“When I am happy, he is joy unbounded. When I am a fool, he ignores it. When I succeed, he brags. He is loyalty itself. He has taught me the meaning of devotion. With him, I know a secret comfort and a private peace. He has brought me understanding where before I was ignorant. His head on my knee can heal my human hurts. His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and unknown things. He has promised to wait for me…whenever…wherever…in case I need him. And I expect I will, as I always have. He is just my dog." ~ Gene Hill

Seven months ago, I ventured into Rancho Coastal Humane Society and came home with a loveable, snuggable, short and stubby, four-year-old Chow/Corgi mix named Hank Moody. It’s more than safe to say that out of all the things I’ve ever purchased in my entire life, he is the best investment I have ever made.

I used to think it was absolutely ridiculous how a person could be so obsessed with their dog. The annoying baby talk, the wardrobes of bedazzled doggie clothes, the shrine of photos of cutesy little Fido all over their house. I couldn’t stand it. But that was then and this is now. And now...well, now I’m one of those people I used to hate.

We’re like two peas in a pod, Hank and I. He’s the peanut butter to my jelly. He’s the bacon to my eggs. He’s the Robin to my Batman. I can’t help it. I love him more than anything in the whole world. And let’s be honest, if you’re anything like me (and the rest of the crew here at the DSD offices), you probably bring your dog with you wherever you go too. And why shouldn’t you? Isn’t that what loyal best friends are for?

Fortunately, we locals are lucky to live in a city where our four-legged friends are highly tolerated and always welcomed with a smile. From dog friendly hotels and doggie restaurant menus, to top-notch dog training, premier boutiques and even canine-friendly salons, discover the best dog-friendly places in San Diego.

San Diego Hotels

Hotel Indigo: There’s absolutely no reason to settle for hotels that merely tolerate your four-legged pal. Hotel Indigo in East Village knows that your pup is just as much a part of your family and travel time as you are. This dog friendly boutique hotel even has their very own residential pooch Sandie, adopted from the San Diego Humane Society, to affectionately welcome you and your four-legged pal upon arrival. The Ruff-Life San Diego Hotel Package features all of what you and your furry friend need to best enjoy your stay and have a barking great time, including dog food and water bowls, a plush doggie bed, and of course the much-desired treats and goodies for top-paw behavior.

The US Grant: For close to a century, the US Grant Hotel’s commanding presence and historic appeal has maintained unwavering popularity amongst tourists and locals alike. And now, your loveable pooch can enjoy all the wondrous amenities it has to offer as well. The US Grant happily welcomes dogs 40 pounds or less per room and even provides Fido with all the rufftastic amenities they could imagine including a water bowl, a mat, a comfy doggie bed and a Pet Welcome Kit. Guests are required to sign a liability waiver at check-in and a non-refundable $150 cleaning fee per room per stay will apply. The US Grant only asks that guests utilize the 'Dog in Room' door hanger at all time and to keep all dogs on a leash or in a carrier bag when outside the room.

Porto Vista Hotel: The vintage chic Porto Vista Hotel in Little Italy offers an charming taste of classic 1960s Italy right here in San Diego and best of all, their gracious hospitality is extended to your pets, so don’t hesitate to bring them along for the fun. To top it off, the Porto Vista’s favorite hotel dog, Barklee, is excited to show your pup the ropes. When making your reservations at the Porto Vista Hotel, simply let them know you’re traveling with your furry, four-legged friend. Sometimes a little companionship on the road is just what you need, therefore the Porto Vista offers a warm range of San Diego pet-friendly lodging services…all just a short walk from the city’s best dog boutiques and parks.

San Diego Restaurants

Pacific Coast Grill: Sheltered, heated and green, Pacifc Coast Grill’s patio is the perfect intimate oasis to grab a bite with your four-legged friend. By day, the casual outdoor dining area provides a cool and bright atmosphere enveloped by vibrant flowers, cool green vines and glass cradled candles. While you’re feasting on mouthwatering California cuisine such as the Lobster Burrito, the Almond Crusted Tomato Sandwich, or the Balsamic Ginger Glazed Mahi, don’t forget to order a meal for you pup from the Woof Menu. Delectable doggie delights include the Half-Pound Sterling Chuck Doggie Burger, the House-Ground Turkey Burger with white and dark meat, the Charbroiled Chicken with white rice, or Harry & Arthur’s Filet of Beef served medium rare. All dogs also receive a complimentary bowl of fresh cold water and a Mutt Munchers doggie treat for dessert.

Shades Oceanfront Bistro: Shades Oceanfront Bistro in Ocean Beach has always been a popular destination for dog lovers, and now they introduce a new Fido Menu for all of our adorable four-legged friends to enjoy. The Fido Menu is made from people grade ingredients, fresh and wholesome with no seasoning or preservatives. Options include beef, chicken or pork for only $3.95 with any “People Meal” purchase. In order to participate in the Fido Menu, customers must request a patio rail table so they can be seated with their dog.

Heavenly Cupcake: It’s safe to say that the cupcake craze has taken San Diego by storm and Heavenly Cupcake is no exception. The charming Gaslamp bakery specializes in baking cupcakes the old fashioned way and offers delicious flavors such as Banana Chip, S’Mores, Lemon Coconut and Orange Chip. And now, Heavenly Cupcake gives you the chance to share a sugary novelty with you canine companion. Show your pooch how much you love them with a special treat, a Heavenly Pupcake! All Pupcakes are $2 each and are made with dog friendly ingredients: carrots, whole wheat flour, baking soda, peanut butter, canola oil, eggs, honey, vanilla, and cream cheese. Doggie decorations are made of fondant, which includes sugar, glucose sugar, and food coloring as well as other thickening agents.

Find more dog friendly businesses at DiscoverSD.com!