Dog walking in Saratoga

Basin Way

West Saratoga is a haven for hikers, and you can bring your buddy along on many of the trails in the area. Fremont Older Open Space Preserve allows leashed dogs on all its trails, and this park has a hike for every dog from the most athletic to the committed couch pup-tato! If you can, try and make it to the top of the mountain for sweeping views of the Santa Clara valley. Just remember to bring water and bags with you. Once you and your pooch are all tired out, you can stop in at Peet’s Coffee and Tea for a much-needed pick me up!

Almaden

Almaden is just ten miles away from Saratoga, and it’s well worth the trip. Almaden Lake Park boasts some beautiful and tranquil trails, but your dog will need to be on-leash, and you’ll need to keep to designated areas. Don’t fret though -- right next door, you’ll find the furrific Jeffrey Fontana Dog Park! You and your pup can enjoy a spirited game of catch here whatever the weather, as the packed sand surface holds up even after heavy rains. There are seats for tired owners, and water and bags are provided. After you’ve worked up an appetite, you and your pooch can chow down at Mo’s The Breakfast and Burger Place, a local favorite that sets out water bowls at their outdoor tables.

West San Jose

The Saratoga Creek Dog Park in West San Jose is one of the larger parks in the area, and a great place for your pup to burn off any excess energy! All you need in terms of water, bags and toys are provided on-site, but unlike the Jeffrey Fontana Dog Park, there’s no separate area for small dogs, so be mindful of your pup’s temperament. It’s part of Saratoga Creek Community Park, which also has a shaded trail for a more sedate, leashed walk. There are plenty of restaurants in the area that welcome canine dining companions. Try Rubio’s Coastal Grill for dinner, or cool down after your workout at Yogurtland.

Downtown San Jose

For a truly entertaining day out, you and your pooch can take a trip to the bright lights of Downtown San Jose! You only need to take a stroll down Santana Row to see that the city is fabulously welcoming to furry friends -- there are over 25 dog-friendly restaurants and cafes on the street alone.  For off-leash adventures, sniff out the Discovery Dog Park. Shaded by beautiful redwoods, the large dog run provides water, bags and toys. A special mention though has to go to the mutts-visit, locally owned Biscuits on Jackson Street, where you’ll find toys and treats to keep your buddy bright eyed and bushy tailed!

Los Gatos

If the big city life isn’t to you or your pooch’s liking, why not head out to Los Gatos? Just a 16-minute drive from Saratoga, the trails in this area area a pup’s paradise. For a real challenge, visit St. Joseph’s Open Space Preserve -- if you and your furry friend can handle the steep incline, you’ll be well rewarded by the views at the top. Be careful though; some trails aren’t shaded, so you might want to visit in the morning or early evening. Your buddy might also enjoy a leashed walk in Vasona Park. With 150 acres of open space around a reservoir, it’s worth paying the six dollars for parking.