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Last updated on February 12th, 2025 at 11:26 am
Going on vacation with your dog is one of the best ways to build camaraderie with your canine buddy. However, with most vacation destinations catering exclusively to a human audience, it can be challenging to find places and activities you and your fur baby can both enjoy.
If you’re looking for dog-friendly vacation ideas, let us help. Here are a few suggestions that will make it easy for you and your four-legged friend to have a blast on your next vacation together.
Your Dog-Friendly Vacation Bucket List
Spend the Day at the Beach
You’ll be able to enjoy a perfect blend of sun, sand, and surf at the beach, making it an excellent vacation destination for both you and your dog.
Be sure to add the beach to your travel bucket list if you have an active pup. Imagine your furry best friend running along the shore, experiencing the cool sea breeze blowing against their fur.
Lots of dogs also love jumping in the water to cool down, not to mention all the new sights and smells they’ll find at the beach!
You may also want to look for a dog-friendly beach with a designated off-leash area. That way, you can give your pet a bit more freedom to run and play. Just be sure to keep your dog’s collar on. Customizable dog collars that include your name and contact information are a must whenever your dog leaves the house.
A few more tips: make sure that your dog gets plenty of shade and water so that they’re adequately protected from the heat. And, bring waste bags to clean up after your pet, so that the beach remains pristine for everyone.
And, finally, remember that not all beaches welcome dogs. Be sure to look for dog-friendly beaches near your destination beforehand so that you won’t be disappointed when you arrive.
Take Your Dog on a Hiking Trip
Hiking is a fantastic way to bond with your dog while exploring the great outdoors. The sights and sounds of nature, the fresh air, and the feeling of adventure being afoot won’t only stimulate your fur baby’s curious nature, but also help them get some much-needed exercise.
But, before hitting very strenuous trails, it’s a good idea to bring your canine companion to the vet to check if they’re fit enough to make the journey.
You should always choose a hiking route that’s suitable for your dog’s stamina level so that you won’t have to worry about them getting injured or just too exhausted to continue.
Of course, you’ll want to stay on marked paths, and don’t allow your dog to disturb local flora and fauna. For safety, always keep your dog on a leash, or use a hiking-appropriate harness for added safety.
Set Up Camp with Your Pooch
If you enjoy hiking, why not consider going camping with your dog? If you’re the outdoorsy type and your dog is too, head to a pet-friendly campsite, pitch a tent, and “rough it” a little while spending some quality time in nature.
You’ll want to take the same precautions you would when bringing your dog along for any outdoor excursion. Pack reflective collars and leashes and a fully stocked pet first aid kit.
Bring some camping-friendly snacks to enjoy (for you and your pet), like fruit, granola, and of course, doggie treats and food.
Take a Dog Walking Tour in the City
For urban explorers, a dog walking tour in a pet-friendly city is an excellent item to add to your travel bucket list. This activity will allow your dog to get active while exploring all kinds of sights, sounds, and smells amid the hustle and bustle of the city.
You have the option of joining a guided dog walking tour with a group of other dog owners, or you can choose to simply create your own itinerary.
If you’re choosing the latter option, you might want to stop at dog parks or other pet-friendly attractions. This ensures that you and your dog have opportunities to socialize and take a break.
As always, keep your dog leashed, and be considerate of other pedestrians. Clean up after your pet to keep the city’s streets and pavement clean.
During warm weather, check the pavement temperature before heading out. Sidewalks and roadways can get incredibly hot in the summer. Protective booties for your dog’s paws can help, but if the temperatures are that hot, it’s probably best to wait for a cooler day.
Enjoy a Staycation at a Pet-Friendly Hotel
Not all vacations have to be spent far from home. Sometimes, the best (and most affordable) break is in your own city.
For a more laid-back getaway, add a staycation at a pet-friendly hotel to your vacation bucket list. A cozy room, pet-friendly amenities, and familiar surroundings make for an ideal break from the routine–for you and your canine companion.
When booking a hotel, ask about the amenities and facilities that are tailored to your dog’s needs. You may also want to look for a hotel that also has leash-free play areas where your canine companion can safely get in a little exercise.
Many hotels that cater to pet owners offer dog beds, blankets, and special food to ensure that your dog’s stay is as relaxing as yours.
In addition, check if the hotel has special services like dog grooming and dog-sitting. If they do, take advantage of them during your stay so that your dog can feel extra pampered during your staycation.
And there you have it, pet lovers–five ideas to add to your vacation bucket list!
Whichever of these vacation ideas you decide on, remember to do your research in advance when it comes to destinations and activities that are tailored to pets. The goal is to have fun, bond with your pup, and create memories.
Have you vacationed with your dog recently, or do you have other ideas to add to our vacation bucket list? Share them with us in the comments below.
Also read:
Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains to Check Out Before Your Next Vacation
5 Tips for a Successful Road Trip With Your Dog
5 Fun Boredom Busters for Dogs the Whole Family Will Enjoy
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