First Date Ideas for Dog Lovers

First dates are exciting business. For some of us, it’s a test of nerves.

A good conversation starter, and bringing everyone at ease is if our doggos accompany us.

If your date gels well with your pup, it’s a green flag. If they have a pup too, it’s double green flags.

We’ve got some dog-friendly first-date ideas for you.

Dog-Friendly Outdoor Adventures

Hike

Scenic hikes leave you with some breathtaking views to bond over. Your dogs will love to trot about with you in the fresh as well. Don’t forget to pack light snacks and water for everyone.

Let your dog explore and sniff around as you spend some quality time with your date.

Picnic or Beach Walk

Picnics demand good food. So pack everyone’s favorite foods and treats, bring a blanket and find a nice grassy spot in a dog-friendly park. You could play fetch with your pups between bites or give them toys to keep them occupied. At night you can plan stargazing and identify constellations together.

You could change the spot to a beach as well and walk your pups on the beach. Speaking of walks, you can check local charity walks around you. Meet fellow dog lovers – it’s fun for a cause.

Paddleboarding

If you live near a lake or calm waters, rent paddleboards and bring your dogs along for the adventure.

Most dogs love paddleboarding and it makes for a fun, active date. Just be sure to get properly fitted doggy life jackets. A sunset paddle is particularly romantic.

Nighttime Stroll Through Town

For some of us, even a stroll is an adventure. You can make a fun date out of just walking your dog through downtown at night.

Stop at dog-friendly patios for drinks or appetizers, window shop, and let your pup sniff all the new experiences.

Dog-Friendly Local Outings

Dog Cafe

When in doubt, stick to basics. What’s more basic than a coffee?

Check if your city has any dog cafes where you can sip some while your pups roam about and socialize. Coffee dates shouldn’t be ignored as typical, they can be very intimate.

Dog Bakery

Treat your pups (and yourselves!) by visiting a dog bakery that makes delicious dog-safe cakes, cookies, and other goodies.

You can enjoy this fun activity together while spoiling your pets.

Outdoor Movie Night

Drive-in movie theaters are making a comeback and most welcome well-behaved dogs. Some entries are even free. Check your local calendar of events to know when there’s a screening.

Pack a blanket and snacks. And don't forget a good dog bed to make your pup comfortable in the car.

Cozy Indoor Date Nights

Doggy Movie Night

If you can’t go for a movie outdoors, no worries. Set up a comfy blanket nest on the floor or couch, pop some dog-friendly popcorn, and watch a classic dog movie like "Marley & Me" while cuddling your real-life pups.

Doggy Photoshoot

For a creative indoor date, set up some lights and backdrops and have an impromptu doggy photoshoot. Catch adorable portraits of your pups. You can make it even more fun by dressing them up in cute outfits.

What happens if you both love them but aren’t pup parents yet? You can still have a fun date and enjoy your mutual love for dogs.

Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Volunteers are welcome at many animal shelters to play with the dogs, walk them, or help clean and groom them.

If you and your date both care about animals, volunteering at an animal shelter together can help you bond.

Attend a Dog Event

Check if there are any dog shows, competitions, adoption events, or dog-themed festivals happening in your area that you could attend together.

Many pet stores, shelters, and breweries host "puppy-up" parties and "yappy hours" that are perfect for dog lovers to mingle. You and your date can make new two-legged and four-legged friends.

Parting Thoughts

The most important thing is that everyone spends some quality time together, whichever option you end up picking.

Your doggo should feel comfortable. While picking out the best clothes for yourself, don’t forget to dress them in fashionable apparel, as well.

And – if your pup approves of your date – don’t forget to schedule the next one!