Denver Ranked The Fourth Most Popular For Dogs; Wash Park’s Furry Scurry Is Nation’s Largest Dog Walk
by Glen Richardson
Wading Woopie: Dogs love to run and play at off-leash dog parks, especially those such as Cherry Creek State Park that involves water. Photo: Cris Dornbusch
Dogtown Denver: The nation’s fourth most popular city for dogs with a dog population of 158,000, there’s one dog for every four people.
Denverites really love dogs, and few leave Fido behind when they’re going out on the town. It’s not what the “D” in Denver stands for, but it might as well be. The nation’s 2025 fourth most popular city for dogs, canines are great buddies for the Mile High City’s active lifestyle.
With an affinity for big dogs, Labrador Retrievers are Denver’s most popular breed. Other favorites include German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Bulldogs, and Rottweilers. Denver’s total dog population is a whopping 158,000. Denver’s current people population is around 711,400, that’s at least one dog for every four people
Canines are celebrated here as loyal companions. Many local owners believe that dogs are a catalyst for a healthier, happier Denver. Besides, most pups, mutts, and pooches are incredibly cute. Moreover, it’s not uncommon for shoppers to be greeted at the door of retail stores by an excited dog. The city, of course, does have dog issues ranging from crowded animal shelters to attacks by off-leash dogs.
Holidays With Dogs
The holidays are even more special here because four-legged friends get to join in the fun. Many seasonal events and holiday light displays welcome dogs, making it easy to include them in your favorite traditions. From glowing gardens to festive parades, the city lights up with opportunities to celebrate together. Whether you’re exploring a walk-through display or strolling through a holiday market, you dog can be right at your side.
While not every night is open to dogs, The Denver Zoo’s annual Zoo Lights hosts special nights for pups and their parents. Those evenings include access to the dazzling displays, photo-ops, and festive treats for both owners and their dogs. Keep an eye on the zoo’s event calendar to get tickets, since these nights tend to sell out fact.
The annual Winter Wonderland in Cherry Creek North offers a festive atmosphere with music, lights, and dog-friendly outdoor spaces. The area is decorated with glowing trees and art installations that make a great backdrop for holiday photos with your dog. You’ll enjoy the crisp winter air with your dog by your side.
Many of Denver’s holid
Halycon Hound: Dogs and their owners are given first-class treatment, and a host of amenities at the Halycon Hotel in Cherry Creek North.
ay markets and pop-up events are dog-friendly, especially those held outdoors. The Christkindl Market at Civic Center Park allows leashed dogs and offers a lively European-style holiday experience. Your pup can enjoy the sights and smells, while you browse artisan gifts, try seasonal treats, and enjoy live music. Markets are usually busiest in the evenings and on weekends, so plan accordingly if your dog prefers a quieter crowd. It’s wise to bring along water, treats, and waste bags.
Dog Friendly Places
Holiday Time: During the holidays dog owners are encouraged to give the gift of time and attentiveness to their dog(s).
The city has a selection of places where your best friend can go with you. Denver’s home to numerous locally crafted beers and most of the breweries have dog-friendly patios. Pizzerias, coffee shops, and sites serving some of Denver’s best hot dogs and burgers also welcome dogs, sometimes with special treats.
Shoppers are encouraged to explore stores and have a good time at many events and retail stores in Glendale and Cherry Creek. Dogs, for example, are invited to bring their owners along to Denver’s doggy social event of the year, Pets on the Plaza in Cherry Creek North. The event is a fundraiser for the Denver Dumb Friends League.
Bird Dog, a dog-friendly rooftop happy hour is held on the last Wednesday of each month at the Halcyon Hotel in Cherry Creek. Neighboring Glendale has five dog-friendly hotels. PetSmart’s Glendale location offers dog training. Classes can help your young pup or older dog learn to behave at home or on the go.
Dogs Versus Kids
How many of your friends have dogs versus kids?
Across the metro area, the number of “dog parents” is steadily climbing. Approximately 50% of Mile High’s residents own one or more dogs versus only 20% of metro homes with children under the age of 18.
In Glendale-Cherry Creek neighborhoods and across metro Denver, there are more people living with pups than human children. Simply stated, more and more people are choosing to raise pups instead of kids.
Furry Scurry
Furry Scurry in Wash Park is the nation’s single largest dog walk. The event raises money to help the Dumb Friends League care for 20,000 homeless dogs and other pets.
Held in May this year, dog lovers and
Shopping Spree Sidekick: Dogs are pampered in Cherry Creek, and many stores offer bowls of water or delectable treats. There are 11 dog-friendly shopping areas in Denver.
their four-legged friends enjoy a two-mile walk around beautiful Wash Park.
Dog demonstrations, contests, refreshments, plus food trucks attract dog owners to support Dumb Friends League’s mission of ending pet homelessness and animal suffering.
Dog Shows
Every year the Colorado Kennel Club — the club meets monthly on the first Tuesday of the month at Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital, 7:30 p.m. — hosts one of the largest conformation shows in the country. The show offers both agility and obedience performance trials, as well as barn hunt and dock diving.
Another premier dog event is Denver Dog Days held in September or October at Sloan’s Lake Park. MaxFund animal shelter is the 2025 beneficiary. It’s a fun dog show with a live DJ plus puppies available to adopt. The mid-season challenge for dog athletes features a 5K and 10K event, plus a half mile marathon. Courses wind northeast along the scenic Big Dry Creek Trail.
A new Dog Days of Summer was launched this year on Larimer Square featuring live music, splash pads, adorable dog adoptions, plus free goodies for dogs. Whether you’re a proud dog parent or just love being around happy dogs, it’s another way to spend a summer day full of smiles, splashes, and good vibes.
