ABC Certified Dog Trainer Database

Great dog parks are hard to come by. A field of grass is not enough to satisfy a canine’s outdoor needs. Maryland has numerous dog parks that differ in features, but remain equal in high quality. Trees, rock outcroppings, and water slides are just a few highlights of the state’s dog parks. For the ultimate playtime experience with your dog, head over to any of the top dog parks in Maryland.

Maryland’s love for dogs dates back to 1964 when Chesapeake Bay Retriever became the state’s official dog. Fast forward to 2011 when a survey revealed one-third of households owning a dog. Given the high population of dogs in the state, many cities have grown to embrace canines. Baltimore may have a larger share of dog-friendly parks, restaurants, and events, but there are a handful of smaller cities across the state inviting dogs to their communities. Wherever you are in Maryland, know there’s a pet-friendly city close by.

Here's a list of the pet-friendliest cities in Maryland:

Baltimore, MD

Baltimore was founded in 1729 and has carried a string of nicknames, all of which reflect different eras. Today, it houses Johns Hopkins University, the National Aquarium, and McCormick & Company. Baltimore zip codes include: 21201, 21202, and 21231.

Columbia, MD

Part of Howard County, the second wealthiest county in the U.S., Columbia was created to improve quality of life for its residents. The city has “The Next America!” as its motto and everything from roller skating rinks to batting cages for families to enjoy. Columbia zip codes include: 21044, 21045, and 21046.

Ellicott City, MD

Ranked four times as one of the top 20 best places to live in the U.S., Ellicott City is an affluent community part of the Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan Area. Several places in Ellicott City have been associated with paranormal activity. Ellicott City zip codes include: 21042, 21043, and 21228.

Frederick, MD

Frederick has long been the crossroads for major trails and routes. Marked by spires, the city has extended its community with suburban-style housing. Frederick zip codes include: 21701, 21702, and 21705.

Gaithersburg, MD

Divided into eastern and western portions, Gaithersburg is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area. The headquarters for National Institute of Standards and Technology, IBM, and Lockheed Martin are found in the city. Gaithersburg zip codes include: 20877, 20883, and 20899.

Germantown, MD

As the only Germantown in Maryland recognized by the U.S. Postal Service, Germantown is located approximately 25 miles from Washington, D.C. The census-designated place has been featured in the television series “The X-Files” on several occasions. Germantown zip codes include: 20841, 20874, and 20876.

Glen Burnie, MD

A suburb of Baltimore, Glen Burnie has buildings that were formed in 1899. Chrome City offers families many options when it comes to neighborhoods and public schools. Glen Burnie zip codes include: 21060, 21061, and 21076.

Rockville, MD

Rockville can be found in Montgomery County. The city is home to multiple software and biotechnology companies as well as upscale shopping centers. Rockville zip codes include: 20847, 20848, and 20850.

Silver Spring, MD

Named after a spring located in the area, Silver Spring has undergone redevelopment and reconstruction since its beginnings in the 19^th century. Residents have access to a wide range of cuisine options and festivals. Silver Spring zip codes include: 20901, 20902, and 20905.

Waldorf, MD

Many Washington, D.C. employees reside in Waldorf as the community is only a 23-mile drive from the U.S. capital. The place was once famous for its tobacco and gambling scene, but is now a developing urbanized area. Waldorf zip codes include: 20601, 20602, and 20603.