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 2023 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)- every Wednesday home game you can bring Fido with you!
Great Lakes Loons (Midland) – every Wednesday home game is Bark in the Park!
Royal Oak Leprechauns (Royal Oak) – Saturday, July 8th. One dog per family.
Kalamazoo Growlers (Kalamazoo) – Friday, July 7th.
Traverse City Pit Spitters – Every Tuesday is Barks and Brews nights presented by Cheboygan Brewing Company. Fans can bring their dogs to the game and draught craft beers will be half-price
Tiger Games Updated for 2023: Bark in the Park on May 30, August 29th, and September 13th- check out more info on these events, including what to expect and a printable checklist here.
Whitecaps (Grand Rapids) – Dog Day is June 20th against the Loons
Mudhens (Toledo, OH) – Hens and Hounds, every Tuesday home game starting May 23rd
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 – March 19. Supporting the Bissell Pet Foundation
Toledo Walleyes – April 2. Supporting the Toledo Area Humane Society and Lucas County Canine Care & Control
DOG-FRIENDLY SOCCER GAMES IN MICHIGAN:
K-9s at Keyworth Stadium – DCFC women’s game on Wednesday, June 28th. This game ended up being canceled due to weather.
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.
