Photography by on March 15th, 2021 in Lifestyle

Dog-Friendly Fort Lauderdale from World Red Eye Films on Vimeo.

Fort Lauderdale, FL – March 15, 2021 – Whether you’re a longtime dog owner or new parents of a ‘pandemic pup’, you don’t have to leave your best friend behind when staying and playing in Greater Fort Lauderdale. Fancy hotels, al fresco dining, beautiful waterways meant for doggie-paddling, and even a lake meant for dock-jumping – dogs can have it all.

For those jet-setting with their pets, there are a variety of dog-friendly hotels boasting every desirable vacation vibe, including buzzy new digs like the Hyatt Centric Las Olas and The Dalmar. Luxury travelers gravitate toward W Fort Lauderdale for their standout pet program. Think roomy suites and ocean-facing balconies meant for soaking up the sun, amenities like plush pet beds, and special packages such as the ‘Dogs Are A Girl’s Best Friend’ package, which includes sweet treats and a bottle of bubbly for adults, as well as bacon-flavored ice cream for dogs. At Plunge Beach Resort in laidback Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, two dogs under 40 pounds are allowed per room and pets can hang at oceanfront Backflip Beach Bar where they’ll receive a complimentary treat and water bowl.

Dogs can live the lake life at Performance Pups in Dania Beach, leaping into the freshwater lake from a dock, doggie-paddling through the calm water, and chasing their friends on the beach. Paddle boarding? Dogs can do that too, thanks to SUP PUP Paddleboard, created by Natasha Baker Williams after she saw how much her corgi, Mr. Beaches, loved standup paddle boarding. Now, she and Mr. Beaches lead SUP tours around Fort Lauderdale’s stunning waterways; or guests can rent a board and take their pup on an adventure. There are numerous parks for dogs to run leash-free, including beloved Happy Tails in Plantation and Bark Park at Snyder Park in Fort Lauderdale, a sprawling park that offers separate sections for small and large dogs and a lake for swimming.

Enjoy a meal or a cold beverage with your best bud at numerous dog-friendly restaurants like the Nauti Dawg. Tucked away on a marina in Lighthouse Point, dogs are treated like royalty with gratis treats and a special canine menu. It’s a laidback place to kickback on the dock for an al fresco meal and watch the boats pull in. Beach lovers can soak up balmy ocean breezes at Park & Ocean on Fort Lauderdale Beach; or watch the continuous boat parade on the Intracoastal at dog-friendly spots like Shooters Waterfront, where they offer gourmet dog dishes. Even breweries like Tarpon River Brewing, LauderAle and 26° Brewing allow dogs to hang in their taprooms or patios.

Pack your pet – there’s so much to see and sniff in Greater Fort Lauderdale!