Does your best friend have four legs? Mine does. Dogs have a unique ability to inspire love and affection in their owners and are often considered part of the family, which is why some visitors to the city bring their furry friends with them.
Whether visiting or a loveable local, we have compiled a list of cool things to do with your bestie. Because, while you are enjoying the city, shouldn't Fido have some fun too?
Dog Parks
Detroit has lots of great dog parks and many of them are located in new and attractive locations that will check another box on a great visit to Detroit.
Grand Circus Dog Park
2-98 E Adams Ave, Detroit, 48226
Located in the heart of Downtown, Grand Circus Dog Park is part of an urban oasis. The park offers interactive programs throughout the year for dogs and their owners, such as Canine Karaoke, a Dog Halloween Costume Party, Doggy Prom, and Singles Mingle for dog lovers. Visitors say that Grand Circus Dog Park is very clean, with friendly dogs and owners.
Belle Isle
No trip to Detroit is complete without a visit to Belle Isle State Park. The Belle Isle Conservacy describes it as having "natural beauty, historic structures, and unique character for the enjoyment of all, in every season, from sunrise to sunset." This jewel of the city features miles of trails and a designated dog-friendly beach area near Hipster Beach.
Midtown Dog Park
4263 Cass Ave (corner of Cass and W Canfield)
Midtown Dog Park is fenced in and features a double-gated entrance, picnic tables, agility equipment, water access, and waste stations. Maintained by the community, Midtown Dog Park is sometimes referred to as Shinola Dog Park given its proximity to the flagship store of the famous watch company.
Detroit Dog Park
Corktown--at the corner of 17th St. and Rose St.
Located near the newly remodeled Michigan Central Station, Detroit Dog Park features real grass. It is worth noting that there is no separation between large and small dogs. There is also no access to water, so owners should bring their own and a bowl for their pups.
Palmer Park Dog Park
910 Merrill Plaisance St, Detroit, 48203
This 1-acre dog park is fully fenced and grass-covered with separate spaces for large and small dogs. Amenities include double-gated entry, paved walkways, shady trees, benches, decorative boulders, waste stations, and drinking fountains. Located in historic Palmer Park, this location is part of recent renovations and upgrades to the park.
Capitol Park Dog Park
150 State St, Detroit, 48226
Capitol Park is an iconic park that officially reopened in 2025. One of the upgrades includes a dog recreation area with separate sections for small and large dogs, along with plenty of space to run, play, and socialize. Designed as an outdoor district living room, the reimagined park is now a greener, more walkable destination that supports residents, visitors, and surrounding businesses alike.
Detroit Riverfront and Dequindre Cut
This nearly two-mile long below-grade recreational pedestrian path, connects Eastern Market to the Detroit Riverfront and the residential neighborhoods in between. While exploring the Cut enjoy dozens of original murals and preserved graffiti under the overpasses and along the walls.
Dog Boarding
Sometimes you need a break from your furbaby. One of Detroit's Doggie Daycare/Boarding facilities would be a great place to leave your pup while you are out enjoying the city.
Canine to Five
A family-owned business, Canine to Five has been in business for more than 20 years. Their mission is to provide exceptional care for dogs while offering pet parents peace of mind. With four locations in the metro area, they are convenient and reasonably priced for daycare or overnight boarding. With a talented staff, Canine to Five provides enrichment activities and individualized activities, and grooming services.
Canine College
23717 Research Drive, Farmington Hills, 48335
Canine College is a premier indoor/outdoor dog daycare located in Farmington Hills. They also feature training, boarding, and grooming services. Owners can watch their pups on camera. Their "Bark Shop" also offers a wide selection of supplies for you and your dog, including food, toys, tools, and unique items at competitive prices.
Dog Walkers
Dog walkers are often able to provide essential midday exercise, mental stimulation, and potty breaks, reducing anxiety and preventing destructive behaviors while you are at work or away. Metro Detroit has many professional and experienced dog walking services.
The Good Dog Company
The small business is insured and highly-rated. Fans of the company rave that it's clear that the team is passionate about dogs and love what they do. The Good Dog Company right-sizes every walk and overnight and are all about giving your pup undivided attention. They go out of our way to make sure their day to day routines are enhanced, and not interrupted.
Grosse Pointe Dog Walkers
The founder of this small business notes that she follows the pack-walking methodology inspired by trainers like Czar Melan, where every leash walk becomes a lesson in respect, focus, and calm energy. They serve Grosse Pointe, St. Clair Shores, Harper Woods & nearby cities.
The Loyal Dog Club
Loyal Dog Club (formerly known as Royal Oak Dog Walkers) is a local, mom and woman-owned business that started with dog walking in Royal Oak beginning in May 2014. They offer offer pet taxi, poop scooping and overnight dog sitting. Fans rave that the walkers take frequent pictures of the four-legged clients and have excellent communication.
Emergency Vet Care
Should something unfortunate occur duing your visit to Detroit, keep in mind that the area has dozens of excellent veterinarians who can provide thoughtful care.
Grosfeld Veterinary Clinic
The Grosfeld Veterinary Clinic provides same-day and next-day appointments for animals needing urgent, not emergency, medical care. Michigan Humane’s Grosfeld Veterinary Clinic is dedicated to providing urgent care, along with critical medical procedures like spay and neuter surgeries, to animals in need in Detroit.
Jefferson Veterinary Center
11300 East Jefferson Ave. Detroit, 48214
Committed to promoting responsible pet ownership, Jefferson Veterinary Cent also provides preventative health care and health-related educational opportunities for their clients. They strive to offer excellence in veterinary care to Detroit and surrounding areas. Their entire staff is dedicated to providing each client and patient with personalized attention in a clean, modern facility with a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Patterson Dog & Cat Hospital
3800 Grand River Ave., Detroit, 48208
Michigan and America’s oldest animal hospital, Patterson has an incredible history of nurturing the bonds between people and their pets. They claim that their deep commitment to your pet’s wellness has not changed one bit since the hospital opened its doors in 1844. Patterson also offers an online pharmacy for your convenience.
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