HomeFeaturesFeatures › Fun Things to Do With Your Dog in Phoenix, AZ This Summer
 
 
 

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According to a recent survey by the American Veterinary Medical Association, roughly 45% of Arizona residents are dog owners.  Thankfully, Arizona is a brilliant place to live, work, and play alongside our canine companions.  In fact, seven cities in AZ were recognized as the most dog-friendly in the nation according to WalletHub’s best cities for dogs list for 2022, with Scottsdale ranking #1 and Phoenix enjoying a healthy high rank too. Since it’s clear that Arizonians love their dogs, we thought you might like to explore these fun things to do with your dog in Phoenix, AZ, this summer.  

Hit the Dog Park

This might seem like the most obvious activity you can share with your dog.  However, you might not be aware that there are loads of dog parks in Phoenix that range from simple to expansive. From off-leash fenced parks, to on-leash state parks, the city is bound to have the perfect park to enjoy with your pooch.  For instance, the PetsMart Park is a full-service park and accepts all breeds and sizes.  Then there is Mesquite Dog Park at Desert Foothills Parkway which also takes all types of dogs. So, whether you have a Bernese mountain dog or a Chihuahua - these two parks can accommodate your needs.

Take a Swim

Get a break from the hot Arizona summer and splash around in some dog-friendly water areas. Just a few minutes from the metro Phoenix area is Cosmo Dog Park, which features a lake and bathing stations where your dog can cool off in the heat.  If you don’t mind driving farther out of the metro area, check out Butcher Recreation Area, which features a huge lake with lots of options for dog-friendly swimming. Or, if Fido isn’t keen on a road trip, you could always fill up the kiddie pool right in your own backyard for a dip with your dog.

Go to the Spa

Well, the term “spa” might be a misnomer, but taking your dog for an upscale grooming session might be just the thing he or she needs on a hot summer day.  Get your dog’s matted locks smoothed out at Doggy Daze in midtown Phoenix, which claims that “every dog gets the royal treatment.”  Or, check out the ultra-modern dog grooming salon, Smelly Dog, off 7th Street in downtown. Smelly Dog offers hotel and daycare service, grooming and wash stations for your dog, as well as a dog bakery and store for shopping for canine supplies.

Grab a Bite

There are several different and exciting dog-friendly dining establishments in Phoenix that you and your dog will love. For example, take your furry buddy to Bikini Beans on E. University Dr., which has yummy pastries you can enjoy with a crafted cup of coffee. If you’re in the mood for Mexican food, check out Aunt Chiladas near Piestewa Peak. This dog-friendly restaurant is located in a historic landmark building, and their Mexican fare will make you and your pup drool. 

Take a Hike

Have some quality time this summer with your dog by exploring Papago Park off 7th Ave and McDowell Rd. The park features loads of hiking trails, beautiful gardens, and picnic areas where you and your canine pal can frolic and play freely.  You and your dogs might also like South Mountain Park and Preserve on S. Central Ave. It’s one of the largest city parks in the area, and it features 50+ miles of dog-friendly trails that you and your dog will be howling about this summer.

Just Chill Out

Sometimes the most fun activity you can relish with your dog is doing nothing at all.  Beat the Arizona summer heat with your pooch by just chilling out in the comfort of your own home.  Turn on the TV, curl up with your dog on the couch in a cool, air-conditioned room and hunker down for some quality binge-watching time.  Don’t forget to have Scoobie snacks on hand for your dog, and a few snacks for yourself too!

In conclusion, there are tons of ways you can hang out with your dog and still have fun this summer in Phoenix, Arizona.  Just remember to be safe when your dog is around other dogs and people to avoid unwanted conflicts.  More importantly, have a fun summer with your precious pooch!