Los Angeles isn’t always the best place for our four-legged friends, with its busy traffic and endless highways. However, once you look for it, the opportunities for a fun and nature-filled day with your pup are endless! If you are looking for free and quality dog-friendly sites in Los
1. Fun in the Sun at Rosie’s Dog Beach:
Surf, sand, sun, and your pup by your side. Head over to Rosie’s Dog Beach for some off-leash fun. With 4-acres of sandy beach, there is plenty of space for your dog to play, mingle, and splash in the ocean. This beach offers street parking, restrooms, cleaning stations, and doggie bags for all you and your pup’s needs. Operating hours from 6 am to 8 pm every day so you can make the most out of a morning outing or go for some after-work fun.
Location: Ocean Blvd., between Granada Avenue. and Roycroft Avenue.
Hours: 6 am-8 pm every day.
On-leash or Off-leash?: Off-leash
2. Get Active at Runyon Canyon:
One of the most popular spots for dog lovers who love to stay active. There are plentiful hiking trails and a dog park for you and your pup to explore.
Runyon Canyon has off-leash areas and doggie bags stations aplenty. Those looking for a relaxing stroll can check out the 1.65-mile loop. Or, if you’re looking to appreciate beautiful LA scenery with your pup, check out the East Ridge Trail; this area provides stunning views of Griffith Park and the Hollywood Sign.
Location: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Hours: 6 am–6:30 pm
On-leash or Off-leash?: Off-leash
3. Explore Old Zoo Picnic Area at Griffith Park:
One of the more obscure gems of Los Angeles lies upon the ruins of the now-defunct zoo grounds within Griffith Park. It has since become a picnic area with a large grassy space for dogs to let loose. You can also explore all the abandoned zoo exhibits from the bear grotto to the lion's den with your furry pal.
Location: Griffith Park Drive, Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Hours: 10 am to 10 pm
On-leash or Off-leash?: Off-leash
4. Enjoy the day at Echo Park Lake:
An iconic spot on Los Angeles’s east side that provides a relaxing day for dogs and owners alike. Dogs must remain on-leash as they explore the quick stroll around the lake. There are plenty of doggie bag stations to
clean up, grassy areas to frolic, and geese for your dog to bark at.
Location: 751 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Hours: 5 am to 10:30 pm
On-leash or Off-leash?: On-leash
5. Take in L.A. at Mount Hollywood Trail at Griffith Park:
While this is a more challenging hike and takes more than 2 hours to complete, it’s the perfect route to tucker out even the most hyper of dogs. The trail provides a breathtaking view of the city including the Hollywood Sign, downtown Los Angeles, and the San Gabriel Mountains. It can be the perfect photo op for you and your canine friend!
Location: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Hours: 5 am to 10:30 pm
On-leash or Off-leash?: On-leash
So, grab your non-retractable leash, sneakers, water, and hit the town! Be sure to follow the guidelines for on-leash or off-leash etiquette. When off-leash it’s most important that your dog knows the Recall Cue and is fully vaccinated and fixed. Always be aware of your dog's emotional state and body language: Is their hair raised? How does their tail, mouth, and ears look? If your dog is anxious or scared, you can remove them from the stressful situation.
Always communicate and cooperate with other dog parents when your pup is making a new friend. Use the universal human hand signal to “stop”, to the other dog parent if space is needed. Remember, shouting can only make a situation worse. Majority of dog fights break out due to lack of communication, education, and training. So when out, be a responsible owner and advocate for your dog. In case of emergencies, we advise using a GPS collar like Fi Collar when your dog is at an off-leash area. It’s always better to be safe so you and your pup can have some relaxing fun!