There is no cuter and more loyal companion in this life than your canine companion. That nose, those ears, that wagging tail, who could resist? And guess what else, there are probably all sorts of fun and exciting adventures that you and your furry friend could be taking together!
And with Father’s Day right around the corner, your friends at theymademewearit.com wanted to give you a few (several, actually) ideas about what you and your pup can do to celebrate the day.
Jump ahead to a specific section:
Outdoor Activities:
Let’s start with what all dogs love first; the Great Outdoors. In this section, you will find a lot of things to do out in the sun (or under the stars).
Take Your Dog Backpacking
Just like people, dogs like to get away from it all too, sometimes! If you plan on taking one of these trips with your fluffy friend, be sure to think ahead. The first thing you need to make sure of is that both you and your canine are in the proper shape for this kind of exercise.
If you and Fido have been laying around on the couch binge-watching Animal Planet for months, then you may want to start with a leisurely walk around the block a few times a week, first. Also, make sure they allow pets in the areas that you will backpack through, if you need a permit. You will need to bring several things, including:
- First aid kit with supplies for you and your dog
- Enough water for both of you
- Food and snacks/treats
- Insect repellent
Take Your Dog for a Boat Ride
If you were already planning on relaxing on the water on Dad’s Day, why not take your pup along for the float? Some dogs absolutely love the water. They take to it like, well, a fish to water! Why not see if your pooch is one of them?
However, it is important to remember that swimming doesn’t come naturally to all dogs (Frenchies, we’re looking at you). If you have never actually been in the water with your dog before, make sure they have a vest.
Hiking With Dogs
Even though most national parks don’t let dogs on their trails, there are a number of state parks that do. On top of that, it doesn’t necessarily have to be a wilderness hike. Even city streets can serve as a trail.
Simply check the maps app on your phone and select a path up and down a few streets, add in some elevations and declines for extra exercise, and it’s time to lace up your hiking boots! Pack the same things you would for a backpacking trip (just be sure to throw in poop bags as well).
Tracking
Tracking is an especially fun activity for dogs as it allows them to use their natural instincts and abilities. By simply playing hide-and-seek with your pup’s favorite toy, you are actually teaching them a valuable skill. Great places to hide the toys for Rover to go find are:
- Under the couch/behind pillows
- In floor-level cabinets
- Under a little snow in the winter
- In bushes or another shrubbery
- Under blankets or tarpsry
Obstacle Course in the Backyard
This one is just about as fun for your dog as anything else you could do outside. And since it’s on your property, there is no need for leashes and poop baggies. A few tires, some rope, and maybe a few constructed materials, and the next stop is the Westminster Dog Show!
Indoor Activities:
Even though the outdoors can be a lot of fun, unlike canines, people can’t actually live outdoors. So naturally, many of our activities require walls and roofs. But that limits what types of things we can do with our pet companion. Here are few suggestions for things to do inside on Father’s Day or any other day:
Take a Vacation with Your Dog
This works for longer vacations, staycations, as well as daycations. There are plenty of dog-friendly hotels and entertainment areas everywhere. So, even if you have Father's Day get-away plans with the human family, there is no reason that your canine family can't join as well. A great place to take them is more rural locations, such as:
- Woods or forest areas
- Mountains
- Lakes or rivers
- Beaches
- State parks
Take Your Dog With You to Work
Now, we understand that Father's Day isn't a workday for most people. However, “National Take Your Dog to Work Day” is June 24th, so it’s still in the same month. Also, if you work in a pet-friendly atmosphere, why not do it more frequently? It would get your dog out of the house regularly without having to plan and pack for it.
Have a Steak Dinner
A common, start-of-the-day tradition on Father’s Day is breakfast in bed. But, if you want to include your doggy in the mealtime, that can get pretty messy, pretty quickly. We suggest opting for something that you both would probably enjoy more anyway; a steak dinner.
This way, they can have their entrée in their own dish in the location they normally eat. Just remember, they probably prefer it a little more on the raw side. Also, to add a relaxing atmosphere, moving the dinner to an outdoor dining area is always nice.
One-Day Activities and Adventures for You and Your Canine Pal:
Although many of the activities we have mentioned are or could be one-day events, these next few are ideas that could take even just a few hours:
Take a Day Trip or Just a Ride
It is incredible the amount of joy that our canine companions can get out of even the simplest of pleasures. If you knew how much your dog enjoys a car ride (rolled down windows or convertibles make it even better), then you would probably make time to do it once a day.
For a simple drive around the block, destinations include:
- Pet supply store
- Starbucks for a “puppachino” (a small cup filled with whipped cream)
- Pet-friendly outdoor dining facility
- Home Depot (yes, pets are allowed)
- Dog park (obviously)
For a full-day Father’s Day trip, anything that offers pet-friendly facilities or accommodations will do. But as we mentioned earlier, trips to the beach, lake, or any type of wilderness are always fun for animals. Just make sure to keep a close eye on them.
If they are not properly trained, you may want to keep them secured. The last thing you want is for your pooch to run off into the woods or mountains (or street) chasing after something. And don’t forget to strap them in with a doggy seat belt in the car ride.
Take a Walking Tour of Your City
Just because you reside there doesn’t mean that you can’t live like a tourist for a day. What better day for you and your canine friend to get re-acquainted with your city than Father’s Day? It’s a relaxed, low-stress day where you can take your time strolling around town. Be sure to highlight the pet-friendly areas and pit-stops along the way.
Spend a Day Swimming
Although we have already mentioned the ocean and lakes, you can also just hop in your backyard pool. If you don’t have one, you can get one that is more than capable of accommodating you and your pup for reasonably cheap. Again, until you are certain that your dog can swim, always have them wear a doggy life vest and if they overheat quickly, check out our Dog Cooling Vest to keep them cool and help prevent heatstroke. Just because it's hot outside, doesn't mean your dog has to be 😚.
Teach a New Trick to Your Dog
No matter how old or young your dog is, they always enjoy learning a new trick. Canines tend to be people pleasers. And the more affection they have for someone, the more they want to make them happy.
When you teach them a trick, they are learning and performing it to entertain you. Armed with a few treats and a little bit of patience, you can have your pup entertaining your guests at your next social gathering. If they don’t already know a lot of tricks, it’s best to start with something simple like:
- Shake
- Roll over
- Play dead
- High five
- Beg
- Give kisses
Why Not Make It an Ongoing Activity?
There are some activities that you may do only once with your dog. Others you may do from time to time. But there are some things you can do regularly. Father’s Day is as good a day as any to start one of these activities with your furry pal. And if you already participate in some of these things, it’s a great day to include your dog for the first time.
Go Jogging or Running Together
This is a great habit to start them on when they’re younger (both Pop and pup). It also helps to burn off the excess energy that younger dogs tend to have. But, remember the advice from earlier about hiking and conditioning.
If you have an older dog or one who isn’t used to exercising, you may want to start with a brisk walk before moving to jogging and running. Additionally, most dogs are natural runners and once you get them accustomed to the routine, they will most likely push you in motivation and performance.
Take Your Dog on a Bike Ride
This may be a little bit harder than it appears. Riding a bike with a dog on a leash takes some practice. So, be sure to spend some time rolling along with your canine buddy in the driveway and empty parking lots before hitting the trails and increasing your speed. This is something else that can become a good, healthy routine very quickly.
Visit a Nursing Home
While this is something that we could have listed under One-Day Activities, we would rather see this one become a regular thing. Dogs are some of the most comforting and therapeutic creatures that have ever existed.
By simply laying their head on a person’s lap they can turn their entire day around. The way you feel when you get a tail wag or kisses can brighten even the sourest of moods. Many times, those who are in nursing homes have little-to-no outside companionship.
A visit from a friendly pooch would be sure to make their day, any day. On a special day like Father’s Day, it could brighten their entire year. Be sure to contact the nursing home ahead of time to make sure they can accommodate dog visits.
Have a Doggie Play Date
This is something else that you should consider making a habit, especially if your dog likes other dogs. It is best to start this when they are young as well. That way, even if they are predisposed to be unfriendly toward other dogs, this will teach them not to be.
Almost everyone has friends who have pooches of their own. In addition to that, there are countless online meet-up groups that you can get involved with. While Father’s Day might not normally be the ideal day for an activity like this, there are a number of puppy dads out there who don't have any human kids yet!
Try a Unique Activity:
Even though we have listed several ways you and your canine companion can do something together on Father’s Day (or any day), there are thousands we have surely missed. If you have already done a lot of the things on our list or even if nothing sounds interesting, how about just trying anything new?
You could even do something that you have never tried before. Rollerblading? Skydiving? Yoga? Whatever you end up doing, it won't matter as long as your best friend is at your side.
Pet Memorial Jewelry Collection for the Dog Dad Who Has Lost a Pet
One last thing that we wanted to mention is that sometimes on days when we celebrate special relationships, we forget about those who may be grieving the loss of a beloved companion and friend.
Our store sells keepsake jewelry and cremation urn necklaces that will safely hold the ashes of beloved pets, friends, and family members who’ve passed away. They can also be engraved with a personalized message and are thoughtful gifts to cherish their memory. It makes a lovely sympathy gift for dog dads, especially this time of year.
The perfect Father's Day bereavement gift for dads who've lost a loved one. And for a limited time, we are offering a buy one and get the second one 50% off. Use code SHARELOVE at checkout.
This discount applies to all keepsake jewelry to hold ashes, choose from urn pendant necklaces to cremation bracelets. Our most popular keepsake, the lovely Capsule Memorial Urn Necklace is available in four classic colors: Silver, Cobalt, Onyx and Gold.
Until, next time. Thanks for reading!
