🐾 Tahoe Dog Co.’s Dog-Friendly Guide to the South Shore of Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe is lively, scenic, and packed with dog-friendly spots. From beaches and trails to patios and cozy resorts, here’s your complete dog-friendly guide to South Shore Lake Tahoe.
1. Dog-Friendly Hikes – South Shore
- Echo Lake Trail (Echo Lake) – A stunning alpine hike with access to Desolation Wilderness. Dogs love the shoreline paths.
- Van Sickle Bi-State Park (South Lake Tahoe) – Easy-to-moderate trails just behind the casino corridor with lake views.
- Fallen Leaf Lake Trail (near Camp Richardson) – A mellow trail around a smaller alpine lake, perfect for a longer walk.
2. Dog-Friendly Beaches & Swimming – South Shore
- Kiva Beach (near Camp Richardson) – Probably the most popular dog beach on the South Shore, with shallow waters and wide sand.
- Regan Beach (South Lake Tahoe) – A small city beach with a designated dog area.
3. Paddleboarding with Dogs – South Shore
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SUP rentals are widely available in South Lake Tahoe. Dog-friendly launches include Kiva Beach and Fallen Leaf Lake.
4. Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes – South Shore
- The Hanger (South Lake Tahoe) – Outdoor beer garden with food trucks and dog-friendly seating.
- Base Camp Pizza (Heavenly Village) – Busy, fun, dog-friendly patio.
- The Getaway Café (Meyers, just outside SLT) – Beloved local spot with dog-friendly outdoor tables.
5. Pet Stores – South Shore
- Dog.Dog.Cat (South Lake Tahoe) – Stylish boutique with toys, gear, and healthy food.
- Pet Station (multiple Tahoe/Truckee locations) – Large selection, including a South Lake Tahoe location.
6. Vets & Pet Care – South Shore
- Tahoe Integrative Veterinary Care (South Lake Tahoe) – Holistic and traditional care.
- Reno Emergency Veterinary Hospital – For 24/7 emergencies (closest full-service emergency center).
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Alpine Animal Hospital
7. Dog Safety – South Shore Tips
- Blue-Green Algae: Occasionally blooms near South Shore beaches; avoid if water looks greenish.
- Crowds: South Shore gets busy — keep pups leashed around Kiva and Camp Richardson in summer.
- Snow & Ice: In winter, icy trails like Van Sickle can be slippery for dogs; bring traction if needed.
✨ Join the Pack
South Shore has it all — big beaches, alpine hikes, and plenty of patios. It’s the perfect place to enjoy Tahoe life with your pup. Share your adventures with #tahoedogco and join our growing community.