The story of Rodney Strong Vineyards dates back over 50 years, when American dancer Rod Strong made Sonoma County his home to explore his passion for winemaking. Established as the 13th bonded winery in the burgeoning Sonoma County wine scene, Rodney Strong Vineyards stands as a testament to dedication and artistry in crafting wines. Located just south of Healdsburg, this winery welcomes dogs throughout its grounds, which is genuinely refreshing in wine country where pet policies can be hit or miss.

What makes this place work for dog owners is the sheer amount of outdoor space. You can bring your dog along while you stroll through the vineyards and sip wine from the outdoor tasting areas. The grounds are spacious enough that your dog has room to move around and explore, and there’s plenty of shade from trees and structures scattered throughout. During our visit, we were able to wander the property fairly freely with our dog, and staff didn’t seem stressed about having pets around the way they sometimes do at other wineries.

The views from various spots on the property are genuinely nice—you get a good sense of the surrounding Sonoma County hills and vineyard landscape. The wines themselves are well-made across their range, and their staff was knowledgeable about what they were pouring without being pretentious about it. They regularly host events, and some include dog-friendly options, so check their calendar if you’re planning a longer trip to the area.

A few practical notes: the outdoor tasting areas mean you’re not stuck in a climate-controlled interior if you’d rather be outside with your dog. During peak season on weekends, it does get busy, so a weekday visit gives you more breathing room and a better experience for both you and your dog. Call ahead if you have questions about where dogs can and can’t access on the property, since some indoor spaces understandably have restrictions.