San Diego is a city of many faces, with everything from bustling corridors next to warm beaches to deep canyons and high mountains. Many people move to the city for an active life, since there is always something happening. It’s just as exciting for pets. Whether your budget is above or below the average rent in San Diego of $2,381/month, there is a dog-friendly neighborhood for you.
Each neighborhood has a distinct personality and identity, especially when it comes to pets. There are many that welcome and celebrate furry friends so you can find a pet-friendly apartment that truly feels like home.
Check out these top dog-friendly neighborhoods in San Diego:
- Lake Murray
- Grantville/Allied Gardens
- Mission Valley
- North Park/Hillcrest
- Pacific Beach/Bay Park
- Ocean Beach
- University City
- Rancho Peñasquitos
- Little Italy/Marina District
- Swan Canyon
Lake Murray
- Average rent: $2,127/month
- Pet destination: Mission Trails Park
- Popular dog park: Harry Griffen Park
Check out single-family homes and pet-friendly apartments in Lake Murray to be near spectacular outdoor spaces as well as city conveniences. On the edges of San Diego, this neighborhood provides a quiet retreat for pets and their owners, who can take advantage of the location near Grossmont Light Rail station and I-8 for easy commutes.
Outdoor spaces
There are plenty of trails to explore, from the rugged miles on Cowles Mountain and Mission Trails Park to the paved walkways around Lake Murray. This is the perfect place for those wanting to be close to expansive natural areas to walk your dog. Harry Griffen Park also has a dog park and is not far from Lake Murray.
If you want to stay near home and walk around your neighborhood, well-maintained sidewalks make it easy. Though a car can make getting to key places easier, it is not necessary if you and your pup don’t mind the walk. It is a small neighborhood where everything is in close proximity, whether it be shops or outdoor adventures.
Grantville/Allied Gardens
- Average rent in Grantville: $2,489/month
- Average rent in Allied Gardens: $1,950/month
- Pet destination: Camel’s Bar and Grill
- Popular dog park: Allied Gardens Dog Park
Granville and Allied Gardens are two neighborhoods that are closely linked. There are a variety of rentals from condos and townhouses in the west to apartments in the east. The area is pretty walkable, and outdoor spaces are close no matter where you live. Life in Grantville and Allied Gardens feels more city-like but not as busy and high-energy as Downtown San Diego.
Camel’s Bar and Grill is a must-visit restaurant for dogs and their people as the outdoor patio is pup friendly. They offer a puppy dog menu so your dog can partake in a meal alongside you.
The neighborhood is conveniently located along I-8 and the Green Light Rail line with the Mission San Diego station nearby. San Diego State University is also quite close, making this a great neighborhood not only for those with pets, but also for those needing to be near this well-regarded educational institution.
Outdoor spaces
Regardless of which neighborhood you choose, you are not far from scenic trails. The Navajo Canyon Open Space Park in Allied Gardens has a 2.2-mile trail at the bottom of the canyon. It gets quite popular during peak hours, but you can enjoy some peace during the quieter times.
The 60 miles of trails in Mission Trails Regional Park are only a 10-minute drive away and the smaller, neighborhood canyon of Rancho Missions Canyon Open Space is just across from it. The Allied Gardens Dog Park provides a decent space to let your dog run off-leash.
Mission Valley
- Average rent: $2,838/month
- Pet destination: Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
- Popular dog park: Civita Dog Park
Mission Valley is not just a shopping destination. It’s also a great neighborhood for renters and their pets. Apartments in the heart of Mission Valley put you next to great stores and restaurants that are always bustling. Many communities also have pet parks, so if that is an amenity you desire, you should find plenty of options.
Lazy Dog is a restaurant and bar known for its dog-friendly outdoor seating, which is always full because it’s a popular spot for dog owners. This chain offers a menu specifically for dogs. You can chow down on a burger while your pup scarfs down a hamburger patty with rice and veggies.
Rentals in nearby Serra Mesa provide a quieter environment without being far from Mission Valley. With several rail stations and major highways surrounding these neighborhoods, it is easy to get to other parts of San Diego.
This shopper-friendly neighborhood isn’t just for humans; it also offers pet stores and grooming services. It’s not just pet services that draw pet owners to Mission Valley. It’s also many pet-friendly events. Snapdragon Stadium is a local favorite for catching a game, and now, pets are welcome too, thanks to events like Pups at the Pitch.
Outdoor spaces
Serra Mesa Open Space has trails running throughout the canyon where you’re sure to see a familiar face or snout. For easier city-walking, the San Diego River Trail, a paved 3-mile path, runs along both sides of the river. There are more paved trails through the 14-acre Civita Park, which also contains a dog park with dedicated areas for both large and small dogs.
Presidio Park is on the west end of Mission Valley, right next to Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. Both parks allow leashed dogs and offer a nice change of scenery, with paths that wind past landmarks and historic buildings.
North Park/Hillcrest
- Average rent in North Park: $1,749/month
- Average rent in Hillcrest: $2,338/month
- Pet destination: Balboa Park
- Popular dog park: Grape Street Dog Park
Pets are the stars of daily life in North Park and Hillcrest. Sidewalks are filled with residents walking their dogs or relaxing on patios at local cafes and restaurants, their furry friends resting at their feet.
North Park is quite affordable for its central location, making it a great option for pet owners sticking to a budget, while Hillcrest is a highly walkable neighborhood. Both areas surround Balboa Park and enjoy many of the same pet-focused amenities.
Local pet boutiques, filled with fun offerings like one-of-a-kind leashes and beds, as well as chain pet stores, are available throughout the neighborhood. Some outdoor events allow pets, but policies can vary so check beforehand.
Outdoor spaces
Balboa Park, one of the top destinations for pet owners, is open to pets 24/7. The trails and lawns in this 1,200-acre park are open to leashed dogs. There are also several dog parks where your pet can run their heart out.
On the east side, Grape Street Dog Park is the largest of the three dog parks. It provides five acres of fenced-in space for your dog to run free. To the north is Morley Field Dog Park, a great place let your dog run off the last of their energy after strolling through the Florida Canyon Nature Trails. This dog park doesn’t have fences, but dogs are still allowed to run off-leash.
Nate’s Point Dog Park is on the west side of Balboa Park. This is another highly popular place for dogs and their owners as it offers 2.3 acres of fenced space. Shady trees provide a respite from the sun and fountains keep your dog hydrated.
Pacific Beach/Bay Park
- Average rent in Pacific Beach: $1,149/month
- Average rent in Bay Park: $2,203/month
- Pet destination: Bay Hill Tavern
- Popular dog park: Fiesta Island
Pacific Beach is the neighborhood for active, beachside living. Though pets are not allowed on public beaches or adjacent sidewalks during daytime hours, there is still plenty for a dog to enjoy, from Fiesta Island to a meal out on Garnet Avenue.
As you stroll along Garnet Avenue, you’ll pass by delicious restaurants and cafes. Many welcome dogs and offer specific dog menus so your pet doesn’t feel left out. Over in Bay Park, Bay Hill Tavern has grilled hamburger and chicken over rice for your dog. After eating, stop by a locally-owned pet boutique to pick up a treat for your pet.
Bay Park is a calmer, more laid-back option than Pacific Beach, ideal for pet owners who want to relax while staying close to the beach and enjoying stunning views. It is also right next to the entrance to Fiesta Island.
Outdoor spaces
Fiesta Island is known as one of the best dog parks in San Diego. Leashes are optional on the island, and there’s a 90-acre fenced off-leash area. The dog beach in the fenced off-leash area is one of two dog beaches in San Diego. Dogs aren’t in two small areas of the island, so check the City of San Diego website to get specifics.
Capehart Dog Park is a little north of Mission Bay, near I-5. This smaller dog park is great if your pet needs off-leash time, but you can’t get to Fiesta Island. In addition to dog parks, there are several trails for hiking with your leashed pet. Rose Creek Trail is a paved, pet-friendly path perfect for easy walks, but make sure the pavement isn’t too hot for paws. Bay Park backs up against Tecolote Canyon Natural Park, which has dirt trails throughout its nooks and crannies. Kate Sessions Memorial Park has a large green space where you can relax with your pet after hiking the natural trails.
Ocean Beach
- Average rent: $2,448/month
- Pet destination: City Tacos or Daybreak Island Grill
- Popular dog park: Dog beach at Mission Bay Channel
Ocean Beach has a laid-back vibe where residents and their pets enjoy life to the fullest. With so many pet-friendly spots in this neighborhood, it is hard not to feel welcome. Many of the pet stores and vets are clustered near Newport Avenue.
In addition, there are several restaurants with dog-friendly outdoor sitting so you and your pup can refuel. City Tacos has a small dog park where your pup can socialize. Daybreak Island Grill and OB Surf Lodge both have pup menus.
Outdoor spaces
Mission Bay separates Ocean Beach from Pacific Beach so you can easily get to the Fiesta Island dog park. However, the crown jewel of this neighborhood is the dog beach on the Mission Bay Channel at Voltaire Street. At this beach, dogs can run free off-leash and swim in the water.
If you are looking for a fenced dog park, check out the one at Dusty Rhodes Park. This park isn’t far from the dog beach or the San Diego River Trail, which welcomes leashed dogs. On the south edge of the neighborhood, you can watch the beautiful ocean sunsets at Sunset Cliffs Natural Park.
University City
- Average rent: $2,846/month
- Pet destination: Rose Canyon Open Space Park
- Popular dog park: Doyle Dog Park
University City is already a hotspot for renters. It’s close to the University of California San Diego, the beach, and nearby shops and restaurants. Pet owners will appreciate the neighborhood for its pet-focused offerings.
University City is divided by Rose Canyon. On the north side, apartments and stores fill the area while the on the south side, you’ll find residential neighborhoods. Choose an apartment community with pet parks or rent a home with a nice yard in a gated community. Pets are an integral part of the community, and several events celebrate them, including the University City Celebration’s pet parade held every Fourth of July.
Outdoor spaces
There are three main dog parks in University City: Doyle Dog Park, UTC Mall Dog Park, and Nobel Leash-Free Park. Nobel and Doyle offer the biggest spaces for your pet to run, but UTC is conveniently located near the Westfield UTC shopping hub. You can also hike the miles of hilly trails at Rose Canyon Open Space Park.
Rancho Peñasquitos
- Average rent: $2,749/month
- Pet destination: Black Mountain Open Space Park
- Popular dog park: Rancho Peñasquitos Linear Dog Park
The canyons and hillside of Rancho Peñasquitos make it a striking place to live, full of outdoor opportunities that your pet will love. Regardless of where you live in the neighborhood, there’s a park or trail nearby. Sidewalks are wide for easy walks with your dog, and many communities offer pet parks.
Community festivals and events allow neighborhood pets to shine. In the annual Fiesta de Los Peñasquitos PQ Pet-Tacular, pets can participate in an eating and cutest dog contest.
Outdoor spaces
The neighborhood is bordered by the Del Mar Mesa Preserve and Black Mountain Open Space Park, providing miles of trails through canyons and mountains. Los Peñasquitos Canyon also has many trails and beautiful natural landmarks, like the Peñasquitos Creek Waterfall. There are many small parks and trails, like the SR-56 Bike Path, throughout the neighborhood.
While there is no shortage of trails to enjoy, give your dog a chance to run free at the Rancho Peñasquitos Linear Dog Park. This is a securely fenced area for dogs to run off leash. It is across from the library and has areas for large and small dogs.
Little Italy/Marina District
- Average rent in Little Italy: $3,354/month
- Average rent in Marina District: $3,170/month
- Pet destination: Sally’s Fish House and Bar
- Popular dog park: San Diego Children’s Park Dog Park
In the heart of Downtown San Diego sits Little Italy and Marina District. These neighborhoods are always bustling with both tourists and residents. With plenty of restaurants with dog-friendly outdoor seating and parks to explore, these neighborhoods are meant for pets.
Sally’s Fish House and Bar has an entire menu for dogs with offerings from fish, chicken, pawpsicles, and bones. Watch a Padres game with your pup at Happy Does on the dog-friendly patio. This place is packed with dogs and humans alike during prime time.
Catch a San Diego Padres game at Petco Park with your dog during Bark at the Park, held on select dates. This neighborhood is a hub for events and festivals, and several are pet-friendly. Some festivals even revolve around them, like the Barks and Brews Dog Festival.
Outdoor spaces
Both neighborhoods have dog parks with enough space for pups of all sizes to run, play, and socialize. Get a cup of coffee at the nearby café before letting your dog run free in the turfed Little Italy Dog Park.
Take a stroll on The Embarcadero before heading a couple blocks north to the amazing dog park at the San Diego Children’s Park. This dog park offers nice turf and climbing equipment while being regularly maintained. There are also countless waterfront parks along the San Diego Bay where you can take in the ocean breeze.
Swan Canyon
- Average rent in Swan Canyon: $1,395/month
- Pet destination: Azalea Park
- Popular dog park: Charles Lewis III Memorial Park Dog Park
Swan Canyon is a quiet place full of homes and apartments. While there aren’t a lot of businesses in the area, there’s a surplus of parks and outdoor spaces.
Outdoor spaces
Swan Canyon has a variety of places to take your dog. Azalea Park leads into the trails of Manzanita Canyon Open Space, which provide a rugged space to walk through brush. Hollywood Park in Hollywood Canyon has trail running through the foliage.
Mid-City Open Space has wide, well-maintained trails. The Chollas Creek Oak Park Trail, currently under development, will be a nice place to enjoy the area’s natural flora.
While the neighborhood doesn’t have a large dog park like Fiesta Island, there’s plenty of space for your pup to run free. Charles Lewis III Memorial Park has a dog park with shady areas and ample room to play fetch. Gopher City Dog Park, a great alternative, is just 10 minutes north.
Pet Guide to San Diego
There are a couple of laws that dog owners need to be aware of in San Diego:
- Leashed pets are not allowed on public beaches or adjacent parks or sidewalks during daytime hours of 9:00am-6:00pm (hours change during the winter). Mission Bay also follows these same rules, with the exception of Fiesta Island and the San Diego River Floodway dog beach at the bottom of Voltaire Street. Some areas are leashed dog friendly, like Balboa Park.
- On any trails, canyons, and parks, all dogs need to be on a leash that doesn’t exceed eight feet.
- All dogs older than three months and before turning five months old must be vaccinated against rabies and have a license tag that shows proof. Licenses for dogs that have not been spayed/neutered are more expensive.
Find San Diego Pet-Friendly Apartments
Finding a pet-friendly apartment for rent in San Diego is simpler than ever! Apartments.com makes the process stress-free with filters designed specifically for pet policies, so you can easily locate communities that welcome both you and your four-legged companion.
Just choose your desired location and click the “All Filters” option in the main menu. From there, scroll to the “Pet Policy” section under “Specialty Housing” and select dog-friendly, cat-friendly, or both. Your search results will immediately update to show apartments that fit your lifestyle. Discover the wide range of San Diego pet-friendly apartments available and secure the perfect home for you and your pet.
Rent prices referenced here are based on Apartments.com data as of August 27, 2025, and may change over time.
FAQs
Is San Diego dog-friendly?
Yes! San Diego is absolutely a dog-friendly city with tons of activities to do with your pup. Whether it’s chilling at the beach, hiking through canyons, or sitting on a patio, there’s plenty to do.
Can I take my dog to the beach in San Diego?
Between the hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., you can’t take your dog on the beach or anywhere nearby.
Can I take my dog on the bus in San Diego?
In San Diego, dogs are only allowed on buses if they are in a carrier that can be kept on your lap. Pet allowance is at the discretion of the bus operator.
