How to make your dog the perfect wingman at a date

If you’re the furry friend to a dog who just loves spending time with you and just looks for a chance to spend outdoors, bringing them to a date is a great way to break the ice and make the experience more relaxed, fun, and memorable. That said, making your dog the perfect wingman takes more than just a little planning (this only happens if your date happens to be a dog person and is comfortable around pets). Here are some handy tips that’ll ensure your dog makes the date memorable by being there rather than it being a distraction. 

Ensure that your dog is well-trained and groomed

A well-behaved dog, that’s polite and friendly, makes a great impression on a date. The use of simple commands such as ‘sit,’ ‘stay,’ and ‘come’ will prevent any embarrassing situations and/or chaos. It is best you have them on a leash (considering they’d be meeting a stranger for the very first time) to avoid them wandering/running off during the date. Add to that, a clean and nice-smelling pup is always appreciated so groom your dog beforehand. 

Pay attention to how your dog is feeling

Your dog’s comfort and behaviour will play a huge role in ensuring the date goes smoothly. A shy dog might unintentionally create tension instead of breaking the ice. If you have a dog who displays aggression toward other dogs, people, or stimuli, their behaviour could create uncomfortable or even dangerous situations. Then there are dogs that get excited and overwhelmed very soon. If you notice that their tails are tucked in between their legs, their ears are flattened or they’re barking, whining and hiding before the date, it might not be the right time to bring your dog along.

Pick a dog-friendly location and bring the right supplies

Pick a pet-friendly café, park, or outdoor space where dogs are welcome. Look for amenities like shaded areas, water bowls, to keep your dog comfortable. A well-chosen location ensures your dog can relax, making the date more enjoyable for everyone. Furthermore, remember to carry essentials like water, poop bags and treats to keep your dog comfortable. It’ll show your date that you came prepared and are a very responsible person—traits many find attractive.

Make your dog’s personality stand out

Let your date know what makes your dog special. Be it a playful trick, a habit, or their warm and friendly nature, let their charm take centre stage. Remember, your dog’s personality is an extension of your own. Let their charisma be a bridge that brings you and your date closer together. For example, if your dog can ‘give high-fives’ or ‘play dead,’ use the moment to impress your date while keeping the mood fun and relaxed. Add to that, sharing a light-hearted or humorous story about your pup can add a personal touch to the interaction. 

Involve your dog in activities

Incorporate your dog into fun activities to create shared experiences and build connections. Plan a casual walk where your dog leads the way, fostering conversation as you spend time with your date. You could also engage in light-hearted games like fetch or tug-of-war, inviting your date to join in and bond with your pup. Showcase your dog’s talents with tricks like ‘shake,’ ‘roll over,’ or ‘high-five,’ or involve your date in teaching them a new command making for a very playful moment. Capture the fun by snapping a candid photo of the three of you or share a treat moment, letting your date feed your dog (if they’re comfortable). Whether it’s light exercise, exploring nature, or simply enjoying your dog’s charm, these activities ensure your furry companion adds warmth and excitement to the date.

Balance things out

Involve your dog in the date, but don’t let them steal the spotlight. While they can help create fun moments, ensure you’re equally attentive to your date by engaging in meaningful conversation and showing genuine interest in them. Use your dog as an icebreaker or a way to lighten the mood, but transition smoothly into getting to know your date on a deeper level. Striking this balance not only keeps the date enjoyable but also demonstrates your ability to multitask and prioritize both your relationships and responsibilities.

With a little preparation, your dog can be the perfect wingman, setting the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable date. By showcasing your thoughtful, caring side and providing opportunities for shared laughter and bonding, your furry friend can help you and your date connect on a deeper level.

Lead image: Pexels

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