sale, often indicating proximity to dog parks or pet-friendly policies. Finally, each city's Walk Score® was included to assess the ease of walking a dog for daily exercise. This multi-faceted approach moves beyond simple assumptions, showing that cities with high costs of living, like New York and San Francisco, can rank lower due to smaller housing inventory, despite excellent walkability.

Which Cities Topped the List and Why?

The top-ranking cities—Seattle, Chicago, and Denver—share a common trait: a strong culture of outdoor activity supported by abundant parks and green spaces. The Washington, D.C. metro area, including the suburbs of Arlington, VA, and Alexandria, VA, also performed well, a trend potentially linked to increased interest following Amazon's HQ2 announcement. The data challenges the notion that homeowners must move to the suburbs to provide a good life for a dog. Instead, it highlights that well-established urban centers with dedicated infrastructure for pets often offer superior convenience and amenities.

What Are the Most Popular Dog Breeds by City?

While all dogs are beloved, the data revealed distinct breed preferences by region. Mixed-breed dogs and Labrador Retrievers were the most popular nationally. However, major metropolitan areas showed unique trends: French Bulldogs were the top breed in New York City, while Chihuahuas led in Los Angeles. Brooklyn and Philadelphia showed a preference for Pit Bull mixes. These preferences may reflect housing styles; smaller dog breeds can be better suited for the compact living spaces common in dense urban environments.

How Can You Assess Dog Friendliness When Moving?

When searching for a new home, consider these data-driven factors to evaluate a neighborhood's dog friendliness. Look beyond the property itself to the surrounding area. A high Walk Score® indicates you can easily walk to parks and pet stores. Scour real estate listings for mentions of "dog run," "dog park," or "pet-friendly." Research the local availability of essential services like veterinarians, groomers, and dog walkers. The most dog-friendly cities seamlessly integrate these elements, making daily pet care convenient and enjoyable.

Ultimately, the best city for your dog is one that meets your specific needs and your pet’s lifestyle. Whether you're in a top-ranked city or not, prioritizing access to outdoor space and pet-centric amenities will ensure your furry family member feels right at home.