Dog-friendly Sporting Events in Michigan
Do you love sports AND spending time with your pup? To be honest, I only want to go to a sporting event if I can take my dog!
I’ve compiled a list of dog-friendly sporting events in Michigan for you and your pup to have fun at this summer. Let me know which event you’ll be stopping at! This list has been updated for 2026 as of 5/6/26 and I’ve added a few Toledo, Ohio events since it’s so close to the Michigan border.
The events:
If you’re a baseball fan then this is definitely the list for you! Our local baseball teams love hosting dog days throughout the summer.
DOG-FRIENDLY BASEBALL GAMES IN MICHIGAN (AND TOLEDO):
Lugnuts Baseball (Lansing)- May 16th, June 10th, June 24th, July 22nd, Aug 5th, and Sept 2nd. Please note that this seems to be a change from the previous years policy.
Great Lakes Loons (Midland) – Bark in the Park dates are May 17th, June 5th, and Aug 27th. Plus a cat-friendly game o Aug 12th. Please note that this a change from previous years when dogs were welcome at Wed home games.
Royal Oak Leprechauns (Royal Oak) – May 30th, June 4th, and June 30th. One dog per family.
Kalamazoo Growlers (Kalamazoo) – May 28th.
Traverse City Pit Spitters – Every Tuesday is Barks and Brews nights, which are June 9th, June 30th, and August 4th. Plus it looks like there is a specialty game this year – June 9th is the Corgi & Weiners night (no details)
Tiger Games 2026 dates have been announced and tickets are available, no word on any special merchandise. Games are Aug 25th, Sept 8th, and Sept 21st. Check out more info on these events, including what to expect and a printable checklist here.
Jimmy Johns Stadium (Utica) – Bark in the Park is May 17th
Whitecaps (Grand Rapids) – Dog Days are May 21st, June 19th, Aug 26th
Mudhens (Toledo, OH) – Hens and Hounds, every Tuesday home game. Those dates are May 19th, June 9th, July 21st, Aug 4th, Aug 18th, Sept 1st, Sept 15th
DOG-FRIENDLY HOCKEY GAMES IN MICHIGAN (AND TOLEDO):
Hockey games are great because you don’t have to wait until summer to enjoy an event with your pup!
Grand Rapids Griffins – should be coming this fall, dates TBD
Toledo Walleyes – waiting on next year’s dates
Kalamazoo Wings – waiting on next year’s dates
DOG-FRIENDLY SOCCER GAMES IN MICHIGAN:
K-9s at Keyworth Stadium – waiting on dates. Get your tickets here and read about what to expect at the DCFC dog-friendly game here.
What to know before you go:
I love dogs as much (probably more let’s be honest) than the next person but when attending these events please be mindful of your dog. If you’re taking them to these events they should always be on a leash. They should also be dog/person/kid-friendly. These events are great for spending time with your pup doing something you love but if they’re stressed out then it’s not going to be fun for anyone, least of all, them.
If your dog does end up becoming stressed the best thing you can do is remain calm. Reassure them as you remove yourselves from the crowds/situation that is making them uncomfortable. Be firm with the person/people who may be causing your dog anxiety. If you see that a child is heading towards your dog and you’re unsure how they’re going to react then let them know to stop or get their parent’s attention.
Your dog must have proof of rabies at each park but you will want to check with each park on their specific requirements for any additional records that may require (and don’t forget to leave the retractable leashes at home!).
Which of these games will you be going to? And did I miss any great dog-friendly sporting events in Michigan? Don’t forget to get your printable checklist for the Tigers game here.
