San Antonio, January 17, 2026
San Antonio has been recognized as the top city in Texas for dog parks, according to a study by LawnStarter. It evaluated 100 cities based on criteria such as the number of parks per capita, ratings, and climate suitability. San Antonio’s impressive score highlights its community’s dedication to dog-friendly spaces, featuring 20 off-leash parks and multiple amenities for pet owners. The city has been ranked as the third most dog-obsessed city in the U.S., emphasizing its commitment to providing great environments for canine companions.
San Antonio Ranks First in Texas for Dog Parks
San Antonio has been recognized as the leading city in Texas for dog parks, according to a recent study by Austin-based lawn care platform LawnStarter. The study evaluated 100 U.S. cities based on factors such as the number of dog parks per 100,000 residents, dog park ratings, access to private dog parks, Google search activity, and climate metrics. San Antonio achieved an overall score of 42.34, ranking highest in Google search activity and climate suitability, but lower in access and quality categories.
Dog-Friendly Amenities in San Antonio
San Antonio boasts a variety of dog-friendly amenities, including 20 off-leash dog parks, equating to 1.4 dog parks per 100,000 residents. Notable parks include:
- Phil Hardberger Park: Features two dog parks with separate areas for small dogs, ample drinking stations, and dog-friendly structures.
- McAllister Park: Offers a large fenced-in off-leash dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, exercise equipment, a covered picnic area, benches, and a walking trail.
- O.P. Schnabel Park: Provides 4.5 miles of trails suitable for jogging, hiking, or biking, with pets allowed on leashes.
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: Allows leashed dogs on the grounds, offering a historical experience for pet owners.
Community Engagement and Recognition
In 2024, Zillow Rentals and BARK ranked San Antonio as the third most dog-obsessed city in the U.S., highlighting the city’s commitment to pet-friendly environments. Additionally, the San Antonio Food Bank was recognized as the Best Nonprofit Organization in 2025, reflecting the community’s dedication to various causes.
Conclusion
San Antonio’s dedication to providing ample and accessible dog parks underscores its status as a top destination for dog owners in Texas. The city’s ongoing efforts to enhance pet-friendly amenities contribute to its reputation as a haven for canine companions.
FAQ
- What factors contributed to San Antonio’s top ranking in the LawnStarter study?
- The study evaluated factors such as the number of dog parks per 100,000 residents, dog park ratings, access to private dog parks, Google search activity, and climate metrics. San Antonio achieved an overall score of 42.34, ranking highest in Google search activity and climate suitability, but lower in access and quality categories.
- How many off-leash dog parks does San Antonio have?
- San Antonio boasts 20 off-leash dog parks, equating to 1.4 dog parks per 100,000 residents.
- Can you provide examples of dog-friendly parks in San Antonio?
- Notable parks include:
- Phil Hardberger Park: Features two dog parks with separate areas for small dogs, ample drinking stations, and dog-friendly structures.
- McAllister Park: Offers a large fenced-in off-leash dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs, exercise equipment, a covered picnic area, benches, and a walking trail.
- O.P. Schnabel Park: Provides 4.5 miles of trails suitable for jogging, hiking, or biking, with pets allowed on leashes.
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: Allows leashed dogs on the grounds, offering a historical experience for pet owners.
- What other recognitions has San Antonio received for its dog-friendly environment?
- In 2024, Zillow Rentals and BARK ranked San Antonio as the third most dog-obsessed city in the U.S., highlighting the city’s commitment to pet-friendly environments.
Key Features of San Antonio’s Dog-Friendly Environment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Off-Leash Dog Parks | 20 off-leash dog parks, equating to 1.4 dog parks per 100,000 residents. |
| Notable Dog-Friendly Parks | Phil Hardberger Park, McAllister Park, O.P. Schnabel Park, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. |
| National Recognition | Ranked third in the U.S. for dog-obsessed cities by Zillow Rentals and BARK in 2024. |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
