Asking me about my favorite vacation spot would be like asking me about my favorite treat. How does a dog choose? But to keep things in perspective, I came up with ten fabulous  vacation spots that will keep your dog's tail wagging!

I chose these destinations for their pet-friendly accommodations, attractions, beaches, parks, shops, and dining. These  pawpular escapes are actually places that both people and their pooches  can enjoy together.

1. Boca Raton, Florida: Well, I may be a little biased, since this is home, but its a hot  spot that is definitely top dog friendly! Especially, since dogs are welcome most everywhere here. Many retail establishments have adopted a dog-friendly attitude and dogs are allowed in most restaurants with outdoor seating. Pet-friendly hotels here, are luxurious and plentiful.  

 

For dogs who like to romp and roll there are two beautiful dog parks. Locals love Canine Cove at South County Regional Park.This fenced off-leash park includes a separate area for small dogs, gazebos for shade, drinking water and benches to rest on. At Mizner Bark, dogs are separated into three areas according to size. Picnic tables, doggie bags, and water are available.   

 

Boca Raton is known for its priceless treasure... a two mile stretch of life-guarded, protected beaches. In January 2014, Boca Raton took the plunge and opened its first dog beach at the north end of Spanish River Park. This is a great spot for watching the sunset. And what dog doesn't fantasize about sunning on  a pristine beach, plunging in the ocean, and playing in the sand?

 

If you are looking for retail therapy, Boca Raton is the home of America's most fashionable, retail shops for both people and their pooches. And let's not forget, this is also the home of America's Top Dog Model (R) organization! 

 

2. Carmel, California: Not only is this one of America's most picturesque towns, Carmel is also a place that caters to canines with its dog-friendly shops, restaurants, inns and  off-leash beach.

 

One of Carmel's highly noted accommodations is the Cypress Inn. A legend in animal activism, motion pictures, music, television, and local community, resident Doris Day, is co-owner of this historic inn along with Dennis LeVett. Together they deliver a unique experience in a refined, yet relaxed atmosphere where dogs and cats are welcome. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, well-behaved pets are allowed to join their people in the courtyard for breakfast and evening yappy hour. Be sure to check out Carmels' exciting upcoming events!   

3. Minneapolis: This city has great hiking trails, numerous parks, pooch-friendly dining and a pet-friendly atmosphere throughout. You will never be bored  vacationing here, as the dog events are endless! Check out this calendar of events.

Looking for a great hotel to stay in Minneapolis?
You can choose from over 128 pet-friendly hotels and lodges, all designed to give your furry friends the same level of service as their humans.

4. Chicago: Visit the Navy Pier, dine with your pooch in elegance, walk the many parks of the city, or cruise on a pet-friendly tour boat. Dogs on Boats? Yes, bring your pooch on a leash and enjoy quality time together while cruising on Chicago's waterways. This 90-minute tour highlights dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, dog parks and fire hydrants.

And, If you are looking for a pet-friendly hotel, Chicago can show you some love.

5. San Diego: Known for some of the country's best dog beaches and trails, San Diego offers fun for the entire family, including pet-friendly dining and shopping. Click here for a list of San Diego's most sought after attractions.

6. Portland, Oregon: Home to the famous dog-friendly Rose Gardens and Lucky Labrador Brewing Company, Portland is a city the entire family will enjoy. This area also has quite a line-up of dog parks and trails.

7. Austin, Texas: If you are looking for a vacation spot to unwind and socialize, this city offers over fifteen off leash dog parks. Visit the outdoor cafes and take a tour. You and your pooch can enjoy an elegant horse drawn carriage ride in downtown Austin. This carriage services offers Historic Day Tours on the weekends.

 

Fifteen miles east of Austin, your dog will find a room to roam on fifty acres at the Decker Creek Bed & Breakfast & Biscuit country inn. You will arrive to find dog bowels, towels, bed, blankets, a pet-friendly shower and homemade dog biscuits.   

8. Alexandria/Washington: See the capital's sites, explore charming Old Town, or take a dog cruise on the Potomac. Go for a walk along the Rock Creek Park Trails and through the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. When its time to rest, book your stay at one of the many pet friendly hotels in Washington D.C.

9. Seattle, Washington: Well behaved leashed dogs are allowed on public transportation, which makes it convenient to get around this pet-friendly city. Leashed pets are also welcomed aboard Seattle Ferry Service's Sunday Ice Cream Cruise. Enjoy ice cream on the water as you take in the sites of Seattle. For an unforgettable experience, enjoy a private picnic on one of the Seattle area islands with Northwest Floatplane Picnics in cooperation with Kenmore Air.

10. New York: If you are looking for glamour, there is no place like New York City. Luxury hotels welcome dogs, Central Park beckons, and there are chic, out-door restaurants everywhere. Shop Fifth Avenues most famous stores with your diva dog in tow.

                    Arf Arf! (Bon Voyage!)
                     
                 

 

Copper tore up the catwalk at "Dogs on the
Catwalk," an annual dog fashion show fundraiser for Red Dog Farm Rescue located in Greensboro, NC. This is one of  Cooper's and his mom Angy's favorite events.

For more information visit Classy Doggie Designs  by Linda Higgins.