Entertain My Dog

Dogs need exercise, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money on expensive dog walks or gym memberships. There are plenty of great places to take your dog for a free walk, both indoors and outdoors.

In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite free dog-walking spots, as well as some tips for making the most of your walks.

Outdoor Free Dog Walks:

• Parks and Recreation Areas: Most parks and recreation areas allow dogs, and many have paved trails that are perfect for walking. You can also find off-leash areas in some parks, where your dog can run and play freely.
• Greenways and Bike Paths: Greenways and bike paths are another great option for free dog walks. They’re typically paved and well-maintained, and they offer a variety of scenery to enjoy.
• Hiking Trails: If you and your dog are up for a challenge, you can try hiking a trail in a nearby park or forest. Just be sure to keep your dog on a leash and pick up after them.
• Beaches: Many beaches allow dogs, and they’re a great place to cool off on a hot day. Just be sure to check the beach rules before you go, as some beaches have restrictions on where and when dogs are allowed.
• Shopping Centers and Downtown Areas: Some shopping centers and downtown areas allow dogs on their sidewalks and in their common areas. This can be a great way to get some exercise and do some shopping at the same time.

Indoor Free Dog Walks:

• Malls: Most malls allow dogs on their sidewalks and in their common areas. This can be a great way to get some exercise on a cold or rainy day.
• Stores: Stores such as Lowes, Home Goods, Home Depot, and Pet stores are great indoor areas to walk your dog. Many pet stores have indoor walking areas where you can take your dog for a walk. This is a good option if the weather is lousy or you don’t have a lot of time to go outside.
• Community Centers: Some community centers have indoor walking areas or gyms that are open to the public. This is a good option if you’re looking for a place to walk your dog on a budget.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Free Dog Walks:

• Plan your route: Before you go on your walk, take some time to plan your route. This will help you avoid busy areas and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable walk.
• Bring water and snacks: It’s important to bring water and snacks for both you and your dog on your walk. This will keep you both hydrated and energized.
• Take breaks: If you’re going on a long walk, be sure to take breaks along the way. This will give you and your dog a chance to rest and cool off.
• Be aware of your surroundings: It’s important to be aware of your surroundings when you’re walking your dog. This includes being aware of other people and dogs, as well as any potential hazards.
• Clean up after your dog: It’s important to clean up after your dog on your walk. This helps to keep the environment clean and prevents the spread of disease.

Fun Things to Do on Your Free Dog Walks:

• Play fetch: Fetch is a great way to get your dog some exercise and have some fun at the same time.
• Go for a swim: If you’re walking near a lake or river, let your dog go for a swim. This is a great way for them to cool off on a hot day.
• Explore nature: Go for a walk in a park or forest and let your dog sniff out all the new smells.
• Take pictures: Bring your camera along on your walk and take some pictures of your furry friend. This is a great way to capture memories of your time together.
• Geocaching: Geocaching is a fun outdoor activity that involves using a GPS device to find hidden containers. Many geocaches are located in dog-friendly areas, making it a great way to get

Free dog walks are a great way to get your dog some exercise and have some fun without spending a lot of money. Just be sure to plan your route, bring water and snacks, take breaks, be aware of your surroundings, and clean up after your dog. And most importantly, have fun!

Feature photo by Photo by Cristian Guerrero on Unsplash