Activities For Dogs In Minnesota On Nice Days
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Introduction
Located in the northern United States and in the Great Lakes region of the country, Minnesota has its share of cold weather, which makes those in the state appreciate the nice days even more. You and your canine companion will both be excited to get outdoors and have some fun after being cooped up during the winter. Known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes", Minnesota has a lot to offer when it comes to things for you and your pup to do on a nice day in the state. Not only will the two of you get some exercise, you will have the chance to spend time together and further develop your relationship.
Itasca State Park
Popular
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Sunny Day
Cheap
Normal
1 - 4 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Water and Bowl
Treats
Waste Bags
Activity description
If you are looking for a great way to spend the day with your pup when the weather is nice, a trip to Itasca State Park may be just what you are looking for. Located in Park Rapids, you and your pooch can check out the Headwaters of the Mississippi River along with the numerous historic sites that can be found within the park. Your dog can accompany you on a hike in the park, which offers more than 30 hiking trails. Pet-friendly pontoons are also available for rent so that you and your canine companion can take in the sights from the water as well as from land! Camping is also available at the park.
Step
1
Plan your trip
Since there is a lot to do at Itasca State Park, you will want to be sure to make a plan so that you can enjoy all that the park offers. Consider what you would like to do at the park, which will help you decide how long you will want to be there. You might find that camping is an ideal option for you and your pup or that you will want to get there early and plan for a full day of adventure before heading home. Of course, your planning will also depend on where you are coming from in relation to the park.
Step
2
Pack for your adventure
Once you know how long you will be at the park for and what activities you will be doing, you can start packing. Make sure to check the weather forecast so that you can dress appropriately and bring any other clothing items that you might need. There are a few things that you will need to bring regardless of the weather and what activities you plan to participate in; this includes a leash, waste bags, treats and water and a bowl.
Step
3
Time to play
Upon arriving at Itasca State Park, you and your pup can begin having some fun right away! Enjoy one (or more) of the many hiking trails in the area where you will find great views and a wilderness experience. Then cool off on a pontoon boat ride with your pooch. Picnicking is popular in the park and will make a great way for you and your dog to relax after some serious activity!
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Dog Park Time
Popular
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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Treats
Waste Bags
Water and Bowl
Ball or Frisbee
Activity description
The dog park is always a great way for your pup to get some energy out and make some new friends. When the weather is nice, the dog park is also an excellent way for the two of you to spend time outdoors together. Minnesota has a great number of dogs parks located throughout the state, meaning that you should have no trouble finding a park that is a fit for you and your pooch no matter where you are in Minnesota. For example, you can check out Bald Eagle-Otter Lake Regional Dog Park in White Bear, that offers 12 acres of space for your dog to explore, or Battle Creek Off-Leash Site in Maplewood, where your pooch can enjoy a swim in one of several small lakes.
Step
1
Choose a park to check out
With so many dog parks in the state, the biggest challenge may be choosing which park to visit! Some online research will introduce you to the parks nearby or that are in other locations that you are open to traveling to. Each park will have unique offerings and you can choose which you feel is best for you and your pup. Make sure to note if the park is fully fenced in. Some parks won't be, which means that you will want to keep a close eye on your pooch to make sure that they don't run out into the street.
Step
2
Bring the items you need
Once you know where and when you are going, you will want to be sure to take some items with you. A leash is necessary to get your canine pal to and from your car to the dog park safely. Waste bags are also important so that you can clean up after your pup. Chances are that your dog is going to be running around quite a bit while visiting the dog park; make sure to bring along plenty of water and a dog bowl in order to ensure that your pup remains well-hydrated.
Step
3
Play time!
Once you and your buddy arrive at the dog park, it is time for your pup to explore and make new friends. Your dog's time at the park will likely depend on their personality, what is available within the park for them to keep busy with and what other dogs are present. If your dog is less social, they may require some encouragement and you can also engage them yourself with a ball or Frisbee. Treats make an excellent distraction if needed for any reason. Allow your dog the opportunity to run freely and keep your eye on your pup to make sure they are not being aggressive toward others.
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Mississippi National River and Recreation Area
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Sunny Day
Free
Easy
2 - 8 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Waste Bags
Water and Bowl
Treats
Activity description
On a nice day in Minnesota, you and your best buddy will find plenty to do at the Mississippi National River and Recreation area in Saint Paul. This 72-mile river park is perfect for all sorts of activities; you and your pup can go out in a canoe, spend time together fishing, or hop in a boat. The park also offers hiking and biking opportunities. Your dog can join you on all of the trails though must remain on their leash. This is a great place for both of you to get some exercise, enjoy the nice weather and spend time together!
Step
1
Plan your visit
With so much to do, you will want to plan ahead for your visit to the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area to be sure that you get to do all that you and your pup would like. Consider the things that you would like to do when visiting the park, and be sure to plan ahead to allow time to do all of those things. This may mean planning to get there first thing in the morning and spending the entire day there. Of course this will depend on the energy level of you AND your canine companion! Some online research will provide you additional information on the area so that you can best plan your visit.
Step
2
Pack and prepare
Once you have a plan, and you are near your time of departure, make sure that you have the items that you will need. You will definitely need a leash for your pup as well as some waste bags so that you can clean up any messes. Water for your pooch will also be important so that you can make your that your dog remains hydrated with all of the activity that you plan to engage in. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go so that you can be sure to bring appropriate clothing for the weather and for the activities you plan to do.
Step
3
Get active!
Once you arrive at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, you and your pup can get moving! Weather you have chosen to take a hike, explore the river in a boat or canoe or ride a bike, you and your dog will certainly enjoy the fresh air and pleasant weather. Make sure to factor in some time to relax while you are there. You and your pal can have a picnic lunch while taking in the sites (and smells) at this beautiful location!
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More Fun Ideas...
Visit The Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
On a nice day in Minnesota, you and your pup can check out the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, which can be found on the Walker Art Center Campus. The sculpture garden is set on 11 acres and includes over 40 works of art. Your dog must remain on-leash as you explore the unique sculptures and you will want to be sure to bring waste bags to clean up any messes. As you check out the sculptures, you can enjoy the company of your canine buddy, who will appreciate the fresh air, different smells, and your companionship!
Check Out Duluth Lakewalk
Duluth is a major port city located on Lake Superior. A fun place in the city to take your pup is the Duluth Lakewalk, which includes over three miles to walk along with your furry friend. While you stroll along the lakefront you can take in views of the water and the city. Your dog must be on-leash during your visit. You will find Mutt Mitts along the walk, offered at regular intervals, making it easy to clean up any messes that your pup makes. Your canine companion will enjoy the opportunity to take in some new smells while spending time with their human!
Paul Bunyan and Babe The Blue Ox
Since 1937, statues of Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox have stood along Lake Bemidji's shores in Bemidji, Minnesota. These large statues are quite a site and well worth a look by you and your pup. These unique roadside attractions can be seen Monday through Saturday from 8 am to 5 pm (closed Sundays) and you and your pup can get a great picture with them during your visit. Your dog must be on-leash while the two of you check out the statues together. There are plenty of other sites to see in Bemidji, so after seeing the statues, take some time to explore!
Conclusion
When there is nice weather in Minnesota, you won't have any trouble finding something fun for you and your pup to do that will allow you to enjoy being outdoors. Particularly after a Minnesota winter, it is likely that you and your canine companion are raring to go. No matter where you are in the state, opportunity awaits; there are plenty of ways for you and your companion to spend time together and enjoy the nice weather, from spending the afternoon at a dog park, the day at a state or local park or visiting a special attraction.