Wondering what are some things you can do with your dog? There are so many activities you can do with your furry friend that will really enhance your free time and make memories you’ll cherish furever. I’ve personally done all these things with my dog and included some things to consider before you try each activity. Don’t leave them behind, take your buddy!
Take them on a hike
This is a classic human-dog activity, but you don’t have to hike anything crazy. Take them on an easy trail, or on a long winding path through a parkway. We have a couple local trails around us and switch up where we take our pups. They aren’t picky and they always have a great time. Know your dog’s athletic ability and sus out the trail you intend to trek. Be sure to bring water for both of you and poop bags for your dog… Hopefully you won’t need those too.
Take them to a brewery
Many breweries are dog friendly and it’s a great way to pass some outside while having a delicious beer with your best friend. I’m sure they will be happy if you toss them a french fry to two. Be mindful of how your dog interacts with other dogs. When crowded, things may turn sour quickly. The only thing that should be sour is your beer.
Snuggle them
Yes, I realize this is a daily occurrence for most of us. But it’s nice to cozy up to our dogs intentionally by putting on a movie, going on a picnic or just taking a nap with them. Your dog will love the focus on them.
Go to a dog park
Dog parks are a great way to socialize your dog and also see some new friendly faces. A word of caution; take your dog to the dog park on off peak hours. My advice is to go when it isn’t crowded, keep your head on a swivel and don’t lock out your knees. You’re more likely to have only a few other dogs and owners to contend with. Not all dog owners pay attention at the park and it is easy for altercations to happen. Before the pandemic, I would frequent the local dog park with a friend when we knew it would be a little slow. It was fun to see our dogs play but then also make new friends.
Dress them up for the holidays
Holidays are the perfect excuse to dress your dog up in adorable outfits. You can go all out with full on clothes or just jazz it up with a bandana or bow tie. When Ruby was a puppy, we dressed her in pajamas for the cute factor. I really couldn’t contain my excitement and awe. This year we are doubling down on cuteness by springing for matching Christmas pajamas for all of us except Boba- he hates his paws being touched. Boba is a strictly banana dog these days
Teach them tricks
If they know the basics, try some new commands like “sit pretty” or “high five” for extra cuteness. We taught Boba “high five” and “paw” but my brother made the mistake of actually grabbing his paw and now he won’t do the commands. Boba has trust issues and REALLY dislikes his paws being touched.
Take them to the beach
Dogs at the beach are extremely fun to watch, especially if it’s their first time. Between tasting sand (what is this strange dirt?), braving the ocean, and chasing after seagulls, you’ll experience the beach through the eyes of your pup. A dog charging into the waves is one of the cutest things you’ll witness. Until your dog ruins it by pooping in the surf as you frantically try to drag them away…. Thanks Ruby.
Explore a new (dog friendly) city
When Boba was nearly 2 years old, we took him to Asheville, NC; Asheville is known for being a dog friendly city and for the breweries. We went for our 2 year wedding anniversary and brewery hopped around with puppy Boba who was insanely popular with the patrons at the various breweries. At one point, Boba fell asleep in the hands of a stranger while they pet his chin. Such a beautiful memory.
Workout with your dog
We trained our dogs to walk on a treadmill to help expend some of their energy. Now it’s a regular occurrence that they walk on the treadmill while J and my brother lift weights in our garage gym. Another way to work out with your dog is to take them on a run outside. Be sure to bring treats to keep them focused. Be mindful of the weather; Ruby has been known to dive in the shade after getting too hot mid-run. It is unsafe for dogs to run in 80+ degree weather as they may overheat and the asphalt will be too hot on their paws. Same for the winter months with salt on the sidewalks and road.
Eat at a restaurant al fresco
Lots of restaurants these days have outdoor seating that allows dogs. Enjoy a nice meal with your buddy out in the open air. Feed them some table scraps too for being such a good boy/girl.
Explore your local farmers market
Farmers markets are a great way to spend some time outside with your dog while also supporting local business by purchasing marked up items. Seriously, farmers markets are expensive, but they have cool things and a lot of times treats for your four-legged friend. We prefer deer antlers as treats for Boba and Ruby.
Go camping
Regular camping pales in comparison to camping with your dog. As someone who is strictly a car-camper, taking our dog greatly enhanced the experience of sleeping outside. Boba snuggled up close to us at night, partially out of fear, partially because it was chilly. It took him a while to get comfortable with all the sounds but eventually he realized everything was safe and he didn’t have to be on guard all night. Some helpful items to consider bringing would be a long leash and anchor to bypass the leash rules. Check if dogs are allowed at the campground ahead of time. Surprisingly, a lot of campgrounds do not allow dogs.
These are my short but realistic things you can do with your dog. I hope this list inspires you to shake up your routine and take your furry buddy on a new adventure. Happy trails and waggy tails!
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