Is Istanbul safe for dogs?โผ
In the cosmopolitan neighbourhoods, yes. The main risks are: street dog encounters (manageable on-leash), summer heat in July-August (walk early morning and evening only), and traffic (Istanbul traffic is intense; use pavements and pedestrian crossings strictly). The city is large but dog travel within Beyoglu, Besiktas, and Kadikoy is comfortable.
How many days should I spend in Istanbul with a dog?โผ
Three to four days is ideal. Day 1: Kaleiรงi/Sultanahmet on-leash walk (exterior only), ferry across Bosphorus to Kadikoy, Moda neighbourhood. Day 2: Beyoglu/Cihangir dog walk, Bosphorus ferry to Bebek, Yildiz Park. Day 3: Bรผyรผkada Prince Island day trip (ferry, car-free island). Day 4: Belgrade Forest drive for off-leash walking.