Portland

5,200 acres of urban forest and more than 80 miles of trail on the edge of downtown, including the 30-mile Wildwood Trail. Leash required throughout: off-leash dogs are listed among the park's prohibited activities.

A fully fenced off-leash area of about 8,000 square feet in the Pearl District, with separate sections for large dogs and for small or shy ones. The most useful in the city if you are staying downtown.

The green ribbon along the west bank of the Willamette, created by tearing out a motorway in the 1970s. Dogs welcome on a leash, but not allowed in the Salmon Street Springs fountain.

A 1914 house set in 46 acres of grounds, with the postcard view over the city to Mount Hood. Pets allowed on a leash on the grounds, not permitted inside the Mansion, the Gate Lodge or the Garage.

A huge off-leash area half an hour east, at the confluence of the Sandy and the Columbia, where dogs swim. Leash required in the parking lot, within 100 feet of the Confluence Trail and near the Bird Blind.

The most acclaimed Japanese garden outside Japan, in Washington Park. Only trained service animals are admitted, so plan daycare or take turns visiting.