Boulder is arguably the most dog-friendly city in the United States. The city's groundbreaking voice-and-sight tag program allows registered dogs to hike off-leash on Open Space trails — a privilege unique to Boulder. Surrounded by 45,000 acres of Open Space and Mountain Parks, the city offers world-class hiking, trail running, and outdoor recreation with dogs. Pearl Street Mall, local breweries, and neighborhood restaurants overwhelmingly welcome dogs. Boulder's fit, outdoor-oriented population includes an enormous proportion of dog owners who take advantage of the city's progressive pet policies.
Veterinary Clinics
Boulder Emergency Pet Clinic
Central Boulder (24-hour emergency)
Alpine Veterinary Hospital
Table Mesa
Boulder's Natural Animal Hospital
Central Boulder
Arapahoe Animal Hospital
East Boulder
Pet-Friendly Parks
Chautauqua Park / Flatirons
Off-leash OKBoulder's most iconic trailhead with access to the Flatirons and the Royal Arch. Dogs with a voice-and-sight tag can hike off-leash on most trails. The Mesa Trail, Enchanted Mesa, and Gregory Canyon provide varied hiking options with stunning views. Parking fills early on weekends.
900 Baseline Rd, Boulder, CO 80302
East Boulder Trail / Teller Farm
Off-leash OKA flat trail system through open grasslands and agricultural areas east of the city. Dogs with voice-and-sight tags can be off-leash. Excellent for birdwatching and relaxed walks with panoramic mountain views. Less crowded than the western trails.
East Boulder Trail, Boulder, CO 80303
Valmont Dog Park
Off-leash OKA large fenced off-leash dog park in east Boulder with separate areas for large and small dogs, a swimming pond, agility equipment, and shade structures. The park is popular with Boulder's dog community and hosts regular social events. No voice-and-sight tag required.
5275 Valmont Rd, Boulder, CO 80301
Boulder Creek Path
Leash requiredA 7.5-mile paved path along Boulder Creek from Eben G. Fine Park to 55th Street. Dogs must be on leash on the path but it connects to many Open Space trails where voice-and-sight tags apply. The creek provides swimming opportunities in summer. The path passes through downtown Boulder.
Boulder Creek Path, Boulder, CO 80302
Local Pet Regulations
Voice-and-Sight Tag Program
Boulder's unique voice-and-sight tag program allows dogs to be off-leash on designated Open Space and Mountain Parks trails. The tag costs $30/year and requires that the dog be under voice and sight control at all times. Dogs must respond to commands and not approach other people or dogs without permission.
Dog Licensing
Boulder requires all dogs over 4 months to be licensed. Altered dog licenses cost $15, unaltered cost $50 annually. A second unaltered dog in the same household costs $100. Proof of rabies vaccination is required. Licenses are available through the Boulder Valley Humane Society.
Leash Requirements
Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet on all city property, including city parks, unless in a designated off-leash area or on Open Space trails with a valid voice-and-sight tag. The distinction between city parks and Open Space is important for dog owners.
Trail Closure Compliance
Certain Open Space trails are seasonally closed for wildlife nesting and habitat protection. Dogs are prohibited on closed trails even with a voice-and-sight tag. Closures are posted at trailheads and on the Open Space website. Fines for violations are significant.
For nationwide regulations, see our United States pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Pearl Street Mall
Boulder's famous pedestrian mall lined with restaurants, shops, and street performers. Most restaurants with patios welcome dogs. The mall is a popular walking route for dog owners and has a community feel. Water bowls are commonly provided outside businesses.
North Boulder / Holiday
A residential area with proximity to Wonderland Lake and North Boulder Open Space trails. The Lucky's Market area on Broadway has pet-friendly shops. Quieter than central Boulder with excellent trail access from neighborhood streets.
Mapleton Hill
One of Boulder's oldest and most charming neighborhoods with Victorian homes, mature trees, and proximity to the Sanitas Valley trailhead. Walking distance to downtown Pearl Street. A quiet, residential neighborhood popular with families and dog owners.
Table Mesa / NCAR
A residential area at the base of the Flatirons with direct access to some of Boulder's best trails from the NCAR trailhead. Close to Chautauqua Park and the Mesa Trail. Larger lots and a more suburban feel than central Boulder.