DOGGY DAY OUT Alert: Always be sure your dog is well-walked before you head out for a day of adventure! Never leave home without a pooh bag!! (And paper towels!) City regulations dictate "that dogs must be leashed at all times when not on their owner's property."

Embarcadero Center: More than 125 shops and restaurants occupy several open-air plazas at the base of the high-rise Embarcadero Center Complex. The shopping plazas are generously sprinkled with tables, chairs and benches. Huge collection of outdoor cafes and assorted takeouts. Concerts and seasonal activities add to the interest. (See Restaurants)

Embarcadero: Walk, jog or rollerblade with your dog along the Embarcadero. The smooth surface makes for perfect skating conditions. Great views!!

Explore the Bay: On the Blue and Gold fleet or Red and White Ferry. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are allowed at no charge! Two destinations are the forbidding Alcatraz and Angel Island. Ships depart from Pier 41 and 43-1/2 at the Wharf.

Pier 39: Just off the Embarcadero near Jefferson St. Huge crowds of people, outdoor eateries and lots of tourist stuff. Don't leave Pier 39 without stopping to see the Sea Lions and watching your dog's reaction!! (See Retaurants)

Beach Street Shopping: On this street between Larkin & Hyde are dozens of little stands with photography, paintings, and so forth -- all by local artists.

Ghirardelli Square: One of the classiest tourist shopping centers! Great place for a stroll, window-shopping, people-watching or listening to live entertainment. Grab a bite to eat at one of the outdoor cafes, and be sure to try the world-famous chocolate. (See Restaurants). Fabulous holiday decorations!

Ride A Cable Car: Some drivers feel a dog should ride on the outside; others say inside. But all agree they must be on a short leash and muzzled, no matter how small or sweet. Dogs pay the same rate as their owners. For more info, call (415) 673-MUNI. Hint: Ride with your dog at off-peak days or times. Hop on a Bus: Dogs are allowed on Muni buses. Only one dog is permitted per bus. Same rules apply as on the Cable Cars.

Union Square: Great place for relaxing, people-watching, and enjoying frequent free entertainment. (Look for Gold or Silver Man!) You can take a well-behaved, leashed dog into Neiman Marcus or Wilkes Bashford (see Pet-Friendly Stores). Grab a bite to eat at an outdoor cafe on Maiden Lane (see Restaurants).

Russian Hill Strip (Polk Street): Take a leisurely cruise along Polk St. to look at the unique shops, many of which will welcome your dog. (See Pet-Friendly Stores, Restaurants and Parks)

The Cannery Courtyard: This is a fun place to be, particularly in the summer and during off-season weekends. There are several seating choices and you'll often encounter live entertainment at a small outdoor stage. The courtyard was a railroad siding for the old Del Monte cannery before it was developed into a patio for the shopping complex in the 1960s. (See Restaurants)