Introduction
Hawaii is home to a large population of domestic dogs. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are approximately 237,000 pet dogs living in Hawaiian households. However, the island state struggles with managing its stray and feral dog populations as well. Estimates suggest there are tens of thousands of stray dogs roaming the islands. This is partially due to the subtropical climate allowing abandoned pets to survive and breed in the wild. Lax spay and neuter practices also contribute to uncontrolled breeding and population growth. Organizations like the Hawaiian Humane Society work to control populations humanely through sterilization, adoptions, and education. Going forward, responsible pet ownership and accessible spay/neuter services will be key to ensuring all dogs in Hawaii have good welfare.
Oahu
Oahu is the most populated island in Hawaii, with nearly 1 million residents. It’s estimated that over 60% of households on Oahu own a pet dog. According to a 2018 Hawaii legislative resolution, dog owners represent over one third of Oahu’s population and spend over $90 million on their pets annually.
As of July 1, 2020, the City & County of Honolulu no longer requires dog licenses. Instead, all dogs and cats must be microchipped. This change was implemented through the state’s rabies quarantine program, which requires all dogs and cats arriving in Hawaii to be microchipped [1].
Maui
Maui has a significant dog population, with over 40,000 registered dogs as of 2021 according to the Maui County government. Dog licensing and regulations in Maui are governed by the Maui Humane Society under contract with the County of Maui. All dogs over the age of 4 months are required to be licensed annually with the Maui Humane Society, with fees ranging from $12-25 depending on whether the dog is spayed/neutered. Failure to license a dog can result in fines up to $500 according to Maui County animal laws.
Popular dog-friendly areas on Maui include Baldwin Beach Park, Kanaha Beach Park, Kamaole Beach Parks, Ho’okipa Beach Park, and Makena State Beach Park. The Maui Humane Society also operates the only dog park on the island in Pu’unene.
Kauai
According to the Kauai Humane Society, all dogs over the age of 3 months must be licensed annually on the island of Kauai. Dog licenses can be obtained from the Kauai Humane Society or the County of Kauai Department of Finance, with license fees ranging from $7-30 depending on if the dog is spayed/neutered. In 2020, there were approximately 15,000 licensed dogs on Kauai.
To obtain a dog license on Kauai, owners must provide proof of current rabies vaccination. Licensed dogs must also comply with all county laws pertaining to responsible pet ownership. Common requirements include keeping the dog under restraint, not allowing it to be a nuisance, and immediately removing any feces.
Molokai
Molokai has lower rates of dog ownership compared to other Hawaiian islands. According to the Molokai Humane Society, there are around 3,500 dogs living on the island. With Molokai’s population around 7,500, that means approximately 1 out of every 2 people owns a dog. Dogs must be licensed annually through the DMV, with licenses costing $4.50 for spayed/neutered dogs and $9 for unaltered dogs. The Molokai Humane Society runs a low-cost spay/neuter program to control the island’s dog population.
Some key facts about dog ownership on Molokai:
- Estimated 3,500 dogs on the island
- Dog licenses required through DMV, cost $4.50-$9 per year
- Low-cost spay/neuter program offered by Molokai Humane Society
- Approximately 50% of residents own dogs
Lanai
Lanai is the sixth largest of the Hawaiian Islands with a total area of 364 square miles. According to the 2020 census, Lanai has a population of around 3,200 residents [1]. Lanai is known for being a pet friendly island with wide open spaces for dogs to roam and play. There are no leash laws on Lanai and dogs are allowed almost everywhere on the island. Many resorts and vacation rentals on Lanai are also dog friendly.
Approximately 30% of households on Lanai own at least one dog. With a small resident population, there are around 1,000 dogs living on the island. The laid back, rural atmosphere makes Lanai an ideal place for dogs to enjoy the outdoors. There are over 30 miles of hiking trails where dogs can explore off-leash. Lanai also has a dog park in Lanai City for dogs to socialize and play. With plenty of space to roam free and dog friendly amenities, Lanai is a true paradise for dogs.
Big Island
The Big Island of Hawaii has a significant number of dog owners and dogs registered. According to the Hawaii County website, there are over 27,000 licensed dogs on the Big Island as of 2021 (Dog Registration | Hawaii County, HI).
All dogs over 3 months of age must be licensed annually on the Big Island. Owners must provide proof of rabies vaccination and pay license fees that range from $6-96 depending on if the dog is spayed/neutered. There are additional requirements for dangerous breeds.
The Big Island has large rural areas where dogs can roam and swim outdoors. However, there are also regulations banning dogs from certain public beaches and requiring dogs to be leashed in many areas. Overall, the Big Island offers dog owners spacious areas to enjoy with their pets if following county laws.
Dog Parks
Hawaii’s tropical climate and scenic landscapes make for some excellent dog parks. Each island has fantastic spots for pups to play off-leash and enjoy the island life.
On Oahu, the Hawaii Kai Dog Park in East Honolulu is a top pick with over an acre of space and ocean views. The Patsy T. Mink Central Oahu Regional Park is also popular with separate areas for large and small dogs (Hawaii dog parks).
For Maui dogs, the Kula Dog Park has space for running and a pond for swimming. Also on Maui is the Makawao Dog Park, located at Eddie Tam Memorial Complex with amenities like benches and shade trees.
On Kauai, Lydgate Dog Park in Wailua is a favorite with its large fenced area and access to the rocky coast. Another option is the Kalaheo Neighborhood Center Park which has off-leash areas rotated daily.
The small island of Lanai has the Lanai Dog Park where pups can enjoy the amenities while owners relax under the picnic gazebo. On Molokai, the Kaunakakai Ball Park is an unofficial but popular spot for dogs to play off-leash.
Lastly, the Big Island has several great dog parks like the Waimea Park located along the historic Waikoloa Stream. In Kailua-Kona, Old Airport Beach Park allows dogs with scenic ocean views (https://www.yelp.com/biz/hawaii-kai-dog-park-honolulu).
Dog Friendly Beaches
Hawaii has many beautiful beaches that welcome dogs and their owners. Some of the most popular dog friendly beaches in Hawaii include:
Lanikai Beach on Oahu is a picturesque white sand beach that allows dogs before 9 AM and after 4 PM. It’s close to Honolulu but feels remote and peaceful. Lanikai is frequently ranked as one of the best beaches in the US. Dogs must be on a leash.
Fort DeRussy Beach in Waikiki is a lovely stretch of sand in the heart of bustling Waikiki. It’s an off-leash area for dogs to play. The beach has gentle waves and is cleaned daily.
Kapalua Bay Beach on Maui is ideal for swimming with dogs due to calm, protected waters. It’s located in a private resort so not too crowded. Dogs can enjoy frolicking off-leash when not crowded.
Lydgate Beach Park on Kauai has a unique enclosed pond that’s perfect for dogs to wade and swim. The park area has grass, shade trees, and dog-friendly rules. It’s a relaxing place to spend the day with your pup.
Hapuna Beach on the Big Island frequently tops lists as Hawaii’s best beach. The large expanse of white sand and gentle waves is inviting for dogs when not crowded. It’s important to go early or late when crowds are smaller.
There are many more beautiful dog friendly beaches throughout the Hawaiian islands. Check local guidelines and restrictions before visiting with your dog.
Conclusion
In summary, dogs live all across the Hawaiian Islands. The most popular places for dogs are on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island where the majority of the population resides. Dogs can be found in homes, apartments, dog parks, and beaches across the islands. While certain areas may be more densely populated by dogs, every island offers pet-friendly opportunities. With Hawaii’s warm climate and abundance of outdoor activities, it’s an ideal location for dog ownership. Proper care and supervision is still required, but there are ample places for dogs to live, play, and thrive.