5 Brilliant First Date Ideas for Dog Lovers

Get your romance off to a good start

So, you’ve met someone you want to get to know, and the time has come to plan that all-important first date. At this early stage, you don’t really know much about the other person, but you do know that they’re a dog lover like you. That little fact opens up lots of opportunities but where will you go and what will you do?

You may have read the title of this article, ‘5 First Date Ideas for Dog Lovers’, and immediately envisioned a meal at an atmospheric Italian restaurant where – in true Lady and the Tramp style – sparks fly over a bowl of shared spaghetti and meatballs. Of course, this is a good option if whimsical romance is your thing – but if the idea of spaghetti on a first date fills you with dread (it would us too) then don’t worry.

I spoke to Tina Elven of Woof Wag Wishes® who’s thought of five unique date ideas you might like to try instead, and naturally, these are ideas that will include the main love of your life – your dog!

The benefits of planning a dog-themed first date – or even just a date where you bring your dog – are plentiful. You’ll be able to bond over a shared interest and there’s no need to stress about leaving your beloved dog at home alone. In fact, dogs make the perfect chaperones for first dates as they lift the mood, spark conversation and cool off any tension. By thinking a little outside the box and planning a date that you’ll both enjoy, you’ll find it much easier to relax, be yourself and hopefully have a wonderful time! Who knows, this could be the start of something special!

Feeling a little stressed about choosing the perfect location and activity for your first date? Worry no more – these first date ideas for dog lovers are what you’ve been searching for!

Take your dogs for a walk somewhere new

Going for a walk might sound simple, and as a dog owner, you probably do this all the time! But going for a lovely long dog walk really is the ideal first date for dog lovers. This type of first date has many advantages: you’ll be meeting in a neutral setting and there’s no risk of feeling self-conscious. Oh, and there won’t be any money involved which will really help to take the pressure off your first date and prevent that awkward squabble for the bill.

For an extra dash of excitement, we recommend walking somewhere new. Perhaps you could take a drive to the coast, explore some local woods, a national park or traverse the grounds of a historic country house. Not only will your dogs have a whale of a time, sniffing and exploring somewhere novel, but you’ll be able to make new memories that are unique to your budding relationship. Just remember to take some toys to keep your dogs occupied while you’re getting to know each other!

Volunteer with rescue dogs

You’re both individual people and probably have different interests – and that’s healthy! But for new couples, bonding over a shared passion is a brilliant place to start. If you both like dogs, it stands to reason that you might enjoy volunteering with rescue dogs. Perhaps one (or both) of you even adopted your pup from a rescue centre and has always wanted to do more to help shelters and dogs in need.

Rescue centres are regularly looking for volunteers to help them with feeding, grooming or exercising the dogs in their care. If you have been struggling to come up with a meaningful and memorable first date idea, why not contact your local rescue centre and enquire about coming in to help out. Not only will you feel positive and fulfilled, but you’ll also have lots of fun with your date, bonding over the adorable dogs and your shared passion.

Watch a film at an open-air cinema

The benefit of opting for an open-air cinema instead of an indoor venue is that your dog doesn’t have to be left at home, making this the ideal first date cinema option for dog lovers.

Open air cinemas have experienced a bit of a resurgence over recent years, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a local venue or event. Why not take a picnic and some fizz to make your first date that extra bit special? The only downside, of course, is that this option is weather-dependent, but on a warm, sunny evening, the experience could be magical.

Go for a drink at a dog-friendly venue

Meeting up for a drink is perhaps the most common first-date activity, but if you choose a dog-friendly pub or bar, you can make your date that much more fun! It also helps to avoid the typical anxiety all dog owners feel about leaving their beloved pet at home, so as long as you bring a toy with you to keep your pup occupied, you can chat and drink the night away!

If you and your date share a love of craft beer, do some research into a local brewery that welcomes dogs. If you have something a little more sophisticated in mind, why not go for a stroll around a local vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting while you’re there?

Try something new

If you don’t fancy sitting in a drinking or eating establishment and relying on conversation to get you through your first date, you could opt for an activity that’s completely new and unique. This is the best way to break the ice and it can be a really fun way of getting to know each other. Plus, it will keep the conversation flowing naturally.

If you are both active types, with active dogs, something like CaniCross would be a good choice. This a dog powered sport where the dog is harnessed and attached to the runner by a bungee. 

Alternatively, you might like to try canine hoopers, something that is great fun for dogs and humans alike.  Here you will learn to work together with your dog to negotiate a course of hoops, tunnels and barrels.

Dogs Make Dates Great

If the thought of a first date is making you feel a little nervous, you’ll benefit from the support of your best furry friend. Besides, when you both own dogs, there are more than two hearts to consider as you embark on this new relationship!

There are lots of activities that you and your date can enjoy without having to find a dog sitter or leaving your dogs at home – they can join you! If you need some inspiration, check out Woof Wag Wishes^®, a whole year of Wishes – or activities – to enjoy with your dog and anyone else you want to invite. 

Simply scan the QR code in your Woof Wag Wishes^® book to find out what activity you’ll be trying out. Will you be baking dog-friendly treats or practising a new trick? The opportunities for enjoyment are endless and you’ll be building a book of memories as you go – for you, your dog and your new relationship!

With your book of Woof Wag Wishes^®, you’ll never be short of unique and inspiring date ideas. Even better, there’s no risk of your first date being a tough act to follow – you can continue to enjoy amazing dates for the rest of the year!