Pet Sitting in Boston

A three-mile linear park along the Charles River with paved paths, grassy areas, and stunning views of the river, sailboats, and Cambridge skyline. Dogs must be leashed but this is Boston's premier walking route, especially beautiful during spring and fall. The Hatch Shell area is particularly popular with dog walkers.

Charles River Esplanade, Boston, MA 02116

A fenced off-leash dog park in the South End, one of Boston's most popular and social dog parks. Features separate areas for large and small dogs with a pea gravel surface. The park is a neighborhood institution where regulars gather daily. Located in the heart of the South End's restaurant row.

230 E. Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02118

America's oldest public park at 50 acres in the heart of the city. Dogs must be leashed but the Common is a central gathering point for dog owners from Beacon Hill, Back Bay, and downtown. The adjacent Public Garden with its iconic swan boats and flower gardens adds to the walking experience.

139 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111

A 162-acre reservation in Cambridge with a 2.25-mile perimeter path around Fresh Pond. Dogs are allowed off-leash in the woodlands and meadow areas (with a Fresh Pond dog license) but must be leashed on the main perimeter path. One of the most popular off-leash destinations in the Boston area.

250 Fresh Pond Parkway, Cambridge, MA 02138

Dog Licensing

All dogs in Boston must be licensed annually through the city. Licenses cost $15 for spayed/neutered dogs and $30 for unaltered dogs. Proof of rabies vaccination is required. Licenses can be obtained online or at City Hall. Late fees apply after the annual deadline.

Source: Boston Municipal Code §16-1.8

Leash Laws

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than seven feet in all public areas within Boston, except in designated off-leash areas. Boston Parks and Recreation maintains a list of parks with designated off-leash hours and areas. Violations carry fines of $50 for first offenses, increasing to $100 for subsequent violations.

Source: Boston Municipal Code §16-1.10

Dog Waste Ordinance

Pet owners must immediately pick up and properly dispose of their dog's waste in all public areas within Boston. The city provides waste bag dispensers in many parks and along popular walking routes. Violations carry fines starting at $50.

Source: Boston Municipal Code §16-1.10A

MBTA Pet Policy

The MBTA allows small animals in enclosed carriers at all times on subway and bus lines. Animals must remain in the carrier at all times. Larger dogs not in carriers are permitted only during off-peak hours. Service animals are allowed at all times regardless of size. The commuter rail allows small pets in carriers that fit on the owner's lap.

Boston's most vibrant pet neighborhood with Peters Park dog run, Tremont and Washington Street restaurants with dog-friendly patios, and a community of dedicated dog owners. Victorian brownstones with small gardens line the streets. The SoWa market on Sundays welcomes leashed dogs. Excellent walking streets and close to the Esplanade.

A diverse, community-oriented neighborhood anchored by the Arnold Arboretum (281 acres, dogs allowed on leash) and Jamaica Pond (1.5-mile loop). Home to MSPCA-Angell, the premier animal hospital. Centre Street has cafes and shops that welcome dogs outdoors. A strong culture of pet ownership.

Boston's most picturesque neighborhood with gaslit cobblestone streets, brick row houses, and the Boston Common and Public Garden steps away. A compact, walkable neighborhood where dog ownership is deeply embedded in the culture. Charles Street shops and restaurants often welcome dogs.

An elegant neighborhood along the Charles River with Newbury Street shopping, Commonwealth Avenue Mall (a tree-lined walking path), and direct access to the Esplanade. Many restaurants offer dog-friendly patios along Newbury and Boylston Streets. Wide sidewalks and well-maintained streets make walking pleasant.