Top Activities For Dogs In Iowa On Nice Days

Introduction

Iowa is a known for being a dog-friendly state. Although the region often suffers from cold, wintery days when spring arrives the place transforms. Everything takes on a vibrancy as the trees start developing leaves, flowers bloom, and the grass greens. The sun shines throughout most of the spring, summer, and autumn days. Everyone can't wait to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful weather. Even your pooch is probably anticipating a fun outing in the fresh air. Within the state, there are numerous fun opportunities for you and your four-legged pooch to have some fun and adventures together in the warm sun.

Lake Adventure

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Cheap

Easy

2 hrs

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Water dish

Treats

Bottled water

Toys

Activity description

Lake Red Rock is located in Central Iowa in the heart of Marion County. It is the largest lake in the state. The location is known for its ethereal beauty. There are mountains and numerous deciduous trees. In the fall, the tree's autumn colors are breathtaking. During the spring, much of the local fauna starts to produce lovely blossoms and in the fall the leaves take on a rich vibrancy. It's a place where you can often catch glimpses of wildlife. The park is a great place for you and your pooch to enjoy a bit of physical exercise. You can meander and enjoy the lovely sunshine. Boating is also available on the lake.

Step

1

Hit the trail

Leash up your pooch and hit the trail around the lake. You can pick your own pace. There are ample places to sit down and relax while you walk the scenic route together. Be sure to keep your pup on their leash to protect both your dog and the wildlife that inhabit the area.

Step

2

Have a picnic

Throughout the park are numerous picnic tables where you and your pooch can rest while enjoying time together or while having a refreshing drink of cool water. You can also throw a ball for your buddy as long as they have excellent recall skills and will come back despite the exciting sounds and smells.

Step

3

Dip a toe

If the day is warm, you both may want to dip a toe in the water. You can also opt to rent a boat to take your canine companion out on the lake. If this is in your plans, be sure to include a life vest for your pup in your backpack of supplies. You both will enjoy fishing for an hour or two in the crystal water.

Dog Park Romp

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Free

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Ball

Treats

Activity description

A dog park romp is a welcomed experience for most pooches. It gives them the opportunity to run, play, and interact with other canine companions. Many dogs develop close friendships with those they regularly play with at the park. The Raccoon Area Dog Park in West Des Moines is a unique park that is a very popular destination on nice days in the city. It features an area for large dogs and an area for smaller pooches. There are numerous trees and benches throughout the park that provide a space for owners to rest and relax while their dogs frolic in the sunshine

Step

1

Ease the introductions

If your canine buddy is new to a dog park, you will want to take it slow and easy with introductions. When you first arrive, keep your dog on the leash for a while as they become accustomed to all of the park's hustle and bustle. At first, some dogs can become overstimulated seeing other dogs running freely; you will need to give your pooch time to relax and take in all that is going on.

Step

2

Let your pooch free

When your dog appears to have calmed down, it's time to unclip the leash and let your canine have free run. Don't be surprised if it takes awhile before your dog ventures out on their own but once they become accustomed to the area, they will probably start to play freely and in a relaxed manner.

Step

3

A game of fetch

The dog park is a great way to let your pooch enjoy a game of fetch. Throw a ball or Frisbee and encourage your fur buddy to return the item. Most dogs love playing fetch and will quickly start to learn to bring the toy back over and over again as the game continues.

Trail Hiking

Popular

0 Votes

Sunny Day

Free

Easy

1 hr

Items needed

Leash

Collar

Water bowl

Bottled Water

Activity description

The High Trestle Trail in Ankeny is also referred to as the Woodland Recreation Trail. It spans a little over 25 miles and is a high use trail that a lot of people enjoy. The path is especially famous for bikers and because of this, you should always keep your dog on a leash while walking the trail. Also, pack water and a water bowl so your pooch can enjoy a refreshing drink while hiking. There is a high trestle bridge to view. Some of the trail's expanse boasts LED lights. The trail system is open 24 hours a day. There is also a tunnel that is decorated with colorful murals that many people enjoy experiencing.

Step

1

Hitting the trail

This trail can be explored as a day trip or you can make it a two or three day hiking adventure for you and your pooch. You can opt to park and simply walk a bit of the trail, or you can book a room at a pet-friendly hotel in Ankeny and make exploring the area an event over one day or a few days.

Step

2

Picnic time

You might want to stop and have a picnic with your pooch if you are hungry. There are picnic locations along the way that you both will enjoy. Also, remember to carry bottled water and a doggy bowl to give your dog a refreshing drink several times throughout the trek.

Step

3

Farmland to town

Depending on how far you and your dog walk, you will both be able to enjoy a combination of farmland venturing and exploration of the town. Many of the businesses in the town are cater to humans and their canine pals, so feel free to explore the area and its offerings before hitting the trail again.

More Fun Ideas...

Enjoy a Cold One With Your Pooch

Nothing hits the spot like a cold beer on a nice day. Backpocket Brewing located in Coralville is a great place where you can enjoy a cold frothy microbrewery beer with your best four-legged buddy on a lovely, warm day. The brewery produces upscale craft brews. The Great River Brewery in Davenport is another hot spot that welcomes dogs while you enjoy their many beer options. Exile Brewing Co located in Des Moines is an accessible location in the city for dogs and their owners. All canines are welcome. You can even ask for a bowl of water for your beloved best friend while you down a cold one. With patios and beer, the breweries are ideal stops on a beautiful day.

Ice Cream, Picnics, and Gardens With Your Dog

On a warm summer day, there is nothing better than enjoying a tasty ice cream. Many ice cream parlors feature patios or outdoor decks. You can bring your well-behaved dog to lounge on the patio while you enjoy a refreshing ice cream cone or dish. Many shops even provide cold water for your famished pooch. The Riverside Gardens in Montecillo is a great place to enjoy lavish gardens with your leashed companion. You can have a cold beverage together, enjoy a small picnic or even stroll the gardens with an ice cream cone. The picturesque gardens are a lovely place to spend a lazy afternoon with your four-legged buddy.

Conclusion

People in Iowa love dogs and their adoration of canines is reflected in the many fun things to do in the state's various regions. On a beautiful day, owners and their canines hit the trial to enjoy many fun activities while soaking up the warm sunshine. Well-behaved dogs are always welcome in multiple businesses throughout the state. The only requirement is usually to keep the pooch on a leash and promptly clean up any mess the dog might leave behind. Sharing a lovely day with your four-legged fur buddy is a great way to pass the time. After the long winter, your pooch is probably anticipating a beautiful day just as much as you.