Skip to content

Active Dogs

Meet with other local Active Dogs Owners. All those who enjoy taking their dogs out gather to share info on local dog-friendly places and meet other dog owners!
pin icon
200,672
members
people1 icon
334
groups

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out active dogs events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the active dogs events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find active dogs events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Active Dogs Events Today

Join in-person Active Dogs events happening right now

Fort Marcy/Donaldson Run (Rating: C)
Fort Marcy/Donaldson Run (Rating: C)
You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "**I a** **Accept**" to be permitted on the hike. **4.61 mile loop with 548 ft. of elevation; Each 400ft. elevation = 1 mile, so hike is approx. 6.61 miles.** **Please Note: this hike involves a lot of maneuvering over tree trunks, around rock and stream crossings.** You must be **capable** of hiking this **distance** and **elevation.** Join us as we hike from **[Fort Marcy](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/fortmarcy.htm)** to **[Donaldson Run](https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Parks/Donaldson-Run-Park)** and **back**. It is a scenic and very enjoyable hike! **DESCRIPTION:** We will descend from **[Fort Marcy](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/fortmarcy.htm)**, continuing along a lovely stream towards **[Gulf Branch Park](https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Nature-Centers/Gulf-Branch-Nature-Center-Park)**[ ](https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Nature-Centers/Gulf-Branch-Nature-Center-Park)to **[Donaldson](https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Parks/Donaldson-Run-Park)**[ ](https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Parks/Donaldson-Run-Park)**[Run](https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Departments/Parks-Recreation/Locations/Parks/Donaldson-Run-Park)**. Both **Gulf Branch** and **Donaldson Run** involve several stream crossings, maneuvering over rocks and trunks. We will follow **Donaldson Run** to the **Potomac River** and back. **Facilities: none** **Bring:** adequate hydration, sturdy shoes, poles if you use them, snack/lunch, insect repellant **Pace:** We hike at a pace of 2.0 to 2.5 mph while moving. **Dogs**: No dogs on this hike per **[[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicyhttps:/tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolic)]** **Park Entry Fee**: $0.00 **Where to Meet**: We will begin at **Fort Marcy, northbound off of the** **George Washington Memorial Parkway**. There is plenty of parking. I have a Honda Fit, the hatchback will be up. Please **arrive by 9:00** am to allow time forr signing in. We'll start hiking at **9:30am.** **GPS Coord: 38.933809, -77.125483** **[LINK: FORT MARCY](https://maps.app.goo.gl/fwXjL1MWFm24YVyB8?g_st=im)** **Post-Hike Fellowship: TBD** **Leader:** Dawn please message me here or text to 703 533 9231
Monday Courthouse Run/Walk - 40 Min
Monday Courthouse Run/Walk - 40 Min
On Monday, we'll meet in front of 2100 Clarendon Blvd around 6:50pm and head out for a nice hilly run on the Custis Trail at 7pm. We usually head out for a drink after the run. So if you're planning to stay after for drinks, bring your ID/etc. Notes: If you're not familiar with the area, please review the routes. If it's cold, take cover inside the foyer area of 2100 Clarendon Blvd. Photos taken during the event may end up on Instagram, Meetup, Strava and similar platform. Routes: We'll alternate between the following routes. Both are hilly. We run 20 minutes out and then turn around and run 20 minutes back to Courthouse. Everyone runs at his/her own pace, so the distance will depend on your speed. 1. Courthouse to Georgetown Waterfront (one big hill) ([https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6264227038/](https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6264227038/)) Veitch St. to the Custis Trail; downhill to Key Bridge; over to the Georgetown Waterfront 1. Courthouse to Custis Trail West (rolling hills) ([https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6600124130](https://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/6600124130)) Veitch St. to the Custis Trail; West toward Glebe Rd. Pace: All paces are welcome! We'll be doing an out and back route, so everyone will just turn around at the halfway time marker. That way we should all start and end at the same time. Free Parking at Courthouse Plaza: The underground garage is on Clarendon Blvd btwn Wayne and Veitch Sts. (near Strayer/CVS and the AMC Theater). If the first 2 levels on the left are full, you can park on the lower levels to the right. There are some photos in a prior event photo album at https://meetu.ps/e/Q42zJ/2KLCh/i showing one way to get down from Clarendon Blvd. into a free area of the Courthouse parking garage which typically has spots. Street and Surface Parking lots should be free in the area as well. Metro: Orange or Silver line to Courthouse Station.
CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR on 6/22/26 from 5-7pm
CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR on 6/22/26 from 5-7pm
This CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR is for creative people and folks who appreciate creativity. Whether you attend, produce, appreciate, or promote, you are welcome to join us on Monday, June 22, 2026 from 5pm-7pm for CREATIVE HAPPY HOUR at Silver Branch Brewing Co in Silver Spring, MD. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com). Come meet, network, and enjoy. Only those ages 21 and up can attend. Happy Hour specials are from 5pm-6pm: $5.95 beer and select drinks. Entrance is free. This is a casual event. Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com). Enjoy delicious craft beers, tasty snacks, and great company in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or just looking to unwind after a long day, this event is perfect for you. Don't miss out on the opportunity to kick back and relax with us at Silver Branch Brewing Co. Use the QR codes at the table to order food and drinks, and be prepared to mingle. Check out the[ Silver Branch Brewing Company's Menu](https://www.silverbranchbrewing.com/lagerhaus-biergarten/). PARKING: Paid parking available one block away at the county's Cameron Street Garage on 8530 Cameron Street (Better pricing than street or private parking.) See you there on 6/22/26! Register on Eventbrite at [https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com](https://HappyHour6-22-26.eventbrite.com). This event is produced in partnership with, [TIVA](https://www.tivadc.org/) (Television, Internet, and Video Association of DC),[ WIFV](https://www.wifv.org/) (Women in Film & Video),[ Wheaton Film Festival](https://www.wheatonfilmfestival.com/),[ Docs in Progress](https://www.docsinprogress.org/), etc. Sponsored by[ Brian Frankel Law Firm PLLC](https://brianfrankel.com/),[ Creative Colony Spaces](https://www.creativecolonyspaces.com/membership/overview), and Adobe Software.
Monday Run
Monday Run
Join us for a 5k run alternating between Harris Teeter/NIH loop and Chopt/Capital Crescent Trail.
Open play up to 18 people
Open play up to 18 people
Open play up to 18 people, all skill levels. Bring your friends or potential new members, bring a BBQ, (we have a lot of BBQ’s over the summer) your dog and cat, your good times and your laughter too.
Yappy Happy Hour @ Spark Social
Yappy Happy Hour @ Spark Social
**NEW EVENT!!!** Please be sure to RSVP on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1988736901608?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest list. Pink Poodle Club is Spark's weekly Yappy Hour — every Monday on the back patio from 5–7pm. $1 Scooby Snacks for hoomans and $1 pup cups for the doggos. Come join us for a fun and **dog-friendly** gathering! It’s the perfect chance to meet new people, share stories, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with the **LGBTQ+ community**. Whether you're looking to make friends or just hang out, everyone’s welcome. Grab your favorite drink and let’s make some great memories together! This event is free to attend. We hope to see you there. In addition to coffee selections, the venue offers a good food and drinks [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2 "https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2"). We encourage you to register your attendance in advance. We hope to see you there. When you arrive with your dog, order on your own from the [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2 "https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2"). Then meet and mingle with LGBTQ+ folk and their dogs on the back patio. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. U Street Metro (Yellow/Green line) is only a few blocks away. Take the 13th Street Exit. The venue is adjacent to Crush Bar. This event is a safe space for everyone under the rainbow. Please feel free to invite all your friends to join you there! This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com "https://www.gogaydc.com")**, Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com "https://www.gogaydc.com") . Go Gay DC's founder is **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/ "https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/")**. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Two-Spirit Straight Allies

Active Dogs Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

A DC meetup at Dumbarton Oaks
A DC meetup at Dumbarton Oaks
PawsUP for David and Brick for originally suggesting this awesome meetup and our dogs love it! -Dumbarton Oaks/Montrose Park in Georgetown -Meet at the entrance off of R st, on the East side (closer to the cemetery) -Plenty of street parking in the area -Bring water and a ball for your Aussie This park is a very large open field, that is very dog friendly. Tons of space to run and chase. Most if not all dogs are off leash. Occasional runners and kids (there is a playground), so keep that in mind. There is also a trail inside with a stream that the dogs love to play in.
Run and Get Dirty!  Adult Dogs in the main park, puppies in the small dog park
Run and Get Dirty! Adult Dogs in the main park, puppies in the small dog park
Our regular Sunday meetup at the Shirlington Dog Park -- members start arriving around 10:15 a.m. You'll always find an Aussie to play with. There are 3 entrances, so wander the park -- the dogs will find each other! For puppies, Shirlington has a small dog park within the larger dog park. It's the prefect place for your puppy to gain confidence and socialize with others. There is also plenty of room to run. Just a reminder, the Dog Park is under attack by the Arlington County Board of Commissioners. While early plans to decrease the size of the park by 50% has been tabled, it's important to remind Arlington County how important this park is to dogs and owners. Here are links to the change.org petition and the Facebook page where you can get updates. Shirlington Dog Park Page Petition: https://www.change.org/.../arlington-county-board-save... Arlington County Board: Save the Shirlington Dog Park! We love the Shirlington Dog Park -- it provides… change.org Shirlington Dog Park Page Shirlington Dog Park Page Save the Dog Park Facebook page; https://www.facebook.com/groups/696087663906890
Rock Creek Bark Rangers Walk at Georgetown Waterfront
Rock Creek Bark Rangers Walk at Georgetown Waterfront
Looking for your next Bark Ranger Badge? Rock Creek is having their Bark Ranger Program the last Saturday of every month from 10am-12pm. Each month it is at a different location around DC. Take a stroll through the park and keep your eyes peeled for the Bark Ranger Table! If you'd like to go with the group plan to be there at 10am. More details for this month here: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=5BB905BB-F7B4-CB47-87D67D3A877BCC23 Hope some of you can join us! Here's more details about Bark Rangers from their website: Calling all dog owners! If you enjoy adventuring in Rock Creek Park with your furry friend, consider coming to one of our B.A.R.K. Ranger events! This is a national initiative to encourage responsible recreation and a positive experience for you, your dog, and all visitors to the park. Learn about the principles of being a B.A.R.K. Ranger and earn a B.A.R.K. Ranger badge! A ranger will be present to induct the new B.A.R.K. Rangers and distribute some fun doggie giveaways! A photo op will also be available to commemorate this great achievement! So how does one become a B.A.R.K. Ranger? By pledging to: **B**ag your pet’s waste **A**lways leash your pet **R**espect wildlife **K**now where you can go We hope you can bring your canine pals and join the fun!
Sundays In The Park series
Sundays In The Park series
We meet on Sundays at 8 a.m. for training runs on some of DC's best trails, including Rock Creek Park and the surrounding area. We typically meet at either Peirce Mill in Rock Creek Park, or Roosevelt Island, depending on the route. Details of the weekly schedule can be found here: https://new.vhtrc.org/runs/sip We hope you can join us for a run! All paces and levels of trail experience are welcome for these runs, which range in distance from 6 to 9 miles.
Lubber Run - Bon Air - Bluemont (Rating: C)
Lubber Run - Bon Air - Bluemont (Rating: C)
**WAIVER REQUIRED:** You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike. **HIKE:** A 6-mile urban hike will take us through the Lubber Run Park, Bon Air Rose garden, Bluemont and Glen Carlyn parks, and Arlington neighborhood streets. We will be on natural trails for less than a mile; the rest of the time we will be on paved bike trails and sidewalks. We'll have a snack/restroom break part way through. There will be a few hills and some stairs. Along the way, we'll see a beautiful stream, a large rose garden, and other gardens in bloom. **WHERE TO MEET:** We will meet \*inside\* the Lubber Run Community Center, near the vending machines/restrooms (there is a large lobby area near the information desk). There is a garage with free parking (up to 4 hours). **DISTANCE:** 6 miles **ELEVATION GAIN:** 400 feet **PACE:** Our average moving pace will be between 2.5 and 3.0 miles per hour. **DOGS:** Dogs on a leash are welcome in accordance with NVHC pet policy ([https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy)). (If you plan to have a dog, let me know; we may need to meet you outside.)
Weekly Run 'n' Quaff
Weekly Run 'n' Quaff
Please join members of the the Arlington Running Club each Thursday night at 6:30 PM for our weekly Run 'n' Quaff at Astro Beer Hall located at 4001 Campbell Avenue, Arlington Virginia 22206 in the Shirlington neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia. We are a laid back group of runners that enjoys running a 5-K (3.1 mile) course each week followed the quaffing of cold refreshing adult beverages. We have runners of all abilities from the beginning runner / walker up through marathoners and ultra runners. Our age group spans from early twenties through late seventies and all ages in between. There is someone your age range / someone your skill level at our weekly meetups. No check-ins, waiver forms, or administrivia. No rules, just right. Please join us each and every Thursday night, rain or shine, for the Arlington Running Club!

Active Dogs Events Near You

Connect with your local Active Dogs community

July Pug Meetup
July Pug Meetup
Fast-paced 6 mile hike
Fast-paced 6 mile hike
Inniswood Hike
Inniswood Hike
Join us for a beautiful walk in the park this Tuesday at 7 pm! We will hike two miles through the beautiful landscaped gardens of Inniswood Metro Park. Our trail will be a combo of boardwalks, dirt trails and paved paths winding through the flowers and woods.
Watching the Doo Dah Parade
Watching the Doo Dah Parade
Hiking 9 miles at Slate Run Metro park
Hiking 9 miles at Slate Run Metro park
Hike Scioto Audubon Trail with optional lunch at Nocterra
Hike Scioto Audubon Trail with optional lunch at Nocterra
**Hike the Scioto Audubon trail. All paved and flat!** **Plan on 3-4 miles. Hike at your own pace, no one left behind.** **Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.**