They don’t call dogs “Man’s Best Friend” for no reason. Whether it’s the way they greet you at the door or their excitement for every new adventure, there’s nothing quite like the bond between a dog and their dad.
To help you celebrate that special connection, we’ve rounded up 5 fun adventures you can try with your fur child this Dog Dad Day. From scenic hikes to splash-worthy swims, you’ll find plenty of ways to make memories together, and maybe even start a few new traditions along the way!
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Hit the Trails for a Scenic Hike
From bonding on a laid-back trail to testing your endurance on a challenging hike, there’s nothing like getting out in the fresh air with your pup on Dog Dad Day. And you don’t have to live in the mountains to enjoy it—even trying out a new park or local trail can turn into a fun adventure. Who knows, you might even discover a new favorite spot for you and your dog to visit together.
If you decide to plan a longer hike, here are some tips for success:
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Pack plenty of water for both of you
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Bring a collapsible bowl for easy hydration
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Watch your dog’s paws on hot or rocky terrain
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After your hike, check your dog for ticks and remove them promptly if needed.
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Make a Splash: Go Swimming Together
Whether in a lake, the ocean, or your backyard pool, swimming together is a great way to bond with your dog while keeping them active. In fact, studies show that regular swimming can help improve hip flexibility.[1] It’s also one of the best low-impact exercises for supporting dog health, making it perfect for older dogs.
To make the experience more interactive, toss in a tennis ball, frisbee, or even a few pieces of kibble for your pup to retrieve.
If your dog isn’t comfortable in the water, Dog Dad Day is a great time to introduce them. Start in shallow water and use positive reinforcement and treats to help them build confidence as they gradually explore deeper areas.
And remember, even the most energetic pups can tire out from swimming, especially seniors or first-time swimmers.
PupGrade Pro Tip: One easy way to support their recovery and overall dog health is with PupGrade’s Daily Multivitamin. It can help fill nutritional gaps in their diet and promote lasting energy and vitality so they’re ready for the next adventure!
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Go Camping Under the Stars
Dogs love exploring new sights, sounds, and smells, and what better way to celebrate Dog Dad Day than with a weekend camping trip in the great outdoors?
If you’re planning to cook dinner over the campfire, why not pack a special foil meal just for your pup? It’s a fun way to include them in the experience.
Here are a few dog-friendly ingredients to mix and match:
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Proteins: Steak, chicken, turkey
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Veggies: Sweet potato, green beans, carrots, peas
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Starches: Rice or quinoa
You can even prepare a similar meal for yourself! Just remember to skip any spices or seasonings that could be harmful to dogs, like garlic, onions, or anything too salty. When in doubt, check with your vet first.
For added flavor, use a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of low-sodium broth. Your pup will love it!
PupGrade Pro Tip: After a weekend outdoors, freshen up your pup with PupGrade’s Complete Care Shampoo & Conditioner. Soothing chamomile, oats, and organic aloe vera help calm skin, while calendula provides relief for seasonal allergies—perfect after a dusty camping trip!
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Try a New Watersport
Looking for a fun new way to celebrate Dog Dad Day with your fur buddy? There are all kinds of dog-friendly activities you and your pup can explore together. Whether you opt for a laid-back kayak or canoe trip, or test your balance on a stand-up paddleboard, hitting the water is a great way to enjoy the summer weather and encourage active dog bonding.
If your dog is new to this kind of adventure, start slow by letting them sniff around to get comfortable with the equipment before heading out. A dog life jacket is always a smart idea for added safety.
Want to make it social? Team up with your fellow dog dads and rent a boat for a full-blown pup party on the lake. If you’re going to be out in the sun all day, don’t forget about hydration. Pack a cooler with water and snacks for both you and your dog, and a camera to capture those unforgettable dog adventure moments!
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Run & Train Together
Running with your pup is one of the best dog activities for building endurance, boosting dog health, and strengthening your bond. As you train side by side, you’ll both gain stamina and keep each other motivated with every mile.
Whether you stick with casual jogs around the neighborhood or aim for a bigger goal, this activity is one that can last well beyond Dog Dad Day.
There are also dog-friendly events like 5ks held around the country, so check for one in your area and start training together!
PupGrade Pro Tip: To help support your dog’s joints for all this activity, consider adding PupGrade Joint Support Soft Chews to their daily routine. They’re formulated to promote joint flexibility and comfort so your pup can keep up with your pace.
Make Every Day Dog Dad Day!
Dog Dad Day is a great excuse to set aside some time to spend quality time with your pup. And as you do, remember to give your best friend the support they need to stay healthy and happy. PupGrade’s supplements and grooming products help promote a healthy, balanced version of themselves so you can keep making those tail-wagging memories together.
But who says the fun has to stop there? With so many exciting dog activities to explore, you can keep the adventures going all year long.
We've gone ahead and enclosed a 10% OFF Coupon below for you to use in the store - remember, your puppy DESERVES to have the healthiest life! Click here to start shopping!
Resources:
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Nganvongpanit, K., Tanvisut, S., Yano, T., & Kongtawelert, P. (2014). Effect of swimming on clinical functional parameters and serum biomarkers in healthy and osteoarthritic dogs. ISRN veterinary science, 2014, 459809. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/459809
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