101 Fun Things to Do with Your Dog Before They Die

If you’re like me, you are constantly looking for fun things to do with your dog. 🐾

Jump to the list of 101 Fun Things to Do with Your Dog (for the busy girls out there👇

Let’s be real, dog moms: nobody likes to talk about it, but our furry sidekicks won’t be with us here on Earth forever. I know the thought breaks my heart with my boy Chevy. He’s been my ride-or-die for years, and he’s starting to slow down a bit. I see those grey whiskers around his muzzle, and it’s a bittersweet reminder that our time together is precious.

My heart sinks a little as my Chevy gets older…

It hit me – he won’t be around forever. That’s a tough thought, but instead of getting sad, I want to channel that energy into making his golden years extra special.

That’s why I started a “dog bucket list.” Things we can do together – a blend of new adventures and appreciating simple joys – while we still have the time.

Even if you have a senior dog like Chevy, or a puppy, these bucket list ideas include stuff for everybody – big adventures, chill time, and everything in between.

“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.”

C.S. Lewis

What you will find in this post:

Dream big, and never limit yourself. First, have your dreams written down; it’s the first step to making them happen, then find how to make them a reality.

“If your dreams don’t scare you, they are too small.”

Richard Branson

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

101 Fun Things to Do with Your Dog

Top 3: Travel with a Dog

As Jessie Itzler says:

Every year, you should have a Misogi, something you want to do that’s challenging, year defining, something your are looking forward. So when you complete it, you’ll think you can do anything. And when you look back in 5 years, in 2029, oh in 2024, I did this…!

We don’t know how much time we have left. So, pick a big, hard dream for this year. And don’t wait for it to happen. Put it on the calendar! These are mine:

Travel with your dog to Europe: I’d love to go to Europe for the first time and take Chevy with me! A girl can dream. (I already know I’ll fly with K9Jets, I just need the money 😅
Go to Anatolia, Turkey, where Chevy’s breed originated. There are a lot of dogs like him still in that area. Where your dog’s breed origin is?
Take a road trip with Chevy around the USA: imagine showing your dog the best places to visit in the United States, sniffing the Acadia National Park, or driving with the windows down, enjoying some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world on Highway 1 (California).

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Outdoor Adventures

Take a scenic hike with a view.
Explore a nature trail you’ve never been to before.
Go camping under the stars (bonus points for dog-friendly campgrounds).
Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and bring your pup along for the ride.
Visit a dog-friendly beach and watch the sunset.
Set up a backyard agility course.
Play fetch in a wide-open park.
Teach your dog to swim (or improve their swimming skills).
Go for a run or jog together (adjust the pace to your dog’s abilities).
Plan a doggy playdate with a friend and their canine companion.
Play frisbee or start training for disc dog competitions.
Let your dog lead the way on a walk, following their nose on a “sniffari”.
Find a creek or stream where your dog can splash and play.
If it snows, build a snowman together or play in the freshly fallen flakes.
Visit a beautiful garden or arboretum (check their dog policies first).

This water-resistant jacket is a game changer for hiking escapades or long walks on a rainy day. It’s durable and keeps Chevy dry the whole day.

Relaxation & Bonding

Have a doggie spa day – brush their fur, trim nails, and give them a nice bath.
Give your dog a relaxing massage.
Set up a tent in the living room and “camp out” just the two of you.
Sit outside and simply watch the world go by with your pup by your side.
Start a journal dedicated to your memories and adventures with your dog.
Create a scrapbook or photo album of your pup’s life.
Teach your dog to meditate with you (yes, there are resources for this!).
Enjoy a long, lazy soak in the tub with some calming music (if your dog tolerates it).
Cuddle on the couch for a movie marathon.
Spend an afternoon reading a smut book (if you are into that 😏) wrapped on a blanket with your dog nestled beside you.

If your dog is a couch potato like Chevy, they will love this cozy blanket that is sooo good they might stop stealing yours.

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Foodie Fun

Have breakfast in bed! Is it yours or your dog’s birthday? Or a rainy morning. Those are perfect excuses for having a pet-friendly breakfast while cuddling in bed together. It sounds like the perfect way to start a day!
Grab a pup cup from your favorite coffee shop.
Dine outdoors at a dog-friendly restaurant with a patio.
Learn to cook gourmet dog meals.
Visit a farmer’s market and pick out fresh snacks for both of you.
Make dog-friendly “pupsicles” with frozen yogurt, fruit, and peanut butter.
Have a picnic with yummy goodies for you and your pup.
Find a bakery that caters to dogs or order a birthday cake or special occasion treat.
Make homemade dog treats together.

Learning and Enrichment

Sign up for a fun dog training class (nose work, agility, tricks, etc.).
Teach your dog a new trick (play dead, roll over, dance… get creative!).
Practice basic obedience commands in different environments to increase reliability.
Play hide-and-seek with treats or their favorite toys.
Invest in a few stimulating puzzle toys to keep their minds sharp.
Start clicker training and learn how to shape new behaviors.
Set up indoor games on rainy or snowy days.
Learn about pet first aid and CPR together.
Create a DIY snuffle mat for engaging mealtimes.

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Special Occasions & Giving Back

“Don’t wait. The time will never be just right.”

Napoleon Hill

Dress up in matching costumes for Halloween.
Create a holiday card featuring your adorable dog.
Celebrate your dog’s birthday with a special party and gifts.
Volunteer at a local animal shelter together.
Donate supplies or old blankets to a rescue organization.
Participate in a dog contest; donate part of the prize to a rescue if you win.
Become a therapy dog team and visit hospitals, nursing homes, or schools; well-behaved dogs can bring joy to residents.
Foster a dog in need.
Adopt a senior dog and give them a loving home for their golden years. Find your furry BFF on Petfinder

Spoiling Your Pup

Doggy Ice Cream. Treat your pup to this special snack on a hot day. Or make some homemade ice cream.
Homemade Treats. Bake healthy and safe biscuits with wholesome ingredients.
New Fancy Collar. Upgrade their “bling” with a stylish or comfy new collar and leash.
Plush New Toy. Spoil them with a squeaker, rope toy, or something especially cuddly. Visit a pet store and let them pick out a new toy (within reason, of course!)
Special Food Topper. Mix something yummy into their usual kibble for an extra tasty meal.
Cozy New Bed. Elevate naptime with this luxurious orthopedic bed, especially great for older pups.
Dress up, use silly props, or find a beautiful setting for a memorable photoshoot.
Let your BFF sleep in your bed: If you like keeping your bedsheet extra clean, think twice. Once your pup gets extra comfy in your bed, it’s no turn back!

Capture the Memories

Hire a professional pet photographer for a memorable photo session.
Frame a classic portrait of your pup to put on display in your home.
Commission a custom painting or piece of art featuring your dog.
Create a shadowbox filled with mementos: their collar, favorite toys, photos, etc.
Start a dedicated Instagram or social media account showcasing your dog’s adventures.

Unique Adventures

Attend a pet-friendly concert or festival. Check if your area has outdoor events allowing dogs (think music festivals, food festivals, or craft fairs).
Go on a “Nose Work” Adventure: Hide treats or scents around a park or in your home and let your dog unleash their sniffer skills.
Visit a Drive-In Movie: Some classic drive-in theaters welcome dogs! Cozy up in the car with your pup for a unique movie night.
Enjoy a Scenic Train Ride: Research pet-friendly train excursions. These often offer beautiful views and a relaxing ride for both of you.
Try “Doga”: Look for studios in your area or classes held in parks for a bonding and centering experience. This can be a really relaxing and fun thing to do with your dog.
“Paint” with Your Pup: Get non-toxic, pet-safe paints and let your pup create a masterpiece with their paws and tail wags.

Special Outings & Events

Find a pet-friendly winery or brewery to visit.
Participate in a charity walk or 5K race that allows dogs.
Look for an outdoor concert or movie screening where dogs are welcome.
Celebrate holidays together and include them in the festivities if they enjoy it. Set a place for your dog at the table: Even if they can’t enjoy all the food, it makes them feel included.
Create salt dough ornaments using your dog’s paw print for a heartwarming holiday decoration.

BringFid o: Great resource to find for dog-friendly activities in your area.

For Adventurous Souls

Take a boat ride. Many dogs enjoy being on the water, whether on a ferry, a rented motorboat, or even a scenic cruise.
Go berry picking. Many farms allow dogs as long as they’re supervised and don’t eat too many off the bush!
Road in a convertible car: Let hair and ears fly with the wind!

Just for Fun

Blow bubbles and let your dog chase them.
Make a silly video starring your dog.
Have a doggy “spa day” at home – brush, bath, maybe even a gentle “pawdicure”.
“Read” a story to your dog (they may like the attention as much as the story).
Go for a walk during a light rain shower – there’s something peaceful about it! Or run through sprinklers and get all wet!
Doggie Drive-Thru. Some fast food places or banks offer treats to canine customers if you take them along in the car. This is one of my favorite fun things to do with my dog at Starbucks drive-thru.
Take photos with your dog in a photo booth. I can’t wait to do this one! 🙌

Everyday Adventures

Include them while gardening and let them “help” dig small holes (supervised, of course!).
Teach your pup to pick up their toys and put them in a basket.
Go for a walk to your nearest dog park and get some ice cream on your way back. Make sure they have dog-friendly options for your pup.
Take them on errands (if your shops allow it and they enjoy it). This is great for their confidence and well behave in public spaces.
Find the perfect spot with a view and settle in to watch a spectacular sunset together. This can be a romantic and fun thing to do with your dog and partner on Valentine’s Day.

Celebrating Life’s Moments

Include them in your wedding or anniversary celebration– ring bearer, flower pup, or just a special guest!
Celebrate “Gotcha Day” – the anniversary of when you adopted your beloved pup.
Throw a party for your dog’s half-birthday – because life’s short, so why not?!

This dog birthday decor is just cute but budget-friendly 😉.

Leaving a Legacy

Write a letter to your dog, expressing your love and gratitude. Keep it somewhere safe.
Plant a tree or flowers in your yard in your dog’s memory.
Make a donation to an animal charity in your dog’s name.
Consider including your dog in your estate planning to ensure their care if they outlive you.

The Best Gift

When your dog’s golden years arrive, time becomes an invisible leash. While every dog owner hopes for as much time as possible with their best friend, there’s beauty and urgency in cherishing each moment as if it could be the last.

Here’s a reminder to grab hold of those precious days, weeks, months, or years – to truly live alongside your best friend with no time left to waste.

Sure, spoiling your dog with a favorite treat or a fancy new toy is great. But sometimes the small moments add up to the biggest memories.

Your dog simply wants to be with you.
Nina

Bonus ideas that can also be fun things to do with your dog:

Take that extra walk: You meant to anyway, right?
Give them their favorite treats and meals: Life is too short to save the treats; eating it is their love language.
Snuggle session extraordinaire: Forget about chores for a while and pile onto the couch for cuddles and belly rubs.
Play one more game: Fetch! Tug-of-war! Whatever their favorite is – give it all you’ve got.
Tell them all the best things: Whisper all the secrets, the praises, the silly nicknames…anything to hear a happy little woof in return.

Dog Bucket List Printable

I created the dog bucket list printable for us to print as a checklist, have on our phones, or put on our refrigerators. Get yours; it’s FREE!

‘’Life is too short to save the treats and belly rubs’’

Subscribe to get this Free Printable

Check the Bucket List Journey post for more dog bucket list ideas.

Do you have other ideas for fun things to do with your dog? Please leave them in the comments below!

Life with Chevy

101 Fun Things to Do with Your Dog Before They Die

What you will find in this post: