Summer in Newfoundland is short and sweet, so you gotta make the most of it. That’s easy when you have your four-legged friends by your side!

Whether you’re looking for fun things to do with your dog-loving friends around town, or you’re looking to get your pup some extra socialization, look no further than our top picks for dog-friendly summer activities around St. John’s!

The Downtown St. John’s Pedestrian Mall runs from June 30th to September 5th this year, and it’s the perfect place to take your dogs and get to see some of the best things the city has to offer! Featuring restaurants, bars, shops, music, seating areas, and street entertainment, this year’s pedestrian mall includes road closures on Water Street and George Street.

Photo courtesy: Gabby Peyton/CBC

Start by grabbing some takeaway food or drink at a cafe or restaurant, and enjoy a picnic at Harbourside Park or Prince Edward Plaza on George Street. More thirsty than hungry? Trinity Pub on the corner of George Street is dog-friendly and has a patio where you can enjoy a cold pint and soak up the sun!

Plus, many stores downtown are dog-friendly, so go for a twack and people watch all summer long!

If you and your dogs are high-energy and love staying active, then Signal Hill is the Place for you!

There are a few trails around Signal Hill, including the popular North Head Trail and Ladies’ Lookout. They offer incredible scenic views of the city and ocean, and you may even see some wildlife, like whales, rabbits, frogs, eagles, hawks, foxes, and more.

Photo courtesy: BringFido

After or during your hike, you can also stop by the Battery Cafe with your pups for a pick-me-up! They have a walk-up takeaway window and outdoor seating, so you and the gang can relax with an iced coffee and some treats.

Photo courtesy: Battery Cafe’s Facebook page

Stop and smell the roses with your four-legged friends at Rise and Shine Nursery in the Goulds! Located at 829 Main Road, Goulds, the nursery offers the highest quality plants — from annuals and perennials to vegetables, herbs, trees, shrubs, flowers, houseplants, and more! Explore the grounds, snap some ‘instagrammable’ photos, and pick out some beautiful flowers.

While you’re there, you and your dogs can meet Mia — Rise and Shine’s #1 greeter and mascot, a lovable 10-year-old golden retriever who loves spending time in the garden centre and meeting all the dogs and customers who visit.

Photo courtesy: Rise and Shine Nursery

Every Sunday throughout the summer, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., you and your pets can visit Saltwater Market by Saltwater Designs! Find them at 673 Topsail Road, St. John’s, and shop jewelry, clothing, housewares, gifts, specialty food items, and even pet-related vendors.

This gem in the west end even features soft serve, dole whip, Dippin’ Dots and more, available at Café Luxe inside the Saltwater Designs store front.

Photo courtesy: Saltwater Designs

There are so many dog parks near St. John’s that are great places to let your dogs play, burn off energy, and socialize!

The City of St. John’s provides a list of rules and tips for visiting dog parks to ensure you and your pets have a fun and safe time.

Check out this list of dog parks in and around the city to start planning your next adventure!

Photo courtesy: BringFido

It’s #ComeHome2022 here in Newfoundland, but exploring the province doesn’t mean you have to leave your pets behind.

For more ideas on what to do with your pets this summer around the province, pop in to Global Pet Foods St. John’s in the Torbay Road Mall. Their Pet Care Specialists are pet parents too, and they can provide recommendations on their favorite spots.

Have a fun, happy summer!

– Robert Greeley (@robertgreeleyy) & Dodger