Dog Photographer’s Guide to Philadelphia
Fellow dog mom over here just looking to share all the great resources and discoveries I have found close to my neighborhood! As a Philadelphia pet photographer and dog owner, I have made some great connections over the years and feel the need to share the love. Always check websites for the most current and updated information. If your business is listed in the Philadelphia Dog Guide please contact me for any necessary updates/ edits (Alexa@alexanahas.com).
Dog Parks- run out all that puppy energy!
Rolling Hill Dog Park
1301 Rose Glen Road, Gladwyne, PA, 19035
Rolling Hill Dog Park is a great option for dogs with multiple trails and amazing historical landmarks. The dog park is well-shaded, while also still providing big open spaces for dogs to frolic. There are two sections so that you can choose between an on-leash or an off-leash area. This park also offers an off-leash trail as well that can be accessed right next to the dog park enclosure. Located in Gladwyne, PA, it’s such a great place to be although it can get a little crowded on the weekends, however it is usually pretty empty during the week.
Roxborough Dog Park
4117 Mitchell Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19128
A hidden gem, Roxborough Dog Park is open daily from 6:30 am to 9:00 pm if you have a membership. It allows dogs of all shapes and sizes. Once you become a member you get your own access code that can be used to access the park. What I like about this park the most is the necessity for dogs to have their proper vaccines and paperwork to join, which provides an added feeling of safety. This park is great for long runs with plenty of space and neighborly chats.
Schuylkill River Park Dog Run
2500 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19103
The Schuylkill River Park Dog Run is located right next to a great walking trail with amazing views of the city. It features a playground located right next to it if you want to bring your kids. This dog park has two enclosures, one for small dogs and the other for larger dogs. It also includes a splash pad for the dogs in order for them to have the best time, even during a summer heatwave. This is a big park so be prepared to walk around quite a bit!
Pretzel Park
4300 Silverwood Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19127
Pretzel Park is conveniently located right in the heart of Manayunk (a super dog-friendly town). It is such a fun spot for your dogs and kids (if you have children of the non-furry variety) as there is a playground located right near the dog park. With only one enclosure, the only downside is that the stone wall that surrounds one side of the park is a little low so if your dog is a jumper they might make a great escape.
Curtis Hill Dog Park (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
1250 Church Road, Wyncote, PA, 19095
Curtis Hill Dog Park is a great place to explore and let your pup run around. It is conveniently located next to the scenic Curtis Arboretum (which is great for family photos or just a nice walk). With chill vibes and an off-leash dog park with 2 enclosures (one for smaller dogs), it is a great place to stop by on both weekdays and weekends. Pro-tip: Sometimes after rainy weather, the dog park can get a little muddy but have no fear – if you scroll down you’ll find great options for both groomers and self-wash stations.
Columbus Square Dog Park
1100 Wharton St, Philadelphia, PA, 19147
Columbus Square Dog Park is a fenced-in dog park located in Passyunk Square that has designated areas for both small and large dogs. The park is laid with turf, so there’s less of a worry about your pet becoming dirty from rolling around and playing. They also have complimentary poop bags, as well as kiddie pools available during the summer to make your pup’s trip enjoyable and convenient.
Longport Dog Beach
Ocean Drive, Egg Harbor Township, NJ
Longport Dog Beach is a beach in Egg Harbor Township, NJ that allows dogs to run and play off-leash. If your dog loves water, this is the perfect place to take them to run around and explore the shore. They have no time or area restrictions, so you’re free to visit anytime you’d like. They also sometimes have a box filled with toys at the beach entrance that you can borrow from if you forgot your own toys! Longport Dog Beach is definitely worth the shore traffic!
Pro Tip! If you need a more private space for your pups check out the app SniffSpot!
Download the app and add your zipcode to see all the available spaces to rent local to you.
It is basically airbnb for backyard rentals.
Dog Walkers
Pooch Scoochers- (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
571 Jamestown Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19128
I can personally attest that Pooch Scoochers is one of the most reliable and affordable dog walking services in Philadelphia PA. They focus on the safety of your dogs and provide a dedicated pet caregiver to make sure your pets’ wants and needs and love is provided. With services in Manayunk, Roxborough, Andorra, Chestnut Hill, Mt. Airy, East Falls, and more they are my personal go-to when my pups need an outing.
Peoples ‘N’ Puppers
Peoples ‘N’ Puppers is a Philadelphia-based dog walking and sitting business. They currently serve West Philadelphia, Lower Merion, Mt. Airy, and Chestnut Hill. They offer dog walking, overnight in-home boarding, and training walk services. Before officially booking with them, you two will set up a time for the first meet and greet so that you and your furry friend can get to know the person who will be spending time with your beloved pup to make sure it’s a great fit!
Pups on Passyunk
Pups on Passyunk is a Philadelphia-owned dog walking and sitting service that services Center City neighborhoods and areas in South Philly. Pups on Passyunk has a great system in which you are alerted when services are completed as well as a GPS map that shows the exact route in which your dog will be taking! Check out their blog on Safety Tips to keep your dog safe in the Summer!
Vets
Liberty Vet Clinic – (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
I might be biased because this is where I take my dogs but I love it so much. Liberty Vet Clinic is incredibly attentive, thorough, and affordable. They are so sweet with my very anxious dog and even do his exams in the waiting room sometimes when he’s too anxious to go all the way back. They are also great at helping to navigate the wonderful and sometimes mysterious world of dog allergies. They have open hours every day but Saturday.
Wissahickon Creek Veterinary Hospital
7376 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19128
Wissahickon Creek Veterinary Hospital is conveniently located in the Philadelphia area. They are great for educating clients about how to keep your pets healthy throughout the year with good nutrition and exercise. They do check-ups, procedures, and also surgeries. They are open every day of the week but I still suggest making an appointment well ahead as they are in high demand.
Northern Liberties Veterinary Center
622 N. 2nd Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19123
Northern Liberties Veterinary Center offers routine exams and elective surgeries. They’re open Monday-Friday, as well as Saturday mornings. They have an on-site pet pharmacy, making your vet trip even more convenient!
Love City Vet
330 Oregon Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19148
Love City Vet is a woman-owned veterinary business that offers services such as wellness and dental care, surgery, dermatology, both puppy/kitten and senior care, nutrition, digital radiology and so much more. Love City Vet is open Monday through Friday 9 am-5 pm.
UPenn Veterinary Hospital (Emergency Room)
3900 Delancey Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104
The Upenn Veterinary Hospital located right on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus services dogs and cats as well as less common mammals. With emergency operations 24/7; they maintain excellence in patient safety and offer the best for your pets.
Pet Stores
City of Paws – (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
4167-69 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19127
City of Paws is an Lqbtq+-owned shop located right in Manayunk, they have great essential pet supplies for cats, dogs, and other small animals. In their back room, you will find 3 self-wash tubs to help make bathtime much easier (and less messy). They even have some quiet wash times for your reactive but still dirty dog. Don’t forget to call ahead to snag a time slot as they are in big demand.
The Bone Appetite
8517 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19118
The Bone Appetite is a great grooming salon and shop. Located right on Germantown Ave. in the commercial strip of Chestnut Hill, they have pet-friendly loving staff and a great community feel. They provide personal and knowledgeable customer care in addition to having some of the cutest pet outfits and apparel available. Don’t forget to make an appointment for your grooming needs.
Doggie Style Pets
Doggie Style Pets is a boutique pet store with multiple locations (Bala Cynwyd, Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Center City, Fairmount, Queen Village, and Passyunk) that include high-quality food, great dog supplies, and nose-to-tail grooming and dog training. They are the closest thing to a one-stop shop for all your pet needs.
Fairmount Pet Shoppe
2024 Fairmount Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19130
Not only is Fairmount Pet Shoppe a great option for getting any necessities your furry friend may need, but they also have animals in need of being adopted and finding their forever home. For every pet adopted through Fairmount Pet Shoppe, you will receive 15% of your first purchase there! Check out their Instagram for their monthly sales!
Groomers
Paw Prints – (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
6134 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19128
Paw Prints is a neighborhood staple located right on Ridge Ave in the Roxborough section of Philadelphia. With a great grooming staff and a fun-loving environment, your pet won’t want to leave when it is time for pickup.
Canine Clippers
4347 Cresson Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19127
Canine Clippers provides a cute and comfortable environment with a very personable staff. They’re very knowledgeable about the needs of your pet. Make sure to check out their social media for great tips on keeping your dog healthy and safe!
Pampered Pet Philly, Mobile Pet Grooming
Pampered Pet Philly is a mobile grooming service that comes to you! They travel within a 15-mile radius of South Philadelphia. They offer bathing, brushing, blow/hand drying, hair cuts, nail trimming, ear care, eye cleaning, cologne, teeth brushing, de-shedding treatments, and flea/tick treatments. They have a virtual tour of the grooming area available on their website. Pampered Pet is a great option if traveling is complicated for either you or your dog is elderly or needs a bit more special attention.
Doggy Day Cares
Fairmount Bark
7627 Germantown Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19118
My pups absolutely love it here at Fairmount Bark! The dogs pull me all the way to the door as soon as they get out of the car. It is truly their home away from home. They also have boarding, grooming, and home visits available!
Little White Dog
90 Rochelle Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19128
Little White Dog provides daycare and boarding services. They are open Monday to Friday from 7:00 am-7:00 pm and Saturdays from 8:30 am-5:30 pm. Located in the Wissahickon section of Philadelphia, it is a great place for your dogs to exercise and socialize with other pets in a safe and fun-loving environment. Their spaces are mostly indoors but they do have an outdoor space for your pups to soak in some sunshine.
Scallywags
4367 Cresson Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19127
Scallywags is a woman-owned daycare located right in the heart of Manayunk is a great place for your dogs to enjoy some social time. They are exclusively a daycare and put all of their energy into making your dog feel safe and welcome.
Central Bark Philadelphia
2501 Wharton St, Philadelphia, PA, 19146
Central Bark Philadelphia offers a range of services, though they are mostly known for being a daycare. They also offer behavioral assessments, various grooming services, training sessions, and overnight boarding. Central Bark Philadelphia is a great option for daycare as they have dedicated rest times for your pup, 24/7 monitoring, and enrichment time groups!
Dog Treat Shops
Pet Friendly Dog Bakery – (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
4324 Main Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19127
Pet Friendly Dog Bakery is one of the greatest additions to Manayunk in my opinion! While they are primarily a boutique dog bakery, they also have some indoor and outdoor play areas. Check their calendar of events- they host a ton of fun-themed play times as well as breed-specific meetups. You can even host a birthday party for your pooch with a cake included! Who would not love it?!?!
Check out this fun collab video below on how to take the best dog photos with your phone!
I got to photograph an amazing birthday party at Pet Friendly Dog Bakery that you can check out here!
Amelie Bark Shop
1600 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19148
Amelie Bark Shop is located in Passyunk and is a one-stop-shop boutique for all pet-obsessed peeps like myself! Don’t forget to stop by the Barkery for a custom cake and birthday decorations!
Salty Paws
211 S 17th Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19103
Salty Paws is a dog ice cream shop located in Rittenhouse! They offer lactose-free, dog-friendly ice cream & all other kinds of treats! Their ice cream bar is my favorite part of this business, as they have all different types of ice cream flavors for your dog to try and even offer cute little toppings for their ice cream scoops. Salty Paws even has a small seating area where you and your pet can sit and enjoy their tasty treats.
Training
Opportunity Barks – (Philadelphia Dog Guide pick!)
Opportunity Barks is paws down these are the best trainers around! They use a science and reward-based approach with an emphasis on balanced and ethical training. Their staff is incredibly knowledgeable and kind. They offer puppy socials, group classes, private training, boarding, and even a farm school!
Tri-Dog Solutions
Tri-Dog Solutions is a dog training & human coaching service that is another great fit for your pup! They offer in-home dog training in Philadelphia & Montgomery Counties to help you find harmony with your dog. Tri-Dog Solutions specializes in a one-on-one custom-tailored training program that is science, relationship, and Lima-based.
Other Pet-Friendly Locations / Dog-Obsessed Businesses
Wissahickon Valley Park
Valley Green Road, Philadelphia, PA, 19128
If your pup loves the water – Wissahickon Valley Park is a great local option to take them swimming! There is a dog beach easily accessible by the Kitchen Lane Entrance. You can also hike down from Blue Bell Park (just be sure to keep your pups on a leash!)
Nutmeg Cake Design
220 Krams Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19127
Ever have the desire for a custom illustration of your furry love on an edible cookie or cake? LOOK NO FURRTHER! Nutmeg Cake Design makes the best treats with your pet’s faces on them!
Piggyback Treats
Piggyback Treats has sustainably crafted treats that are health-conscious, seasonal, sustainable, and made with local ingredients for your pets. Each batch is made in small amounts by their chef to ensure the best quality for your furry loves. They work with local and regional businesses to help reduce food waste. They produce top-quality human-grade treats without any preservatives. You can find them in almost any of the shops and businesses listed here or order directly from them. Their salmon skins are a fan fave with all my pets and clients.
Boozy Mutt
2639 Poplar Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19130
Boozy Mutt is an indoor and outdoor bar that allows dogs to play and run around off-leash. Their outdoor park is turfed and they have Rufferies strategically placed in both indoor and outdoor areas to keep all play safe and clean. They also have a self-serve dog wash area in case your dog does get a bit messy running around, as well as a dog-free designated area in case you simply just want to enjoy the restaurant itself. If you’re ever thinking of hosting a birthday party or gotcha day anniversary party- look into their party room rentals!
Adornables
Adornables makes the cutest bowties and bandanas to make sure your pup is looking dapper. They also have some great Philly-based bowties and bandanas like the Philadelphia Eagles.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia
433 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19106
Kimpton Hotel Monaco is a pet-friendly hotel located in Old City, Philadelphia. If you’re just looking for a date night out in Center City or if you’re visiting from out of town- Kimpton Hotel is a great getaway that you and your family can visit. The hotel even has employees available to help you walk your pup if you’ve got a busy day ahead.
That concludes this year’s Philadelphia Dog Guide!
If you’re interested in getting photos taken of your pup- feel free to fill out my contact form and we can discuss details! Your dog is also extremely welcome to hop into your family session! 🙂
