Enjoying fun activities with your dog not only strengthens your bond of togetherness, but it is also a great way to add physical and mental stimulation to your pup’s life! Earl and I regularly go on exploratory walks, do photoshoots, and participle in dog sports for fun! Whether you have a new puppy or an old faithful by your side, there are plenty of ways to express yourself and have FUN FUN FUN with your dog! 

1. Create a social media fan page. Are you and your pup ready to be internet sensations? Creating a TikTok or Instagram page with your dog is one of the most enjoyable ways to show off  your incredible bond.  

Not into managing a budding social media star? Every week, share a photo of your dog on your own social media profile. I definitely share many photos of Earl on the Puppy Riot instagram!

2. Wear matching outfits. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, and fashion is the ultimate way to express your and your pup's individuality. Not to mention it is just simply the BEST! 

Of course, here at Puppy Riot we offer bandanas, bowties and collars for the pup. But, we also offer matching scrunchies and bows for their beloved hoomans! Did you know we also can do custom orders for a matching human scarf? Just reach out! (permanent listing coming soon - I promise!)

3. Have an Instagram-worthy photoshoot. Dogs are why instagram was created, right? Pose your pooch at the local spot in your town with a little character, and you’re bound to get all the Instagram likes. 

4. Sign up for both a doggie and hooman subscription box. Treat yourself and your canine companion to a monthly goodie box! Snag a treat subscription box for your dog and a fun one for yourself. 

We have tried Woof Pack and we just loved it!  Pro Tip: If you’re getting separate boxes for each of you, schedule them for delivery on the same day each month so you can share your surprises together!

5. Go on a walking tour of your city/town/region. Play tourist in your own town! (This is definitely one of our favourite activities!) Grab your pup with their favourite bandana and plan your route around your city’s most pet-friendly spots for treats and attention. I mean who can resist a dog in a bandana? 

6. Enjoy a stay at a pet-friendly hotel or bed and breakfast. Dogs are welcomed guests at some of the most exciting places across the world.  So if your pup travels well, plan a mini vacay for the two of you. Splurge on luxury amenities like pet-pampering packages for the ultimate FUN!

7. Netflix and nap. Rainy days don’t mean you can’t have fun with your dog! All you need is the comfiest spot on the couch, a canine-friendly flick and a few hours to nap the afternoon away. I don’t know about you, but Earl and I have this one perfected!

8. Grab a puppuccino. This off-the-menu item is a bit cheesy, but chances are your dog will love it. Earl is a huge fan! As long as your dog is dairy-tolerant, you’ll have a coffee companion for life. 

9. Plan a pet party. How long has it been since you’ve been together with all of your dog-loving friends? If you are feeling extra ambitious, why not plan a party for both people and pooches? No need to worry about your dog's outfit as we have bandanas for any occasion! 

To make it extra special you can have everyone bring a present and swap so each pup gets something new to play with and/or you can google home-baked dog treats for an easy extra-special touch. Most handmade treats can be whipped up in less than an hour!

10. Book a photoshoot with a professional pet photographer. Smartphone pics are great, but nothing catches the sparkle and soul in your dog’s eyes like an experienced pet photographer. Plus, you can turn it into an art canvas that’s a focal point in your home, making you smile every time you see it. 

If you are local to the Halifax area, I definitely recommend Cassie from Wet Nose Images. They are simply delightful! 

11. Learn a fun new sport or mini-sport. Maybe learning an entire agility course isn’t on your list of goals, but how about introducing your dog to a single tunnel or a few simple jumps? How about a flirt pole (a dog-version of a cat’s toy-on-a-stick)? 

Earl and I do an agility and/or rally class once a week. We are doing it for the bonding and obedience benefits, and we are not looking to compete. It is really awesome for us to do a regularly organized activity with other people and their dogs. Bonus: You get to see your pup be soooo stinking proud of themselves! 

12. Cook a dinner for two…or three, four or more if you have a whole pack of pooches. You can find safe and delicious treats for both humans and dogs online (frozen yogurt dipped strawberries – yum!) Or perhaps, you can even buy a recipe book?

Hope that gives you some new ideas! If you have other activities that you and your dog enjoy doing together, please share in the comments. We LOVE all suggestions! 

Cheers for now! 

Heather (Earl’s Mom).