Fort Lauderdale has built a reputation as one of the most pet-friendly cities in Florida. With its sunny weather, walkable neighborhoods, and vibrant social scene, it offers plenty of ways to include your dog or other furry companions in your daily adventures. From beaches and bars to parks and events, Fort Lauderdale isn’t just tolerant of pets — it celebrates them.
Whether you’re a long-time local, new resident, or planning a move, exploring Fort Lauderdale through the lens of pet ownership opens up a whole new world of experiences. This guide will walk you through some of the best pet-friendly activities in and around the city, along with tips for living in a community that welcomes both people and pets.
Dog-Friendly Beaches: Sun and Sand for You and Your Pup
Fort Lauderdale’s beaches are iconic, and fortunately, there are places where dogs can get in on the fun too. While not all stretches of beach allow pets, the designated areas are clean, safe, and well-loved by the community.
Canine Beach is located at the north end of A1A near Sunrise Boulevard. It’s open Friday through Sunday during specific hours and allows dogs to run and play leash-free in the sand and surf. There is a small permit fee required, which helps maintain the area and ensures a positive environment for everyone.
For a more low-key experience, Hollywood Dog Beach just to the south is another solid option with similar rules and gorgeous views. Remember to bring fresh water, doggie bags, and a towel to help your pup cool down after a day in the sun.
Canine Beach is located at the north end of A1A near Sunrise Boulevard. It’s open Friday through Sunday during specific hours and allows dogs to run and play leash-free in the sand and surf. There is a small permit fee required, which helps maintain the area and ensures a positive environment for everyone.
For a more low-key experience, Hollywood Dog Beach just to the south is another solid option with similar rules and gorgeous views. Remember to bring fresh water, doggie bags, and a towel to help your pup cool down after a day in the sun.
Bark Parks and Nature Trails
Fort Lauderdale is dotted with parks that offer both open green spaces and dog-specific areas. Whether your pup prefers sprinting across grassy fields or walking beside you on a shady trail, you’ll find the perfect spot nearby.
Snyder Park’s Bark Park is a local favorite. It features separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, shaded benches, and even a lake for swimming. It's ideal for active pups that need room to run and play with others.
Another popular destination is Holiday Park, located near downtown. It doesn’t have a dedicated dog run, but it’s a great spot for a long leashed walk or some relaxed fetch time under the trees. With paved walking paths, sports fields, and wide open lawns, it’s one of the most versatile green spaces in the city.
If you’re up for a day trip, head west to Markham Park in Sunrise. This expansive park has a beautifully maintained dog park and plenty of trails for hiking or biking with your four-legged companion.
Snyder Park’s Bark Park is a local favorite. It features separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, shaded benches, and even a lake for swimming. It's ideal for active pups that need room to run and play with others.
Another popular destination is Holiday Park, located near downtown. It doesn’t have a dedicated dog run, but it’s a great spot for a long leashed walk or some relaxed fetch time under the trees. With paved walking paths, sports fields, and wide open lawns, it’s one of the most versatile green spaces in the city.
If you’re up for a day trip, head west to Markham Park in Sunrise. This expansive park has a beautifully maintained dog park and plenty of trails for hiking or biking with your four-legged companion.
Dining Out with Your Dog
One of the perks of living in Fort Lauderdale is the thriving restaurant scene, and many establishments welcome dogs with open arms — or at least open patios. Whether you’re grabbing coffee, sipping cocktails, or enjoying a long brunch, there are plenty of places where your dog can join you.
Coconuts on the Intracoastal Waterway is one of the best-known dog-friendly spots in town. The staff regularly brings water bowls to visiting pets, and the view is unbeatable. Just a few blocks away, Boatyard also welcomes dogs on its patio and offers upscale seafood in a relaxing waterfront setting.
For something more casual, The Whole Enchilada Fresh Mexican Grill and Tap 42 are go-to choices with outdoor seating that cater to both people and pups. Breweries like LauderAle and Invasive Species Brewing are also famously dog-friendly, often hosting special pet events or adoption days.
Wherever you go, call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm their pet policy, as it can vary based on seating and weather conditions.
Coconuts on the Intracoastal Waterway is one of the best-known dog-friendly spots in town. The staff regularly brings water bowls to visiting pets, and the view is unbeatable. Just a few blocks away, Boatyard also welcomes dogs on its patio and offers upscale seafood in a relaxing waterfront setting.
For something more casual, The Whole Enchilada Fresh Mexican Grill and Tap 42 are go-to choices with outdoor seating that cater to both people and pups. Breweries like LauderAle and Invasive Species Brewing are also famously dog-friendly, often hosting special pet events or adoption days.
Wherever you go, call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to confirm their pet policy, as it can vary based on seating and weather conditions.
Pet-Friendly Events and Social Gatherings
Fort Lauderdale embraces its pet-friendly culture with regular events geared toward animal lovers. These gatherings are great ways to meet fellow pet owners, support local rescues, and enjoy fun activities as a community.
Yappy Hour events pop up at various venues throughout the year, offering drink specials for humans and treats for dogs. Breweries and outdoor venues often host these casual socials, creating a laid-back environment where pets are not just welcome, but encouraged.
The Fort Lauderdale Pet Expo, typically held annually, is another big draw. It features vendors, training demos, pet contests, and even on-site adoptions. Whether you’re looking for a new collar or a new companion, it’s a must-attend event for local pet owners.
Some parks also host themed seasonal events such as doggie costume parades, holiday photo booths, and fundraising walks. Keep an eye on local community boards and event calendars to stay updated.
Yappy Hour events pop up at various venues throughout the year, offering drink specials for humans and treats for dogs. Breweries and outdoor venues often host these casual socials, creating a laid-back environment where pets are not just welcome, but encouraged.
The Fort Lauderdale Pet Expo, typically held annually, is another big draw. It features vendors, training demos, pet contests, and even on-site adoptions. Whether you’re looking for a new collar or a new companion, it’s a must-attend event for local pet owners.
Some parks also host themed seasonal events such as doggie costume parades, holiday photo booths, and fundraising walks. Keep an eye on local community boards and event calendars to stay updated.
Pet Services, Groomers, and Boutiques
Living in a city as pet-friendly as Fort Lauderdale means access to top-tier pet care. From luxury groomers to pet bakeries and boutique shops, you’ll find everything you need to pamper your pup.
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming is a standout with several locations nearby. They offer spa-level grooming services and shelves stocked with high-quality treats, toys, and accessories. Green Dog Wash is another popular spot that focuses on eco-friendly grooming products and a stress-free environment.
If your pet has special health or dietary needs, Paw Depot carries a wide range of holistic food options and supplements. For a more curated shopping experience, visit Pet Supermarket’s Pet Spa or Barkyard n’ Brews, which combines a boutique with a leash-free dog park and bar.
Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming is a standout with several locations nearby. They offer spa-level grooming services and shelves stocked with high-quality treats, toys, and accessories. Green Dog Wash is another popular spot that focuses on eco-friendly grooming products and a stress-free environment.
If your pet has special health or dietary needs, Paw Depot carries a wide range of holistic food options and supplements. For a more curated shopping experience, visit Pet Supermarket’s Pet Spa or Barkyard n’ Brews, which combines a boutique with a leash-free dog park and bar.
Living in a Pet-Friendly Community
When choosing where to live in Fort Lauderdale, pet owners have several considerations. Fortunately, many apartment complexes, condo communities, and neighborhoods are extremely accommodating to pets.
Look for communities with amenities like on-site dog parks, pet washing stations, and access to nearby walking paths. Proximity to vet clinics, groomers, and doggy daycare centers can also enhance your pet’s lifestyle and make your day-to-day more convenient.
Neighborhoods like Victoria Park, Flagler Village, and Harbor Beach are known for their walkability and community feel, making them especially appealing for pet owners. The Riverwalk area is also great for scenic daily strolls and meeting other dog lovers.
Look for communities with amenities like on-site dog parks, pet washing stations, and access to nearby walking paths. Proximity to vet clinics, groomers, and doggy daycare centers can also enhance your pet’s lifestyle and make your day-to-day more convenient.
Neighborhoods like Victoria Park, Flagler Village, and Harbor Beach are known for their walkability and community feel, making them especially appealing for pet owners. The Riverwalk area is also great for scenic daily strolls and meeting other dog lovers.
Work with Tyler Tuchow, Fort Lauderdale Real Estate Expert
If you’re relocating to Fort Lauderdale or simply looking to upgrade your living situation with your pet in mind, working with a knowledgeable local expert is key. Tyler Tuchow is a Fort Lauderdale real estate professional who understands the lifestyle priorities of pet owners and knows exactly where to find pet-friendly properties.
From homes with large backyards to condos near dog parks and beachfront trails, Tyler can help you find a place that fits both your needs and your pet’s happiness. He stays up to date on building pet policies, neighborhood walkability, and access to the best services and amenities for animal lovers.
Visit tylertuchow.com to browse available listings, learn more about local communities, and start your journey toward a pet-friendly life in Fort Lauderdale.
From homes with large backyards to condos near dog parks and beachfront trails, Tyler can help you find a place that fits both your needs and your pet’s happiness. He stays up to date on building pet policies, neighborhood walkability, and access to the best services and amenities for animal lovers.
Visit tylertuchow.com to browse available listings, learn more about local communities, and start your journey toward a pet-friendly life in Fort Lauderdale.
Final Thoughts
Fort Lauderdale isn’t just a great place to live — it’s a place where your pets can thrive alongside you. With a wide variety of activities, parks, beaches, and businesses that welcome your furry companions, the city is truly a haven for animal lovers. Whether you're spending the day at the beach, grabbing brunch at a dog-friendly café, or exploring a nature trail, you’ll never have to leave your best friend behind.
Living in a city that prioritizes pet-friendly living means more joy, more connection, and more quality time with the companions who matter most.
Living in a city that prioritizes pet-friendly living means more joy, more connection, and more quality time with the companions who matter most.