Your furry best friend deserves a spot on sunny vineyard patios while you sip award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, estate-grown right in the heart of Sonoma Valley. Glen Ellen and Kenwood are home to some of the region’s most welcoming dog friendly wineries Sonoma has to offer, where leashed pups are treated like VIPs and their humans discover exceptional wines crafted by passionate family vintners.
Whether you’re planning a single winery visit or exploring the area over multiple trips, these charming wine towns offer authentic wineries where both you and your four-legged companion will feel genuinely welcome. From family-owned estates to dog friendly Sonoma wineries with decades of pet-welcoming tradition, Glen Ellen and Kenwood have earned reputations as some of Sonoma Valley’s most pet-friendly destinations.
Little Vineyards Family Winery – Where Music Meets Estate Reds
Begin your dog friendly wineries Sonoma experience at Little Vineyards, nestled on 23 acres in the heart of Glen Ellen’s Valley of the Moon. This isn’t just another tasting room, it’s where handcrafted wines and live music create the kind of laid-back atmosphere both you and your four-legged companion will love.
What makes Little Vineyards special: The Little family has created something unique here—an estate winery where music and wine intersect naturally, and where their signature Band Blend tells the story of a family passionate about both wine and music.
Your pup will love: The spacious patio overlooking estate vineyards, with plenty of room to stretch out while you taste their award-winning estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Syrah. Little Vineyards welcomes leashed dogs throughout the property, though their resident winery dogs might come say hello, so bring a social pup ready to make new friends.
Best option for dog owners: The Picnic Table Reservation ($10 per person) lets you bring your own food and enjoy Little wines with vineyard views, perfect for dogs. The 90-minute reservation gives everyone time to relax and enjoy the peaceful vineyard setting. Traditional wine tastings are also available on the patio if you prefer a more structured experience.
Insider tip: The picnic table experience works beautifully if you’re traveling with a larger or more energetic dog. The 90-minute reservation gives everyone time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful vineyard setting.
Address: 15188 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen
Hours: Friday-Sunday, 11:00am-4:30pm
Reservations: Recommended, though walk-ins welcome
B.R. Cohn Winery – Rock & Roll Heritage Meets Dog-Friendly Hospitality
Another excellent Glen Ellen option, B.R. Cohn Winery shares Little Vineyards’ musical DNA, founded by a rock band manager, this winery has been hosting live concerts and welcoming four-legged guests for decades.
The vibe: Mature olive groves, sprawling lawn areas, and a rock-and-roll history that attracts music lovers and their pets. B.R. Cohn’s outdoor spaces provide plenty of room for dogs to explore (on leash) while their humans discover why this winery has earned a loyal following.
Your pup’s amenities: Water bowls and treats are provided, plus ample shaded areas under ancient olive trees. The staff genuinely loves dogs and often shares stories of the many four-legged regulars who visit.
Wine highlights: Their estate Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay showcase Glen Ellen’s diverse microclimates, while seasonal releases keep club members coming back.
Perfect for: Dogs who enjoy a bit more activity and owners who appreciate live music events (check their calendar for upcoming concerts).
Address: 15000 Sonoma Highway, Glen Ellen
Contact: (707) 938-4064
Mayo Family Winery – Small-Batch Craftsmanship in a Dog-Friendly Setting
Mayo Family Winery brings European winemaking traditions to Glen Ellen’s relaxed atmosphere, producing over 20 unique varietals from carefully selected Sonoma Valley vineyards. Their outdoor courtyard provides an excellent option for you and your canine companion.
What sets Mayo apart: With wines ranging from sparkling to late-harvest dessert styles, Mayo offers variety you won’t find at larger wineries. Their small-batch approach means each bottle reflects winemaker craftsmanship rather than mass production.
Dog-friendly features: The outdoor courtyard welcomes leashed dogs, and there’s even a warming hearth for cooler days. You’re welcome to pack a picnic to enjoy in their designated outdoor seating area.
Must-try wines: Their single-vineyard Pinot Noir showcases cool-climate Sonoma Valley fruit, while unusual varietals like Grenache and Alicante Bouschet offer adventurous tasters something new.
Why dogs love it: Spacious outdoor areas with minimal crowds, plus staff who understand that good wine is best enjoyed with good company, including the four-legged kind.
Address: 13101 Arnold Drive, Glen Ellen
Hours: Daily, 10:30am-6:30pm
Dog policy: Outdoor areas only, leash required
Muscardini Cellars – Italian-Inspired Hospitality in Kenwood
For those exploring Kenwood, Muscardini Cellars offers Italian winemaking traditions paired with warm hospitality. This family-owned gem treats both two-legged and four-legged visitors like extended family.
The Italian connection: Michael Muscardini’s golden retriever Biondi often greets guests alongside Italian-inspired wines that transport you straight to Tuscany. Vermentino and Sangiovese shine here, crafted with Old World techniques and New World fruit.
Your pup’s experience: The backyard patio and rolling green grounds behind the tasting room provide plenty of space for dogs to relax. Water, treats, and toys are often available, plus the staff regularly hosts dog-themed events throughout the year.
Wine education: Muscardini excels at explaining Italian varietals to curious tasters, making this an excellent choice for wine lovers wanting to expand their palate beyond typical Sonoma offerings.
Best for: A relaxed atmosphere where both you and your dog can truly unwind while discovering wines you probably can’t find elsewhere in Sonoma Valley.
Address: 9380 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood
Contact: (707) 933-9305
What to Know Before You Visit
Essential items for dog-friendly winery visits:
- Collapsible water bowl (though most wineries provide them)
- Dog treats for good behavior rewards
- Leash and waste bags (required at all locations)
- Blanket for your pup to rest on during tastings
Best practices: Call ahead to confirm current pet policies, as some details may change seasonally. Most dog friendly wineries in Sonoma welcome well-socialized dogs who are comfortable around other people and pets.
Weather considerations: Glen Ellen and Kenwood’s outdoor patios are perfect spring through fall. Winter visits work too, with several wineries offering covered seating and heaters.
Transportation: Always plan for a designated driver when wine tasting, whether you’re visiting one winery or exploring multiple locations over several trips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are reservations required for dog-friendly wine tasting in Glen Ellen and Kenwood?
A: Little Vineyards and most others recommend reservations, especially on weekends. Call ahead to confirm their current pet policies.
Q: What if my dog isn’t social with other pets?
A: Little Vineyards has resident animals, so bring only dogs comfortable around other pets and people.
Q: Can I bring my dog inside the tasting rooms?
A: Most dog friendly Sonoma wineries restrict pets to outdoor areas only, always ask first.
Q: Are there age restrictions for dogs at wineries?
A: All ages welcome, but puppies should be fully vaccinated and comfortable on leash around crowds before visiting busy tasting rooms.
Ready to treat your favorite four-legged wine enthusiast to an unforgettable Sonoma Valley experience? Little Vineyards offers the perfect combination of estate-grown reds, live music, and genuine pet-friendly hospitality that makes Glen Ellen special. Book your tasting experience today and discover why these dog friendly Sonoma wineries create lasting memories for both you and your beloved companion.