Time with our best buddies can seem all too fleeting — one minute, he’s a puppy and the next he’s showing a little gray around the muzzle. But don’t fret — there’s fun to be had in the years in between! If you’re looking to make sure your pooch gets the most out of life, regardless of his age, a dog bucket list could be just the thing.
Here’s a checklist of all the things your pup shouldn’t miss to get you started creating a lifetime of memories:
- Play Fetch as Long as She Wants
You know how you usually beg off any more ball throwing after five minutes or so? Don’t! Play as long as she keeps bringing the ball back for more.
- Take a Hike
Walking in the woods on a beautiful day can be therapeutic for you and your dog.
- Have a Spa Day
You love them. Why wouldn’t he? Check out a local dog spa in your area and go for the works!
- Go to the Beach
Take her to visit the ocean, where she can play in the waves, roll in the sand and shake water all over you and your beach towel. It’s all part of the fun for a dog at the beach.
- Teach Him a Trick
Even old dogs can learn new tricks, so if you’ve never taught him to shake or roll over, give it a try. You’ll both be overjoyed at completing a task together. A true partnership!
- Warm Up in Front of a Fire
Whether human or dog, nothing is better after a long walk on a cold winter day than stretching out with a satisfied groan in front of a crackling fire. If you have to take a special camping trip to do it, all the better!
- Let Her Chase Squirrels
After all, you know she’ll never catch one, but luckily for her, the thrill is in the chase.
- Share Lunch
Let him have half of that sandwich he’s been eyeing on your plate, or have a gourmet picnic together with all his favorite treats.
- Party Like a Pup
Every dog has her day, so every dog should have a birthday party, complete with guests, cake and games (read 12 Adorably Awesome Dog Birthday Party Ideas to get started).
- Walk Down the Aisle
Every wedding needs a dog for some extra cuteness (whether it’s a human or pooch ceremony).
- Eat Shoes
Just once, let her gnaw on an old pair of shoes without risk of punishment.
- Take a Faraway Trip
Whether near or far, visit someplace neither of you has ever been and enjoy exploring a new place together.
- Take a Local Trip
Treat you and your pooch to a stay in a dog-friendly hotel in your area. Need ideas? Check out 5 Awesome Dog-Friendly Hotels for some inspiration.
- Follow the Scent
Let him lead the way on a walk, following whatever scent catches his fancy.
- Make a Friend
Dogs are social creatures. Find another pup that your dog likes and plan play dates at the local dog park.
- Volunteer Together
Visit a nursing home, take shelter dogs on walks together or bring your pooch on a charity walk or run. Your dog will wiggle with happiness at being included, and you can feel good knowing you did a good deed.
- Take a Picture With Santa
Every dog should have the chance to ask jolly old St. Nick for a new chew bone.
- Play With Kids
If you don’t have any of your own, find some neighborhood kids who can bring a smile to your dog’s face.
- Take Him Camping
Dogs love the great outdoors, so let him have the whole weekend to sniff, explore, hike and just be with you.
- Try a New Activity Together
There’s jogging and walking of course, but you could also teach your dog to run an agility course, catch Frisbees or even how to do dog yoga (called doga!).
- Cuddle
Because nothing, absolutely nothing, could be more paw-fect than hugging your pup close and telling her how very much you care.
Want more activities for you and your pup? Check out these 101 Things to Do With Your Dog.
What’s on your dog bucket list? Or where have you taken a cool journey with your dog? Tell us in the comments!
Kara Murphy is a freelance writer in Erie, Pennsylvania, with a 17-year-old shih tzu whose bucket list includes sleeping all day, every day.
