Your pet might enjoy toys and a comfortable bed at home, but they probably also like to get outdoors and stretch their legs. If you’re looking for ways to keep your dog active and healthy, you have a few choices. A midday dog walker can give your pet some fresh air, exercise, and fun while you work or handle other responsibilities. Or, if you are available, why not visit some dog-friendly locations in Northern Virginia?
Finding a place that is truly pet-positive can be a challenge, and it is not always clear where to look. Did you know that Reston Town Center is one of the most dog-friendly places in the area? This shopping mall is packed full of exciting options for both you and your four-legged friend. Here’s what you need to know to start planning a trip today.
Spotlight: Reston Town Center, the Dog-Friendly Mall
Located in a prominent place on Market Street (and near the convenient Silver Line Metro), Reston Town Center offers more than 50 shopping spots, over 30 restaurants, a movie theater, and more. This sprawling mall welcomes well-behaved pets; just make sure you keep your dog leashed. Each business may have slightly different instructions, such as which areas pets are allowed to use, so be sure to read any signs before entering.
Pet Amenities
Many businesses in Reston Town Center are already prepared for your furry friend and offer numerous amenities to make your visit more enjoyable. These include:
- Water bowls in front of businesses
- Pet-friendly seating at restaurants
- Dog tie-outs to keep pets secure
- Fenced areas for communal pet play (e.g., during Dog Days of Summer)
- Considerations made for dogs of all sizes
Sights and Experiences
Reston Town Center frequently hosts pet-specific events, such as its 2025 Petpalooza, featuring dog-friendly entertainment, pet vendors, educational sessions, and more. The majority of businesses within RTC welcome dogs, which means you can enjoy everything from a hearty brew and pub food to clothes shopping or upgrading to the new iPhone at the pet-friendly Apple store.
Restaurants such as Morton’s The Steakhouse have a patio that welcomes pets to lounge while owners eat. Others, such as Uncle Julio’s Rio Grande Café, provide tie-outs to keep pets safe and comfortable while the owners supervise and enjoy a meal.
However, some businesses do place restrictions on pets (for some obvious reasons). For example, you cannot bring your pup into most fitness centers to prevent them from getting hurt or causing harm to others. Similarly, a handful of businesses, including Davelle Clothiers, do not permit pets due to the luxury products they carry. No one wants to purchase a tailored suit with someone else’s dog hair on it.
What to Look for in Dog-Friendly Places in NOVA
Reston Town Center is one of the most pet-friendly places you can find in Northern Virginia, but it is far from the only option. If you are keeping an eye out for other opportunities to get your dog out of the house, here are a few important considerations to look for:
- Do they provide access to water, or do you need to bring your own?
- Are there hazards around if something goes wrong (e.g., a nearby highway if your dog accidentally slips their collar)?
- Is there a place to go when your pup needs a rest?
- Do they only welcome dogs during specific hours or days?
- Are there any size, weight, or breed restrictions?
- What are the rules (e.g., no barking, no playing with other dogs)?
Other places to check out with your pup in NOVA include:
- Dogma
- Ichiban
- Vola’s
- Guapo’s
- Copperwood Tavern
- Holy Cow
- Lena’s (they’ve got a dog-specific menu)
- Dairy Godmother (with ice cream specifically for pups)
- Virtue Feed and Grain (another menu for dogs)
- Busboys & Poets
These are, of course, in addition to the many parks and outdoor areas that welcome dogs of all sizes. You know your pet best, which means you can choose the type of activities that suit them well. Think about the level of noise, busyness, and duration of stay when planning an excursion for your furry friend so they can enjoy the experience.
Book a Northern Virginia’s Top Midday Dog Walker Today
Reston Town Center is one option for getting your beloved pet out of the house. These excursions are valuable for mental stimulation, physical wellness, and burning off some energy. However, if you do not have the time to manage a doggy day out on your own, consider a midday dog walker. The team at Paw Pals can stop by and take your furry friend for a walk so they can enjoy the weather and sun while you attend to other important tasks. Contact Paw Pals to meet our team and set up a walking schedule!
