South Brooklyn

Our Favorite Pet-Friendly Neighborhoods of South Brooklyn

CARROLL GARDENS

The Vibe: The Italian dock workers who once ruled Carroll Gardens laid their claim to this charming community at the turn of the 20th century and their families, understandably, never left. The Italian Roman Catholic presence is proud in these parts and still holds strong. So even though Smith and Court Streets have been infiltrated by the typical “New Brooklyn” cafes, bars and boutiques, they coexist beside the old Italian restaurants and social clubs from the days of yore. Thanks to the old timers, the romantic mafia reputation of the hood (Al Capone was married at St. Mary’s Star Of The Sea Church), the Gambino crime family is still reported to hold sway, and The Sopranos recently gave it some new street cred, Carroll Gardens is still the ultimate “fogettaboutit” Brooklyn experience.

The Pets of Carroll Gardens: That bulldog hanging out in front of the Italian social club, the one next to the large, cigar-smoking man, looks like he will shake you down for your bone before you can even bark twice. You might want to head over to Smith Canteen where delicious croissant crumbs fall like snow and sit outside with the stroller set.

Wag Like a Local: Stroll down any side street and gawk at the charming row houses and turn of the century brownstones that showcase Carroll Garden’s signature “enormous front yard” look, a testament to how Carroll Gardens got its name. And while the neighborhood lacks a designated dog run, Carroll Park is still a great pit stop for small, kid friendly dogs.

PARK SLOPE

The Vibe: This landmarked neighborhood encompasses the “slope,” or hillside area, between Prospect Park and the Gowanus Canal. For the pet owner, the love is all around the 526 acres of Prospect Park, but as for the rest of Park Slope, aka “down the hill”, the historic limestones and brownstones are now owned by affluent Brooklyn families and the neighborhood is brimming with children (so expect to be dodging Razors and baby strollers down the street).

The Dogs of Park Slope: It’s 8:30 am, and Long Meadow in Prospect Park is jammed packed with all your friends. You’re running as fast as you can, chasing your favorite frisbee, while your person is yacking away on the phone. The sun is shining, and there’s grass under your paws. Oh, life is real good for the dogs of Park Slope.

Wag Like a Local: Weekend mornings between 8-9:00 am at Long Meadow in Prospect Park is the prime time place for dogs to sniff and be sniffed. Check out the fabulous Grand Army Plaza Greenmarket on Saturday for all your farm fresh goodies, and depending on the season, the neighborhood is abuzz with street fairs, outdoor concerts (Celebrate Brooklyn!) and more.

DOGGYSTYLE: Pet-Friendly Shopping in South Brooklyn

Foxy & Winston: 392 Van Brunt St. - Fantastic home finds and great gifts! Plus their beagle, Beatrice, is always on hand to help you make the difficult decisions.

Botta di Vino: 357 Van Brunt St. - Check out their incredible selection of wines, which are dutifully guarded by their resident cat, and stay for one of their tastings.

Annie’s Blue Ribbon General Store: 232 5th Ave. - A little slice of Americana in the heart of Brooklyn, here you can find amazing gifts, books, and trinkets in this neighborhood stalwart.

Kiwi: 119 7th Ave + FiG: 121 7th Ave. - One of the cutest women’s and men’s apparel stores around town (in fact one of the few dedicated to just the men!). They love dogs so expect them to fawn over your pup while you’re working it in the dressing room.

Chelsea Garden Center: 444 Van Brunt St. - A beautiful nursery and flower shop extraordinaire, it’s worth just walking your dog around this garden center and checking out the amazing flora and fauna.

Smith & Vine: 317 Smith St. - Carroll Garden’s friendliest liquor store always has an ample supply of dog treats on hand, and they just moved closer to the subway, so it couldn’t be easier to pick up your booze after a long workday.

WHO YOU GONNA BARK AT: Pet Associations of South Brooklyn

Fellowship in the Interest of Dogs and their Owners (Fido) is New York city’s largest off-leash community of dog owners. These guys are the unofficial liaisons between Prospect Park and local dog owners. All of your Prospect Park dog questions can be answered here. And check out Prospect Park Coffee Bark: Fido’s monthly gathering at the Long Meadow Picnic House in Prospect Park where dog owners mingle over coffee and bagels while their dogs romp around the park. It’s a tight-knit community and very welcoming.