PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Even though most Americans think of their pet as part of the family, and dogs are the most popular pet, it’s not always easy to keep a four-legged friend in the city.
From pet-friendly rentals to access to green space, Lawnstarter’s latest ranking compared the 500 biggest cities across the U.S. to determine the best cities for dog lovers in 2025.
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Some states were left off the map entirely while others clearly dominated. For example, there were 28 Southern cities that landed in the top 50 due to things like top-rated vets, number of dog sitters and dog-friending dining and shopping areas.
Average yard space played another key role, and landed Santa Fe, New Mexico, in the top five. New York came in fourth for its walkable streets and plentiful parks, along with lots of access to amenities and emergency veterinary care…