The great outdoors is full of fun, wonders, and surprises. Discovering nature’s inner beauty is one of the most rewarding experiences you can ever have in your life. And what better way to take in the scene than to have it with man’s best friend. If you are currently on the lookout for the best spots for your next doggie getaway, we highly advise that you consider the city of Bend in the state of Oregon. The city is located on the eastern edge of the Cascade Range along the Deschutes River which means that you are surrounded by natural features in almost all directions.

Here are some of the reasons why Bend should be your next destination:

It’s a dog-friendly city

The city of Bend is generally regarded as the most ideal place for dogs. Legend has it that the city holds the highest per capita dog population in the entire world, with more or less 49 percent of residents owning one or more dogs in their homes. Additionally, it boasts upwards of 51 miles of trails within the city borders, numerous hiking trails in the forests, and 13 off-leash areas for your dogs to play freely. If you are keen to take your furry friend with you, be sure to sufficiently plan ahead with these tips for taking your dog on a vacation.

There are plenty of activities all year round

Unlike other spots that are only known for certain seasons, Bend is available for all sorts of activities no matter what time of the year you go. During the winter season, the city is known to offer mountain activities on its cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails at Wanoga, Edison, and Kapka Sno-Parks. When the winter snow dries up, adventurous routes and tracks begin to open up for mountain bikers and trail runners to enjoy. Whether it be in the cold or in the dry, you are sure to find an activity for you and your pooch to bond and play along with.

Rich wildlife

Aside from being a canine paradise, the city is also home to a vast array of wildlife scattered throughout the forests, parks, and museums. A trip to the High Desert Museum takes you to over 135 acres of wildlife facilities filled with permanent and temporary exhibits spread over the entirety of the area. Inside the museum, you will find all sorts of information about the flora and fauna within Central Oregon. Moving outside, the museum features nature trails connecting various exhibits, including an aviary, an otter tank, and other historical displays. Finally, live animal encounters are regularly held throughout the day, featuring multiple animals like porcupines, badgers, and more. 

Social nights with your furry friends

As an extension of the city’s naturally close affair with dogs, it has over 40 dog-friendly restaurants and breweries where you and your best friend can hang out and socialize. Bendites are more than willing to play along with dogs and dine with them. You will also find plenty of dog lodging facilities and other events specifically planned for our canine buddies.

With the city’s renowned relationship with dogs, it is not at all difficult to see why it should be on the top of your list when it comes to your next doggie trip. Boasting hundreds of different fun activities and adventures, you will certainly have a hard time exhausting all that the city of Bend can offer. Whatever activity you may have planned ahead, only one thing is for sure – that you can leave the city with your heart a little bit happier.

Hey there! I'm Rodrigo, a passionate writer with a lifetime love for animals, especially dogs. Creating this blog is a dream come true for me so I hope you enjoy all our content!