Are you looking for things to do with dogs in the DMV? As a dog owner, you know that your furry friend is part of your family, and you want to spend quality time with them. Luckily, the DMV has a lot of dog-friendly activities that you and your pup can enjoy together! From hiking trails to paw-friendly events, there are numerous things to do with dogs in the DMV. So, grab a leash as we explore ten of the best dog-friendly activities in the area!
Visit the Dog-Friendly Parks
The DMV is home to many dog-friendly parks, where your dog can have fun running, swimming, and socializing with other dogs. Rock Creek Park, located in the heart of Washington DC, offers an expansive woodland area where dogs can stretch their legs, watch squirrels, and explore to their heart’s content. There are several DC dog parks waiting for you and your furry friends! Check out DC.gov to learn more.
On the other hand, Waller Mill Dog Park in Williamsburg, Virginia boasts a notable outdoor dog park filled with lush green fields and scenic walking paths. The park’s large off-leash area ensures your dog can run, play, and interact with other dogs, contributing to their physical health and social skills. Regular visits to these parks not only enrich your dog’s life, but also provide a great environment for pet owners to meet and share their love for dogs.
Go for a Hike
If you’re looking to venture beyond the confines of a dog park, consider taking your furry friend on an adventurous hike! The Billy Goat Trail in Maryland stands as an excellent choice, boasting clearly marked pathways immersed in breathtaking views. This trail invites you to meander through its captivating woodlands and along the rugged yet scenic banks of the Potomac River, delivering a stimulating and vibrant backdrop that’s sure to engage your furry friend.
Similarly, Great Falls Park, located in both Virginia and Maryland, offers a multitude of trails varying in difficulty. The park’s stunning waterfalls and panoramic views make for an extraordinary hiking experience. Theodore Roosevelt Island in DC is another excellent option. The island’s network of trails winds through dense woods and marshy areas, providing plenty of sensory enrichment for your canine companion. The joy of discovery and physical exertion will make your dog’s tail wag non-stop!
What’s more, there are dog hiking groups you can join, filled with fellow dog lovers. These groups often organize regular outings, allowing you and your pet to socialize while enjoying the great outdoors. Visit Paws in the DMV’s website to explore available hiking groups in the DMV.
Attend a Dog Social Event
In the DMV area, dog-focused events abound, providing ample opportunities for fun and socialization for your pet. Highlights include Baltimore’s Dog Fest, offering contests, games, and demonstrations, as well as vendor booths with a wide selection of pet products. These events aren’t just entertaining; they also foster the dog community, promoting meaningful interactions, shared experiences, and enhancement of your pet’s social skills.
Visit a Dog-Friendly Brewery or Bar
In the DMV area, breweries have warmly embraced the concept of pet-friendly establishments, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both dogs and their owners. Notably, the Caboose Brewing Company in Virginia stands out for its dog-friendly policies. With a cozy, rustic ambiance, this brewery invites you to relax and savor their craft beers with your furry friend comfortably lounging by your side. They even offer a dedicated outdoor space for dogs, so they can enjoy the fresh air and socialize with other dogs.
If you and your canine companion visit Washington, DC, be sure to explore the Wet Dog Tavern. This bar offers a dog-friendly patio and a weekend happy hour. These breweries and bars not only offer a unique social experience for both you and your pet but also reinforce the DMV area’s incredibly dog friendly atmosphere.
Take a Dog-Friendly Boat Tour
For those canine companions who simply can’t resist the allure of water, consider embarking on a boat tour in Maryland with Cruises on the Bay by Watermark in Baltimore. This unique company offers dog-friendly boat tours that allow dogs to experience the thrill of the open water.
With opportunities to see an array of wildlife, from waterfowl to fish, and the chance to feel the spray of the river as the boat glides through the water, it is a sensory delight for all involved. Dogs can bask in the sun, enjoy the cool breeze, or just take in the mesmerizing sight of the waves gently lapping against the hull. Their human counterparts, meanwhile, can relax and take in the breathtaking views of the river, creating memories to last a lifetime.
Explore the City
The DMV—representing the metropolitan area of Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia—is not just a political hub, but also a haven for pet-friendly activities. The bustling city life is dotted with tranquil spaces, perfect for a leisurely walk with your four-legged friend.
For instance, the iconic National Mall in dog friendly Washington, DC, offers acres of green space where your dog can enjoy a refreshing walk amidst historical monuments and memorials. After you’re done exploring the nation’s capital, visit Virginia.
Alexandria, Virginia offers a unique blend of history and charm. The Market Square in this dog friendly city is an ideal spot for an engaging walk with your dog, as the area is filled with historic architecture, vibrant street art, and a variety of sounds and smells that will keep your pet entertained.
Visit a Dog-Friendly Restaurant
There’s a plethora of dog friendly restaurants where you and your pet can dine al fresco, such as Art and Soul in DC, or the Lost Dog Café in Arlington, Virginia. Numerous coffee shops, like Baked & Wired in Washington, DC, welcome dogs and their owners, providing a cozy space to relax and people-watch.
For a comprehensive list of more dog-friendly establishments and activities in the DMV area, check out Paws in the DMV’s website. This site serves as a fantastic resource for dog owners, providing extensive information on various pet-friendly restaurants, bookstores, and more. It’s a great tool for planning your next dog-friendly adventure in the DMV area.
Rent a Dog-Friendly Cottage
If you’re longing for an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle with your four-legged friend, the DMV area offers various pet-friendly accommodations perfect for a cozy weekend retreat. A standout option that provides pet-friendly cabins throughout the DMV is The Getaway House.
This unique rental service provides minimalist cabins nestled among the lush, tranquil woods. The cabins are not only aesthetically pleasing with their modern and sleek design, but are also equipped with necessary amenities such as a kitchenette, queen-sized beds, and a private bathroom.
The cabins are dog-friendly and surrounded by extensive hiking trails, offering an adventurous playground for your dog. Enjoy the soothing sounds of nature, the crisp, clean air, and the bonding time with your pet, all while nestled in the heart of nature’s splendor.
Check out Pups in the Park
The Pups in the Park series provides an unparalleled opportunity for pet owners and their furry companions to bask in the exhilarating atmosphere of a Nationals baseball game together. The Nats stadium becomes a playground for pets, echoing with joyful barks and cheerful laughter as dogs and their owners revel in the excitement of the game.
It’s not just an ordinary day at the ballpark; it’s an unforgettable experience where the love for sports and pets seamlessly intertwines. What makes this event even sweeter is the fact that proceeds from dog tickets that go to the Humane Rescue Alliance. So, leash up your four-legged friend and visit Pups in the Park to create cherished memories with each pitch and swing.
Visit Snouts & Stouts Indoor Dog Park and Bar
When it comes to finding a dog park that fits all your needs as a dog lover and owner, Snouts & Stouts is the perfect destination for you and your furry friend. Weather and dirt should never stop you from having a good time with your four-legged companion, which is why we offer a massive indoor dog park featuring specialized K9 turf. You won’t have to worry about your dog running around outside in the rain, intense heat, or cold weather conditions because our indoor park has got you covered.
While your four-legged friend indulges in a liberating off-leash indoor play session, immerse yourself in the pleasures of delectable food and a refreshing beer at Snouts & Stouts. With our vigilant Dog Patrol staff on site ensuring a safe environment, you can unwind worry-free.
Our extensive menu boasts a plethora of mouth-watering dishes, featuring an exclusive range of dog bowls and dog treats tailored for your canine companion. Don’t let inclement weather hinder your bonding time with your furry friend – choose Snouts & Stouts for an unparalleled indoor dog park and bar experience!
Discover More Things to Do with Dogs in the DMV
The DMV region has many dog-friendly activities to offer. Whether you’re embarking on a scenic boat tour with your loyal canine by your side or exploring Virginia’s exclusive indoor dog park and bar, there’s a wealth of engaging experiences for every pet parent and their four-legged companion to enjoy.
By engaging in these activities, you’ll not only spend quality time with your four legged guests, you’ll also get to explore the beautiful landscapes of the DMV. To explore more things to do with dogs in the DMV, visit Paws in the DMV’s website.
