Best in Show: The Ruff Guide to Los Angeles

Illustrations by Max Kornell

We've all heard of guide dogs, but how about letting dogs guide you to a new neighborhood? Pick a breed and read on for our "ruff" guide to Los Angeles.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Bumping with work/live spaces, the Arts District has recently become one of the most desirable areas for young professionals, fashionistas, foodies, and artists. It’s filled with hip breweries, street art, and Instagrammers snapping photos left and right.

THE BREED
The Aussie is all about “work hard, play hard.” Just like the crowd in the Arts District. Well-rounded with great character, these working dogs have big personalities. And we’ve never met one that isn’t a great Instagram model.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Cozy, quiet, and suburban. Brentwood is known for being well-maintained and family-oriented.

THE BREED
Iconic all-around family dog. Outgoing, energetic, and wholesome. Catch him jogging alongside a stroller down the neighborhood streets of Brentwood.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
One of LA's most popular cultural destinations, Chinatown is experiencing a renaissance with a new generation of restaurants, bars and galleries.

THE BREED
Known for its deep wrinkles and blue-black tongue, Shar-Peis are independent, traditional and clean. One of China's oldest dog breeds, this ancient pedigree is steadfastly loyal to his family. Literally translated as "sand-skin" Shar Pei wrinkles make them a one-of-a-kind companion and guardian dog.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Echo Park is the definition of cool. Residents often have a Mid-Century Modern style and the classic Eames chair can be spotted through their living room windows.

THE BREED
That big-eyed stare is full of charm. Pugs can pull off any outfit, including dog hoodies, sunglasses, and booties. But still, they somehow always seem unimpressed, in true hipster style.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Exposition Park is a collection of world-class museums, educational and sport facilities and entertainment venues. Within the 160-acre campus, you can experience the California Science Center, the California African American Museum, explore the Natural History Museum or relax in the City of Los Angeles Rose Garden. The landmark Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, BMO Stadium and the EXPO Center is a hub of sports and activities.

THE BREED

Chasing balls (with surprising speed, charisma, and agility) are enjoyable for this enthusiastic breed. Spirited and athletic, Corgis are serious barkers, as they love to cheer their home team.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Another neighborhood rich with history, Highland Park has undergone recent transformations and is no stranger to iconic food trucks, bakeries, and breweries.

THE BREED
Boston Terriers are packed with energy. They look similar to their trendier cousins, the French Bulldog, and have both an attitude and a humor about them that makes them unique, just like HP.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Entertainment central. While you’d imagine finding paparazzi following celebrities around, Hollywood is full of tourists, landmarks, and attractions galore.

THE BREED
It’s all about the glamour. Often clad with hair accessories, the Yorkie is a breed that everyone knows, just like Hollywood as a neighborhood.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Classified as an “up and coming” neighborhood, Koreatown is not quite as prim and proper as the neighborhoods to its west. Exotic, diverse, and filled with 24/7 spas and hidden gems. Party town at night, but walkable and good vibes. Come here for something fun and different.

THE BREED
A beloved companion animal for thousands of years, Greyhounds are perhaps best known for their remarkably affectionate disposition. Their gentle, yet independent spirit invokes inspiration in their humans.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD

One of the world's busiest airports, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is home to the Googie landmark Theme Building and offers plenty of layover options, from dozens of L.A.-based dining options to coastal biking along the Strand.

THE BREED

Known for being friendly, affectionate, even-tempered and smart, it's no wonder that Labradoodles are the most popular breed in the LAX Pets Unstressing Passengers (PUP) program.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Here you can find jazz, hip hop, and poetry slams. Home of the Leimert Art Walk, where you can pick up art, fashion, and jewelry on a regular basis. Grab food at the local BBQ or spicy Jamaican cuisine.

THE BREED
Friendly, fearless, spirited. They have personalities bigger than they are, are spunky, sociable, and charming.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Known for delicious Japanese eats, from ramen to udon to sushi. Home to a tranquil outdoor shopping area lined with lanterns, souvenir/bookstores, and even a bakery to get steaming hot Nikuman.

THE BREED
One of the most well-known Japanese breeds, Shibas are independent, good-natured and dignified. A perfect representation of the country they originate from.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Laidback luxury beach town. Ocean backdrops and quintessential surfer vibes, seaside city with expensive boutique malls.

THE BREED
One of the most posh-looking dogs there is. The Poodle is confident, smart, and got just the right amount of attitude.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Filled with bars, shops and eateries, North Hollywood is known for its numerous theatres and thriving gallery scene.

THE BREED
The busy Westie is always in the thick of things and defines “good vibes.” Looks a little rough around the edges but is full of self-esteem and joy.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Home to the Port of Los Angeles, beautiful parks, beaches, aquarium, and boating adventures. San Pedro is a beach town that also has a small town feel.

THE BREED
Energetic, outgoing, and as the name suggests, has an affinity for anything water related. The perfect pup to spend time shopping and playing ball with on the 'Pedro waterfront.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Hip and edgy, Silver Lake is a creative neighborhood that knows how cool it is. Here you can find great Mexican food, speakeasies, and eclectic cafes.

THE BREED
Playful, affectionate, and has an almost comical personality. Has become super trendy in recent years. Just like the neighborhood.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Another major film location but with more of a natural feel. Good for easy hikes and home to many who work in the entertainment industry.

THE BREED
The Chihuahua is the quintessential entertainment / movie industry dog. Smart and sassy, they often have plucky and outgoing personalities.

THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Exploding with personality. Lined with palm trees, its residents are full of character. Great for people watching. Charming, eccentric, Bohemian, quirky.

THE BREED
Definitely has a unique look to him. The Brussels Griffon is alert and isn’t afraid to speak his mind.