Many think a dog is just another pet to keep around the house for entertainment. However, when boredom strikes most people don’t actually know what to do with them.

Drive + Starbucks run
Throughout the day most people need a small pick me up, so do dogs. Starbucks helps provide a small treat for dogs called a “Pup Cup”. A Pup Cup contains whipped cream in an appropriate portion for dogs, in some locations Starbucks sometimes adds a treat or even peanut butter drizzle. The Lake Bluff Starbucks helped make Tucker’s day with a small treat.

Dog friendly restaurant
Although most locations aren’t dog friendly, Vernon Hills Lazy Dog is. Lazy Dog even includes dog menus: complementary water, grilled hamburger patty, grilled chicken breast. Although dogs are not allowed inside of Lazy Dog, with exceptions to service dogs, they are allowed on the dog friendly patio. There are other options for dogs to dine such as: Silo outdoor seating, Bratski’s, Donelli’s outdoor seating, and many more. Most places in Lake Bluff/Lake Forest allow outdoor seating with a dog.

A trip to the lake
Although taking your dog for a walk around town is a generic idea of an activity to do, the beach can spice things up. In both Lake Bluff and Lake Forest there are opportunities for dogs to play and sniff around. A walk can be a fun and active activity to pass the time. Tucker especially loves to play around outside, so walks to the local beach are the perfect activity for him.

Bone Bar at Pasquesi Home and Garden
The Pasquesi Bone Bar is the perfect place to get a sweet treat for your furry friends. The store allows animals to walk through the store on a leash which is the perfect place to shop with your dog. With both Augie and Tucker’s birthdays coming up on April 23rd, I think they earned some birthday treats.

Dog library on Prospect Ave in Lake Bluff
Your dog deserves to pick their choice of entertainment too. The doggy library near Artesian Park in Lake Bluff is the perfect place for your dog to pick their choice of stick. A walk leading up to this exciting decision is the perfect excuse to get outside on a nice day.

Grooming/Bath
Giving your dog a bath can definitely be a challenge, but when you use the hose in the backyard it becomes a game. Even when done professionally, it is a nice break in the day for your dog and for you. Augie is always excited to leave with a nice bandana and smile on his face. Whether it’s professional or just in the backyard Augie always enjoys playing with water. By making bath time a game, while also cleaning him, it’s a win-win.

Painting
Although it may be messy, painting is a fun way to play with your dog. It’s a win-win: decoration and entertainment. It’s a fun and unpredictable activity that ultimately reflects the curiosity and excitement of your dog, and you.

Games and Tricks
Another activity to do with your dog is training. Fun games or unique tricks are ways to stimulate your dog and entertain you. For example, Augie has learned how to play hide and seek. This started by hiding somewhere in the open and calling his name then following it with the command “go.” Augie adapted quickly and now will run around the house to find whoever is hiding. As well, one of Augie’s favorite games is catch. Specifically with snowballs in the winter. Anytime the word “snowball” is called he runs over with his mouth open ready to catch.
