Bonding with your dog is a rewarding experience for both you and your pet. One of the best ways to strengthen your bond is by finding a variety of activities you can enjoy together. If you live in the Denver area, you can always find dog-friendly places and events for fun and adventure with your furry friend.
1. Dog-Friendly Parks and Trails
There are plenty of dog-friendly parks in Denver to explore with your furry friend. In addition to larger public parks, such as Washington Park, Cherry Creek State Park, and Cheesman Park, there are plenty of smaller off-the-leash dog parks as well.
These parks include:
- Kennedy Dog Park
- Willow Bark Park
- Lowry Dog Park
- Greenway Dog Park
- Berkeley Lake Dog Park
And remember, just because a park is dog-friendly doesn’t mean you can let your furry friend roam free all the time. Familiarize yourself with the park’s rules so you’ll know if and when to leash your dog.
2. Dog-Friendly Breweries and Restaurants
You don’t have to leave your dog at home to enjoy a night out on the town. Many breweries and restaurants welcome canine companions.
Bring your dog along and enjoy a few drinks at Improper City, Ratio Beerworks, Great Divide Brewing Company, or Black Shirt Brewing Co. For a full dining experience in a dog-friendly atmosphere, visit Culinary Dropout, Angelo’s Taverna, and Blanco Cocina & Cantina.
Checking ahead of time will help you learn about restrictions when bringing your dog to one of these businesses.
3. Dog-Friendly Hiking and Walking Tours
Taking your dog for a hike is a great way for you both to get some exercise.
Check out the trails at Red Rocks Park, where you can explore meadows at the base of the park’s red mountains. Other places to find dog-friendly hikes of varying skill levels include Mount Falcon Park, High Line Canal Trail, and Bear Creek Trail.
Keep in mind that some walking tours can take several hours to complete. Also, make sure to check weather conditions ahead of time and review the rules for your dog.
4. Dog-Friendly Events and Festivals
A great way to bond with your dog and build memories is by attending annual or one-time events. You can check event calendars in your community to scope out festivals and other events ahead of time.
To help you get started, here are a few popular dog-friendly events in the Denver area:
- Denver Pet Expo
- Bark at the Park
- Puppy Pool Party
- Pet-Friendly Jazz Collective
- Denver Small Dog Social at Earthdog
You can also plan ahead by looking for pet parenting groups on your favorite social media websites.
5. Dog-Friendly Shops and Boutiques
If your dog gets along well with people and other pets, you can bring your furry friend along on a shopping trip. While some stores may not allow your pet inside, there are many dog-friendly shops throughout Denver. For example, the Denver Central Market is a shopping center with plenty of different pet-friendly stores and restaurants.
Other places your dog is welcome include Chuck & Don’s Pet Food & Supplies, Two Pals & A Pup, and Doggie Delights on Broadway. Each store may have different rules or restrictions for bringing dogs inside, so always check in advance.
6. Dog-Friendly Outdoor Patios and Bars
There are many different bars throughout Denver with outdoor patios. In many cases, well-behaved dogs are welcome in those outdoor patio areas.
A local lunchtime favorite for pet parents is SubCulture. They serve lunch menu items, such as sandwiches and salads, along with beer and cocktails. More dog-friendly bars and patios include Avanti Food & Beverage, Thirsty Lion Gastropub & Grill, Highlands Cork & Coffee, and Forest Room 5.
Always check the rules for each establishment ahead of time. Make sure you check each establishment for their hours of operation and other relevant information ahead of time.
7. Dog-Friendly Water Activities
There are a few things to consider in finding dog-friendly water activities. First, make sure your dog is comfortable in the water and review water safety rules for dogs in advance.
Once you’re prepared, head to Cherry Creek Reservoir for swimming or rent a boat for you and your furry friend. You can find more dog-friendly beach fun at Chatfield State Park. Swimming facilities specifically aimed at dog parents include Doggie Dip, Wag N’ Romp, and Paws for a Dip.
Keep in mind during your visit that some parks have specific areas where dogs must be on a leash.
8. Dog-Friendly Day Trips
Taking a short road trip out of town can also provide fun for you and your four-legged companion. If this is your first doggie day trip, prepare for road sickness and know the locations of rest areas for potty stops. It also helps to make sure your destination is dog-friendly.
Some suggestions include Rocky Mountain National Park, Mount Evans Scenic Byway, and Garden of the Gods. Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Fort Collins are all close to Denver and offer plenty of dog-friendly accommodations, restaurants, and activities. A little research will help you plan a successful trip.
A World of Dog-Friendly Adventures Is Waiting
Dog parents will be delighted by all of the dog-friendly possibilities in Denver. You can find plenty of places, from parks to breweries, that will happily accept you and your dog. Always check the weather forecast and bring plenty of water to ensure your furry friend stays safe, comfortable, and hydrated on your adventures.
In addition to these activities, be on the lookout for fun new events and locations to explore with your furry friend!