Believe it or not, Valentine's Day 2022 is right around the corner and this year, it's on a Monday! That means you will have plenty of time to spend with your dog. So this year, no matter if it's just you, or you and your husband and kids, be sure to include the dog in the Valentine's Day plans. Not quite sure how to make that happen. Well, keep reading for 8 fun ways to spend Valentine's Day with your dog.

1. Take your dog out for Sweet Treats!

Valentine's Day sweets are truly some of the best. We look forward to chocolate-covered fruits, delicious cupcakes, and other sweet treats every year when Valentine's Day is around the corner. This year, load up your dog in the car and take him to your local bakery to pick out some dog-friendly treats! Nowadays, most bakeries make dog-only cookies, cupcakes, cakes, and more! If your local baker does not make dog-friendly treats, no worries! Make some at home with these recipes. Your dog will love the treats and time spent hanging out with you.

2. New Toys

Show your dog how much you appreciate his or her love with new toys! Make it even more fun for your dog by taking him to a dog-friendly pet store and letting him pick out his toy! Wrap each toy individually and then let your dog unwrap them! This provides not just fun but mental stimulation for your dog too! Don't have time to make a trip to the store? That's ok! Shop our wide variety of dog toys from top brands like Chuckit!, JW Pet, Pet Qwerks, and more!

3. Have a Valentine's Day-themed photo shoot

This idea may sound lame, but just give it a shot. You don't have to get too fancy when creating a themed photoshoot for your dog. Just pin up a white or red sheet on the wall, grab some roses or heart pillows, and say cheese! It'll take a couple of tries for the perfect selfie with your dog, but once you get that perfect shot, it'll be worth it! Use this guide to help you get the perfect picture of your pet. Once you have it, print the picture and put it in a heart-shaped picture frame. You'll smile every time you look at that picture and remember the funny and happy memories you created with your dog on Valentine's Day.

4. Take your dog on a park picnic

If the weather is nice, pack up a picnic lunch, load up the dog and family, and spend an afternoon at the park. If you've got a fetch-lover, get a fun game of fetch going with a Chuckit! Launcher. Or if your dog is more laid-back and prefers chewing, bring along a Bark Bone Natural Instincts Nylon bone for him to gnaw on while you eat. To get some energy out, put on the dog leash and take a quick run. There's so much to do at the park and your dog will love every minute of it.

5. Go on a double date

Did you know there are dog-friendly restaurant patios where you can go eat and bring the dog along?! Well, there is! Some popular chains include Lazy Dog, Sonic, and Joe's Crab Shack. Most breweries with outside spaces also allow dogs. Be sure to also check with your smaller, local, mom-and-pop restaurants with patios. You'd be surprised at how many places allow dogs! Next, call up your best friend and his or her dog and schedule the date! It'll be a night to remember.

6. Make a Pawprint card

If you're looking for something to do at home on Valentine's Day with your dog, consider getting crafty! You can get some red or pink paint, pour some on a plate, then press your dog's paw into the paint and onto a piece of paper or a canvas. Then do your hand and frame it! This little craft will be fun to look at again years down the road.

7. Groom your dog

Take some time out of the day to groom your dog. Whether it's a simple brush of their coat or a full-on bathing session, your dog will feel fresh and clean and ready for whatever you have in store.

8. Take a Hike

Sometimes, there is nothing better than getting outside in the great outdoors. So grab the leash, harness, portable water bowl, and the dog, and take him on a hike with you! Taking your dog on a hike with you is a way to get both of you plenty of exercise, as well as engage your dog's instincts to run, dig, and play. Don't forget a treat for the both of you when y'all reach the peak of the hike. Spending some much-needed quality time outdoors is just what the doctor ordered.

No matter how big, or small your family is, spending Valentine's Day alone doesn't have to happen if you've got a dog. Our loyal furry family members are always there for us, no matter what. Take some time this Valentine's Day to show your dog just how much you love and appreciate them for all they do. This Valentine's Day will end up being the best one yet!