Warmer weather means being able to spend more time outdoors with your dog, and your dog would love nothing more than to spend the entire day or weekend with you. You can make special memories by scheduling a fun day trip for you both, and it doesn’t have to involve a ton of planning. If you know where to look, you’ll find plenty of fun and entertaining things that you and your dog can do together. Our list of day trip ideas will inspire you to plan your next memorable adventure with your dog.
The 8 Dog Friendly Day Trip Ideas
1. Road Trips
Camping can often require extra planning and buying equipment. So, if you’re looking for an easier alternative, consider going on a road trip with your dog. You can pick a destination that’s just a couple of hours away from you and start driving with your dog. Your dog will enjoy taking in all the new sights, sounds, and smells during the drive, and they’ll just like keeping you company. Just remember to take potty breaks throughout the drive and pack some nausea medication in case your dog gets motion sickness.
2. Dog Beach
Dog beaches offer a wide range of experiences for dogs. Dogs are free to play with other dogs or splash in the waves. If your dog isn’t very social, you can try planning your visit during off-hours, such as early mornings or late evenings.
Another great thing about dog beaches is that you can usually find dog-friendly stores, cafes, and other establishments nearby. So, make sure to block out some time for you and your dog to explore nearby neighborhoods after you’ve spent time at the dog beach.
3. Dog-Friendly Cities
If you live within driving distance from a dog-friendly city, it’s worth planning a day trip to explore a new city with your dog. Dog-friendly cities usually have multiple dog parks for your dog to play in, along with pet-friendly stores and cafes with outdoor patios that have space for dogs. You can also usually find pet boutiques and local small businesses that carry unique pet supplies and treats that can be difficult to find elsewhere.
4. Dog Boutiques
If you live in a bigger city, it probably has several dog boutiques and small businesses that sell pet supplies. You can map out and create a route to visit different shops with your dog. Your dog will love visiting all these fun stores with unique toys and treats. It can also be helpful and informative for you as you discover new pet products that may benefit your dog’s health and well-being.
5. Dog-Friendly Neighborhood Events
Dog-friendly events are a great way to meet other dogs in your area, give your dog socialization opportunities, and introduce them to new activities and settings. You can usually find dog-centered community events in your neighborhood or in nearby neighborhoods. Some common dog-friendly events include meet-and-greets and barbeques. You may also find physical exercise events, with yoga with dogs being a popular option.
The best place to start your search is through your local township’s event announcements. If you can’t find any events in your area, you can always try planning your own.
6. Hiking Trails
Hiking is a great form of low-impact exercise for both you and your dog. You can usually find hiking trails near you by searching through your local parks and recreation department’s recommendations.
When preparing for a hike, be sure to pack enough water for you and your dog. It’s also helpful to include snacks that’ll help you both replenish your energy. Make plenty of stops during your hike to ensure your dog doesn’t overexert themselves.
7. Fishing Trip
You don’t have to be good at fishing to go on a fishing trip with your dog. All you need is some basic fishing equipment, and you and your dog are ready to go. You can enjoy a peaceful afternoon by a pond or lake as you fish. If your dog wants some more action, let them swim or bring a floating dog toy that you can throw in the water and let your dog retrieve it.
8. Camping
Many dogs will enjoy spending time in the great outdoors with you. Fortunately, there are plenty of camping sites all throughout the country that allow dogs on their premises. Just make sure to follow their safety rules and regulations to keep your dog and the surrounding wildlife safe.
Another great thing about camping trips with dogs is the variety of activities you can do together. You can swim, go canoeing, or go on a scenic hike together. It’s also always nice to end the day sitting around a warm campfire and enjoying each other’s company.
9. Dog Adoption Events
If you’ve adopted a rescue dog, your dog may be able to participate in adoption events. Many dogs that have found their forever home become ambassadors of the adoption organizations that cared for them. They can attend adoption events and help encourage people to adopt a dog.
If you’re interested in participating in dog adoption events, contact the adoption organization that kept your dog and ask if they have any upcoming opportunities. These types of events are a great way to let your dog meet new people and support a good cause.
10. Dog Expos
Dog expos are large events that provide opportunities for dog lovers from all over to meet and connect. These expos usually promote the latest pet products and technology, and some of them host adoption events.
Keep in mind that not all dog expos allow people to bring their pet dogs with them. So, make sure to review a dog expo’s rules to see if they welcome pets before you purchase a ticket.
Conclusion
There are so many fun things you can do with your dog in a day, and many of these things don’t require extensive advanced planning. Best of all, your dog will have fun as long as you’re having fun. So, make sure to take advantage of the warmer weather and make a list of fun day trip ideas for you and your dog. Your dog will appreciate any effort you make and will love being able to spend a whole day with you.
Featured Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock
