8 Valentine's Day Dog Date Ideas: The Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents
- calvinschnauzer
- Feb 6
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 17
Hey, dog parents! Ever wondered what your pup's ideal Valentine's Day date looks like? Spoiler alert: it involves treats, belly rubs, and more treats! Whether you're flying solo or just want to show extra love to your furry Valentine, I've rounded up the best dog-friendly Valentine's Day dog date ideas to make your pup feel like the most loved dog in town. From pet-friendly brunch spots to dog beach trips, these ideas guarantee a paw-some day.
1. Dog-Friendly Valentine's Day Brunch
Start the day with a cozy morning at a pet-friendly brunch spot with your pup by your side. Many restaurants in Los Angeles now offer alfresco dining with dog-friendly menus, so your pup can enjoy a treat while you sip on your latte.
My Top Dog-friendly Brunch Spots in LA:
Alcove Café and Bakery | 1929 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Bottega Louie WeHo | 8936 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Pine and Crane DTLA | 1120 S Grand Ave Unit 101, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Pro Tip: Order a side of unseasoned eggs or a pup patty for your pup because sharing is caring. Many dog-friendly cafes also offer puppuccinos, which are a must for brunch dates!
2. Romantic Dog Beach Date
If your pup loves the water, a dog-friendly beach day is the perfect way to celebrate. Let them run free, dig in the sand, and enjoy some sunshine. Although many LA beaches are dog-friendly, always note that places like Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and Malibu only allow dogs on the boardwalk, not on the sand. Rosie's Dog Beach in Long Beach is my go-to spot for beach days.
Rosie's Dog Beach | 5000 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90803
Post-Beach Treats: Make a pit stop and get pup patties at nearby dog-friendly restaurants .
Recommended Pet-Friendly Restaurants with Outdoor Seating:
In-N-Out | 6391 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA
Yard House | 401 Shoreline Village Dr, Long Beach, CA
3. Valentine's Day Picnic at the Park
Set up a romantic picnic at a local park and let your dog enjoy a sniffari adventure. Pack a basket with snacks for you and a barkuterie board for your pup.
Picnic Essentials:
A comfy blanket
Your pup's favorite chew toy
Heart-shaped treats
A tennis ball for post-lunch playtime!
My favorite picnic spots in LA:
Los Angeles State Historic Park | 1245 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Elysian Park Picnic Site #4 | 929 Academy Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Echo Park | 1632 Bellevue Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
4. Take Your Pup on a Shopping Spree
Because who doesn't love a little retail therapy? Head to your favorite pet store and let your dog pick out their own Valentine's gift. Whether it's a new plush toy, a snazzy bandana, or gourmet treats, they'll love the experience of sniffing out their favorites. I personally do a thorough aisle-by-isle inspection to make sure I get a treat (or three) by the time I reach the checkout line.
My go-to pet stores in LA
Healthy Spot (multiple locations)
K9 Loft (multiple locations)
5. Attend a Dog-Friendly Valentine's Day Event
Los Angeles is full of pet-friendly events that make Valentine's Day extra fun. From dog-friendly markets to themed parties and adoption events, there's something for every pup. If your pup is not as social as I am, there are Valentine's Day activities designed for just pet parents, like ceramic-making classes and pet painting nights.
Boomtown Brewery | 700 Jackson St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
6. Arrange a Doggy Date or Attend a Breed Meetup
Invite your pup's best pal over for a doggy date or plan a group playdate with friends. Playdates aren't just fun—they strengthen social skills and burn energy!
Playdate Tips:
Bring a variety of toys and treats but be mindful of resource guarding. Pups like me are allergic to word-sharing.
Have separate water bowls
Choose a neutral location like a local park if your pup prefers their space
Announcement: Schnauzer Friends! If you're in LA, join over 250 schnauzers at this month's LA Schnauzer Meetup! Check details here and follow @simonsaysschnauzer for event updates.
7. Treat Your Pup to a Relaxing Spa Day
Give your pup the ultimate self-care treatment with a spa day! Los Angeles has plenty of luxury dog spas offering everything from blueberry facials to aromatherapy baths.
Local Dog Spa Recommendations in LA:
Healthy Spot (for blueberry facials) | multiple locations
Fluffology (for private spa rooms) | 11128 Magnolia Blvd, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Or, a home spa day with lavender shampoo, paw balm massages & belly rubs!
8. Host a Fancy Valentine's Meal at Home
After a full day of fun, why not spoil your pup with a gourmet meal? Whether you whip up a homemade recipe or order from a dog-friendly bakery, a special Valentine's dinner is the ultimate treat.
Dog-friendly Meal Ideas:
Doggy Egg Benedict
Treat Platter
Spending quality time with your pup isn't just about daily walks—it's about creating new experiences together! Whether you're brunching, hitting the beach, or spoiling them with treats, your pup will feel all the love this Valentine's Day.
Did you love this guide? Don't miss out on more dog-friendly adventures! Subscribe to my newsletter for exclusive content, pet-friendly events, and insider tips. And be sure to follow me on Instagram @sweetlifeofcalvin for my daily shenanigans!
Tag me in your Valentine's Day dog date pics—I want to see all the puppy love!❤️
Great suggestions, thank you Uncle Calvin! XOXO, Matcha