(NewsNation) — Frederick, Maryland, is the top dog in a recent list of 2025’s best cities for dog lovers.
Some metropolitan areas are more suitable than others for dogs due to more green space and pet-friendly public spaces. LawnStarter, a lawncare company, released the list, ranking the top 500.
These cities shine with top-rated vets, plenty of dog sitters, and active Meetup scenes, along with strong dog-friendly dining and shopping options.
The second best in show is Asheville, North Carolina.
“These cities shine with top-rated vets, plenty of dog sitters, and active Meetup scenes, along with strong dog-friendly dining and shopping options,” the company wrote.
Coming in at third is Scottsdale, Arizona, followed by New York City as fourth and Santa Fe, New Mexico, as fifth.
Though NYC is a big city, it “trade(s) yard space for walkable streets, plentiful parks, and strong access to pet amenities and emergency care. City walks double as social time, too,” LawnStarter said.
Two other North Carolina cities make the top 10: Wilmington at No. 6 and Raleigh at No. 9.
The list took into account various factors, including fenced-in yards, city regulations on commercial breeding, pet care costs and presence of pet stores.
Here’s where some other big cities ranked:
- Atlanta: No. 15
- Austin, Texas: No. 14
- Chicago: No. 60
- Denver: No. 91
- Las Vegas: No. 39
- Los Angeles: No. 30
- Miami: No. 16
- Portland, Oregon: No. 50
- Houston: No. 26
- Seattle: No. 42