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According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, more than 23 million American households added a furry companion to their family during the pandemic—and New York City was no exception. Morning or night, come rain or shine, the sidewalks are crowded with dogs of all shapes and sizes. However, in a city as congested and chaotic as New York, finding pet-friendly activities and supplies for dogs can seem daunting.
From posh pet boutiques to picturesque dog runs, these activities will provide the ideal way to spend an autumnal afternoon with your four-legged best friend.
Black Lab Cafe, Upper West Side
Opened this spring, Black Lab Cafe is the city’s first-ever “no leash” cafe. Separated by a glass partition, humans can enjoy a glass of wine or a cup of coffee while their dogs play freely. Located on Amsterdam and 80th St—replacing the posh Olma Restaurant and Bar, which shuttered in 2019—this vibrant destination will spark joy in pets and their owners alike. Order the pear salad and an almond croissant, then afterwards, enjoy a leisurely stroll to Central Park West or the River Run Playground.
Prospect Park, Brooklyn
With its wide fields and intimate trails, Prospect Park reigns as one of New York’s greatest gems. The fruit of Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux’s fabled collaboration—a partnership that produced Manhattan’s Central Park and Brooklyn’s Fort Greene—this pastoral oasis provides leisure and escape to humans and animals alike. One of the park’s delightful, more recent additions is the “Long Meadow,” which allows dogs to enjoy the wide, lush space without leashes.
School for the Dogs, East Village
Does your pup need to brush up on its etiquette? This canine academy, located in the heart of the East Village, provides all the support a busy New Yorker needs to raise a well-behaved pooch. From individual puppy training to specialized group classes, the wide menu of services meets the diverse needs of dog owners. For advanced students, the facility even offers courses on special tricks.
Love Thy Beast, East Village
As the name of the shop implies, a religious reverence for dogs pervades at Love Thy Beast. Nestled in the heart of the Ukrainian Village, the boutique offers toys, treats, and supplies; from sculptural dog bowls to cheeky stuffed animals, these are luxuries to spoil your pet with. The curation and craftsmanship outperform big chain competitors, and after some shopping, you can walk three short blocks to Tompkins Square Park.
Seaport Paw, The Seaport
New York is home to some of the most luxurious spas in the world, but the charming pet salon Seaport Paw is the perfect place to keep your dog looking and feeling fresh. The attentive staff caters to a wide range of grooming needs, from the basic to the advanced. In the shadow of the Brooklyn Bridge, the studio is conveniently located for downtown and Brooklyn residents—and is mere steps from the East River Greenway along which countless dogs parade all throughout the day.
Wagwear, Greenwich Village
This dog boutique is a true gem of New York City. Located on the historic blocks near Grace Church and The Strand bookshop, Wagwear offers the ultimate in chic accessories for your pets—from handsome leashes to whimsical beds, the finds are as reliable as they are amusing. (And as to be expected from the Village, there’s a welcome touch of camp to some of these fabulous finds.)
District Dog, Greenpoint
A short stroll from McCarren Park and mere steps from Msgr. McGolrick Park, District Dog is stocked with the usual necessities of a pet store—but it’s the bakery that truly makes it stand out from the rest. The birthday cakes (cooked, of course, with pooch-safe ingredients) provide the perfect treat for a thoroughly spoiled pet. With a knowledgeable and doting staff, this shop is a neighborhood favorite.
Dog Run at Pier 26, Tribeca
With a spectacular view of the Hudson River, this space gives new meaning to “concrete jungle.” Steps away from the skyscrapers of the Financial District and the cobblestone streets of Tribeca, Pier 26 provides the perfect spot for you and your dog to play, with sprinklers providing both entertainment and refreshment. Particularly helpful? If your canine companion is timid, the area is divided into separate sections for small and big dogs.