Many people love to spend time in the great outdoors with their dog. But what if that doesn\u2019t mean hiking trails through lush forests? What if your \u201cgreat outdoors\u201d is tall buildings, busy sidewalks and strategically planned green spaces? Well, if you\u2019re wondering \u201cWhat are some fun activities for urban dogs?\u201d you\u2019re in luck. Whether you live in a city or you\u2019re just visiting, there are oodles of dog-friendly activities for both you and your furry best friend to explore.<\/p>\n
Keeping your canine companion safe is your greatest priority. So before heading out to explore some new urban areas, make sure their collar ID tag and their microchip are up-to-date with your contact details. The city is alive with loud noises, weird smells, fast movement and other dogs, all of which have the potential to scare your dog. Correct identification will help ensure your furry friend makes it home if the two of you do become separated. And don\u2019t forget their leash \u2014 many places will only allow leashed dogs to enter.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re looking for a pet-friendly place to hang out with your dog or a fun place for dogs to meet new furry friends, you should be able to find plenty of fun things in the city. Here are a few dog-friendly attractions we found:<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re in a city that\u2019s home to a major or minor league baseball team (and it\u2019s the right time of the year), there\u2019s a good chance your dog can attend a game. Many stadiums offer special days where dogs are invited to the game for Bark at the Park, Dog Days or Pups in the Park, to name a few. As a nice bonus, it\u2019s common for some of the ticket proceeds to go to local animal shelters or charities. Your dog may even get to circle the bases after the game or take home a special keepsake. So much fun!<\/p>\n
So. Many. Fire hydrants. After a busy day taking in the sights and smells of the city, you and your furry companion will be ready to take a break. There has been a steady increase in the number of dog-friendly restaurants, coffeehouses, sports bars and cafes, so hopefully you will be able to track down one that suits both of your tastes. There are even some that have an outdoor patio or dog park attached so that while you\u2019re relaxing your dog can get a few more zoomies in before the day is done. And if you\u2019re both really pooped from your day in the city, you should be able to find a pet-friendly hotel or other pet-friendly accommodations where you can recharge.<\/p>\n
If you want to explore areas that are out of \u201cwalkies\u201d range, there are a few options to consider. However, most depend on the policies of local transport companies, so make sure you check their website while you\u2019re planning your day as not all dogs may be allowed.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re traveling on Amtrak<\/a>, dogs and cats up to 20 pounds (including the weight of their pet carrier) can go on trips of up to seven hours on most routes for a fee. If you\u2019re in the Big Apple, the New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority<\/a> requires dogs and other animals to be in a bag or other container and carried in a way that doesn\u2019t annoy other riders. Social media has shown that rule is definitely up for interpretation!<\/p>\n For many local bus companies, it\u2019s at the drivers\u2019 discretion whether they will allow your dog on board. Similarly, some rideshare companies are now dog-friendly, but you need to call your assigned driver to make sure they\u2019re OK with your dog coming along for the ride. There are also rideshare companies that will take all dogs, so check what\u2019s available in your area and what the rules are. Of course, certified service dogs are an exception to everything we have listed in this section.<\/p>\n Whichever transport you decide to use, it\u2019s important that your dog is socialized well<\/a>, knows basic obedience commands<\/a> and is comfortable around strangers. Some of these public transport options may feel weird to your dog, so if they don\u2019t like new experiences, then trains, subways and buses may not be the best option. If you\u2019re going on a long trip, it\u2019s a good idea to bring dog treats and entertainment for your dog.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re new to a city or just visiting, there are many websites that can help you find dog-friendly places. These could be sites specific to the city you\u2019re visiting (like a visitor center), or ones that help you find dog-friendly places all over the country (and the world). For example, BringFido<\/a> helps you find places to stay, play and eat with your dog. Or just go out and ask some locals. However you explore the city with your dog, we hope you have fun!<\/p>\n <\/p>\nWho\u2019s a Good Doggy?<\/h2>\n
Go Find Those Dog-Friendly Spots!<\/h2>\n