Bucket List for Dogs: 50 Awesome Ideas to Make Fun Memories

Do you have a bucket list? Many people have a list that includes all the things they want to see, do, or accomplish in their lives. Does your dog have one, too? Some pet owners have begun creating bucket lists for their canine companions so their pups can enjoy interesting experiences and fun times. Our dogs have shorter lives than us, so why not cram in all the fun and memories we can with them?

There are tons of things you could add to your dog’s bucket list, but if you’re looking for suggestions to get you started, we have you covered. We have 50 ideas for your dog’s bucket list below. Of course, you know your dog best, and not all these ideas will be suitable for all pups. As long as you’re ensuring your dog will have fun and that anything added to their bucket list benefits them, though, you should be able to create a fantastic bucket list for them!

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The 50 Awesome Ideas to Include on Your Dog’s Bucketlist

1. Have a Family Photoshoot

You’ll remember your canine pal for the rest of your life, but why not have a professional family photoshoot with your pup to capture some good memories? Having a professional family photoshoot with your dog is a fairly simple bucket list item to complete, as you simply need to find a local photographer who works with animals and set something up.

You can do something basic or a bit more exciting, such as wearing fancy outfits or costumes. However you decide to do a family photoshoot, you’ll be able to cherish the photos forever.

Rottweiler in photoshoot — Image Credit: MISS_SUMMER, Pixabay

2. Attend a Festival

Who doesn’t love a good festival? Festivals of any kind are almost always a blast, so your dog will probably enjoy attending one, too. After all, a festival means getting outdoors, meeting tons of people, eating new and exciting foods (that they aren’t usually allowed), and other things our canine companions love. So, no matter what kind of festival you’re attending, bring your pup along so they can participate in the fun!

3. Attend a Doggie Baseball Day

This bucket list item may not be doable for everyone, but if you live near a stadium where major baseball is played, you’ll find that many have doggie baseball days where people are encouraged to bring their dogs along. Not only can you bring your pup to the ballpark, but these Bark in the Parks often include doggie parades before the game, doggie valets, and special seating for dog parents and their pets. If you and your dog are baseball fans, this is the perfect item to add to the bucket list!

4. Attend the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

If you have a bucket list, you might have an item that involves attending a long-coveted event, such as the Super Bowl. So, why not add the canine equivalent to your pup’s bucket list? The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is the pinnacle of competitive canine events. Plus, the hotel that hosts this show offers a luxurious doggie experience with a doggie concierge, S’Paw, and more! All in all, attending this show will be a major experience for you and your pup.

5. Be An Extra in a Film

This is another bucket list item that might not be suitable for everyone, but if you live in an area where films are often made (such as Atlanta or L.A.), why not see if you and your pup can be background actors on a film? Being an extra in a film is a unique experience. You get to hang out on set, possibly meet the stars of the film, meet tons of other background actors, and get paid! It is hard work and long hours, but if your pup is the cutest dog to ever exist, you might consider sending in a headshot for them to your local extras casting agency!

woman eating popcorn while watching movie with dog — Image Credit: yousafbhutta, Pixabay

6. Be the Star of a Doggie Calendar

Did you know many organizations make calendars to highlight the services they provide? Did you know that some of these feature dogs from the local area? So, if you want to turn your pup into a local star, you could see about getting them into a calendar. Different places have different requirements for doing this. Some might have a contest to find pups for the calendar, while others may ask for submissions and choose from those. In any case, it’ll undoubtedly be a fun and unique experience for your dog!

7. Become a Canine Good Citizen

Something that could be fun for both you and your dog is taking part in the AKC’s Canine Good Citizen course. This training course was developed in 1989 and is a two-part program (with certification!) that emphasizes good doggie manners and responsible pet ownership. Pups who complete the program and pass a test get the AKC Certificate of Merit. Besides strengthening the bond between you and your dog, receiving certification means you could go on to do other training courses with your dog, like those for becoming a therapy dog.

8. Create a Paw Print Mold or Paw Print Art

A lot of parents have molds of their children’s feet from when they were babies. Why not do the same thing with your dog? You and your pup can create a paw print mold that will remind you of their love and affection long after they’re gone. Plus, your dog may have a lot of fun sticking their feet in the mold and getting a bit dirty!

Or if your canine pal isn’t the type to want to put their feet into a mold, why not try some paw print art? As long as you use dog-safe ink or paint, you can have your pup dip their feet into it, then let them have a go at a large piece of paper. You’ll probably want to do this in an area where you don’t mind if the floor gets a bit dirty, and you may want to offer your pet a bit of direction so there aren’t paw prints everywhere. Plus, maybe it’ll turn out that your dog is the next Pablo Picasso!

9. Do a 5K Run/Walk

Here’s an excellent bucket list item for all the sporty people and their canines who love a good run! Why not sign up to do a 5k with your pup? You can even find charity runs that raise money for a good cause, so you’ll be helping your dog have fun and helping other people and/or animals, as well. This is an exceptionally good bucket list item for those dog breeds known for their running skills who love nothing more than jetting off at any given time to run like the wind.

dog running with its owner at a marathon — Image Credit: Singham, Shutterstock

10. Visit a Pet-Friendly Winery

Are you a wine connoisseur? Then you and your dog might enjoy a day at a dog-friendly winery! You’ll have to research to find out which local wineries allow dogs on the premises, but once you do, you and your dog can make a date and spend the entire day together. They’ll enjoy being around other people and getting to experience new places, and you’ll enjoy their company and the wine.

11. Attend a Dog-Friendly Movie Screening

Why not take your dog to the movies? Chances are, you and your pup will have to go to the drive-in to catch a flick together, but you might be able to locate dog-friendly local movie theaters. However, you can take your dog for a quick walk if needed with the drive-in. Plus, you can roll down the windows and let them stick their heads out (and what dog doesn’t love that?).

12. Take Part in a Doggie Dance Class

This bucket list item may not be a widely known activity just yet, but it’s growing in popularity. If you and your dog love music and love getting your groove on, you may want to consider signing up for a doggie dance class! These classes teach you how to dance with your dog, whether it be freestyle or something a bit more formal. Of course, your dog will probably need to learn a few tricks before they can conquer the world of dance, but that just allows you to take more classes with them.

13. Wear Halloween Costumes

Halloween is one of the most fun holidays for many reasons—mainly the costumes and the sugar rush. Whether you’re going trick-or-treating this year or not, why not dress your dog up for the holiday? There are tons of Halloween costumes for dogs you can choose from (or you can make one if you’re crafty), and everyone will go wild over your pup in their costume. You can even have a mini-Halloween photoshoot to memorialize the occasion!

Golden Retriever dog dressed in a witch costume for Halloween — Image Credit: Kashaeva Irina, Shutterstock

14. Feed Your Pup Special Food

As much as our pets give us those puppy dog eyes, we know most people food isn’t good for them, and so we only give it to them sparingly. But at some point in their life, you may want to feed your dog something special they wouldn’t normally get. This could be a steak dinner, lobster, dinner rolls, or any other food that’s dog-safe but unhealthy, so they don’t eat it usually. This is one bucket list item your dog will love!

15. Enter a Dog Show

Is there a local dog show near where you live? Plenty of places have fun dog shows they hold during certain seasons or for special events that have categories like Cutest Pup, Best Trick, or Silliest Doggie Grin. So, why not sign your dog up? If your pet loves being the center of attention, they’ll likely love doing something like this. Plus, they could win a fun award or two while receiving adoration from others!

16. Get a Pawicure

Take your favorite canine for a pawicure (or a doggie manicure). Many pups don’t enjoy having their nails trimmed, but if you turn it into a fun event, they could learn to enjoy it just a bit more. You’ll have to research who in your area gives pawicures, as not all salons or groomers will. But once you find one, take your dog to see if it’s a better experience for them than a typical nail trimming.

17. Get a Massage

Have a canine who loves nothing more than getting pampered? Then schedule them for a day at the doggie spa and get them a doggie massage! We all know how terrific massages feel; your dog will probably enjoy receiving one just as much as you do. Don’t have a doggie spa near you? Go online and learn how to give your pet a massage. This has the added bonus of strengthening the bond between the two of you.

doctor in disposable gloves gives a french bulldog a back massage — Image Credit: Malikov Aleksandr, Shutterstock

18. Get a Hand-drawn Picture of Your Pup

Having all the photos in the world of your pup is all good and well, but why not get a hand-drawn picture of them, too? You can go the serious route and have someone sketch your dog exactly as they look, or you can go the caricature route and get a silly drawing of your pet. Whichever way you go with a drawing, it’ll be something you always treasure, and it gives you and your dog a chance for some bonding time.

19. Take a Picture With Santa

Those with children have probably had their kids photographed with Santa. It can be a fun but somewhat tiring experience (those lines for Santa are long!), but the memories it leaves you with are worth it. Your dog might be just as excited about having their picture taken with Santa as your kids, so see if your local pet store does a picture day with Santa. The experience is only made better with the addition of a holiday costume on your pup!

20. Create a Social Media Presence for Your Dog

This one doesn’t affect your pup much (unless they start getting recognized in public or go viral). However, having a dedicated social media presence for your dog can be a great way to keep track of all the fun you’re having as you make it through your dog’s bucket list and organize the great memories made. Plus, there’s always a chance your dog could grow popular, and who knows where that could lead for them? They may adore being internet famous!

21. Have a Camping Adventure

Not everybody enjoys camping, but for dogs, it’s one grand adventure. You get to stay outdoors for hours, run and play, and splash through streams—what’s not to love? You and your pup can roast marshmallows over a fire, hike, catch bugs, and so much more. It’s the perfect adventure for any canine!

Border Collie dog in front of a camping tent — Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock

22. Go Fishing

Not big on camping, but love fishing? Then, take your dog along! They’ll love getting to spend the day with you, and they’ll be thrilled to do something new. It may take them a bit of time to get used to being on a boat, but once they figure it out, they’ll likely love the wind in their face and even the stillness that comes with waiting to catch fish. If you’re somewhere safe, you can even let your dog jump overboard for some swimming!

23. Take an Epic Road Trip

If the great outdoors isn’t your thing, though, switch it up and take an epic road trip with your furry four-legged friend. Create a trip that has you stopping by the kitschiest places you can find (giant ball of twine, anyone?), or plot a course that has you visiting the dog-friendliest places. Either way, your dog will be excited to join you rather than having to stay at home while you vacation.

24. Go to an Outdoor Concert

Outdoor concerts are great for several reasons, but the greatest one is that you can bring your dog with you to many of them! As long as your pup isn’t scared of being around lots of people or noise, they should enjoy hanging out with you while you take in some excellent tunes. Plus, this is another fantastic way to bond with your pet.

25. Chill at Woofstock

Do you live in or around Toronto? Can you get there easily? If you answered yes to either of those questions, adding Woofstock to your pup’s bucket list is a must. This event happens every June and is the biggest dog festival in the entirety of North America. The festival features tens of thousands of canines, along with their humans, as well as exhibitors. There are wacky contests and parties galore, and pretty much anything a dog could ever want or need can be found there. It’s a don’t-miss event if there was ever one!

26. Try a Doggie Sport

Have a crazily athletic canine? Then, consider adding this one to the bucket list. The world of dog sports is vast and has something for every dog. Whether your favorite canine loves agility, swimming, or tracking, there’s a sport for them. Dock diving is a favorite for dogs who enjoy swimming, while lure coursing is great for dogs who love using their noses. There are even competitions like Wiener dog races! This is perfect for canines who adore being active.

Border collie at the dog sport Treibball — Image Credit: Karl Steiner, Shutterstock

27. Eat at a Fancy Restaurant

This bucket list item might be a bit of a challenge, depending on where you live, but the world has become much friendlier to dogs in recent years, and this includes some fancy restaurants. Admittedly, you’ll likely end up dining in an outdoor area, but taking your pup out for a nice meal (or bites from your nice meal) will be plenty enjoyable for you both. And some restaurants do have doggie menus or dog treats to bring to their canine guests, so your pet won’t be left out even if you don’t let them have a bite of that steak!

28. Enjoy a Movie Night

If you don’t have a drive-in theater in your area, you can still enjoy a movie night with your furry pal. Just make a bowl of popcorn and snuggle up on the sofa! Then have a marathon of the best dog movies out there, like Marley & Me or 101 Dalmatians!

29. Hike a Mountain

Here’s another bucket list item for those canines who are athletic and love the great outdoors! While hiking isn’t for all dogs, if you have an exceptionally active dog or a working dog breed who needs plenty of stimulation, hiking a mountain could be a highly pleasurable activity for them. They get to sniff out tons of new smells, all while getting tons of exercise, and they get to spend hours with their favorite person. It’ll make for a grand adventure for them, for sure.

hiker-with-siberian-husky-dog — Image Credit: Osadcha Olga, Shutterstock

30. Jump in Leaves

Of course, you can enjoy the great outdoors right in your own backyard, too. Once fall arrives, and the leaves start to fall, rake them up in a big pile and jump in them with your pup! It might take your dog a couple of tries to figure out exactly what you’re doing, but it’ll be a fun activity for them. Just don’t let them eat the leaves!

31. March in a Parade

While you could possibly march in your town’s Christmas parade or something similar, there are actually dog parades that occur around the U.S. when the holidays roll around. If you’re lucky enough to have a holiday dog parade nearby, you and your dog might find it to be a blast. Your pup will probably get to wear a costume and will be able to walk around making new friends. However, the parade scene can be a bit hectic and chaotic, so make sure that’s something your canine can easily deal with.

32. Ride on a Firetruck

Okay, your dog might not be able to ride on a fire truck, but they may be able to meet the local firemen and get to sit in a firetruck. Whether your dog is a Dalmatian or not, many pups enjoy barking or howling at firetrucks, so getting to see one up close may prove exciting! Of course, this bucket list item depends on the willingness of your local firehouse, but many are happy to meet friendly canines and let them check out a firetruck.

33. Play in the Sprinklers

Here’s another fun activity you can do with your dog right in the backyard—run through the sprinklers! When high temps hit and everyone is getting a bit melty, head out to the yard and enjoy a good romp through the sprinklers with your pup. Not only will it be fantastic fun, but everyone will get to cool off. This is one bucket list item that’s simple to accomplish.

Garden sprinkler — Image Credit: bluebudgie, Pixabay

34. Spend Some Time at the Beach

Many canines enjoy the beach, so bring yours along the next time you take a beach vacation. You’ll have to find a dog-friendly beach, so do your research before you book hotels or pick a destination. There are many dog-friendly beaches around, though, so you should find one where you’re headed. Then, you and your furry pal can hit the waves, play in the sand, and lounge in the sun. Just remember to put sunscreen on your pup!

35. Stay at a Pet-Friendly Hotel

While you’re on your beach vacation with your four-legged friend, make sure you stay at a pet-friendly hotel. Pet-friendly hotels have grown in popularity and range from 2 stars and up, so you can easily find one in your budget. If you go with a fancier one, you might find that they offer doggie goodie bags for their canine guests or have doggie spas!

36. Ride on a Boat

While at the beach, why not take your dog out on a boat? A boat ride can provide a nice break from the sun and sand, and there are boats of all sizes you can take. You can even throw a life jacket on them and let them out to swim if the area is safe!

37. Take a Cruise

You could even book a cruise of some kind with your pet. Not a trip on a cruise line, as those don’t allow pets (except for one specific one that has a kennel for dogs), but a cruise to watch dolphins or whales or something along those lines. Smaller boats can be much friendlier to canines than their larger counterparts, and your furry friend should enjoy the ride.

Small brown dog traveling on the ferry with his owners — Image Credit: Zivica Kerkez, Shutterstock

38. Take a Class

There are all kinds of classes you can take with your pup! Whether it’s a training class that lets them learn and socialize while bonding with you or a doggie dance class, you’re sure to find something your dog will love. And if your pup has a fabulous time in the first one, you can sign them up for more classes in the future.

39. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Boats aren’t for everyone, so if that’s not something you or your dog would enjoy, why not attempt stand-up paddleboarding instead? This is exactly what it sounds like—you stand on a board and paddle. Many paddleboards have a space at the front where canines can hang out, and they can be used in lakes and the ocean. Canines seem to be big fans of these boards!

40. Throw Your Pup a Birthday Party

If you’ve never done it before, why not add throwing a birthday party for your dog to the bucket list? Your dog will be thrilled to have a day where all the attention is on them, and they get special snacks and new toys! You can keep it simple by having it be immediate family only, or you can invite your dog’s favorite canine pals. Get a dog-friendly birthday cake (or other dog-safe treat), and let your pup bask in the birthday love they receive.

41. Teach Your Dog New Tricks

Does your dog love learning new things? Then, add learning new tricks to their bucket list. There are always tricks to be taught to your favorite canine, and not only does it keep your pet mentally stimulated, but it also allows the two of you to bond. Training your pup on new things is a pretty win-win situation for all involved.

Husky mix dog in Agility dog track performing tricks with dog trainer and Dog is performing a bow — Image Credit: Anna Pozzi – Zoophotos, Shutterstock

42. Take Your Pup to Work

This bucket list item won’t be feasible for everyone, but if your job is dog-friendly, bring your pet to work one day. Your dog will love the fact they aren’t left behind while everyone else goes to work and school; they’ll also enjoy meeting loads of new people and receiving lots of pets. Plus, you can put a little tie on them, which will be the most adorable thing ever.

43. Try “Doga”

Wait, what is “doga”? It’s yoga, but with dogs! If you’re a yoga lover, add your dog to the equation. Your pup can join in with home yoga, or you can book the two of you for a “doga” class. It gives you and your pup time to bond and is a lot of fun for everyone involved.

44. Visit a National Park

If there’s a national park in your area, check and see if dogs are allowed (because they aren’t always), then take your pup to play. If canines are allowed in a national park, you can spend an entire day there with your dog, doing everything from hiking to splashing in streams. Just make sure you follow all the rules for having a dog in the park.

45. Volunteer as a Therapy Dog

Does your dog love being around people? Do they enjoy lending a comforting shoulder? Then, take some classes and sign them up to be a therapy dog. Not only will your dog enjoy seeing new faces and providing comfort, but you and your pet will be doing a world of good for others.

golden retriever therapy dog sitting outdoors — Image Credit: Ryan Stone, Unsplash

46. Visit the World’s Largest Pet Store

Our canine friends love new toys (that they destroy in minutes), as well as tasty treats, so why not take your pup to what is billed as the largest pet store in the world? If you’re near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, or will be there in the future, you can do just that! That Pet Place is a pet store that consists of 88,000 square feet (wow!) and offers all sorts of fun. There are events, dog training classes, and, of course, toys and treats for your pup. Your dog will surely love going with you to this pet store to stock up on supplies.

47. Visit the Museum of the Dog

Did you know the AKC has a museum in St. Louis, Missouri, known as the Museum of the Dog? They do, and it contains one of the finest collections in the world of canine art. The museum is situated in the historic Jarville House and is open to humans and leashed, well-behaved pups.

48. Go Wild Swimming

What is wild swimming? It’s swimming in the wild! If you have a breed who adores swimming but want to let them enjoy a bit more excitement than the pool in your yard or a large kiddie pool, you can take them out for some of this. Rivers and lakes are perfect for wild swimming, but you should be aware of any safety restrictions before your pup dives in. You should also never let your dog swim in a wild area with blue-green algae, as this bacterium can cause severe illness in canines.

49. Check Out the Top 10 Dog Parks in the U.S.

Is your pup getting bored of their local dog park? Then why not check out the top 10 dog parks in the United States (epic road trip, anyone?) Getting a chance to see all the top dog parks in the U.S. will be sure to thrill any canine.

dog walking on loose leash next to owner in autumn park — Image Credit: Anna Krivitskaya, Shutterstock

50. Go Bikejoring

Are you and your dog adventure buddies? Then this might be the adrenalin-fueled sport that’s right for you! What is bikejoring? It’s similar to dog sledding, except it’s done with a bike. There are even competitions for this, which are fast-paced and not for the faint of heart. So, if your dog loves to pull things and is incredibly athletic, they might adore this.