From pup-friendly patios to top-rated dog parks, these suburbs roll out the red carpet for your four-legged family members.
Moving to the suburbs doesn’t just impact your daily routine—it impacts your dog’s, too. If you’re leaving NYC and want to be sure your pup has room to roam, a great vet nearby, and plenty of tail-wagging adventures, the suburbs have you covered.
Many towns surrounding the city go above and beyond for pet parents, offering everything from spacious dog parks and beach access to local boutiques, groomers, and doggie daycare. Below, we’re spotlighting some of the top dog-friendly suburbs in Westchester, Fairfield County, and northern New Jersey—because when your pup’s happy, the whole family is happy.
WESTCHESTER, NY
Mamaroneck & Larchmont
This neighboring duo is a haven for dog lovers. Take a nature walk at Sheldrake Environmental Center or stroll through Otter Creek Preserve. Larchmont even has its own dog beach! Take a dip, then grab lunch at Lazy Boy Saloon’s pet-friendly patio or picnic outside Walter’s Hot Dogs. Need care? Village Animal Hospital has your basics covered, from wellness visits to boarding.
Pleasantville
Home to a small, friendly dog park and close to Rockefeller State Park Preserve (which offers easy hikes for all ages), Pleasantville is a low-key spot with lots of charm. Post-hike, snag a slice at Wood & Fire Pizza, which welcomes dogs to dine on its outside patio. In the mood for a pint with your pup? Check out dog-friendly Soul Brewing Company, which hosts everything from soul bingo to trivia nights, beer and cheese, and more.
Bronxville
Just 15 miles north of Manhattan, Bronxville is a dream for dog owners who love a mix of small-town charm and urban convenience. The town’s centrally located dog park is a local favorite, offering a safe, fenced-in space for dogs to run and socialize. Around town, many restaurants welcome pups at their outdoor tables—Scalini Osteria and Bronxville Diner are popular picks where you’ll often spot dogs lounging mid-meal. Tree-lined streets and well-kept sidewalks make it easy to stroll with your pup, whether you’re heading to the park or just taking in the scenery.
Ossining
For just $20 a year, Ossining residents get access to Cedar Lane Dog Park, a hotspot for dog families tucked into the town’s lush park system. This spacious, two-acre dog run is fully fenced and thoughtfully designed, with separate areas for large and small dogs so every pup can play safely. The ground is covered in wood chips to keep muddy paws at bay, and shaded seating areas make it comfortable for pet parents to linger while their dogs romp and socialize. A water station and waste bag dispensers make it easy to keep your pet hydrated and the space tidy.
FAIRFIELD COUNTY, CT
Fairfield
Dogs can roam free at Jennings Beach from October to May, and Lake Mohegan’s trails are a year-round favorite for hikers and their hounds. Stop by Woofgang & Co. for handmade treats and toys, or unwind at Flipside Burgers’ pet-friendly patio, complete with a doggie menu.
Greenwich
Greenwich strikes the perfect balance between upscale charm and laid-back, pet-friendly vibes. A stroll down Greenwich Avenue is a treat for both you and your pup—many of the boutiques and shops leave water bowls out front, and you’ll often spot shopkeepers greeting four-legged visitors with a scratch behind the ears. When it’s time to take a break, Terra Ristorante Italiano and several other local favorites offer dog-friendly patios where you can enjoy a meal while your pup lounges nearby.
For playtime, Grass Island Dog Park is a must. This fully fenced, waterfront park provides plenty of space for off-leash fun, with benches for pet parents and scenic views of the marina. And if your dog prefers a woodland adventure, head to the Babcock Preserve—300 acres of wooded trails that are perfect for long walks, energetic hikes, and quality time in nature. Greenwich also offers top-tier pet services, from grooming to daycare to trusted veterinary care, making it a true haven for pet lovers looking to put down roots.
Stamford
With its dynamic downtown and growing family population, Stamford is a suburban city that doesn’t forget its furry residents. Start your day at Stamford Dog Park, a spacious, well-maintained off-leash area where your pup can run freely while the kids enjoy the adjacent playground. It’s a go-to weekend stop for locals—and a great place to meet fellow dog owners.
Looking to socialize? Stamford has a surprisingly robust pup-and-pint scene. Half Full Brewery and Lock City Brewing both welcome dogs and their people, offering relaxed outdoor seating and plenty of tail wags. Need trusted care? Camp Bow Wow is a one-stop shop for doggie daycare, overnight boarding, walking services, and grooming. And for veterinary care that goes the extra mile, Stamford Veterinary Center provides full medical services plus boarding for dogs and cats, so your whole furry family is covered.
Westport
Winslow Park is a favorite local spot for Westport dog owners. With its wide-open fields, wooded trails, and off-leash hours, it’s the kind of place where dogs can roam, play, and socialize—while owners catch up with neighbors and soak in the scenery. On weekends, it’s not unusual to see dozens of pups enjoying the space, from high-energy retrievers to tiny seniors out for a stroll.After the park, head to downtown Westport, where plenty of restaurants welcome dogs at their outdoor tables—Bartaco, The Whelk, and Spotted Horse Tavern are just a few of the local favorites. Pet boutiques like Earth Animal and Old Mill Pet Supply are also nearby, offering everything from organic treats to designer leashes.
NORTHERN NEW JERSEY
Maplewood
Each summer, Maplewood goes all-in for its four-legged residents with the annual Dog Days of Summer event, when pups take over the town pool for a splash-filled celebration before it closes for the season. But this pet-friendly energy isn’t limited to one weekend; year-round, locals flock to South Mountain Dog Park, a spacious, well-maintained off-leash area tucked inside the scenic South Mountain Reservation. There, dogs can explore wooded trails, race through the open field, or hang out in the designated large or small dog sections.
When it’s time for a tune-up, Valley Veterinary Hospital offers comprehensive care, and Bubbles & Bath Grooming Spa keeps pups looking their best with everything from basic baths to breed-specific styling.
Montclair
Montclair is one of the most dog-welcoming towns in northern New Jersey—walkable, vibrant, and filled with pet-loving locals. On weekends, you’ll see dogs lounging under tables at local favorites like Toast and Uncle Momo, where outdoor patios are almost always packed with pups and their humans. For off-leash fun, head to Brookdale Dog Park, a spacious, well-shaded park with separate areas for large and small dogs, agility equipment, and plenty of benches for pet parents.
Need services? Pups@Play is a local favorite offering full-service dog care—think daycare, training, grooming, boarding, and even on-site veterinary services. And when it comes to nutrition, L&B Healthy Pet Market is stocked with organic food, holistic treats, supplements, and expert guidance to keep your pup feeling great.
Ridgewood
Ridgewood is a standout for dog owners seeking a charming, community-focused suburb with top-notch pet perks. The Ridgewood Dog Park, tucked inside the scenic Saddle River County Park, is a popular meeting place for pet parents and offers plenty of benches for relaxing while your dog socializes or gets the zoomies out.
After a morning at the park, stroll into town for a pup-friendly brunch at Raymond’s, where the outdoor seating area is always buzzing with dogs lounging under tables while their humans sip coffee. For your dog’s diet, Wholistic Paws stocks premium, all-natural pet food, supplements, and healthy treats you’ll feel good about.
Westfield
Westfield blends small-town charm with big-time convenience—especially if you’ve got a dog in tow. Tamaques Park features a newly renovated, fenced-in dog park where pups can run and play safely. The rest of the park includes walking paths, sports fields, and shaded spots perfect for a post-play picnic or stroll.
Head downtown and you’ll find plenty of welcoming patios for dining with your dog. Grab a table at Addams Tavern or Outta Hand Pizza, where the outdoor seating is always dotted with happy pups lounging at their owners’ feet. Many of Westfield’s locally owned shops are also dog-friendly, with treats at the register and water bowls outside. For day-to-day needs, there are several nearby vets and groomers ready to keep your four-legged family member healthy, happy, and looking their best.
Finding the Right Suburb for You—and Your Dog
Relocating isn’t just about square footage and school districts. For many families, pets are part of the equation—and rightly so. The good news? Many NYC suburbs go out of their way to be pet-friendly, offering the space, services, and lifestyle your dog will love just as much as you do.
At Suburban Jungle, we help you explore towns with your whole family in mind, including the furry members. Whether you’re dreaming of wooded trails, dog beaches, or a bustling downtown with plenty of patios, we’ll help you zero in on the best fit.
Ready to find your perfect pet-friendly suburb? Schedule your FREE initial strategy call today.
