As you may have noticed from the deluge of targeted ads, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. For a lot of people, that means fancy dinners, boxes of chocolates, jewellery, and all the rest. If you have plans with your human loved one, we suggest booking a local Pet Sitter for your pooch. However, if you love your dog more than any other, we’re here to offer an alternative. Instead of making room for romance this 14th February, why not celebrate Valentine’s Day with your dog?
Want to spend Valentine’s Day with your dog? You’re not alone!
Your beloved pooch deserves to be pampered and appreciated this Valentine’s Day. In fact, we might even say that you’ll enjoy these 8 activities with your dog more than any romantic date where you have to wear uncomfortable clothes and try to find parking and order the most expensive wine that tastes just like the affordable one you have in the fridge.
If you’ve been looking for an excuse to forgo the traditional Valentine’s Day and spend time with your loveable pup instead, here are a few exciting ideas.
Idea 1: Find a new dog-friendly beach or park
Sure, your dog is probably over the moon every time you bring them to their favourite neighbourhood dog park or dog beach. But why not take a little trip to a dog-friendly hot spot in another part of the city or neighbouring town? If having a change of scenery is fun and exciting for us humans, imagine how all the new smells and doggy friends will fill your pup with joy. Here are some dog-friendly beaches we’ve put together to help plan this date idea.
Idea 2: Arrange for a puppy playdate
While your dog no doubt loves their one-on-one time with you, they’ll love you even more if you invite their best doggy friends to join the fun. Arrange for an adorable dog-centred Valentine’s Day party, complete with fun games for the two-legged and four-legged guests. Or take them on an outdoor adventure to run them ragged.
And don’t forget the puppy party favours! Heart-shaped dog treats would go down well here.
Idea 3: Bake something delicious
If we’re talking about heart-shaped dog treats, you know your pup will love to be your Valentine’s Day sous-chef. Whip up some delicious summer dog treats or make their normal dinner extra special for this day of love.
If there’s enough space in your kitchen, you might set up their doggy bed in a safe area. That way, you can throw them a few dog-friendly morsels while you’re cooking.
Idea 4: Teach your dog how to paddle board
Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) is a fun, relaxing experience that is only more enjoyable when your dog can join you. If you think your pup is up for the challenge, fit them with a doggy life vest and give it a go! Of course, it will probably take a few tries for your dog to find their footing. Once they’re comfortable on the board, though, you’ll be ready for hours of Valentine’s Day fun. Before you get started though, just make sure you know the best way to introduce your dog to stand-up paddle boarding.
Idea 5: Indoor obstacle course
Just like you might set up a romantic scavenger hunt for a two-legged Valentine’s Day date, you’ll have even more fun creating an indoor obstacle course for your doggo. What’s great about agility and obstacle courses is that it provides a perfect balance of mental and physical stimulation for your pet.
You might use their scent-tracking skills to explore the house looking for treats. Or, set up cones and agility tunnels for hours of fun.
Idea 6: Watch some dog-friendly movies together
There’s nothing more relaxing than buying your favourite movie snacks, donning your comfiest pyjamas, and starting a movie marathon. We’ve got a list of the best dog-friendly movies to watch with your pooch if you’re wondering what films are best for your Valentine’s Day plans.
Pro tip: take your dog for a long walk, or call in their trusted Dog Walker, before your movie marathon for maximum cuddles.
Option 7: Find a dog-friendly hotel for a weekend trip
A weekend getaway is the perfect way to spend Valentine’s Day. So, pack their dog food, their dog bed (don’t forget their dog car seat bed too), and hit the road! Find a dog-friendly hotel and put together a list of dog-friendly activities to do on your Valentine’s Day destination.
Option 8: Don’t forget the dog toys!
Valentine’s Day is all about giving extravagant gifts like jewellery and sweets. The equivalent for your dog? New toys! Take them to their favourite store or surprise them with a dog toy that they can unwrap themselves. And while you’re at it, why not stop into your own favourite store and buy yourself something special, too? After all, you both deserve to be pampered!
What will you do for Valentine’s Day with your dog?
If you have special plans with your pooch this 14th February, let us know! We love to hear about how Dog Owners are planning to celebrate the day of love with their loveable doggos.
Need more ideas? Check out our other article for more bonding activities to do with your doggo.
