How to Arrange a Playdate for a Dog

Kids do it. Grown-Ups do it. Even pups and dogs do it. Let’s do it. Let’s set a date to play. If your dog occasionally needs a break from the old, two-legged, ball and chain—and a chance to get out of the house and mix it up with his canine comrades—why not set up a playdate? There are a variety of ways to do it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access

1. 

   Enroll your dog in Doggie Daycare. These have become increasingly popular and provide the perfect setting for your dog to exercise and socialize with other dogs. Most provide both indoor and outdoor play areas. You can drop Spot off for either a full or half day, and many also charge hourly rates for short-term playtime.

2. 

   Visit an off-leash dog park. They seem to be springing up everywhere and are a great chance for your dog to meet other dogs in the “hood” and for you to interact with your neighbors. Owners of particular dogs that seem to hit it off will often arrange to meet each other at the dog park at specific times.

3. 

   Join a Play Group. For dog owners who don’t feel comfortable bringing their prince or princess to the off-leash dog park, there are playgroups for specific types of dogs. Puppy, toy dog, small dog, big dog, even breed specific playgroups. Online is the best place to check for groups in your area. And, yes, in this case segregation is acceptable.

4. 

   Join an organization like Dog Scouts of America. This group and others like it organize outings to dog parks, doggie daycares, and other dog-friendly venues, as well as hiking trips. It's a chance for you to spend quality time and interact with your dog, as well as a small group of dog lovers.

5. 

   Place an ad in a local pet publication or on Craigslist for a doggie playmate. There are different reasons to do this. For instance, if your dog does better in a one-on-one situation, you don't have a dog park in your area, there are no dogs in your neighborhood, or you live in an apartment, you can advertise and specify the type of playmate or playmates and the situation you are looking for. Or your dog may very well be the answer to someone else's ad.

6. Visit a website that is specifically for setting up dog playdates (See Resources below). This helps with the screening process...sort of like a dating service.

Tips & Warnings

• Most doggie daycares have a viewing window and some have webcams to observe your baby in action. The first time you drop your dog off it's a good idea to stick around for a while and make sure everything's kosher. This will save you the trouble and embarrassment of getting called to come back and pick him up.
• If you answer an ad or someone answers your ad, meet your dog's prospective playmate and guardian at a public place the first time.
• Not all dogs are good candidates for the social scene or for certain playmates. Make sure to screen your dog’s potential playmates beforehand.

Resources

• dogplaydate.com