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Dog-Friendly Franklin, TN: A Pet Owner’s Guide to Local Places, Parks, and Resources

Dog-Friendly Franklin, TN: A Pet Owner’s Guide to Local Places, Parks, and Resources

Dogs are one of life’s biggest blessings—filling our homes with unconditional love, joy, and companionship—and Franklin, Tennessee is an ideal place to own a dog. Among other things, Franklin is known for being pet-friendly. Our city, a charming central point of Williamson County, is walkable, family oriented, and full of places that welcome and cater to man’s best friend. In fact, our community was the first to pioneer and become certified in BETTER CITIES FOR PETS™, a widespread pet-friendly initiative that began in 2019.

One key feature that sets our home apart is its idyllic blend of rural landscapes and urban amenities, creating the perfect environment for pet owners and families looking for both enriching social environments and wide open spaces. Here in Franklin ,you’ll find perfect parks, pet-friendly places to eat or stay, and top-notch facilities that ensure your pet receives the care that they deserve.

An unseen man is walking a golden retriever on a leash in the scenic outdoors, Franklin, Tennessee.

Trails & Tails

Spending time outdoors with your pup is one of the best ways to help them stay active and engaged. Whether you are looking for a quick walk, a day in the park playing fetch, or a puppy play-date, here are some of the best options for dog-friendly trails and dog parks in Franklin, Tennessee.

Keep in mind that the City of Franklin requires dogs to be on-leash at city parks. They should only be off-leash in designated, fenced-in areas and wearing an identification collar at all times. Parks are play-at-your-own-risk; owners are responsible for their dog’s behavior, safety, and waste. Please ensure that your dogs are properly licensed and vaccinated before visiting. As an extra safety measure, there should be no more than 3 dogs per owner in the parks at any given time. Keep in mind that water sources at the parks are seasonal, and may not be available certain times during the year.

Dog-specific Parks:

Freedom Run Dog Park at Liberty Park is a 1-acre dog park with 2 sections, for small dogs (30 lbs or less) and large dogs (over 30 lbs). There are, waste-disposal stations, benches, and canine agility equipment on site. The park is open from dusk until dawn. Address: 2098 Turning Wheel Lane, Franklin, TN 37067

K-9 corral Dog Park in the Park at Harlinsdale Farm is a 4 acre space for your dog to play and explore. The park is free and open from dusk until dawn, located at the north entrance of Franklin’s Harlinsdale Farm. Address: 239 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37064

Parks & Trails

Many of Franklin’s public parks are not exclusively for dogs; however, they welcome leashed pets and their owners. You can use these beautiful natural spaces for walking, exercise, and play. As always, please pick up after your pet at these locations.

Aspen Grove Park: 3200 Aspen Grove Drive, Franklin, TN 37067

Eastern Flank Battlefield Park: 1368 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN 37064

Fort Granger Trail: 113 Fort Granger Drive, Franklin, TN 37064

Jim Warren Park: 705 Boyd Mill Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064

Judge Fulton Greer Park: 1120 Hillsboro Rd, Franklin, TN 37064

Pinkerton Park: 405 Murfreesboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064

Two dogs at a dog friendly park in Franklin, TN, in the sunshine, with their tongues out.

Pet-friendly Restaurant Patios

Franklin is overwhelmingly dog-friendly, and if a local restaurant has an outdoor patio, chances are your pet is welcome (just double-check before you bring them along)! Here are some favorite dining spots in Franklin that will absolutely allow your pups to tag along:

Brixx Woodfired Pizza + Craft Bar is popular, casual spot to grab a homemade pizza and a craft beer, and their outdoor dining space is pet-friendly.

Fox & Locke in Leiper’s Fork is an iconic, historic music venue and restaurant that welcomes pets to dinner and a show on their outdoor patio.

Jonathon’s Grille is a family owned, upscale sports bar and grill with a pet-friendly patio—so the whole family can come to lunch or dinner.

Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant is a classic Southern destination, complete with live, local music and an outdoor patio space that allows dogs to tag along and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Neighbors of Franklin serves daily specials in a fun, casual space, made complete by their dog-friendly, outdoor seating.

The Bunganut Pig is known to have great pub food and one of the best burgers in Franklin. Their shaded, outdoor patio is pet-friendly.

Tony’s Eat & Drink is a fun, casual Franklin pub with great cocktails, food, music, a very pet-friendly outdoor patio.

Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar serves up chef-inspired, Southern cuisine and has a pet-friendly patio perfect for grabbing brunch, lunch, or dinner with your dog in tow.

Scout’s Pub is named after the owner’s dog, so naturally their patio is dog-friendly. They even have a “Good Dog Menu,” available, featuring grilled bacon, eggs, beef patties, and more.

Two small breed dogs nap on a bed, representing pet-friendly hotels in Franklin, Tennessee.

Pet-friendly Hotels

Here in Williamson County, we welcome tourists and four-legged travelers alike! If you’re visiting Franklin with your dog, there are some friendly hotel options that can accommodate the whole family:

Aloft Nashville Franklin allows for 2 pets (dogs and cats up to 40 lbs) in designated rooms for an additional $75. Pets must be in crates if left unattended. There is a designated bathroom area for pets on the property.

Drury Plaza Hotel in Franklin allows up to 2 pets (must be under 80 lbs combined) for an additional $65 per night. Pets cannot be left unattended. There is a small designated bathroom area on the property.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Nashville South’s location in Cool Springs allows 2 pets per room for an additional $75 per stay for a duration of 1-4 nights, plus an additional $50 if you’re staying for 5 nights or more. Dogs and cats only.

Hampton Inn & Suites has 2 locations in Franklin, in Berry Farms and Cool Springs. The pet policy at Berry Farms allows for up to 2 pets per room with a $75 deposit for 1-4 nights, plus an additional $50 for 5 nights or more. Dogs and cats only. Pets should not exceed 120 lbs. At the Cool Springs location, only dogs are allowed at a rate of $50 per pet, per stay.

The Harpeth Hotel in downtown Franklin welcomes the entire family, including up to 2 pets. There is an $125 deposit fee for a pet-friendly stay, which includes a welcome treat bag, use of food and water bowls provided by the hotel, and a bed if necessary.

Hyatt House in Cool Springs welcomes up to 3 pets per room for $75 per stay. Keep in mind that your pets combined weight must be under 75 lbs.

Southall Farm & Inn allows dogs (inn guests only) in their selection pet-friendly rooms, with an additional fee of $250 per stay. Pets are not allowed in dining area and must be leashed and with their owners on the property.

TownPlace Suites Franklin in Cool Springs allows pets for an additional, non-refundable deposit of $100 per stay.

A dog getting groomed at a Franklin groomer, having it's hair brushed and trimmed.

Local Pet Groomers

Although this might not be your pet’s favorite part of the perfect day, taking them to a trusted groomer can help keep them comfortable and healthy. Although you could do this at home, pet grooming is something that is often best when left to the professionals. Here are some top local spots to get your dog squeaky clean:

Angie’s Pet Spa is an express grooming service with 3 locations in Franklin, Spring Hill, and Chapel Hill. The VIP pet spa offers local, professional services that prioritize the health and comfort of your pet, using quality products and no kennel wait-time before appointments. Contact their Franklin location at 615-472-8986. Address: 1409 W Main Street #201, Franklin, TN 37064

Dee-O-Gee Franklin is a locally owned and operated pet store that offers it all: high quality products, daycare, and grooming services. They also sell toys and DIY washtubs that are made in the U.S.A. For grooming or day care inquiry, call 615-790-1121. Address: 6001 Hughes Crossing, Suite 120, Franklin, TN 37064

Dapper Dog Grooming Co is a professional salon and mobile vehicle that offers premium grooming for dogs and cats, providing a clean, comfortable, and convenient space for your pet. The salon and mobile service are by appointment only. Schedule by phone at 615-905-8157. Salon Address: 1113 Murfreesboro Road, Suite 306, Franklin, TN 37064

Four Paws Pet Spa is the ultimate luxury spa experience for your pet. Services include basic grooming, spa experiences, training, and pet sitting. To inquire about services or schedule a pamper session for your pup call 615-431-1181. Address: 5070 Carothers Parkway, Suite 106, Franklin TN 37067

4 the love of dogs offers pet grooming, professional support, and wellness services, promoting natural healing products and supplements to help your pet live a healthy and happy life. Appointment requests are most likely to be confirmed via phone, 615-525-5552. Address: 1914 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064

Scenthound offers focused personal care, grooming, and hygiene appointments for your pups. There is already a location here in Franklin, with 3 more set to open in Middle Tennessee in 2025. For appointments and inquiries, call 615-909-3737. Franklin Address: 2020 Fieldstone Pkwy #800, Franklin, TN 37069

A dog ready for boarding in Franklin, lays on an unmade bed, tilting its head to one side.

Doggie Daycare & Boarding

Although most of us would like to take our dogs everywhere we go, sometimes it just isn’t possible. We know that placing your pet in the care of others can be nerve-wracking, as you want to ensure that your dog is well cared for during your absence. Whether you have vacation plans this year or you need some extra help watching them during the work day, here are some premium places in Franklin that might be a good fit:

Hound Haven is a trusted Franklin destination for dog day care, overnight boarding, and grooming. Hound Haven provides a high-end, loving environment, and promises comfortable accommodations, careful attention, and professional care. Boarding services are all inclusive and keep your dog active and social throughout their stay. You can inquire via email at info@houndhaven.com or phone at 615-790-5071. Address: 109 Rand Pl Franklin, TN 37064

My Second Home Pet Resort and Spa offers daycare, boarding, training, and grooming, and they’ve been in the pet care business for 20 years. At My Second Home your dog can truly be pampered, with premium grooming options, enriching training sessions, opportunities for socialization with other dogs, and much more. To inquire about rates and opportunities, contact them via the website portal or by phone at 615-771-7794. Address: 101 Mission Court, Franklin, TN, 37067

No Worries Pet & Farm Sitting  is based in Brentwood but serves all of Williamson County and beyond, giving pets of all kinds (farm animals and exotic pets included) the ability to stay home during their owner’s travels. The tailored, at-home care provides pets with extra comfortability and consistency, reducing any stress that might occur during your absence. Their pet-sitters are professional, well reviewed, and experienced, providing customers with extra peace of mind when searching for the best care possible. If interested, they offer a complimentary, at-home consultation. You can contact the service via their online form or by phone at 615-595-8985. Address: 1305 Franklin Road, Brentwood, TN,  37027

Paw Pals Inc. is a family owned, crate free doggie daycare facility that caters to pet owners with busy schedules. Services at their Franklin and Brentwood locations include full or partial day sitting, boarding, and a la carte bath services. Quality care and comfortability are priority for daytime and overnight guests of Paw Pals Inc. You can schedule your pet’s stay online or call the Franklin location at 615-599-1105. Franklin Address: 310 Eddy Court Franklin, TN

Pawsh Pawradise is a top-rated facility offering a range of services set to provide a premier staycation experience for your dog. Alongside daycare and grooming, their boarding program offers more-than-comfortable accommodations and 24/7 monitoring, ensuring your dog gets the attention and care that they need when away from home. You can reach out at info@pawshpawradise.com or call 615-920-4321. Address: 1552 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, Tennessee 37064

The Farm at Natchez Trace  provides dog and cat lodging that strives to meet the needs of your pet, no matter their size, age, or personal needs. Alongside overnight boarding, The Farm at Natchez Trace also provides training, daycare, and spa services. There is a a carefully curated health food pet market on site called Thr!ve, stocked with trusted brands. You can make reservations online or contact the facility via phone 615-662-6628. Address: 9479 Hwy 96 West, Franklin, TN 37064

Waggy Tails Pet Center is dedicated to providing loving and affordable pet care, catering to the needs of your pup. They offer an active, social daycare program, all inclusive boarding, and obedience training programs. Their services are reasonably priced, with daycare and boarding packages and membership options for regular attendees. You can contact Waggy Tails via their website or call 615-472-1520. Address: 1902 Columbia Avenue, Franklin TN, 37064

Two large breed dogs take a break on the sidewalk, wearing collars and leashes.

Man’s Best Friend

Being a dog owner brings both incredible joy and an incredible sense of responsibility. When trusted to care for our beloved pets, we want to make sure we’re providing them with the best life possible. You can accomplish just that in Franklin, Tennessee, giving your pets the attention and love that they need to thrive. In return, our precious pets provide support and camaraderie, sometimes when we need it the most. Pets are known to improve physical and mental well-being, reduce stress and increase social interactions.

If you’re thinking about becoming a pet owner, consider adopting from Williamson County Animal Center. If you’re not quite ready for ownership, but are still passionate about providing love and care for local animals, consider volunteering or fostering a pet through the center’s programs. When it comes down to it, Franklin is wonderful place to call home for people and pups alike!