Top Date Ideas in Houston for Dog Lovers
Houston is a busy city with plenty of nightlife, events, and things to do, but it can be overwhelming to pick something to actually commit to with your significant other. But if you and your date both love dogs, why not go on a date that matters to you, your partner, and a pooch—whether or not it’s your dog or just a dog-themed date idea.
Bringing along your dog for a date might seem difficult at first, but Houston is filled with dog-friendly restaurants, events, and even dog-themed bakeries that’ll leave you and your partner with more than enough activities to fill up your day out on the town.
So go ahead and pack up your supplies, grab your foldable water bowl, and bring some dog treats. Let’s explore these date ideas in Houston for dog lovers.
Go Kayaking
So your pooch is a water-lover, and you want to spend some time cooling off on a hot day. Look no further, because kayaking is one of the best activities for both your date and your dog. There are multiple dog-friendly kayak rental services in Houston.
One such dog-friendly date solution is Pinky’s Kayak Rentals, which offers a dog-friendly solution only 30 minutes from the very center of Houston. It’s a way to cool off and a great pick for any outdoorsy folk looking for an adventure.
Dog Yoga
Dog yoga, also known as “DOGA”, is a popular activity that involves either taking your pup to go on a yoga trip, or scheduling yoga at a specific dog yoga business.
Your dog and yoga might be the perfect match, and if you don’t have a dog you can even schedule a “puppy yoga session” at one of the local businesses that offers it.
Houston is a bustling city, but maybe it’s time for some relaxation and refreshing yoga instead of a busy date day. So if you’d prefer a more calming activity instead of an active one, dog yoga might be the pick for you. Not only that, but it has a plethora of benefits such as even releasing oxytocin, the “happiness chemical” in your brain.
Go Out To Eat
If you’re feeling hungry after a day out on the town, there’s nothing better than finding a stop where you can get some food—but you don’t have to head out without your dog.
There are multiple dog-friendly restaurants and offerings in Houston, many of which allow dogs to enter the building and dine with you and your partner. A Mexican-American bar and eatery, Monkey’s Tail offers a dog-friendly patio which is perfect for your pooch.
Or if you’re looking for an upscale pub with a jumbo patio that rivals even the largest, Cottonwood Houston might just be the pick for you.
No matter what restaurant you end up picking, there are a plethora of options in Houston for dog-friendly restaurants that serve up delicious meals as well.
Dog Parks
A more traditional pick for date ideas in Houston, dog parks are another great idea. There are numerous dog parks spread throughout Houston, with many even offering off-the-leash play so your doggo can truly get their energy out.
This is a great date idea if you’re looking to let your pooch be active while also hanging out with your partner and enjoy the sunny days and the outdoorsy weather.
One well-known location, TC Jester Dog Park, features a large fenced-off area, areas dedicated for both larger and smaller dogs, and even doggy drinking fountains for hot days.
No matter where you’re located in Houston, this is a date idea that you shouldn’t pass up on.
Visit a Doggy Bakery
For anyone who’s searching for a truly unique experience, visiting a doggy bakery might just be the right idea. The Three Dog Bakery in Houston offers cakes, pastries, and even dog-food at their all-inclusive shop.
It’s the perfect place for dog lovers to meet new dogs and enjoy a date with their dog and partner, and even offers doggy valentine’s day treats and other seasonal treats based on the holiday.
And if your dog’s birthday is coming up, why not stop in for a custom birthday cake?
Spa Day
This might be a hard sale as a date, but if you and your partner are truly dog lovers, it shouldn’t be ignored. Why not decide to pamper your dog instead, and book a spa day at one of the various grooming services throughout the city?
There are many businesses that offer dedicated dog grooming and spa services, and your pup might enjoy all the pampering even more than you would. Just make sure to schedule the appointment ahead and get ready to watch your pup enjoy their treatment.
Visit a Dog Show
If you have an active dog that you take to competitions or even if you’re just interested in watching one, visiting a dog show might be the ideal date idea in Houston that you were looking for.
The Houston World Series of Dog Shows offers a plethora of events on a regular basis that allows visitors to meet the various dog breeds, watch events, and even sneak in some petting here and there.
It’s easily one of the most fun dog-based activities in the Houston area, and not something to avoid.
Visit a Dog Cafe
There are multiple cafes in Houston that tailor their services not only to humans, but also to our furry friends. If you’d prefer a light snack or a coffee, your dog might enjoy it as well.
The Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar has a dog menu in addition to their regular menu, and even gives out dog treats to any good boy in the restaurant.
And if that stop isn’t close enough to your trip, there are always others. Houston has a lot of options, so keep an eye out and make sure to search up other cafes in the area to see if they have dog-friendly options.
Tips To Stay Safe
Keep in mind that your dog might not think the same activities are fun that you do, so always make sure to watch your dog and make sure they're staying happy and healthy during the activities. Remember to follow these tips to make your doggy date a success.
Watch the Weather
Houston can be extremely hot and humid, so always make sure to check the weather and plan ahead for a cooler day, especially if you're committing to some outdoorsy activities.
Don't let the weather get in your way, but tailor your activities to the time and the weather of the week.
Bring the Essentials
No matter if you're kayaking or visiting a dog park, make sure you bring food, water, extra leashes, poop bags, and even towels if you'll be near water.
Your dog will most likely need some of these, and it's always better to be safe and prepared than caught unprepared during your date.
Know the Limits
Every dog is different. If your dog doesn't enjoy water, then avoid kayaking as an activity. If your dog doesn't socialize well, it's always important to stay away from activities or events that might be busier.
At the end of the day, you're scheduling a date for yourself, your partner, and your best friend.
Have Fun
No matter what fun date idea in Houston you end up committing to with your pooch and your partner, there’s a plethora of options for any size of dog or temperament. Whether you already have a dog or are looking to adopt one, want to go to a dog cafe, or want to try out some “DOGA”, there’s something for everyone in Houston.
The bustling city and nightlife are more dog friendly than you might imagine, so buckle up, pack your dog’s supplies, grab your partner, and make sure you have fun.
