Include Your Dog in the Fun: Great Dog-Friendly Activities We Have Grown to Love
As we all know, dogs are more than just pets – they're family members who deserve to be included in all the fun. If you're a dog owner looking for activities to do with your pup, you are in luck!
There are plenty of dog-friendly options out there, ranging from leisurely strolls to energetic playtime, all of which we have plenty of experience in. In this blog post, we'll explore our top activities that are perfect for you and your dog to enjoy together.
Going for a hike:
Going for a hike is not only a great way to get some fresh air and exercise, but it's also a fantastic activity for dogs. The combination of physical activity and allowing them to explore new sights and smells is a fantastic recipe for both pups and parents.
One of the biggest benefits of hiking with your dog is the amount of exercise they will get. Many dogs don't get enough physical activity, and hiking is a great way to give them the exercise they need. Not only will it help them burn off energy, but it will also improve their overall health and well-being.
Hiking also allows dogs to explore their natural instincts. Dogs have an innate desire to explore and sniff out new things, and hiking provides them with the perfect opportunity to do just that. They will be able to explore new sights and smells, which can be extremely stimulating for them.
Additionally, hiking with your dog can also be a great bonding experience. It allows you to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. It can also be a great way to teach your dog new commands and obedience skills in a natural setting.
We live in Southern California and there are plenty of great dog friendly hikes in Orange County and north of Los Angeles. If you're not sure where to go in your area, check out websites like AllTrails or HikingProject, which have comprehensive lists of dog-friendly trails.
Visiting a dog park:
Finding a near by dog park is also a fantastic activity for your pup. Not only does it provide them with a chance to socialize and play with other dogs, but it also offers a variety of physical and mental benefits.
One of the main benefits of taking your dog to a dog park is the opportunity for socialization. Dogs are pack animals and thrive on social interaction, and a dog park provides the perfect opportunity for them to socialize with other dogs. This can help them become more well-adjusted and confident, and can also prevent behavioral issues that can arise from lack of socialization.
Another benefit of dog parks is the opportunity for exercise and physical activity. As mentioned above, many dogs don't get enough exercise and a dog park provides a large, open space for them to run around and play. This can help them stay healthy, both physically and mentally.
Dog parks also offer a variety of mental stimulation for dogs. They can engage in activities such as fetching, chasing and playing with other dogs. This can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Going to the beach:
We love the beach, so this should come as no surprise, but going to a dog-friendly beach is a great activity for your pup. It’s a chance to enjoy the sun, sand and water, but it also offers a variety of physical and mental benefits.
The main reason the beach is my favorite is because of the combination of all the best activities - lots of room to run, all of my dog buddies are there, and there is a place to cool off and swim in the water. Dogs love to run and play in the sand and water, and a dog-friendly beach provides the perfect opportunity for them to burn off energy and get some much-needed exercise and socialization.
Another benefit of dog-friendly beaches is the opportunity for mental stimulation. Dogs love to explore new sights and smells, and a beach provides a wealth of new experiences for them to discover. This can help keep them mentally stimulated and prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
If a beach isn’t near by, going to the lake or river will solve my craving for water as well. Just as long as I have a large area to run and the ability to cool off I am a dog in heaven!
Taking a trip to a dog-friendly restaurant or patio:
Many restaurants and patios now allow dogs, so you can enjoy a meal or a drink with your pup by your side. However, it's important to be prepared and follow certain guidelines to ensure a successful meal.
First, check the restaurant's policies before arriving. Many restaurants that allow dogs may have specific rules such as keeping them on a leash or only allowing them on the patio. It's important to familiarize yourself with these rules and make sure you are prepared to comply with them.
What we do is read yelp reviews and check their social media accounts. This is a way to quickly understand whether dogs are allowed if they can be spotted in their marketing or in previous customer reviews.
Next, bring essentials for your dog such as water, bowls, and treats. Many dog-friendly restaurants may not have these items available, so it's best to come prepared.
When you arrive, be respectful of other diners. Some restaurants even offer special menus for dogs, so be sure to ask if they have any options available. Keep your dog on a leash and make sure they are well-behaved. If your dog becomes restless or disruptive, it's best to take them outside for a break.
Attending a dog-friendly event:
When we first moved to Southern California, we certainly weren’t plugged into the social network. In my own interests and the interest of my pawrents, we started to seeking out dog friendly events as a means to socialize and meet new friends!
Not only do dog-friendly events provide a chance to get out of the house and explore new places, but they also offer the opportunity to socialize with other dog owners and their pets.
One of the biggest benefits of attending a dog-friendly event is the opportunity for your dog to socialize with other dogs. Socialization is an important aspect of a dog's mental and emotional well-being and can help prevent behavioral issues. Being around other dogs can also help your dog learn how to interact properly with other animals.
Dog-friendly events also provide a fun and exciting way for you and your dog to bond. Whether it's a dog-friendly festival, walk, or park event, these activities give you a chance to spend quality time with your pet and create lasting memories.
Attending a dog-friendly event also allows you to meet other dog owners and share tips and information about pet care, training, and behavior. This can be a great way to learn more about your pet and how to best care for them.
Visiting a dog-friendly brewery or winery:
Many wineries and breweries now allow dogs on their premises, making going to a brewery or winery is a great dog-friendly activity. Both breweries and wineries are often found in large, spacious settings, which allows you and your dog the opportunity to spend time in a relaxed and natural environment.
Being outdoors in nature is also beneficial for both you and your dog's mental and physical well-being. It is an opportunity for you to work on your manners and commands in a new setting with different people
Going to a brewery or winery with your dog also allows you to relax and unwind in a casual and laid-back atmosphere. Many breweries and wineries have outdoor seating areas where you can enjoy your drinks while your dog plays or lounges by your side. This can be a great way to bond with your dog and spend quality time together.
Many breweries and wineries also host events and festivals that are dog-friendly, such as "yappy hours" or dog-related fundraisers, which can be a great way to socialize with other dog owners and their pets.
Packing for Your Dog Adventure
For our day trips we usually have the same exact packing list with a few tweaks here and there. It depends on where we are going, how long we are planning to be gone for, and the weather! Outside of making sure you have planned for your outing accordingly, here is what we make sure to never forget!
Here’s what goes in MY tote bag:
Poop Bags (always)
Water Bottle (& extra water to refill if needed)
Treats (training bits in crossbody, earth animal chew, or dental chew for the brewery)
Enrichment Toy (for the brewery)
Towel
Bandanas (for all the instagram content)
Here’s what goes in mom & dad’s tote bag:
Change of clothes and/or shoes (especially if we go to the beach)
Car Charger
Mom’s Toiletries (sunscreen, deodorant, hair ties, etc.)