BringFido's Ruff Guide to Idaho

Posted by Billy Francis

Thinking of bringing your Beagle on a trip to Idaho? If so, he’s one lucky dog. The editors at BringFido have dedicated themselves to digging up the dog-friendliest things to do in the Gem State, as well as the rest of the country. And we've assembled it all in the latest edition of our book, Ruff Guide to the United States.

Now in its second edition, the book features over 365 of the best places to stay and play with your dog in all 50 states. Order your copy today and save 50% off the retail price when you use the discount code IDAHO.

For a preview of the book, here are a few of our editors' top picks for dog-friendly things to do in Idaho:

Dog Bark Park Inn

Cottonwood, ID
“Are you sure this isn’t the large dog section of the park?” Photo by @parker_zoe_dog

Located near the border of Washington and Oregon, you’ll find Idaho’s most famous dog-friendly landmark in the sleepy town of Cottonwood. Nicknamed ‘Sweet Willy’ by the locals, the world’s largest Beagle stretches to a height of 30 feet. But this is no ordinary dog – it’s actually a bed and breakfast! The Dog Bark Park Inn was created by a husband and wife team of chainsaw artists in 1997. The unusual structure has garnered worldwide attention as a slice of roadside Americana ever since, and travelers come from around the globe to spend a night ‘in the dog house.’ Even if you’re not able to stay overnight, you can still browse the gift shop and watch Dennis and Frances carve wooden statues of more than 60 dog breeds in their studio. Passers-by can even take a potty break in the giant fire hydrant!

No trip to the Dog Bark Park Inn is complete without an overnight stay. Inside the belly of the beast, you’ll find a queen bedroom and full-size bathroom. Additional loft space (accessible by ladder) contains twin futons and a variety of books and games. A self-serve breakfast of homemade treats is included with your stay.

Long Drift Outfitters

Sandpoint, ID
"You tie the knots and I’ll chew them off!” Photo by Aaron/Long Drift Outfitters

The Idaho section of the Kootenai River flows through a serene canyon that’s all but inaccessible except by boat. Book a scenic float trip in a classic wooden drift boat with Long Drift Outfitters in Sandpoint and enjoy the solitude of the river with your furry friend by your side. If you prefer a more active adventure, choose a guided fly fishing tour instead. Your helpful guide will offer tips to help you reel in a nice trout or whitefish. Rates start at $450 for up to two adults, and fishing trips include rods, reels, and flies. Dogs float for free. Let Fido stretch his legs afterward along 1,000 feet of lakefront shoreline at the nearby Dog Beach Park. Your furry friend can run off leash, and park admission is free. End your day with a stop at Laughing Dog Brewing in Ponderay, where you can sample the Alpha Dog IPA paired with an appetizer from the ‘Not Beer’ menu. Pups are allowed inside and out.

After an active day on the water, let your pup rest his tired paws at the Cedar Street Hotel & Suites. Four-legged guests are greeted with a treat and waste bags at check-in, and ample green space is just down the street at Farmin Park. The hotel offers free breakfast and is within walking distance to many other downtown shops and restaurants.

“Follow me!” Photo by Melissa Halliburton

Enjoy Lake Coeur d’Alene by visiting Tubbs Hill for an afternoon swim. The park encompasses over 120 acres of trails, overlooks, caves and beaches along the lake. Let Fido take a dip before or after you explore the 2-mile interpretive loop that outlines the perimeter of the hill. The walk takes you past historic points of interest and breathtaking scenery. If you want to get a different view of Tubbs Hill and the surrounding area, join Lake Coeur D'Alene Cruises for one of their daily scenic tours. You’ll learn about the lake, see local wildlife, view beautiful homes, and cruise with your pooch alongside the world’s only floating golf green. Dive into Daft Badger Brewing to refuel and rehydrate before heading home.

Back on dry land, book a dog-friendly room at The Roosevelt Inn and you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast in the morning. Four-legged guests will receive a pet kit with sheets for the bed, a towel, bowls, treats, tennis ball, and waste bags.

Ready for a Road Trip?

Photo by Linda Segerfeldt


If this Ruff Guide to Idaho preview left your dog drooling for more, we hope you check out our new book - Ruff Guide to the United States. Remember to use discount code IDAHO to save 50% on your copy. Happy Travels!

Have you been to dog-friendly Idaho? Leave a comment or tweet us @BringFido!