Your Dog-Friendly Lakes Region Guide
Local guide
Dog-Friendly Lakes Region, NH: Where to Stay and Play With Your Pup
Where to stay with your dog
Many of our homes welcome dogs, so your pup can be part of the trip instead of staying behind. A few favorites:
- Lakefront on Crystal Lake (Gilmanton Iron Works): a waterfront home with a dock and kayaks, about 50 feet from the water. Up to 2 pets are welcome.
- Farm loft in Gilmanton: a cozy one-bedroom loft on a working farm with horses and mini cows, for dogs who love a little adventure.
- Lake house in Gilford: a big pet-friendly home near Lake Winnipesaukee with a game room and fire pit, close to Gunstock.
- Lakefront cottage in Alton Bay: a cozy cottage right on Lake Winnipesaukee with a dock and kayaks.
- Sunset Lake retreat in Alton: a home with a hot tub, game room and fire pit for cozy nights in.
- Meredith getaway: a home with a canoe and fire pit, a great base for exploring dog-friendly Meredith.
See all our homes and look for "pets allowed" on each listing.
Good to know before you book
- Add your dog to your reservation. A pet fee applies per pet at our dog-friendly homes, and each listing shows how many pets are allowed.
- Bring their basics: a leash, bed, bowls, waste bags and a towel for muddy paws.
- Check the house rules in your listing, since each home has its own pet guidelines.
Walk the WOW Trail in Laconia
The WOW Trail is a paved, flat path that runs through Laconia toward Belmont, with lake views along the way. Leashed dogs are welcome, and there are waste bags and bins along the trail. It's an easy morning walk for dogs of any age.
Let them run at the dog park
The Lezama Family Happy Tails Dog Park in Laconia has separate fenced areas for small dogs, large dogs and puppies. There's no water on site, so bring a bowl and a full bottle.
Hit the trails
The Belknap Range, between Gilford, Gilmanton and Alton, has trails for every level and wide views over Lake Winnipesaukee. Keep your dog leashed, pack water for both of you, and check each trail's rules before you go. In winter, bring traction for your boots, and in fall, wear something bright during hunting season.
Beaches: what to know
Dogs aren't allowed at most state park beaches during the season. At Ellacoya State Park in Gilford, for example, pets aren't permitted from May 1 to October 31. The easiest way to enjoy the water with your pup is to book a lakefront home, where you can relax by the water at your own pace.
Dog-friendly places to eat in Meredith
Meredith is one of the most dog-friendly towns on the lake. Weather permitting, these spots welcome dogs outside:
- Twin Barns Brewing Company: dogs are welcome in the beer garden and on the outdoor deck.
- Hermit Woods Winery & Eatery: bring your dog to the outdoor deck and front lawn.
- Surfside Burger Bar: dogs can join you on the patio, with water and a dog menu.
- Hart's Turkey Farm Restaurant: dogs are welcome at the outdoor patio tables.
- Identity Coffee Co.: well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome, and they can order a pup cup.
Policies can change, so it's always a good idea to call ahead.
Plan your trip
Looking for more ideas? Read our Gilford guide, our Gilmanton travel guide or our Lake Winnipesaukee winter guide. You can also browse our Lake Winnipesaukee vacation rentals.
Book direct and save
Booking directly on our website means no booking-site fees, and every guest gets our local partner perks. See available homes.