Enjoy Life With a Dog in Porto and Its Charming Vibe

Where Dogs Are Welcome

In Portugal, dogs are generally not allowed inside restaurants, but outdoor patios serving food are typically dog-friendly, especially in summer. Many cafés and restaurants offer covered patios for year-round visits. Vegan restaurants in Porto and Lisbon stand out, often allowing dogs indoors. To find dog-friendly spots, search “dog-friendly restaurants near me” on Google Maps or check the “About” tab of a restaurant’s listing, where dog policies are sometimes noted.

However, beyond restaurants, indoor dog-friendliness is limited. Most shops, markets, and malls prohibit dogs, though some malls permit them. Look for decals on doors or windows indicating pet policies. Some markets even provide “dog parking” stations outside for safely securing your pup.

Walking Your Dog in Porto

Walking Estrela in Porto is a joy. The city’s many pedestrian-only streets, including one near my apartment, make strolls easy and pleasant. Locals often greet us warmly, offering compliments like “What a lovely dog!” or stopping to pet her. These interactions have introduced me to many kind people, including fellow dog owners in my neighborhood. If you’re curious about life here beyond dog walks, this country guide in Portugal offers helpful insights for newcomers.

However, Porto’s weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers. Another quirk is the prevalence of off-leash dogs. While technically illegal, it’s common and rarely penalized, which can be tricky if an untrained dog approaches. Additionally, not all owners clean up after their pets, despite posted fines. I’ve learned to adapt, reusing produce bags for waste to save money and reduce waste. Thankfully, Porto’s frequent rain helps keep sidewalks clean.

Dog Parks

Porto has fewer dog parks than the U.S., but I’m fortunate to have one near my apartment. It’s a decent space, though it’s all dirt, which gets messy after rain, coating paws and fur. Nearby, a grassy area on a pedestrian street serves as an informal off-leash spot where locals let their dogs play. It’s not fenced, so it’s less ideal for dogs like Estrela, who struggles with recall if distracted. Living in an apartment without a yard makes it hard to give her the exercise she needs, which led me to explore daycare options.

Dog Daycare

When I adopted Estrela, she was a wild rescue from a forest near Braga, unaccustomed to indoor life. She chewed through four walls in my apartment’s front room. Friends suggested rehoming her, but I was committed to helping her adjust with love and training. Crate training and potty training took time, but eighteen months later, she’s thriving.

My landlady recommended daycare, which I initially thought was unaffordable. After asking around during walks, I found a fantastic daycare near my home. It’s budget-friendly, with a large fenced field where dogs play together. The staff are true dog lovers, and Estrela’s best friend, Nika, now attends too. Pricing is a steal compared to the U.S., where I paid $65-$125 per day in California. In Porto, a single day costs €16.50, a four-pack is €60, and a twenty-pack (a month’s worth) is €190, with optional pet taxi services. Daycare has been a game-changer, allowing me to work while Estrela plays.

Hiking and Beaches

I recently took Estrela on her first hike, which was a fantastic experience. Unlike Marin County, California, where dogs are often banned from trails to protect wildlife, most Portuguese trails are dog-friendly. I use the AllTrails app to confirm pet policies before hiking. For anyone curious about the culture and landscape here, exploring some fun facts about Portugal can make each adventure even more meaningful.

Beaches in Portugal typically restrict dogs during summer, but off-season rules are lax. Recently, we visited Furadouro Beach in Ovar, 40 minutes south of Porto, where dogs are allowed. Estrela loved chasing waves and playing with other dogs, making it a magical day.

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