Editor’s note: This post originally ran on YourTango.com, but we’re republishing it here (with permission) so folks here at Dogster can comment on it.
They say that dog is a man’s best friend — so why shouldn’t your dog tag along as your wingman (or wingwoman) when it comes to date nights or romantic getaways with your partner? Your furry little matchmaker is the perfect excuse to check out these destinations (in some cases, no leash required). Here are six to add to your bucket list for couples who are obsessed with dogs.
1. Woofstock, Toronto
Woofstock is all about peace, love, and dogs. This is where 300,000 dog owners and their four-legged friends come together every June to join the biggest dog festival in North America. There’s a lineup of events including dog speed dating, trick contests, fashion shows, and competitive courses. Don’t miss the Running of the Pugs!
2. World’s Ugliest Dog Contest , Sonoma-Marin (California) Fair
Your significant other always jokes that your mutt is ugly, but you just know your pooch is so ugly, she’s “cute.” If you both have a sense of humor, then settle the score by entering in the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest. Every year, shaggy-haired canines vie for the title of the World’s Ugliest, a trophy and $1,000. With those winnings, who needs Westminster?
3. Dog Beach, San Diego
You’ll want to hit the beach before the summer ends, and what better way to do that then with your furry friends tagging along? Dog Beach permits dogs to frolic off leash, splash around in the waves, explore the sand dunes, and scavenge for beach treasures. It’s a great place to squeeze in that “long walk on the beach” and even meet another couple to double-date with. Or, the two of you can always curl up in the sand and watch your dogs run free.
4. The Dog Cafe, Busan, South Korea
Your coffee date is about to get seriously upgraded. When Japan came out with cat cafes (we’ve also heard of at least one in Amsterdam), South Korea answered with its own canine-friendly take: The Dog Cafe. So if you’re on the eastern side of the world with your special someone, stop by this venue. An entry fee of $7 buys you a coffee, a pastry, and a welcoming group of loveable pups who can’t wait to play and snuggle in your lap. Just make sure you can resist their puppy eyes when you leave!
5. The BoardWaddle, Ocean City, New Jersey
Imagine hundreds of saggy-faced, floppy-eared, stumpy-legged Basset Hounds waddling down the street. How can you help but feel giggly with all that cuteness? That’s what makes the annual BoardWaddle so irresistible. This event is sponsored by an organization that helps find homes for homeless bassett hounds called Tri-State Basset Hound Rescue. You’ll be marching hand-in-hand with your guy or gal for a good cause.
6. Museum of the Dog, St. Louis
The Museum off the Dog, operated by the American Kennel Club and located in a historic 19th-century house in lush Queeny Park, houses an impressive collection of more than 700 paintings and sculptures. There have been some contributions made by famous benefactors, including an original painted portrait (“Millie on the South Lawn”) of the former First Dog, which was donated by former First Lady Barbara Bush. Oh, and did we mention that the museum hosts weddings?
About the Author: Alexandra Churchill is an editorial assistant at YourTango.com.
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