It’s been a long, cold winter and our pups are looking forward to the warmer weather as much as we are. With the arrival of spring upon us, it’s the ideal time to venture out with your four-legged pal beyond that five-mile radius they are accustomed to. Interestingly enough, Monmouth County is home to a vast array of places where you will both be welcomed. However, before going anywhere, it’s critical to follow a few guidelines to ensure the experience is a good one for you (and your pooch).

For example, if taking them to a restaurant, feed them first! Think of all those enticing smells they will have to contend with. After all, is there anything worse then having them spend the entire meal whining, barking or worse, begging for food? Avoid all of this nonsense by having them arrive with a nice, full belly. That way they will do the right thing and fall asleep at your feet while you enjoy your own meal.

Another helpful tip is to wear them out before taking them anywhere they are required to sit still for a long period of time. Take a long walk or get some serious playtime in before going out. Also, it will help to arm yourself with the essentials before leaving the house: a travel water bowl, treats, and a chew toy. And finally, lots of extra bonus points if Fido knows the basic commands like: “sit,” “stay,” “come,” and “down.”

Off-Leash Parks

Thompson Park Off-Leash Dog Area

805 Newman Springs Road, Lincroft

This park includes two areas, splitting up the big guys from the more petite pups.

Wolf Hill Recreation Area

3 Crescent Place, Oceanport

This newer park offers two off-leash areas and plenty of sheltered picnic tables.

Beaches

8th Avenue Dog Beach

8th Avenue, Asbury Park

Visit the beach during off-peak hours in the summer and whenever you’d like the rest of the year. Pups permitted from 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area

391 Third Avenue, Manasquan

This hidden gem features 55 acres of marshland along the Manasquan Inlet. There is a designated Dog Beach where you can frolic and swim with your furry friend

Restaurants

Wonder Bar (Yappy Hour)

5th and Ocean Avenues, Asbury Park

Open at noon on Saturdays and Sundays and features swimming pools and an agility area for the pups. Yappy Hour is restricted to guests 21 and over. For more information visit Wonderbarasburypark. com.

Asbury Festhalle and Biergarten

527 Lake Avenue, Asbury Park

You and your pup will love this authentic Austro-Hungarian beer garden. Check out the outdoor patio located right at the street level. The sights and smells in this place are sure to delight your pooch.  Hours are from noon to 10:00 p.m. Fridays through Sundays.

The BoonDocks Fishery & Grill

1 Marine Park, Red Bank

This seafood shack is the ideal place for you and your pup to enjoy an ultra-casual evening overlooking the Navesink River. Open May through October.

Lola’s European Café

539 Cookman Avenue, Asbury Park

Lola’s features “Doggie Night” once a week throughout the summer. Fido can even sample a free, frozen treat.

Miscellaneous

Bark in the Park at Lakewood BlueClaws Baseball Game

Visit the Lakewood BlueClaws website to see when the annual Bark in the Park event will be this season.  This is a huge “Paw-ty” which is free and open to all dogs. Enjoy a myriad of festivities including silly pet tricks, contests for your furry friends, and a pet parade before the game.

Red Bank Dog Days

You and your furry friend will love Red Bank’s annual Dog Days this summer.  A portion of Monmouth Street is shut down so you and your pup can browse dozens of vendors featuring all kinds of products and services for dogs and their owners. Visit redbank.org for dates.

Pet Friendly Resource

Gopetfriendly.com is an excellent resource for locating pet friendly hotels, campgrounds, beaches, and off-leash parks all across the country.

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