Whether you’re still in the honeymoon phase or have been together for years, it’s always key to make time for your special someone. So, we’ve put together 10 date ideas for you and your four-legged friend.

Check out the dog park

It may be the canine equivalent of ‘dinner-and-a-movie,’ but don’t underestimate the fun you and your best mate can have at the dog park. Fresh air, lush greenery and tons of other dogs and humans to hang out with, it’s a date you can easily squeeze into a busy week. Head down to your local, or if you’re feeling adventurous, check out a brand new park you’ve both never been to.

 Take a Hike

‘Walkies’ is a treat all on its own, so spoil your adventurous pup with a day-hike in the great outdoors. Whether you head to Melbourne’s Seven Acre Rock, Burramoko Ridge in Sydney or Brisbane’s Forest Park, load up a daypack with trail mix, doggy mix and plenty of water for you both. And let’s face it, did you even go if you didn’t snap a selfie of you and your mate at the top of the hill?

Go to the Beach

Few things are more romantic than a ‘long walk on the beach’. So, if the sun is out, hit your local dog-friendly beach this weekend for a day playing fetch, ocean swims and chilling out with a good book (or new ball). In Sydney? Head to Rowland Reserve, Sirius Cove Reserve or Federal Park. Melburnians can let their pups off leash at Sandown Street Beach, PA Burns Reserve and Beach and the classic St Kilda Beach. While Brisbane locals can dig their paws in the sand at Nudgee Beach dog park, Colmslie Recreation Reserve or Bribie Island’s Red Beach.

Retail therapy

Everyone loves a thoughtful gift, so if you and your dog love a luxe shopping sesh, check out some outdoor malls, shopping districts and pet stores for a day-long spree! And if you really want to woo your date, upgrade their old collar and leash to a brand new Kip&Co set.

Get fit together

Working on a New Year’s fitness goal? Why not combine exercise with quality time and take your most loyal supporter along to an Aussie ParkRun. Held every Saturday morning, the 5km run takes place in cities all over the world, and welcomes dogs (and humans) of every shape, size and speed!

Pack a Pooch-friendly Picnic

Picnics aren’t just cheap and cheerful, they’re super fun too! Get out your cutest picnic basket, fill it to the brim with cheese and crackers for you and a handy pouch of Meat Mates for them. Head to the closest park to enjoy a warm summer evening. We recommend taking a small music speaker, cosy blanket and bottle of wine for optimum romance.

Catch a sports match

Whether you love baseball or soccer, tennis or hockey, sports games are a fun, active way to spend some time with your best mate. While your date may not understand the rules, we bet they’ll gladly take on the role of chief ball catcher, so remember to pack a leash!

Hit the water

Got a dog who adores the water? Put your balance to the test and give your pup a date they won’t forget by renting a paddleboard or kayak. A great work out for you both, it’s a doggy date that will surely pack a lot of laughs — especially if you both take an accidental swim.

See a movie under the stars  

Outdoor movies aren’t just great for a human date; they’re also a perfect evening for your four-legged friend. While they may not care much for watching the latest rom-com under the stars, they’re sure to love spending the whole night snuggled up to their favourite human. Don’t forget the popcorn and Meat Mates Treats!

Visit a Dog-Friendly Restaurant

You may not be able to split dessert, but you can still enjoy a fancy dinner out. That’s right, many restaurants, bars and cafes love dogs too and are more than happy to seat them at open-air tables, outdoor patios (and even some indoors!). Check with your favourite eatery or search websites like BringFido for places in your city, and don’t forget to BYO Meat Mates!

Check Out a Farmer’s Market

Fresh produce and artisanal products for you, hundreds of exciting smells and new dogs for them; a Farmer’s Market is a brilliant way to spend a Saturday with your pup. Explore the stalls of tasty samples, pick up some fresh seasonal goods and finish the morning off with a leisurely walk at a nearby park or beach. Even better, pack an easy single-serve Meat Mates Pouch for your pup and pick up some ingredients at the market for an alfresco picnic in the sun.

To celebrate the launch of our new pet range, we’re excited to partner with Meat Mates and for a limited time, you’ll receive a Meat Mates Pouch Dinner sample with any dog accessory purchased! Meat Mates can also be found at Coles stores nationwide.