Dog walking in Madison

West Newton

If you and your pooch love hiking, then West Newton is a real mutts-visit! It’s home to its own stretch of the Great Allegheny Passage, one of the best-known trails in the Maryland/Pennsylvania area. A converted railway line, the Great Allegheny Passage runs for over 150 miles from Cumberland, MD to Pittsburgh, taking in all sorts of splendid scenery along the way. The stretch from West Newton to Buena Vista is easily walkable, and wanders through some wooded wonderland. Just remember to bring your own bags and water!

East Greensburg

Your dog will go barking mad for a trip to the Franklin Dog Park at Twin Lakes Park in Greensburg! There’s plenty of space in the green, fenced-in area for your fur ball to run around and tire themselves out in. The dog park is divided into three areas -- one for large dogs, one for small dogs, and one for pups of all shapes and sizes, so your pooch can socialize no matter their size or temperament. Bags and water are provided, so all you need to to is bring your buddy and some toys and prepare to play!

White Oak

White Oak Dog Park might not be quite as big as the dog run in Greensburg, but it’d still be a huge faux paw not to go! There’s still more than enough room for a spirited game of catch or tug-of-war. Like the park at Greensburg, there’s a separate small dog area, but be warned -- the surface is mostly grass, so it’s a good idea to bring a towel for post-play cleanup. It’s also well worth taking a wander through the people side of the park, where you’ll find over nine miles of scenic hiking trails. Watch out for cyclists, though -- the trails are popular with local mountain bikers.

Downtown Greensburg

Downtown Greensburg is home to the furrific Canine Confections, an amazing dog bakery just a nine-mile drive from Madison. The knowledgeable staff at this pawesome joint are always on hand to help you pick out treats that are guaranteed to get your dog drooling! They stock dog brownies, cookies and birthday cakes for special occasions -- or try the bags of Peanut Smackers for everyday rewards. Owners need to eat, too, of course, and for that, the Sun Dawg Cafe on Main Street has you covered. Their carnitas tacos are seriously special, and canines are catered to outside.

South Greensburg

If you and your pooch are looking to see some more scenery, why not stroll a stretch of the Five Star Trail? Like the Great Allegheny Passage, this tree-lined corridor was once a stretch of railway line; however, the Five Star Trail is only eight miles long. The terrain is flat almost all the way, so this trek is suitable for all ages and abilities, from the fittest furry friends to less athletic animals and owners. Start in South Greensburg and you can finish up with a slice at Rocco’s Pizzeria in Youngwood, where wagging tails are welcome at outdoor tables.