Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge, Colorado, is the perfect spot for outdoor lovers and their four-legged companions. With world-class skiing, stunning views, and a charming Main Street, Breckenridge offers a plethora of activities for you and your furry pal to enjoy together.
Ready to bring your pup along for an adventure? In this blog, you’ll find all the useful information you need to know to travel with your pup in Breckenridge.
At Ski Country Resorts, we have a curated collection of homes and condos to inspire your next Breckenridge stay. We're confident that our guests will have the best time enjoying the extra space, privacy, and all the great amenities of our vacation rentals.
TLDR
Documents & Requirements: A Certificate of Veterinary Inspection and proof of rabies vaccination are required by the state of Colorado.
Leash Rules & Etiquette: Dogs must be on a leash within town limits, including streets, sidewalks, parks, and trails. While there's no specific length requirement, a 6-foot leash is generally recommended. Breckenridge has designated off-leash areas; check local regulations and signage before letting your dog roam free. Keep your dog under voice control, be mindful of others, and always clean up after your pet to maintain the town's beauty.
Pooper Scooper Laws: Colorado law requires dog owners to promptly clean up and dispose of their dog's waste in any public area, including trails, parks, and sidewalks. Not cleaning up after your dog can lead to fines, so carry plenty of poop bags.
Preparing for Your Trip: Documents & Requirements
First things first, you’ll need to make sure your dog's paperwork is in order. Colorado has some specific requirements for traveling with pets, and while these might seem like a hassle, they ensure everyone's safety, including your dog’s.
Here are the documents you need:
Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI): This health certificate, issued by a licensed vet within 30 days before you arrive, confirms that your dog is healthy and free from rabies. If you're planning to use boarding facilities or visit certain parks, they might require a CVI issued within 10 days of entry.
Proof of Rabies Vaccination: All dogs over 3 months old need to have proof of current rabies vaccination to enter Colorado from another state. This certificate is typically provided by your vet and should be included in the CVI.
CVI vs. Proof of Rabies Vaccination: What’s the difference between these two documents?
It’s important to make clear that these are not the same document. Yes, both touch upon your pet’s health, but they have different purposes.
The CVI is a comprehensive health certificate that goes beyond rabies, ensuring your dog is free from contagious diseases. The rabies vaccination certificate specifically proves your dog has been vaccinated against rabies.
The Proof of Rabies Vaccination is more specific. It’s provided by your vet at the time of vaccination attesting your dog has received the rabies shot. It shows the details regarding the vaccinations, such as the date it was administered, type, and expiration.
Note: If you’re returning to Colorado within 30 days of departure, you won’t need a new CVI. However, if you come back after 30 days, you’ll need to get another one before re-entering the state.
Additional Documents
The two documents we just mentioned are the only ones required by the state of Colorado. However, if you’re traveling by airplane, the airline might require additional documents. The same applies to accommodations. Make sure to investigate further the need for extra documentation before flying and booking a place to stay with your pet.
Here’s a tip: For more information or specific facility requirements, visit the Colorado Department of Agriculture's website. Additionally, consulting your trusted veterinarian for advice and potential vaccination exemptions for older or sick pets is highly recommended.
Leash Rules & Etiquette in Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge, like most towns, has leash laws to keep everyone safe. You also have to keep in mind the etiquette regarding visiting certain places with your pet.
Here are four important rules to keep in mind:
Leash Usually Required: All dogs must be on a leash within town limits, including streets, sidewalks, parks, and trails.
Leash Length: While there's no specific length requirement, a 6-foot leash is generally a good standard to maintain control.
Off-Leash Areas: Breckenridge does have designated off-leash areas, but always check local regulations and signage before letting your dog roam free.
Responsible Dog Ownership: Beyond leash laws, keep your dog under voice control, be mindful of others, and always clean up after your pet. Packing waste bags is essential to maintain the town's beauty.
Pooper Scooper Laws in Breckenridge, Colorado
Colorado has strict regulations regarding pet waste. While visiting the town with your furry pal, it’s very important to be aware of the rules.
Below are two essential things to learn before hitting the road:
Public Waste Removal Law: There is a Colorado law that requires dog owners to promptly clean up and dispose of their dog's waste in any public area, including trails, parks, and sidewalks.
Penalties for Non-Compliance: Not cleaning up after your dog can lead to fines, so make sure to carry plenty of poop bags during your adventures in Breckenridge and beyond.
Being a responsible pet owner makes a big difference. By following these simple guidelines, you can help keep Colorado's stunning landscapes clean and pleasant for everyone. After all, no one wants to encounter an unexpected mess while enjoying the pristine outdoors.
Pet-Friendly Places and Activities in Breckenridge, CO
The best part of traveling with your pooch is being able to enjoy fun activities and hit cool places with them by your side. Wondering where to head to in Breckenridge, CO?
Here’s a list of places and activities that are pet-friendly in town:
Dog-Friendly Trails in Breckenridge
Explore over a hundred miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, including Moonstone and Sunbeam Trails, Sawmill Trail, and Crystal Lake Trail. Dogs must be kept on a leash.
BreckConnect Gondola
Enjoy panoramic views of Peaks 7 and 8 on this dog-friendly gondola. Dogs can ride for free but must stay on a leash. Operating from mid-June to mid-September and during the ski season.
Carter Dog Park
A fully fenced one-acre park with separate areas for large and small dogs. Features include mountain views, water fountains, and waste bags. Adjacent pet-friendly trails are also available.
Breckenridge Nordic Center
Two dog-friendly snowshoe trails (Little Red's Run and Robin's Nest) and a ski trail for cross-country skiing with your dog. Offers breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife habitat.
Gold Run Nordic Center
Features dog-friendly cross-country ski and snowshoe trails. Offers skijoring classes where you and your dog can learn to ski together. Also provides fat biking and sleigh rides.
Blue Moose
A pet-friendly breakfast spot with outdoor seating. Enjoy traditional home-cooked options like pancakes and omelets with a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains.
Main Street
Leashed dogs are welcome to explore most establishments. Visit For Pets' Sake Thrift Shop, Peek A Boo Toys, The Downhill Dog pet store, and dog-friendly cafes like Cool River Coffee House and Clint’s.
Broken Compass Brewing
A dog-friendly brewery with a patio and indoor seating. Enjoy a selection of craft beers and socialize with other pet owners. Features trivia nights and live music.
Breckenridge Distillery, Motherloaded Tavern, Kenosha Steakhouse, and Après Handcrafted Libations
Popular pet-friendly spots with patios and decks where you can enjoy food and drinks with your dog.
The Lighting of Breckenridge and Race of the Santas
Annual holiday events on the first Saturday of December. Includes a Santa race where dogs can participate in festive costumes and a procession to the lighting of the Town Tree.
Extra Tips for Traveling with Pets to Breckenridge, CO
Bringing pets along on your travels calls for careful preparation. Here are additional suggestions to help make your journey to Breckenridge hassle-free:
Visit the Vet: Make sure your dog is up to date with vaccinations and get any necessary documents. Discuss your travel plans with your vet to get advice on keeping your dog calm and healthy during the trip.
Packing Essentials: Besides health records and a leash, pack a dog coat for cold weather, booties for paw protection, a reflective vest for low-light conditions, a portable water bottle and bowl, paw balm, comfort items like a favorite blanket or toy, grooming items, and plenty of waste bags.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Research pet-friendly short-term rentals in Breckenridge. Many places offer amenities like designated pet areas and pet beds.
Dog-Friendly Establishments: Before traveling, find out which local restaurants, cafes, and shops welcome dogs. Knowing where your pet is welcome will save you from any last-minute stress.
Practice Traveling: If this is your dog’s first trip, practice with short car rides or public transport to help them get used to it. Reward good behavior with treats and praise.
Acclimate to the Cold: If your dog isn’t used to cold weather, start with short walks in cooler temperatures before your trip to help them adjust.
How can you make your trip to Breckenridge, CO even better?
While in town, make the best of your Breckenridge experience by staying in one of our curated collection of homes and condos.
Ski Country Resorts’ properties are all in great central locations. Each condo and home we manage is fully furnished and equipped with cooking and cleaning appliances, as well as great amenities for the most comfortable stay.
