9+ Fun Things To Do In Alabama For Dogs (2024)

Are you seeking some fun and easy ways to spend some quality hours with your four-legged friend? Then, Alabama has plenty of options.

But, before that, what does a dog or a pet like? OF COURSE, The owner’s attention and company. But when it comes to activities, they adore spacious parks, adventure, exploration, socializing, food, and more.

Luckily, Alabama offers numerous dog-friendly destinations and activities that will create lasting memories for both you and your furry friend.

Pro Tip – I prefer you to engage in these activities frequently, like one in a day.

Moreover, as a pet owner myself, I know the value of spending some quality time with your furry friends. That’s why I often take my dog, Muku, to enjoy these activities in our neighborhood.

Is Alabama good for dogs and other pets?

First, let’s confirm something – ”Is Alabama the best or even a suitable place for Dogs?” And, the answer is a big YES!

Alabama has tons of pet-friendly attractions that both you and your pet will find amusing. For example, giant parks, mountains, trails, adventure facilities, pet shops, spas and many pet-friendly attractions. Here, pet-friendly means every single pet except dangerous ones.

However, that’s not really an issue for your pet. All it wants is your attention, affection, and company. So, it doesn’t care where you take it. But as an owner, it’s your responsibility to ensure your pet is having a good time.

That’s why Alabama is a perfect destination for dogs and other pets, like cats, rabbits, birds, etc. Don’t forget to harness your dog because the overwhelming crowd and noises can startle or scare it.

Dog-friendly activities in Alabama

Here are some of the best activities and things to do in Alabama for dogs and other pets to enjoy a random holiday or a day out.

1. Visit a dog/Pet-friendly park 🏞️

Now, one of the first things you can do with your dog is take a stroll in a pet-friendly park.

Alabama boasts numerous wonderful and dog-friendly parks, providing a peaceful environment with ample space to run, safe surroundings, and a range of dog-friendly activities to keep your furry friend entertained.

These parks offer vast open spaces for your dog to stretch its legs and run freely. It’s not only a chance for your pet to exercise, but also an opportunity to socialize with other furry friends, promoting mental and physical fitness.

Make sure to remove the harness so that it can run to its heart on the open land and check out the stuff that might evoke curiosity in it.

Here, you have three options. First, you can take your dog to a nearby casual park, where it can befriend other dogs and play freely.

Second, you can opt for adventure parks like Cheaha State Park or Gulf Shore Park, which offer a variety of activities such as lakes, hiking, camping, and more to engage in.

Third, you can take it to a specialized dog park that has agility equipment where your pet can test their skills and have fun navigating obstacles like tunnels, jumps, and weaving poles. Two prime examples of the best dog-friendly parks are Remy’s Dog Park in Birmingham or Mill Creek Dog Park in Mobile. These parks offer a safe, fenced-in environment where your pup can run, play, and socialize off-leash.

Plus, no matter what, keep an eye on your pet, and clean its poop. It our resposibility to keep the beautiful parks clean and enjoyable for everyone!

2. Explore a beach together🏖️

Next, if you’re a fan of the beach, you can take your dog to the world-famous Gulf Shores Beach. It offers a vast space for your pet to run and explore, plus provides enjoyable activities for both of you.

Pro Tip – You have to keep your dog on a leash all the time. Then, you are free to roam this wonderful beach.

Gulf Shores Beach is a top attraction in Alabama for both humans and their furry companions. One of the best activities here is taking a leisurely stroll with your dog along the soft white sand, enjoying the soothing sound of the waves and the fresh ocean breeze.

Moreover, dogs and some other pets often love swimming. So, if you are careful enough and know the basics of swimming, then your dog has the opportunity to splash and play in the shallow surf, but only to a certain distance.

A husky dog chasing another dog in a beach

You can bring a frisbee to enjoy a fetching game or also you can try sunbathing on the sand. It’s another fun experience for both of you. Moreover, try to socialize with other pet owners. Your dog can befriend other dogs and maybe you will find a friend for yourself.

Moreover, Gulf State Park is right nearby. If you have extra time to spare and want more adventures, consider giving the park a visit. It offers additional activities such as a lake, expansive open grounds, hiking trails, and camping facilities, perfect for your furry buddy.

In a nutshell, It’s a great way for your furry friend to socialize and burn off some energy while you mingle with other pet owners.

3. Try a doga session 🧘🏽‍♂️+🐶

For 3, I have a very calm and rejuvenating experience for both of you – A Doga Session. Ever heard of it? It’s simply a blend of Yoga with a furry pet partner.

A man and a husky dog preparing for a doga session

And recently, it has become quite a trend, with many celebrities and influencers trying out these refreshing and fun yoga sessions with their pets.

Now, you have two options: first, you can try this in your own house. It will be convenient, and your pet is already familiar with the environment. Watch some YouTube video, if its your first time.

However, you can also visit an event of doga sessions where tons of dog and pet owners just like you gather and enjoy fun and quality time with their pets. This event also hosts a doga session. So it is perfect for both you and your pet.

If you are wondering how can my dog do something so disciplined like yoga, then listen my friend – It is not about whether it can or can’t, it’s all about company and spending some quality time with each other to ascend your physical and mental growth while strengthening the bond.

A woman and a husky dog doing some doga together

The perfect places for this session include some pet-friendly beaches, dog-friendly parks, campgrounds, botanical gardens and even your own backyard.

So, I highly recommend you to try some refreshing and tranquil doga sessions with your dog, either at your home or outside.

4. Roam in a bustling city 🏙️

If you live near a bustling and urban city, then taking a normal stroll in the streets of the city might be a great opportunity for you and your dog to gain some new experience and fun.

A husky dog strolling in the city with leash on

I’m pretty sure you already go for walks with your furry friend frequently. But if it’s your first time, keep an eye on your dog and let it get used to it.

Every city boasts several streets filled with shops, pubs, and other amenities that your dog might find fascinating. Moreover, along the way, you will meet a lot of pet enthusiasts taking a walk with their own pets. You can chat with them while the pets befriend each other.

If your dog wants to go somewhere and pulls you in a certain direction, change your path to the one your dog finds curious. Right now, your dog is the KING and you are the caretaker. So, take him wherever he/she wants to go.

A dog roaming in the streets with its lady owner

On the way, You will encounter several attractions, like Pet-friendly parks, River walks, and trails designed especially for dogs. So, try to give them a visit, because they have some interesting things and activities for your dog.

You can also visit some pet-friendly restaurants, breweries and hotels to enjoy some delicate cuisine and crafted beer with your beloved dog.

Don’t unleash your dog, until you are sure that it is in a safe, secure and pet friendly environment, like a fenced park.

5. Shop at a pet shop 🏪+🐕‍🦺

If you run out of your dog’s beloved food, necessities, or any other daily items, it might be a good opportunity to visit your nearby or any renowned pet shop, with your pet buddy.

It might seem simple, but it can be a valuable experience for your dog, and you can get the necessities at the same time. So, it’s a win-win situation.

Now, to reach the shop, you can take a walk. So, it adds another fun element to the adventure. And after reaching the shop your dog will get surprised by the insane amount of dog food and other items.

There your dog has the chance to socialize with other fellow dogs in a dog-friendly environment, while you shop for your beloved pet’s beloved items.

A woman looking at a pet food inside a pet shop

If you are looking for some recommendations, then Hollywood Feed in Montgomery or Pet Supplies Plus in Huntsville are some of the best pet shops in Alabama, where you can browse for toys, treats, and accessories together.

So, if you are visiting a pet shop try to tag along your pet or dog buddy with you, so it won’t feel bored in the house.

6. Explore dog-friendly trails ⛰️

I think you take frequent walks with your buddy in your home city, parks etc. So, how about you go on a hiking adventure?

A couple sitting on a hiking trail with their husky dog

It might look absurd or crazy, but it is one the best adventures you can have with your four-legged friend. Because, hiking in itself is a thrilling and fun activity, plus your furry friend will make it even more exciting.

Moreover, Alabama has some amazing and pet-friendly hiking trails and adventure parks, where leashed dogs are welcome to accompany you on scenic hikes.

Now, for a perfect hiking experience, Cheaha Mountain, Monte Sano or Lookout Mountain might be the best option. However, I suggest you to choose the mountain or hiking trail which is nearest to your home place.

Cheaha State Park, Free things to do in Alabama for dogs

During my hike, my dog motivated me a lot, and it was really fun because a dog is a far better companion than a person. And, your dog is gonna stick with you till the end. So, after reaching the top together, I got a feeling of achievement and I was glad that I brought my dog with me. However, the feeling was mutual. Even my dog was feeling more energetic and cheerful.

So, if you want to try something different than your normal city walk, then try hiking on a scenic mountain together.

7. Dine at pet-friendly restaurants 🍽️

Alabama has some amazing and charming pet-friendly restaurants. Where you can have some of the finest cuisine of Alabama with your four-legged friend.

A couple having dinner in a pet friendly restaurant alongside their pet dog

Some of the best restaurants that offer fantastic services for pets are The Hangout in Gulf Shores or Avondale Brewing Company in Birmingham. They have a separate menu for pets with dog bowls and treats for your beloved pet.

In my opinion, it’s truly a perfect activity or experience to try with your furry friend while having some of the finest cuisine of Alabama in a luxurious restaurant.

However, if you want you can even share small portions of your dish with them. Because sharing is caring.

But, if your dog only loves to eat its pet food, then it is also fine. Because this place is visually attractive and curious and your furry friend can relax by your side without doing anything while you dine on your favorite cuisine.

8. Try camping with your buddy 🏕️+🐕

If you want adventure and you think your dog will love it, then both of you can go to a State park for a camping night.

It is both a thrilling and fun experience for you and your dog, where you can engage in some adventure activity and at night both of you will have a fun and awesome stay in your own camp amidst nature and wildlife.

Now, the main thing is the destination. So, here are some recommendations –

Cheaha State Park
Gulf State Park
Or any other place, you might know

Before engaging in such activities, I suggest you visit the Visitor’s place. It’s like a guide area, where you get basic info, the best places and a map for an efficient and effortless experience.

During the day or evening, try some thrilling activities like hiking, swimming etc with your dogs. All of these activities are suitable for pets because pets, especially dogs, love mountains, adventure and swimming.

An image of a camp in Jungle and a husky dog sleeping beside a tree

But, if your purpose is only camping, then set up your tent in a suitable or specific area. I prefer camping near the hiking trails on the mountain. From there, you can have glances of some mesmerizing view with your buddy. And seriously spending some quality and friendly time with your beloved dog is one of the best experiences.

9. Yappy hour 🍺

If you are a frequent drinker or want to try some amazing and freshly crafted beer of Alabama, then you might be a lucky person. Because, the breweries in Alabama offer a ‘Yappy Hour’ event, where even the dogs are allowed.

A brewer with a jug of freshly crafted beer

It’s true and surreal, that the breweries welcome your furry four-legged friend wholeheartedly. Plus, the rich, fresh and hand-crafted beer is so amazing, that you should try it once, the German one is my favorite and best-selling.

But, it’s not like your dog will drink it. Your dog is just there for company. But don’t worry, you will find several pet enthusiasts who might be a good companion for your dog. You can chat with them about dogs and beer while your dogs get along with each other.

The beer is completely handcrafted, so it has a very rich flavor and aroma that even a dog finds fascinating. But, make sure to keep an eye on him. Because the shops or breweries have a lot of valuable items, like beers, fermentation barrels and much more.

10. Gift your dog a pet pampering ✂️

If you think your dog looks sluggish and needs some grooming, then it’s a great idea to take your dog to a pet groomer and spa.

A husky dog getting groomed in a pet saloon

Be sure that your dog is friendly or strong enough to face the groomer and other staff of the spa. If YES, then it’s another fun and unique experience for your dog.

Now, what to do and where to go for a fun, laid-back and amazing experience, Well, you can visit any nearby pet grooming shop or spa, but if you want recommendations, then here are some –

Kritter Kreations, Prattville
Lucky Dog Grooming and Boutique, Birmingham
Knotty Dog, Chelsea

Every grooming spa or saloon provides gentle care and friendly nature so that your dog gets along pretty well and doesn’t create any hassle or mess during the process.

They do the grooming from top to bottom, like giving your pet appropriate and beautiful cutting, shampooing and oiling the fur, cutting their nails, powder and a gentle massage.

The prices can be expensive, so check it yourself or look for local affordable shops.

I’m sure after this, your dog will feel like a royal being just coming out of his luxury experience.

FAQ

1. How many dogs can you have in Alabama?

Ans – There is no limit on how many dogs you can pet, but there is a limit on how many dogs you can take outside, and that is 4.

2. What type of things do dogs generally like?

Ans – Talking about general, dogs are very energetic and curious animals, so they definitely love running, exploring, hunting, tailing and any other highly energetic activity. They also like their owner and their pet food.

3. Can your dog eat or drink with you in Alabama restaurants and breweries?

Ans – It depends on the restaurant and brewery. If they are pet-friendly, they will allow pets to accompany their owners. But the rest is up to you. First, beer is a NO, it is not for pets. However, if the restaurant has a menu for dogs, then you can try or you can just share some of your food with your pet.

4. Is Alabaam good for other pets, besides dogs?

Ans – YES! COMPLETELY! When I’m talking about dogs, I’m generally talking about pets. I just took dogs as a baseline because of my own dog MUKU. So, yeah, any pet can have the same fun experience. However, that doesn’t mean you bring some dangerous animals, like a lion or a crocodile or any other scary pet. That Would be too much.

Wrap Up

So, I hope you know what to do next for your beloved four-legged buddy so that the bond between you strengthens while having some of the best experiences of your life.

Well, dogs generally like running, exploring, playing and tailing their owners. But there is no harm in trying some unique and fun things, which is also a fun experience for their owner.

But, if you live in an urban area or don’t want to go too far, then you can find alternative of activities like restaurants, spas, and more in your own locality.

“Because the company matters more than the place, activity, or price. If your dog loves it, consider it a successful outing.”