If you’re planning to look at apartments in Chicago and your roommate happens to have fur, four legs and barks, you’re in luck. Chicago is considered one of the Top 10 most friendly cities in the United States by Dogfriendly.com. Chicago gets very high marks for its overall pet-friendly atmosphere and the number of things to do for pets and their owners.
Pet-Friendly Chicago Hotspots
While finding an apartment that will accept pets is between you and your landlord, once you’re settled, you will find plenty of things to do. Some of the top places to go with a canine in tow include:
The Sox – Believe it or not, the White Sox organization happens to be rather pet-friendly. Those living in apartments in Chicago will find this Major League team has a “Dog Day” each spring in which pets are welcome to attend along with owners.
Dog parks – The Chicago Park District operates a number of dog parks for canines and their owners. These “off leash” areas are found in quite a few places around the city. Dog parks are designed to give dogs a place to socialize, run around and have fun. They are also loved by owners, who often find camaraderie with other pet lovers. Most dog parks include watering areas, runs and even agility obstacles.
Regular parks – Many of Chicago’s most noted parks welcome dogs on – and sometimes off – leashes. A favorite stop for pet owners with dogs who have a need to get in some serious exercise is the Lakefront Trail. This offers miles and miles of room to roam.
Apartment walks – Some apartments in Chicago offer features designed to make canine residents feel right at home. It is not out of the question to find apartments with special pet walking areas and open spaces to roam. While you might have to go out of the urban area a bit to find them, pets and apartments can go together well.
Downtown – Believe it or not, many of Chicago’s pubs and eateries are quite pet-friendly. While they might only offer canine seating outdoors, there are plenty of places to go and enjoy a cold one and a meal with Fido in tow.
10 Pet-Friendly Chicago Restaurants:
Many restaurants that allow pets are those with outdoor patios. Here are some in the chicago area that you might enjoy.
- Pauline’s (Coffee Shop and Diner)
- Billy Goat Tavern (Hamburgers, Cheap Eats)
- Bistrot Margot (French Bistro)
- (Purabelleza Coffee & Art) (Coffee Shop and Diner)
- Corner Bakery (Bakery and Deli)
- Kitsch’N on Roscoe (Comfort Food and Brunch)
- Crust (Organic Brick Oven)
- Swim Cafe (Coffee, Tea, Food, and fresh Baked Goods)
- Phil and Lou’s (Bar and Restaurant)
- Wishbone Restaurant (Southern Reconstruction Cooking)
Check out Dogfriendly.com’s complete list of Chicago locales where your furry friend can tag along.
Being Courteous when you’re out and about with your Dog
- Always call to verify that the establishment you are going to allows pets.
- Keep your dog leashed. Other dog owners and people who are afraid of dogs (even little dogs) appreciate it.
- Make sure your dog is well-behaved, socialized, and trained. Obedience classes and/ or personal trainers may be necessary.
- Always clean up after your dog. Carry plastic bags or small scooper.
Chicago is a metro area that does make way for canines and their owners. While it’s likely you’ll find some apartments in Chicago and formal establishments only welcome service dogs, there are a lot of options where any old canine is made to feel right at home.
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