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Guide to “Must Love Dogs” Tahoe

Last updated: March 2023

It turns out dogs love Lake Tahoe as much as their human companions. With warm lake water to splash in, falling leaves to be sniffed, and rocks to jump over, taking your pup to North Lake Tahoe is a great way to make memories.

Canine accessibility and the wide berth of dog friendly activities in Lake Tahoe are a big draw for many human-dog pairs. You can hike to breathtaking mountain tops, check out beaches, even explore local shops, bars and restaurants – all with your furry mate.

We’ve mapped out an ideal doggy day in North Lake Tahoe. Read on!

Photo Credit: Ryan Salm Photography

Grab a Coffee During your Morning Walk

Photo Credit: Tyler Bourns

Tahoe City: A morning walk with your dog is best paired with hot coffee and a fresh bagel, so look no further than Syds Bagelry, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Tahoe City.

West Shore: If you find yourself on a brisk morning walk along the west shore (lucky you), stop by West Shore Market for hot gourmet coffee and fresh pastries.

Make Some New Friends at the Dog Park

Tahoe City: Take a stroll over to Tahoe City Dog Park, where your pup can roam within the fenced park area. There’s even water to keep them hydrated between running and playing.

Tahoe Vista: Visit Tahoe Unleashed Dog Park, conveniently located in the North Tahoe Regional Park.

Tips:

  • Bring up a few extra bags to pick up after your pooch, in case the park is out.
  • Whenever taking your pet to a park, check signs to determine if the park has a leash policy.

Splash Down at the Beach

Photo Credit: Jen Schmidt Photography

Grab a frisbee, sunblock, and some water, and you’re set for an afternoon spent lakeside. Many beaches along the East Shore, like Hidden Beach, are well-loved by locals and their dog companions. Alternates include Coon Street Beach, Carnelian Bay, Skylandia Park, Pebble Beach, and Waterman’s Landing.

Dine with your Dog

Photo Credit: Ryan Salm Photography

Enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and the wafting smells of revived Southern food at Moe’s Original Barbecue in Tahoe City. 

You can even scope out several local watering holes with your trusty friend, Alibi Ale Works in Incline Village welcomes well-behaved dogs into their taproom. Alibi is also a featured stop on the North Lake Tahoe Ale Trail for those looking for a post-adventure pint. 

Tips:

  • Bring a doggie bowl on your dining adventures. Most dog-friendly restaurants are more than happy to top off dog bowls with cool water.
  • Need some noms for your dog too? Stop by Dog.Dog.Cat or one of the several Pet Station stores located around North Shore.

Pamper Your Pup with an Overnight Stay

There are a ton of lodging options around North Shore that welcome dogs! PlumpJack InnCedar Glen Lodge, and Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe have a limited number of pet rooms available; the rooms book quickly, so we recommend reserving in advance.  

Tips:

  • Always call hotels and cabins ahead to verify pet policies

Learn more about dog-friendly lodging here.

Enroll your Pooch in Camp

Have an activity in mind that’s not a great match for your furry friend? Check them into one of our doggy daycares or day-boarding centers around North Lake Tahoe

Photo Credit: Jen Schmidt Photography

Now time to get your pooch’s paws and your hiking shoes muddy! Be sure to share your adventures with us by tagging #TahoeNorth on social.