In Asheville, adventure is better with a wagging tail.
Recognized as one of the most pet-friendly cities in America, Asheville welcomes four-legged explorers with open arms. Hit the trails, relax with a craft brew on a dog-friendly patio, or browse local pet boutiques—Asheville is full of adventures you can share with your pup.
We’ve made it easy to navigate Dog City USA. Here’s everything you need to know for a paws-itively great time in the mountains.
Leash Laws: Keeping Everyone Safe
Yes, your dog must be on a leash when off your property. Asheville and Buncombe County require leashes to ensure safe and respectful interactions. This applies to city streets, parks, and even the area’s hiking trails.
Where Can My Dog Roam Free?
For off-leash play, check out the Dog Park at Buncombe Sports Park (58 Apac Dr., Asheville).
Or, for a real treat, head to Wagbar in Weaverville, where dogs can romp freely while you relax with a drink in a one-of-a-kind social setting designed for both pups and their people.
Are dogs allowed at festivals and events?
In most cases, dogs are not allowed at downtown Asheville festivals. Due to crowds, weather and festival activities, most of these settings are not the best or safest situations for your pets. Please check with festival organizers before arriving to see if your pet is able to join you.
Where can I buy dog treats, chews, and toys?
Downtown Asheville features a number of doggie boutiques offering all the necessities for your pet. Find dog essentials at The Dog Door (1 Battle Square) near the historic Grove Arcade.
What can I do with my dog in Asheville?
Here in Dog City USA the possibilities are endless for activities you can share with your dog! Most trails in the mountains make for dog-friendly hikes. One of the very few exceptions is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which does not allow dogs on its trails. You are able to bring your dog on the grounds of Biltmore (however, pets are not allowed in the home). There are many pet-friendly breweries and pet-friendly restaurants in Asheville. And, Asheville is home to some of the most pet-friendly hotels in the nation.
Where can my dog have a play date?
There are a number of places in Asheville that provide "doggie day care" where your dog will receive loving care and be closely monitored throughout the day. Among the choices are The Pet Vet on Patton (2 Hansel Ave.), The Dog House (1054 Riverside Dr.), At Play with Sparky (542 Short McDowell St.), You'll Work, I'll Play (677A Brevard Rd.) and Urban Dog Retreat (900 W. Chapel Rd.). All of these locations require that your dog be up-to-date on vaccinations (some have more specific or stricter policies) and most require a reservation or advance notice.
What if my dog needs emergency medical care?
R.E.A.C.H. of Asheville offers 24/7 emergency veterinary services, even on holidays. R.E.A.C.H. (677 Brevard Rd.) is just 10 minutes from downtown Asheville. The telephone number for R.E.A.C.H. is: (828) 665-4399.
Where can I get more information?
The Dog City USA Asheville Welcome Center (1 Battle Square) is the first of its kind in the United States and is a one-stop-resource to help dog owners to get the most out of their visit. The welcome center is in downtown Asheville and is housed in the The Dog Door and Behavior Center. The center features a doggy potty area, fresh water from doggie drinking fountains, free good dog bags, and doggie ice cream.
