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Boston, MA

Dog walking in Boston

Book on-demand and scheduled walks with local dog walkers. Choose between a 20, 30, or 60-minute walk for your pup.

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Customer reviews

Unable to take your dog on a walk today? Dog walkers through Wag! are available to care for your pup whenever you’re not. Every dog walker has passed an enhanced background check. Get photos and updates on where your dog poops and pees while you follow along via GPS in the app.

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thank you for getting my ziggy out for a nice morning walk!

Amanda T.

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Thank you Xeny!

Holly K.

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Thank you so much!!

Karina C.

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Thank you!!

Kayleigh C.

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Thanks so much for the detailed report card and checking the water before you left! I m sure Max had a great time!

Erika M.

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Thanks!

Gabrielle V.

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Cameron did an amazing job taking care of our pup and making sure to keep us updated on her! Tons of help!

Brian M.

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Thanks so much! Happy new year!

Rachel C.

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So sweet with our pup, very professional and communicative, would hire again any time!

Kelly C.

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I can t get this screen off of my phone. Michael is in Europe. I have given him many tips. I have tried to do the damn report cards and I m over it. Please unlock the screen so that I can do the current report cards for the last three days this is all I

Linda Z.

Why book dog walker in Boston

Busy Pet Parents sometimes need a hand when it comes to ensuring their pup is getting the potty breaks and exercise they need. That's where Wag! comes in! Local Boston, MA dog walkers are background checked and registered on the Wag! platform, ready to take your dog on an adventure when you need them. Your dog can make a friend in the neighborhood, and you can re-book with the same dog walker easily in the app. Boston, MA has "pawlenty" of parks and neighborhoods that your dog is itching to explore!

Why book with Wag!

The best dog friendly neighborhoods
in Boston

Unable to take your dog on a walk today? Dog walkers through Wag! are available to care for your pup whenever you’re not. Every dog walker has passed an enhanced background check. Get photos and updates on where your dog poops and pees while you follow along via GPS in the app.

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East Boston

East Boston

Located just across the river from downtown Boston, MA, East Boston is a popular neighborhood for both two and four-legged family members. Whether strolling the streets on your nightly walks or leisurely exploring local dining and retail, East Boston has something for both canine and human family members. On-leash pets are welcome to join you on an exploration of Bell Isle Marsh, one of the area’s last salt marshes, which features abundant wildlife and unique vegetation. East Boston is also home to the Bremen Street Dog Park. Here canines can enjoy segregated areas for large and small canines, obstacle courses, and benches for human companions to rest their paws.

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Back Bay

Back Bay

The Back Bay neighborhood of Boston, MA is a thriving community and a residential, dining, and entertainment hub of the popular seaside community. Home to human favorites such as the Boston Public Library, Back Bay is also an ideal destination for those looking to spend some quality time with their canine companions. Stop by Pawsh Dog Boutique for toys, treats, or accessories that are sure to have your doggy pal feeling pawsome. Next, check out a little retail therapy in the area. From clothing stores such as Lucky Brand to cosmetic powerhouses Lush and Mac, and tech guru Apple, the area’s premiere shopping destinations are guaranteed to roll out the red carpet for Fido and are excellent opportunities for socialization and practicing good doggy manners.

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South End

South End

The South End of Boston is a thriving urban neighborhood located conveniently near the heart of downtown Boston. With a host of amenities for both pets and their human caretakers, this urban locale is increasingly popular for apartment and small home living. The Carlton Court Dog Park is a well-maintained space, perfect for enjoying some quality time with your pooch. The double entry gate ensures your pet’s safety while the always-working hose and full dog bowl are guarantees that Fido will feel right at home in this pet-friendly neighborhood attraction. Whether you’re visiting or calling the area home, the South End is an area favorite for pet-friendly living and entertainment.

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Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill

The Beacon Hill neighborhood is one of the most scenic and iconic areas for Boston, MA residents to call home. With numerous dog friendly activities, those looking to live, play or visit Beacon Hill are sure to find something to entertain and engage both two and four-legged family members. The Esplanade in Beacon Hill is the perfect idyllic spot to spend a day of sniffing, exploring, and leisurely walking along the banks of the Charles River. Abundant Green Spaces offer the perfect spot to rest tired paws or for you and Fido to enjoy a picnic for two. Just a few blocks away, the Boston Public Gardens offer yet another pooch friendly opportunity to take in nature. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city with your pawsome friend with one of the many dog-friendly amenities in Beacon Hill.Keep reading
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South Boston

South Boston

Whether you’re racing around the area on four legs or two, South Boston is a Boston, MA neighborhood well known for catering to needs of area residents. Home to the Boston Convention Center and the Boston Children’s Museum, South Boston is also a great place to entertain man’s best friend. Carson Beach is a local dog-friendly sand and surf destination, where leashed dogs are welcome to partake in all the local amenities during the off-season, which runs from Labor Day to Memorial Day.

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Animal Shelter Spotlight in Boston

The MSPCA (Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) in Boston has a long history of protecting animals, relieving their suffering, and advancing their health and welfare. It’s one of several branches of the MSPCA-Angell, which is the oldest animal welfare organization in the United States, founded in 1868. It’s safe to say this non-profit organization has helped make laws and set standards that have shaped our sense of kindness and care for animals. 

Some of their services include adoption and rescue, veterinary care, animal protection, cruelty investigations, advocacy and education programs, and pet training and behavior services. The MSPCA continues to rescue, shelter, protect, heal, and advocate for more animals than any other American humane organization. They give hands-on care to many thousands of animals every year. 

Looking to adopt a new family member from MSPCA? Check their website to see some of the adorable adoptable animals! 

Boston, MA

Dog-friendly restaurants in Boston

The Barking Crab 

With a name like The Barking Crab, it would be cruel to not let the doggos join! This seafood restaurant on the waterfront has a spacious outdoor patio where dogs are welcome to join their owners for a meal. The staff is known to bring water bowls for furry friends and even offer dog treats.

Shake Shack

Located in Chestnut Hill, Shake Shack is a popular fast-food chain that allows dogs on their outdoor patio. They even have a special "Woof Menu" for dogs featuring items like "Pooch-ini" and "Bag O' Bones."

The Haven

The Haven is a Scottish restaurant in Jamaica Plain that has a dog-friendly outdoor patio where owners can enjoy traditional Scottish fare. Why not peruse the selection of beers and whiskies while your furry friend lounges beside you?

Stephanie's on Newbury

At this Back Bay restaurant you can find award-winning “sophisticated comfort food” in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. It's one of Boston's most stylish sidewalk cafes, and their outdoor patio is a popular spot for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Stephanie's welcomes dogs and even offers a "Doggie Dining" menu with options like grilled chicken breast and scrambled eggs.


Where to take pics of your dog in Boston 

Make the memories last by taking some pics while you adventure around Boston with your fur-baby! Here are some of the best places to capture the moments. 

Boston Common, Boston, MA

Boston Common

For some classic photo ops with your pup, you can’t miss the iconic Boston Common. This is a great location to capture photos of your dog with the backdrop of the city skyline. You can take photos of your dog running around the lush greenery or lounging by the pond.

Fenway Park, Boston, MA

Fenway Park

If you and your dog are fans of the Red Sox, you can take photos of your furry friend outside Fenway Park. The famous ballpark is a great location to take photos of your dog wearing a Red Sox jersey or posing with the Green Monster in the background.

The Boston Public Library

The Boston Public Library is a stunning historic building that features beautiful architecture and artwork. Take some pics of your literary pooch sitting on the library steps or posing in front of the grand entrance. Don’t forget the doggy spectacles! 

Freedom Trail, Boston, MA

The Freedom Trail

The historic Freedom Trail is a must-visit destination in Boston, and it's also a great place to take photos of your pup! Along your stroll with your best furry friend, you can snap some pics of them in front of historic landmarks or walking along the red-brick path.

Acorn Street, Boston, MA

Acorn Street

You won’t want to miss one of the most photographed streets in the city, Acorn Street in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood. This street offers visitors a reminiscent ride back to colonial Boston. You can take photos of your dog sitting on the steps of one of the charming brick houses or walking along the picturesque cobblestone street.


Dog-friendly event in Boston

What better way is there to see Boston than to cruise around the harbor taking in all the sights and rich history with your four-legged friend? Massachusetts Bay Lines has a Dog Days of Summer Cruise that runs on May 26th, June 24th, July 30th, August 13th, August 27th, and September 10th. The cruise typically lasts for around 90 minutes and takes you on a scenic tour of the harbor. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning views of the city skyline, as well as historical landmarks such as the USS Constitution.

During the cruise, your pup is welcome to join you on the boat's spacious outdoor deck. There are also plenty of amenities to keep your furry friend happy and comfortable, including water bowls and designated "doggie relief" areas. All dogs must be on a leash at all times, and only one dog for each paying adult is allowed.

As if the scenic views aren’t enough, the Dog Days of Summer Cruise also features some dog-friendly activities and entertainment. These include things like dog training demonstrations, agility courses, or even a doggie fashion show. The Massachusetts Bay Lines Dog Days of Summer Cruise is a fun and unique way to enjoy Boston's beautiful harbor with your furry companion. It's a great way to socialize your dog with other pups and enjoy a relaxing day out on the water.


View of Harvard University, Boston, MA

Famous dog in Boston 

Boston has had some of its own canine celebrities, including Harvard the Samoyed. Although he passed to doggy heaven in 2019, his legacy lives on. His full title was Champion Skilo Bear’s Ivy League C.G.C. Samoyed Sir Harvard, but owner Dana Sullivan called him Harvard Dangerfield for short. This white fluff ball couldn’t go for his daily walk in the city without getting stopped for pictures and pets, but his fame went beyond just his good looks. When Harvard was just 6 months old, he started training to become a therapy dog. He would visit and spread his love at hospitals and nursing homes with his owner. 

On April 15th, 2013, his therapy skills were put to good use. Two explosions went off at the finish line of the 117th Boston Marathon. Minutes prior, Harvard and his owner were cheering on runners in front of the Lenox Hotel. They were uninjured, and the next day went over to the Common for some impromptu therapy sessions, along with two black Pugs and five therapy Golden Retrievers sent from the Lutheran Church Charities. On that day, these heroic pups made local and national news, and Harvard went viral on the internet. His fame spread to different states and countries. 

Looking at pictures of a cute pup on the internet isn’t quite the same as cuddling a fluff ball in person, but it can still trigger a dose of happy chemicals in your brain. Harvard’s Great Grandnephew Blue Bear is also wildly famous on social media, with 21.9k followers. 

shaggy-dog-boston

The most popular dog names of 2023 in Massachusetts

Guest AuthorAmber Spencer-Knowles – Stacker Media

You've done everything on your checklist. Got pet insurance and found a great, affordable veterinarian. Didn't forget to puppy-proof the house and scanned high and low for the best quality dog food. Just one thing's missing: What will you name your new furry family member?

In the past century, man's best friend has had various popular names. Spike, Fido, and Buddy are classic names. But what if you're looking for something more unique? Or, you want to give them a classic name, like Charlie? Whatever you choose to call your puppy pal, you want to make sure it's just right.

What's in a name, you might ask? Sometimes, what you see is what you get. Other times, it's quite the complete opposite. According to the PetHelpful, the ideal dog name should be kept to one to two syllables. Why? You'll get your puppy's attention faster. Another helpful tip: give your furry friend a name you won't get tired of repeating.

Wag! ranked the 50 most popular dog names in Massachusetts based on its users' data. Find your next pup's name below, or see if your canine companion's name made the cut.

#50. Murphy
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.15%
- National rank: #57

#49. Koda
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.16%
- National rank: #44

#48. Moose
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.19%
- National rank: #61

#47. Mia
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.23%
- National rank: #41

#46. Gus
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.24%
- National rank: #73

#45. Lucky
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.28%
- National rank: #33

#44. Ellie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.28%
- National rank: #49

#43. Gracie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.29%
- National rank: #58

#42. Harley
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.33%
- National rank: #31

#41. Jax
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.33%
- National rank: #37

#40. Winston
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.34%
- National rank: #46

#39. Duke
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.37%
- National rank: #20

#38. Ruby
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.45%
- National rank: #48

#37. Oliver
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.49%
- National rank: #25

#36. Bentley
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.50%
- National rank: #26

#35. Louie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.51%
- National rank: #50

#34. Sophie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.54%
- National rank: #35

#33. Maggie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.57%
- National rank: #30

#32. Zoey
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.58%
- National rank: #29

#31. Finn
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.63%
- National rank: #56

#30. Nala
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.63%
- National rank: #18

#28. Chloe (tie)
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.66%
- National rank: #22

#28. Toby (tie)
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.66%
- National rank: #24

#27. Bear
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.67%
- National rank: #14

#26. Rosie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.70%
- National rank: #42

#25. Leo
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.71%
- National rank: #21

#24. Lily
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.74%
- National rank: #28

#23. Ollie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.76%
- National rank: #45

#22. Riley
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.77%
- National rank: #32

#21. Molly
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.79%
- National rank: #15

#20. Stella
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.83%
- National rank: #17

#19. Jack
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.86%
- National rank: #19

#18. Sadie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 1.97%
- National rank: #16

#17. Penny
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.00%
- National rank: #27

#16. Brady
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.00%
- National rank: Not ranked in the top 100

#15. Tucker
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.03%
- National rank: #36

#14. Rocky
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.04%
- National rank: #13

#13. Coco
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.10%
- National rank: #7

#12. Teddy
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.22%
- National rank: #23

#11. Milo
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.42%
- National rank: #11

#10. Buddy
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.43%
- National rank: #9

#9. Daisy
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.75%
- National rank: #6

#8. Lola
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.82%
- National rank: #10

#7. Lucy
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 2.98%
- National rank: #5

#6. Cooper
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 3.02%
- National rank: #12

#5. Bailey
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 3.39%
- National rank: #8

#4. Max
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 3.74%
- National rank: #3

#3. Charlie
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 4.21%
- National rank: #4

#2. Luna
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 4.77%
- National rank: #2

#1. Bella
- Share of Massachusetts's top 50 names: 4.84%
- National rank: #1

Want to see other state's rankings? Check out the top 10 in each of the 50 states.