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The Ultimate Guide for Dog Owners in Baltimore

Welcome to dog parenthood in Baltimore! Whether you made the decision to add a furry friend to your family, have recently moved to Baltimore with your dog, or are a long-time Baltimore resident, we're glad you're here!


As Baltimore's top Pet Care Professionals and self-proclaimed crazy dog moms, we know a thing or two about raising dogs in Baltimore. Read on for our professional and personal recommendations around supplies you’ll need, Baltimore City Laws and Regulations around owning a dog, our favorite pet services in Baltimore, and tons of other information. Every dog is different and will require individualized care, but by using this checklist as a baseline, you're sure to be headed in the right direction!

Visit Baltimore Sign
Poppy @themarvelousmisspoppy in front of the 'Visit Baltimore' Sculpture in Baltimore's Inner Harbor

Basic Essentials for New Dog Owners

Things to pick up before your dog comes home!


Speaking of home...if you're new to Baltimore with your dog or relocating within the city, here are The Best Dog-Friendly Apartments for Rent in Baltimore ranked by yours truly (we've literally been inside all apartments in Baltimore City). Now, let's get into it!


Leash + Adjustable Collar

For city living, skip the retractable leash and go for a 6-ft durable nylon or biothane leash. We are big fans of leashes with traffic handles (a second handle close to where the leash attaches to your dog's collar) for more control, especially for city living where distractions are high. Go for an adjustable collar to give your pup room to grow.


Poop Bags

Biodegradable and eco-friendly options are encouraged! Also, always remember to take multiple bags on walks, just in case. It’s the law to pick up after your dog in Baltimore City and you could be fined for not picking up after your dog, not to mention publicly shamed on the Facebook neighborhood pages. Don't be a Karen. *City Etiquette: hold onto your dog's poop until you find a public trashcan or your own! Do not throw poop bags into neighbors' trashcans! Not only is this disrespectful, but there is a good chance you'll be publicly shamed on one of our neighborhood Facebook groups*


Dog Food

We're obsessed with The Farmer's Dog fresh dog food, and if you're curious about trying it to see what the fresh food hype is all about, you can get a 2 week supply of their food to try for 80% off with this link -- no strings attached. If you’re going the raw feeding route, K-9 Kravings is another favorite of ours and is made here in Baltimore. Our fav dry food brands? Orijen, Wellness, Instinct, Royal Canin, Stella & Chewy's, and Taste of the Wild. Discuss any special nutritional needs for your breed or breed mix with your veterinarian.


Training Treats

Treats are key for training and keeping a walk moving along. Small, pea-sized treats will do the trick, even for larger breeds. Worried about giving too many treats? Use your dog’s regular food as training treats. Put your dog’s dinner in a bag and use it as a training opportunity. We recommend using your dog's food as a training opportunity as much as possible!


Enrichment Toys

The secret to a relaxed, well-behaved dog? Enrichment! Just like physical exercise, it’s important for your dog to get a mental workout and challenge their senses through enrichment toys like Kongs, snuffle mats, food dispensers, and treat puzzles. Here are some of our favorites.


Bed

If you have a small dog or puppy, Five Below has $5 beds so you don't have to feel bad about buying one for every room in your home. If you have a larger breed, Costco dog beds are the way to go!


Crate

We are BIG fans of crate training from day one. Providing a safe space for your dog from the start will give your dog a sense of security and a place where they can retreat for “me” time. Crates are the best way to keep your dog safe while you are out of the house and also make potty training a lot easier. What size crate is right for your dog? As a rule of thumb, your dog should be able to comfortably stand, turn around and lie down. If you’re expecting your dog to grow in size, a crate divider is a good idea.


Dog ID Tag

A physical dog tag is the quickest way to reunite with your pet if he or she bolts out the door. What should you include on a dog ID tag? Your dog’s name and your phone number are crucial. Other key info you may want to include: indication that your dog is microchipped, your address, and any information that may be useful for someone finding your dog such as, “Hi, I’m Friendly”.



Act Like a Pro

We have your back with the inside (poop) scoop.


Poop Bag Holder

A simple poop bag holder that attaches to your leash will ensure that you always have a bag on you when nature calls. We’re also kind of obsessed with these hands-free poop bag clips that hold onto used bags if you are hiking or somewhere where a trash can is hard to come by.


Grooming Supplies

Wipes, shampoo, nail clippers, and a brush suited for your dog’s coat.


Chews

If you’ve never had a puppy then get ready for some unwanted chewing of hands, furniture, clothes, shoes, sunglasses, and....everything you own. A good dog chew will keep them busy and help redirect this unwanted behavior until your puppy matures and sheds his puppy teeth. Our favorite dog chew for all ages is Bully Sticks by Best Bully Sticks. These single-ingredient chews are fully digestible, long-lasting, great for dental health and they're all-natural...what’s not to love?! These are a staple in DOCC team members’ homes!


Official Dogs of Charm City Swag

Show off your dog parent pride with some Baltimore Dog Mom/Dad swag.


Know the Rules

Owning a dog comes with more than just personal responsibility. It is up to Baltimore dog owners to comply with city-mandated regulations like keeping your dog on a leash in public spaces and always picking up after them (you can be fined by the city if you violate either of these!!). Also, if you live in Baltimore City you are required by law to obtain a pet license. Dogs are required to wear a Baltimore City pet license in order to enter any public Baltimore City dog parks.


Getting Around

Small dogs are allowed on Baltimore City Public transportation including MTA Commuter buses, the LightRail, MARC train, and Metro Subway but must be inside of a travel carrier, Service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities are welcome on board. Dogs are NOT allowed on the Baltimore Water Taxi unless they are a service dog.


Domino Sugar Sign Locust Point Baltimore
Baltimore Rescue Pups Serena and Rufus @thegossipdogsin front of Domino Sugar's 'Welcome To Locust Point' mural at 1020 Key Hwy. in Locust Point

You Can’t Do It Alone!

Essential pet care services in Baltimore to line up


Veterinarian

Finding a veterinarian to treat your puppy is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make for your pet. We recommend reaching out to a vet in advance to schedule your dog’s first visit within a few days of bringing them home. Vet appointments for a puppy should typically occur every 3 to 4 weeks starting when puppies are 6 to 8 weeks old and ending when they are 4 or 5 months old.


Many dog shelters and breeders start vet visits for puppies before they even head to their forever home. You should receive paperwork that clearly states what type of care has already been provided, when it occurred, and when you should schedule your puppy’s next veterinary visit.


Talk to your vet about:

  • When to spay/neuter

  • Microchipping

  • Flea and tick prevention

  • Heartworm

  • Vaccines like Rabies, DHPP and Bordatella. Also, ask your vet about the Leptospirosis vaccine due to the high Baltimore rat population. Many local dog daycare and dog boarding facilities in Baltimore also require Canine Influenza.


DOCC recommends HomeVets as a convenient and high-quality vet option for your pet. HomeVets is a full-service veterinary practice that provides care both in-home AND in their state of the art brick & mortar hospital. Whether you have a dog who is anxious about going to the vet or getting in the car, a new puppy sensitive to outside factors, a dog reactive to other pets, or you simply value the convenience of mobile vet care, HomeVets will travel to YOU in the comfort of your own home. HomeVets also offers longer appointment times than most other veterinary practices, and by seeing your pet in their own familiar environment, the doctor can consider all lifestyle factors including daily routine, environment, diet, potential stressors, and allergens when determining their plan of care. Starting with Managing Veterinarian, Dr. Shawn Budge, and Medical Director, Dr. Brittany Wolfe, they have a talented team offering services ranging from wellness checks and sick visits, to telemedicine and emergency visits. You may be wondering, “What if my dog needs care beyond a home visit…like surgery or a more serious procedure?” Rest assured that all aspects of your dog’s health can be supported by HomeVets - in the case your dog needs to be seen in a hospital setting, the HomeVets hospital in Ellicott City is prepared to provide your pet with top care!


Other top vets in Baltimore beloved by our employees and family of pet care clients include Charm City Veterinary Hospital, You'll Never Walk Alone, and Light Street Animal Hospital.


Urgent Care

Unfortunately, accidents DO happen, but if you're local to Baltimore City, we're lucky to have an incredible urgent care facility at Eastern Animal Hospital (EAH). EAH’s urgent care is open 7 days a week, with an on-call doctor available every night to ensure your pet receives the care they need when it matters most.


EAH is staffed 24/7, 365 days a year for ICU patients and resort guests, providing continuous monitoring and support. They have a trained vet staff ready to help and one of the best diagnostic track records in the region (okay, we see you 👀💯). If your pet has a sudden emergency, please call them at their 24/7 hotline: 410-633-8808. Additional facility hours and more can be found on their Urgent Care webpage.


We know disasters can seem unfathomable, but DOCC and EAH highly recommend having a plan in place to go for help if your pet requires critical care or needs to be hospitalized. And as a special offer for our readers, get $20 off your first visit (medical services or daycare) by mentioning code DOCC at the time of your visit.


If you are not local to Baltimore City, now is the time to familiarize yourself with your closest urgent care center!


Groomer

If you have a long-haired dog or one that requires a bit of primping, look into a reliable dog groomer. If you can, take your dog to the same groomer throughout their life. Much like with a veterinarian, you will want your dog familiar with their groomer so that they are comfortable and feel safe!


Need a DIY self-service dog wash in Baltimore? The following pet stores have you covered:

  • Petco Canton

  • Howl McHenry Row

  • Howl Mt. Washington

  • Howl Hampden

  • Pet Depot (Timonium)

  • The Canine Club (Locust Point)


Pet Insurance

Should you get pet insurance? We vote yes. Many dog owners find that pet insurance helps them significantly cover the cost of healthcare for their pup. Most insurance providers begin coverage at 6 weeks of age. Depending on the plan, pet insurance can cover accidents, illnesses, routine care, dental cleanings, breed-specific care, and physical therapy. On average, the monthly premium is $47 for dog health insurance according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA). It’s important to note that there's a wide range in pricing (many see rates as low as $12/mo, others might see rates as high as $100/mo) depending on your pet's breed, age, location, as well as the deductible, reimbursement rate, and payout limits you choose. The Reviews Team at This Old House developed and broke down (by ratings, pros/cons, pricing & more) a very helpful list of DOCC-approved Pet Insurances. We recommend doing your research and taking your time to pick an option that is best for you and your pet!


Dog Walker

A tired dog is the best dog! Hiring a bonded and insured dog walking company that provides exercise, bathroom breaks, play, and stimulation can help put your mind at ease knowing that your pet is well cared for and maintaining a routine despite what your day brings. Regular walking helps to release excess energy in your pup, resulting in calmer behavior at home. With frequent walks, your dog may be less inclined to bark, chew, or bother you on that mid-afternoon Zoom call. Dogs of Charm City makes hiring a professional, bonded, and insured dog walker in Baltimore simple. Learn more about Dogs of Charm City dog walking and pet care services here.


Dog Boarding

Headed out of town? Don’t forget to make plans for your dog! Whether you plan to take them with you or leave them behind in good hands, it’s important to establish a relationship with someone who can watch your dog overnight. Dogs of Charm City offers boarding and staycation options to our family of dog walking clients in Baltimore City. Learn more here. If not a DOCC client, we recommend looking into Baltimore Bark House, Hereford Bed + Breakfast, Reisterstown Pet Resort, Stay Pet, and Dogwood Acres Pet Retreat for dog boarding in Baltimore.


Dog Trainer

Training a dog is one of the most important steps you can take to give your dog (and yourself) a life full of opportunities and experiences. At the minimum, a baseline of commands will open doors for your pup, including dog walking services and the ability to enjoy dog-friendly spots around town.


At Dogs of Charm City, we’re passionate about helping dogs and their owners build strong, lasting bonds through effective training. Whether you’re starting from scratch or need help reinforcing existing skills, we offer customized training services to meet your unique needs! From basic commands to advanced behavioral techniques, our expert trainers are here to support you every step of the way. Learn more about our training programs here, or email us at training@dogsofcharmcity.net for personalized recommendations and guidance.


Looking for other training options in Baltimore? We’re BIG FANS of balanced training, and our top recommendation is Monument City Dog (MCD), owned by trainer Laura Gabell. MCD offers an intensive, multi-week boot camp lifestyle program focused on addressing your dog’s state of mind rather than just rehearsed commands. Through clear communication and non-negotiable boundaries, MCD helps create happy, healthy, and balanced dogs who thrive in all aspects of life. Laura provides training to DOCC staff members, and many of our personal dogs have been trained by her.


For clients who have completed a training program, Dogs of Charm City also offers a Structured Walk + Train Program. Led by our most skilled handlers, these sessions are designed to help you maintain and build upon your dog’s training and obedience. This program is exclusive to our dog walking clients and is the only one of its kind in Baltimore. Email us to learn more!


The Fun Stuff

Because although owning a dog is a big responsibility, it's also SO. MUCH. FUN.


Dog Parks in Baltimore

Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all vaccines, spayed/neutered, friendly with other dogs and people, and that you're able to keep a VERY watchful eye on not only your dog but on all dog interactions while you're in the park. Many dogs are not a good fit for dog parks, so we strongly recommend discussing whether dog parks are a good option for your dog with a dog trainer.

  • Patterson Park Dog Park (200 S. Linwood Ave) - visit our Doggie Stick Library on the corner of S. Ellwood & Eastern Ave! 🤩

  • Canton Dog Park (3221 Toone St.)

  • Latrobe Dog Park (1627 E. Fort Ave)

  • Howard Street Dog Park (310 W. Centre St.)

  • Liberty Dog Park (8 Park Ave)

  • Paw Point Dog Park at Lake Roland (membership only)

  • Baltimore Pawninsula Dog Park (NEW!)


Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Baltimore

We're not just dog experts, we're experts on Baltimore. As a dog owner, you'll get to explore the city in a whole new way, and of course we're here to help! We're passionate about keeping you up to date with the latest and greatest dog-friendly happenings and regularly share information about new dog-friendly spots in Baltimore on Instagram and Facebook. Here are some of our most popular resources to check out:


Support

We can't stress this enough: you really can't do it all alone! There are many local groups and resources through social media that exist in the Baltimore/DMV area for dog owners. Members of these groups arrange in-person meetups, seek and share advice, recommendations, and tips, and help with re-homing and rescue of certain breeds.


Facebook Groups for Baltimore Pet Parents:


Breed Specific Groups:


Is getting a dog not the only big change in your life? 💍 If you're planning a wedding in or around Baltimore, let Dogs of Charm City help make your special day extra memorable! Our wedding pet care services ensure your dog is part of the celebration without you needing to worry about logistics. From transportation to full-day care and behind-the-scenes videos & pics, we handle it all. Learn more about how we can help here.


Good luck on your journey with your best friend in Baltimore! If you have any specific questions, concerns, or need a recommendation, shoot us an email or DM us on Instagram and our team of pet care professionals will get back to you. We hope to meet your pup soon! 🐶


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