Dog Walkers in Elmwood, Buffalo

Elmwood Avenue, and in particular Elmwood Village, is an urban centerpiece of Buffalo, New York. Long considered the artistic and eclectic center of the city, Elmwood Avenue consists of a mixture of residential homes, apartments, restaurants, and local businesses. Despite its urban vibe, Elmwood Avenue provides green spaces and easy access to the city's park system, offering plenty of options for walking your dog.

Because Buffalo is situated on the shores of Lake Erie, neighborhoods in the city are often subject to constant and occasionally severe lake-effect snowstorms from December through March. Walking on sidewalks can be tricky due to icy surfaces so drive or walk with care during these times and be sure to wear appropriate winter weather gear. Spring, summer, and fall are alternately rainy and cool, hot and humid, and temperate and comfortable. As conditions may carry, check the weather forecast ahead of your walk and be prepared for whatever comes your way.

The primary walkable section of Elmwood Avenue stretches over a roughly five-mile section from the cross-streets of Forest Avenue to North Street. This entire portion of Elmwood is a mixture of housing, commercial districts, retail spaces, and green spaces. Elmwood is lined with large sidewalks and is the main hub of pedestrian traffic, especially during business hours. The green space and neighborhoods on and directly off of Elmwood are mostly lined with large, established trees which provide much-needed shade while walking a dog. 

As it is a mixed-use district, this part of Elmwood Avenue is frequently busy. Be sure to keep your dog on a leash at all times and use crosswalks for crossing the road. Please note that there are many residential homes and businesses which encourage higher amounts of traffic pulling in and out of driveways and parking lots. Keep your eyes open at all times for the safety of you and your dog!

The main greenway feature on Elmwood Avenue is Bidwell Parkway. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, this parkway lies between two streets lined by large, older mansions that are now used as businesses, schools, and apartment complexes. Large trees provide a beautiful canopy and the extensive grassy area is perfect for a walk or run with your dog or even a picnic! Bidwell Parkway is a great place to catch a quick bite as food trucks and farmers' markets are regularly in attendance. Your dog does need to be kept on a leash as you are guaranteed to meet other dogs and owners at this spot. 

Large lawns and well-kept landscaped areas provide other, smaller green space opportunities for you and your pooch. If you are looking for a spot to take a break, consider some dog-friendly patio options at cafes and restaurants such as Forty Thieves, Caffe Aroma, Cole's, Root & Bloom, and Pano's.