Posted by Andrea Durway
The Best St. Louis Neighborhoods for Dog Owners
In 2025, WalletHub ranked St. Louis 10th among the most pet-friendly cities in the US. We have an abundance of parks and all the love any dog would need! Whether you’re strolling through the park, grabbing a bite on a dog-friendly patio, or just enjoying your neighborhood’s sidewalks, where you live has a big impact on your pup’s quality of life (and yours too).
If you’re thinking about moving—or just want to explore your options—here are some of our favorite St. Louis neighborhoods for dog owners.
Tower Grove South & Tower Grove East
Why we love it:
Tower Grove Park is a dog lover’s dream. With over 280 acres of tree-lined paths, open fields, and shaded picnic spots, it’s a daily destination for neighborhood pups. Add there are a plethora of dog-friendly patios (like Amsterdam Tavern, The Civil Life Brewery, The Royale, Riley’s Pub, Rooster, and Tick Tock Tavern) and a tight-knit community feel, and it’s easy to see why so many dog parents love it here.
Bonus:
Year-round events like the Farmer’s Market and Food Truck Fridays are super pet-friendly.
Lafayette Square for Dog Owners
Why we love it:
With historic charm and one of the city’s prettiest parks, Lafayette Square is ideal for stylish pups and their humans. Lafayette Park offers paved paths and open green space in the middle of a charming urban setting. The patio at Square One Brewery is quite popular.
Bonus:
Many homes in the area have private courtyards or small enclosed yards—urban dog-owner gold. Local pet boutique Four Muddy Paws has everything from grooming services to adorable accessories and treats. It’s a one-stop shop for pampering your pup.
Kirkwood for Dog Owners
Why we love it:
This suburb combines small-town charm with big pet energy. With wide sidewalks, plenty of green space, and walkable shopping and dining around the downtown district, it’s a favorite for active dog owners. Pets are welcome on many patios like Peacemaker Lobster & Crab. Nearby parks like Kirkwood Park and Greentree Park offer trails and open space for fetch sessions.
Bonus:
Many homes in Kirkwood sit on generous lots—great for dogs who need a yard to burn off zoomies.
The Central West End
Why we love it:
For the urban pup with a taste for the finer things, the Central West End offers walkability, style, and access to Forest Park—arguably the best dog-walking destination in the entire region. The area is dotted with dog-friendly patios, shops, and boutiques.
Bonus:
Living near Forest Park = endless adventures, including dog-friendly walking paths and The Boathouse, which has a dog menu.
Southampton for Dog Owners
Why we love it:
With charming brick homes, walkable streets, and a friendly community feel, Southampton is an underrated gem for dog owners. The sidewalks are ideal for daily strolls, and Zoomies Pet Café is a local favorite. This cozy neighborhood spot offers coffee, treats, and a chance for your pup to socialize—indoors!
Bonus:
Francis Park is just a few blocks away, offering plenty of green space and a peaceful place to walk the dog, and is also home to Rockwell Beer Garden, which people and pups can enjoy.
Maplewood for Dog Owners
Why we love it:
Maplewood is incredibly walkable, with sidewalks galore and a growing list of dog-friendly restaurants and shops (hello, The Side Project Brewing, Crow’s Nest, and The Living Room). Residents love the community vibe, and the nearby Kellogg Park even has a small off-leash area.
Bonus:
You’ll find lots of renovated bungalows and cottages with fenced yards—perfect furry friends who need space to roam.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a city dweller with a chihuahua in a sweater or a suburban explorer with a golden retriever who loves trail runs, St. Louis has a neighborhood that fits your lifestyle. As realtors (and dog lovers!) we’re here to help you find the perfect match for your whole pack.
Thinking About Moving With Your Pup?
Let’s find a place you’ll both love—fenced yard optional, dog park nearby preferred.
Reach out to the Dawn Griffin Group for expert insight into St. Louis’s most dog-friendly neighborhoods.
