Written by Melanie Brown, DSMG Contributor // Sponsored by Dogtopia of Waukee

We’re not at all biased, but Des Moines might be one of the most dog-friendly cities in America. You can count on seeing a pooch pretty much any time you’re out on a sidewalk, and the same goes for visiting parks and patios around town. Especially when the weather’s nice, there are countless ways to get out and enjoy all DSM has to offer with your furry best friend – and we’ve got a guide to help you do just that!

Dogtopia of Waukee

Dogtopia of Waukee is the ultimate place for your dog’s fun and wellness. Every pet parent wants to make sure their pup is happy and healthy, especially when they bring them to doggy daycare. At Dogtopia, dogs of all kinds are loved just the same. Playrooms are designed based on size and play style so that each dog can socialize more comfortably with their friends. There’s a play camera, so you can check in at anytime during the day!

Headed out of town? Dogtopia offers top-notch boarding accommodations, too. And, don’t miss a trip to the spa for all your dog’s grooming needs.

Furry friends at Dogtopia celebrate holidays, birthdays, have pool parties and so much more. There’s no shortage of physical, emotional and social fun at this daycare. Want to check it out? Sign up for a Meet & Greet and make sure to mention Des Moines Girl for a FREE spa package!

Our Favorite Dog-Friendly Restaurant Patios

There are almost too many good dog-friendly patios in the metro to mention. Shout out to the local brewery scene for being especially supportive of canine culture. Here’s a list of just a few of our favorites:

*These patios offer dog happy hours designed specifically for you and your pooch! Check out their Instagram pages to learn more.

Where to Get Pup Cups and Treats

There is no shortage of dog treats in Des Moines. I’ve learned that whenever you’re in a drive-thru, coffee shop or restaurant, it never hurts to ask if they have a treat for your dog (because they probably do). Even my local bank—special shout out to Central Bank Iowa—gives out Milk Bones in the ATM drive-thru. Do your dog a favor and just ask. 

Some favorite spots to get Fido a free treat: 

Some favorite spots with extra special treats for purchase (that your good boy or girl absolutely deserves):

Don’t Miss These Dog Parks

Wrigley loving life at Kinship Brewing

We’re lucky to also have an abundance of year-round dog parks in DSM. Here’s a few of our favorites that are equally fun in the summery grass and the wintery snow! Some are free, some require day passes, and some require signing a waiver or filling out your dog’s vaccine status. For the most up-to-date information, we encourage you to go directly to their websites below before you visit:

Not exactly a dog park, but the Des Moines trail system gets an honorable mention here. Our city is full of dog-friendly trails and recreational areas that make for lots of leashed fun, whether you and Fido prefer to walk or run.

Dog Events For A Good Cause

Events with the Animal Rescue League of Iowa

  • The ARL partners on lots of dog-friendly community events throughout the metro during the year, including “Yappy Hours”, “Knitting with Kittens,” and “Dog Days of Summer” at the Iowa Cubs. Check out their event calendar here. Obviously, we’ll share in the weekend guides as well. 

Events with AHeinz57 Pet Rescue and Transport 

  • AHeinz57 is another incredible rescue in the Des Moines area. AHeinz57 pets are placed into foster homes to identify any special needs and the pup’s personality, and the adopters are screened to determine if the pup is a good fit on both sides. They host events, fundraising events, and drives all over town as well so bookmark their Facebook page to stay on top of the latest events.

Notable Dog-Friendly Stores 

Evie making herself at home in Thistle’s Summit

  • Jett and Monkey’s
    • 219 E Grand Ave STE 109, Des Moines, IA 50309
    • This is one of my pup’s favorite local spots for toys. It’s a MUST!
  • Bone-a-Patreat
    • DSM, WDM, and Urbandale
    • Another local fave with multiple locations!
  • Thistle’s Summit 
    • Your gluten free and vegan bakery mecca also SPOILS dogs so definitely bring them along when you pop in.
  • Raygun
    • 505 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50309
    • They allow good boys and girls to come inside, and have SO MANY cute accessories for you and your pooch. 
  • Paws and Pints 
    • Their “Bonetique” is everything you need to help your pup enjoy nutritional food and snacks!
  • Ted Lare Garden Center
    • Just outside of West Des Moines in Cumming. They have treats for your pup behind the front desk!
  • Zoom Room Dog Training in Ankeny
  • Wild Birds Unlimited in Windsor Heights
  • Petco and PetSmart (ask for free treats!)
  • Home Depot and Lowe’s (ask for free treats – sometimes employees have them in their vests!)

What did we miss?

Shoot us a note below to let us know what we should add to these lists. We’ll be adding to this guide as more are added!

Chat with us.