It happens at least once every summer. You and your family sit around the kitchen table arguing over where to go on vacation. Four people, four destinations. It takes a long time, but finally a destination is chosen: Kingston. The limestone city, considered one of the most beautiful places in Canada, with the Thousand Islands and Lake Ontario in view. It’s where the world comes to tour.

Once the title of Canada’s capital, Kingston has one of the highest densities of historical locations in the country. Fort Henry, one of the chief tourist attractions, is a great place to spend the day, as is the waterfront and the many Thousand Islands tour options.

Once your decision is made, there is the growl from under the table to remind everyone of your new pup. An audible silence falls around the table.

What do you do? A dog sitter? Maybe your mother can take her? But then someone suggests you take her. Why not?

Whether you’re travelling from Toronto or Montreal, or you live locally and you’re planning a staycation, Kingston is a perfect location. Families with canine fur-family members can enjoy the city while still balancing time apart when needed. If your dog isn’t comfortable in busy tourist environments, it’s worth planning decompression time and rest into the trip, as outlined in Why Dogs Need Downtime.

According to Visit Kingston, the city is widely promoted as a pet-friendly destination with a growing number of patios, trails, and outdoor attractions that welcome dogs Kingston guide to visiting Kingston with your dog. That said, while there are many dog-friendly hotels, you can’t bring your dog everywhere you want to go.

6 Things You Can Do With Your Dog in Kingston

• Off-leash parks in Kingston – Off-leash parks offer a great way to let your dog stretch out and play while you’re on vacation.
• Wolfe Island – Take the ferry with your dog and enjoy dog-friendly spaces on the island.
• Dog-friendly stores – Responsible pet owners make these policies possible.
• Chez Piggy – A Kingston staple with a dog-friendly patio.
• Sandbanks Provincial Park – Dogs allowed in designated areas; check current rules.
• Charleston Lake Provincial Park – A great day trip with dog-friendly trails.

Travelling with your dog doesn’t have to mean limiting your trip. Using a trusted boarding kennel in Kingston lets you enjoy both family time and dog-friendly adventures without sacrificing either. If you’re weighing options, it can help to compare dog boarding versus home pet sitters to decide what fits your travel style and your dog’s needs.