dogs camping

Pet-friendly Fun

North Dakota offers a number of pet-friendly places and attractions for you and your furry companion to explore together and several establishments welcome well-behaved canine companions.

Relax and unwind at a dog-friendly brewery or restaurant patio. North Dakota boasts some beautiful state parks that welcome leashed pets on their trails. Leashed pets are also welcome to tour right along with you at many of the local parks, recreation areas, statewide trails and more.

With a little planning, you and your dog can have a great time exploring all that North Dakota has to offer. Always remember to call ahead and confirm pet policies before you visit any attractions or businesses, and be sure to clean up after your pet.

Some dog-friendly attractions include:

  • International Peace Garden: This beautiful garden is located on the border between North Dakota and Manitoba, Canada. Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds.
  • Theodore Roosevelt National Park: This park is a must-see for any dog-loving outdoor enthusiast. Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, so you can hike alongside scenic overlooks and through cottonwood forests.
  • Fargo Air Museum: This museum allows leashed dogs on the grounds.
  • Scandinavian Heritage Park: This 14-acre park is full of Scandinavian culture and a great place to take a walk. Leashed dogs are welcome. 

Click here for a ND dog-friendly travel guide

Many of North Dakota's state parks allow dogs on leash, including:

  • Rough Rider State Park: Offers scenic hiking trails and a swimmable beach.
  • Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park: This historic park allows you to learn about North Dakota's past while your dog enjoys the outdoors.
  • Turtle River State Park: This park boasts beautiful scenery and plenty of trails for hiking and biking with your dog.
  • Sheyenne National Grassland: This vast grassland offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and fishing with your dog.
  • Fort Ransom State Park: This park offers a variety of activities for you and your dog, including hiking, biking and swimming.

North Dakota has a number of dog parks where your dog can run free and play with other dogs.

Several cities in North Dakota have off-leash dog parks, some popular options include:

  • Village West Park Dog Park in Fargo: This dog park is a great place for your dog to run and play off leash. It features separate areas for large and small dogs.
  • Century Bark Park in Bismarck: This dog park is another great option for letting your dog run free. It features a variety of obstacles and agility equipment.
  • Dakota Bark Park in Grand Forks: This dog park is located on the banks of the Red River and offers stunning views. It features separate areas for large and small dogs.
  • Dakota Bark Park in Minot: This dog park is a great place for your dog to socialize with other dogs. It features a separate areas for large and small dogs.

Click here for more dog parks

Some other dog-friendly businesses include:

  • Brewhalla and Granite City Brewery in Fargo: These breweries have large outdoor patios where your dog can relax while you enjoy a beer.
  • Ale Works in Bismarck: Their outdoor patio is Bismarck's largest and pet-friendly. It is an excellent place to enjoy beautiful North Dakota summers with friends and family.
  • The Paddle Trap in Mandan: The large patio overlooking the beautiful Missouri River is a great place to relax and enjoy the view with family and friends. Your dog will love it too.
  • Atypical Brewery in Minot: Enjoy locally brewed beer with your pup on their outdoor patio or inside the brewery at this unique spot in downtown Minot. 
  • Bully Brew Coffee Shop in Grand Forks: This coffee shop offers puppuccinos for your furry friend, and they also have a dog-friendly patio.
  • SCHEELS, statewide: Browse through the sporting goods, do a little shopping and take your dog with you. The Grand Forks location even has a dog park on-site.
  • Tractor Supply Co. and Runnings, statewide: These outdoors, home and farm stores welcome dogs and any other pets that are friendly and kept on a leash.

Click here for BringFido's pet-friendly suggestions

To find additional pet-friendly locations in North Dakota, click on the Attractions and/or Accommodations links below.

On that page under "Filter Results" click the down-arrow on "Amenities" and select "Pet-friendly" for a complete list.

Pet-friendly Trails

By following these suggested tips, you and your dog can have a safe and enjoyable time exploring the dog-friendly trails in North Dakota:

  • Always leash your dog, even on trails that allow off-leash dogs. This will help to keep your dog safe and under control.
  • Be sure to bring plenty of water for both you and your dog.
  • Take breaks often, especially on hot days.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife.
  • Clean up after your dog.
Walking dog on a trail