Big City Fun in Dog Friendly Texas

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Big City Fun in Dog Friendly Texas

From fast-growing Austin to bigger-is-better Dallas and global Houston, the Lone Star State offers plenty of dog friendly, Texas-sized fun. Visitors can take their best friend exploring urban hiking paths or let him run loose in an off-leash dog run. And with top-notch shopping, dining, and pet spa spots to complete your trip, there are plenty of options for taking it easy with your furry pal, too.

1. On-Leash Hiking

Themed gardens and wildflower-lined trails beckon at Austin's Zilker Botanical Garden. Birdwatchers will love Cedar Ridge Nature Preserve, just 20 minutes from downtown Dallas. At Houston's Terry Hershey Park, 11 miles of trails run alongside verdant glens and duck-filled wetlands.

2. Dog Parks

A natural pond and cooling showers make Austin's Cedar Bark Park a must. If you make it over to Ft. Worth, you can check out our choice for one of the top dog parks in America at Fort Woof in Gateway Park. Nearby, Dallas's massive 22-acre NorthBark Dog Park offers a shallow dog friendly lake and a shady pavilion. And when Houston temps climb, swim with your canine in a private pool at Rummy's Beach Club.

3. Dog Friendly Shopping

Austin's high-end, park-like mall The Domain has a reputation for its pet-welcoming retail shops and restaurants. At the sprawling Dallas Farmer's Market, take your dog browsing artisanal foods and local produce stalls. Spoil him at Houston's boutique Funny Fur, with designer doggie clothes and eco friendly toys.

4. Dog Spas

After a messy day out, wash, trim and perfume your furry pal at Austin's Dirty Dog. How about treating him to a blueberry vanilla facial at one of the best dog spas with a visit to luxurious Lucca Bella Doggie Spa in Dallas? If you're going upmarket in Houston, Yuppie Dog provides paw balm, fresh breath treatment and cool bandanas.

5. Drinks With Your Dog

Never give your dog alcohol, but take him to Banger's Sausage House and Beer Garden or Dog House Drinkery in Austin. Both have off-leash parks with bar access. Get a day pass at Dallas's Mutts, and order a margarita while he plays in their large or small-sized dog parks. Wind down at the Porch Swing Pub in Houston, a dog friendly Texas hotspot where your furry friend can relax with a refreshing bowl of water.

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