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Dog-Friendly Major League Baseball Games

Dog-Friendly Major League Baseball Games

It turns out that baseball is not just America’s pastime. It’s also the dog-lover’s pastime! Almost every major league ball field offers special dog-friendly events, from Waggin’ Wednesdays to Pups in the Park to Bark at the Park to Dog Days of Summer happenings. Most are relatively inexpensive, and some offer special seating, swag bags, and even “concierge” service for your dog’s potty needs. Even better, in many cases, a portion of your ticket price is donated to an animal-friendly charity such as the ASPCA.

In this article:

What to Consider Before Buying a Dog-Friendly Baseball Ticket

Like for other sporting events, dog-friendly baseball park events can be great fun, especially if you make it a group activity. It’s also a good way to meet like-minded baseball-loving dog owners. But it’s important to bear these issues in mind:

  • Dog day events usually require all dog owners to sit in a particular section. That means your dog will have to cope with lots of other dogs and owners in close proximity. If your dog is nervous or aggressive around other dogs, this may be the wrong venue for you.
  • Some brachycephalic breeds, such as bulldogs, do struggle in hot, crowded locations. If you’re concerned about your dog’s welfare, it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
  • Dog day events, not surprisingly, are planned for games that are unlikely to sell out. If you only go to the park now and then, and don’t want to  “waste” money on a not-so-important game, dog days may not be your first choice.
  • As in most public venues, ballparks reserve the right to eject any animal that could be considered dangerous or poorly behaved. If your dog is likely to nip or bark, the ballpark might not be the best place for them.
  • Depending on the park, your dog-day seats may not be optimal to see the game. If you like your seats front and center, you’ll want to check where you’ll be seated if you bring your dog to a baseball game.

Planning for Your Dog Day Experience

If you’re headed to a dog day experience, it’s best to be prepared. Though some event venues offer free water and other swag, it may be hard to access them when you need them. Here are a few steps that might make your day easier:

  • Make sure your dog has a chance to exercise and relieve itself before you enter the park.
  • Consider the weather and plan accordingly. If it’s very hot, you might want to pack paw protection. If it’s very cold, a blanket or dog sweater might be needed.
  • Pack along anything your dog needs to stay happy and relaxed. That might include treats, a packable “doggie bed,” a favorite toy, etc. You’ll also want a foldable water bowl, 
  • Be sure to bring these critical items: a foldable water bowl, bottled water, baggies for poop, food as needed, and a good, strong leash.

What to Know about Dog-Friendly Baseball Events

There’s no “one size fits all” when it comes to dog-friendly events at baseball parks. For example, in some cases your dog is included with your adult ticket, while in other cases you pay extra for your dog or for a special “dog day” package. In some cases, you’ll be asked to sit in a special location; in other cases, your dog can come with you to your pre-selected seats. It’s always smart to read the fine print before setting off for the park.

Dog-Friendly Major League Baseball Games
Many Major League Baseball Parks, such as Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox, host dog-friendly baseball events.

Where to Go for a Dog-Friendly Baseball Event Near You

This list, while extensive, may not include the entire national lineup of dog-friendly Major League Baseball events. Either way, it’s worth checking their website for event dates and details.

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About the Author: Lisa Jo Rudy, M.Div. has been writing on developmental disabilities and mental health since the early 2000s, when her son was diagnosed with autism. Lisa lives on Cape Cod, where she is the proud "mom" of two beautiful cats.

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