If you’re like me, you look forward to the weekend because it means extra time with your furry best friend. I’m obsessed with my dog and even run an Instagram, @charlottethecattledog, to document her daily adventures and cute antics. My love for Charlotte runs deep and I’m always looking for fun ways to spice up her life, which is why I’m so happy that Irvine has become more and more dog-friendly over the years. From outdoor patios at restaurants to renovated shopping centers and spacious parks, Irvine has plenty to keep your pup active and happy. Maybe you can get a good Instagram shot while you’re at it!

Irvine Spectrum

After Irvine Spectrum’s renovation, it’s become one of my dog’s favorite spots to hang out, especially on hot days. Not only does it have shaded paths and plenty of restaurants with patio seating (TLT is our favorite!), the Spectrum also features fun water features that Charlotte goes nuts over. She can spend the whole day running around the misters by Urban Outfitters and chasing the water shooting up out of the floor by Target.

Woodbridge North Lake 

Woodbridge has two beautiful lakes, but North Lake is definitely better for walking your dog because its path is longer and borders the lake more closely. One reason why North Lake is better than other lakes in Irvine, such as the ones at Heritage Park or William Mason Regional Park, is because the pathways are cleaner (we don’t want our fur babies to eat any goose poop). The other reason why I like this lake is because the turtles are extra friendly here and always come up to say hi to Charlotte. Some have even crawled onto the bank to play with her!

(Audrey Fong)

Woodbridge Village Center

The other reason why I like taking Charlotte to walk around North Lake is because there’s a bridge that takes you right to the Woodbridge Village Center. Newly renovated, the center is now a vibrant space for families to hang out at and has lots of outdoor seating for your furry friends. I like bringing my dog here after a long walk to grab her a little bit of plain tart fro-yo from Yogurtland. Expert tip — add a little bit of peanut butter or honey on their fro-yo if you’re dog is being extra good!

Aldrich Park (Audrey Fong)

Aldrich Park

Located at the center of University of California Irvine, Aldrich Park is one of Irvine’s most beautiful parks and is my dog’s favorite spot to go for walks. She loves how green it is there and how there’s plenty of shaded spots for her to rest in. If your dog is human-friendly, they’ll love all the eager university students who want to pet and play with them.

Kriser’s (Audrey Fong)

Kriser’s Pet Store

My dog loves visiting Kriser’s Pet Store, Irvine Pet Complex and Petco during the summer because they’re air conditioned and because she’ll always leave with either a new treat or toy from there. Kriser’s Pet Store is extra special because they have a unique range of dog treats and occasionally have parties for dogs. 

Shady Canyon Trail

Shady Canyon Trail is an easy spot for hiking and offers beautiful views of Tanaka Farms and the golf courses. I also like this trail because there’s both a dirt trail and paved trail side by side, meaning that it’s good for both people who want something tamer and something more natural. My dog likes it because there’s plenty of wild life around, meaning good sniffing opportunities.

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