10 Ways to Cool Down with Your Pooch in Denver
Lauren Pescarus • September 24, 2020
Pet Friendly Activities in Denver Colorado
Summer is the best time to kick back and enjoy some free time with your dog, luckily Denver is one of the most pet-friendly cities. Denver health code is unique in that dogs are allowed on business patios in certain circumstances, but some places go above and beyond to welcome your pet. Here are ten events and restaurants that not only allow your pooch to tag along, they provide the bowl and biscuit to make them feel at home:
1. Walk, Run & Wag 2018 , July 7th, 2018
This informal event takes place in beautiful Sloan’s Lake, already a wonderful place to visit any day. Bring your pooch to run, walk or mosey beside you with the entry fee of $35. The fundraiser benefits International Hearing Dog, Inc., who train dogs to assist those who are hearing impaired. Not just a dog-friendly environment, food trucks and other pet lovers will join to make a festive event. Sign up this week to avoid the price increase for registration and receive your t-shirt and goodie-bag.
2. Bring Your Dog to Yoga Day , August 5th, 2018
For those who are not quite as keen on running, attend this calming event co-hosted by YogaDownload
and Pure Spectrum
, and PawsCO. Free for adults and their furry companions (kids have an entrance fee as they attend special activities), Bring Your Dog to Yoga Day encourages pet parents to involve their dog in relaxation techniques. Food and drinks are available by multiple vendors at this event, held in Sunken Gardens Park.
3. Denver Pet Expo , August 18-19th, 2018
If you feel like leaving the heat behind and enjoying some indoor space with your pooch, visit the pet expo taking place in the Denver Merchandise Mart. This space will be filled with vendors and other pet professionals. Come for the chance to look at new toys, technology, foods, pet breeds, and more, all for your pet. There may also be chances for free samples or first access to fun new products for your pet.
4. Dog Days of Summer Half Marathon , 1M, 5K, 10K, and 10M, August 19th, 2018
For runners and athletes serious about their competition, this event has awards and professional timing, all while including your dog in the fun. Entry fees start at $27.37, and registration will get you goody bags, free photos, t-shirt and more, and your pet is well-provided for along the way. Awards are also offered for themed dog contests, so check out the requirements before coming out to Central Park for the event.
5. Denver Dog Days Meetup Group , Open Scheduling
Not all of us are up to scheduled athletic events but we still might want to kick back with other pet parents to give our hounds a chance at dog socialization. Introducing Meetup, a website of local groups who have similar interests in socialization. Join the Denver Dog Days group (or other appropriate pet group) to sign up for notifications of meetups with people who just want to chat with their pooches. Meetups are free, though you may have opportunities to buy the odd cup of coffee depending on the location.
6. Angelo’s Taverna , 6th Avenue, Denver
Sometimes we want to go out and grab a bite, but we can’t ignore the puppy eyes after our dog has been alone all day. Don’t sacrifice class just because you brought your furry loved one: Angelo’s allows dogs on their front patio, which only has two tables so first come first serve. Enjoy daily-delivered oysters and Italian fare made by an actual Italian-trained chef. Perfect for the night out when you don’t feel like leaving Fido at home.
7. Stella’s Gourmet Coffee and Such , S. Pearl St., Denver
Enjoying the town and just want to stop for a quick pick-me-up and bite but don’t want to neglect the pooch? Stella’s features live music, locally crafted chocolate drinks, art, along with their water bowls on the patio for your dog. Come for the welcoming atmosphere, stay because the terrace is so darn relaxing, especially when you don’t have to rush home to walk pets (because they are perfectly fine, right next to you).
8. Denver Watering Bowl , Leetsdale Dr., Denver
With the motto, “Your best friends bar,” you know that your dog will have a good time. With a blend of domestic and craft beers being served alongside their hearty bar fare, you are guaranteed to enjoy the Watering Bowl. With a 7,000 sq. ft. fenced dog park furnished with tables, chairs, and table service, you can finally relax knowing your dog is fully provided for. If weather isn’t so friendly, enjoy their rustic indoor space sans pet to enjoy their menu of pizzas, salads, burgers and other kitchen offerings.
9. Highlands Cork & Café , 32nd Ave and Meade St., Denver
This private home was opened to the public in order to serve their unique fare of paninis, salads, and various finger-foods alongside their coffee and tea selections. Most importantly, dogs are encouraged to visit their patio, where water bowls and biscuits are often found. Whether you are out running errands and decide you’d like to eat brunch or just feel like a field trip with Fido, The Cork can provide a very enjoyable experience no matter what you order.
10. Denver Beer Co. , Platte or Jason St., Denver
Patio pooches are encouraged at this welcoming and low-key brewery. While they don’t offer food on-menu, they do welcome regular appearances from food trucks, so the offerings are always fresh. Dog water bowls and an open patio are welcoming to both canines and canine friends, and the offerings on tap are always on rotation. Denver Beer Co. offers several locations, so is an excellent place to meet up with friends after a long day enjoying the city parks and hiking routes.
Please keep in mind that dogs brought into public places must have excellent behavior and always be kept on a fixed-leash. Pet parents must pick up after their pets and should leave in case your pet gets overwhelmed with the new experiences or doesn’t play well with others. Denver Dog Jogger has not received any compensation for listing these events or businesses, they are included as a result of honest feedback on public forums and their pet-friendly policies.
Have a favorite place who is exceptionally pet-friendly? Let us know in the comments and maybe we’ll meet up with you there!
Side note: Remember, before adopting a dog that it is a big commitment. Here is a great article of what to consider before just jumping into it: https://breedadvisor.com/dog-adoption-guide/
By Lauren Pescarus