Is there anything more heartwarming than sharing a joyful moment with your beloved canine companion? For many dog owners, seeing their pup gaze longingly at a frosty treat is a familiar sight. If you’ve ever wished you could share your ice cream experience with your furry friend, you’re in luck! Dog-friendly ice cream shops are popping up everywhere, offering special frozen delights designed just for dogs. Our quest to find the best “Dog Ice Cream Shop Near Me” turned into an adventure, revealing fantastic local spots that cater to both humans and their four-legged pals.
Finding a place where your dog can cool off with a safe and delicious treat is easier than you might think. Whether it’s a dedicated doggy dessert or a simple pup cup, these establishments offer a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Join us as we explore what makes these places special, share some of our favorite discoveries, and offer tips for making your next dog ice cream outing a success.
Why Treat Your Dog to Ice Cream?
Beyond the sheer joy of watching your dog enjoy a special treat, visiting a dog ice cream shop offers several benefits. It’s an excellent way to socialize your dog in a controlled, fun environment, expose them to new sights and smells, and reinforce positive behavior with a high-value reward. On a hot day, a cool treat can be incredibly refreshing for your pup, helping them regulate their body temperature while enjoying a tasty snack. Plus, it’s a fantastic bonding experience, demonstrating your affection and care in a unique way. Many dog-friendly businesses pride themselves on offering wholesome ingredients, ensuring their canine treats are both delicious and safe for sensitive stomachs.
What to Look For in a Dog-Friendly Ice Cream Shop
When you search for a “dog ice cream shop near me,” knowing what features to prioritize can enhance your experience. A truly dog-friendly establishment goes beyond simply allowing pets on the patio; it actively welcomes them with thoughtful amenities and specific treats.
First, consider the types of dog treats offered. “Pup cups” (often vanilla ice cream or whipped cream) are common, but some shops create specialized dog ice cream that is dairy-free or made with ingredients like peanut butter, bananas, or yogurt, which are generally safer and healthier for dogs. Always ask about the ingredients if your dog has dietary restrictions or allergies.
Second, examine the patio and seating arrangements. Shaded areas with umbrellas are a huge plus, especially on sunny days. Adequate space between tables ensures your dog can relax without feeling crowded or disturbing other patrons. Look for shops located on quieter streets or with fenced patios, which provide a safer environment away from busy traffic. Water bowls for dogs are a sign of a truly welcoming spot, demonstrating that the establishment cares about your pet’s comfort and hydration. Finally, friendly staff who are happy to interact with dogs can make all the difference, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone.
Happy Havanese dog enjoying a custom dog ice cream sandwich made with Milkbones at Bonnie Brae Ice Cream in Denver.
Our Favorite Dog-Friendly Spots: A Peek into Denver’s Best
Our journey to find the perfect dog ice cream shop led us to some truly remarkable places in Denver. These local gems exemplify what makes a “dog ice cream shop near me” a worthwhile destination. They offer a blend of unique treats, comfortable patios, and a genuine love for canine visitors.
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream
The closest dog-friendly shop to our home, Bonnie Brae Ice Cream, has been a pioneer in catering to pups for over 25 years. They were far ahead of their time, offering special treats long before it became a popular trend. The owners, who are proud parents to four dogs (Ziggy, Ozzie, Zooey, and Moose), clearly understand the joy of sharing a treat with your pet. We even had a fun photoshoot there, observing the delightful reactions of various dogs – some savoring, others gulping!
Fluffy Australian Labradoodle enjoying a sweet treat from a dog-friendly ice cream shop, showcasing a joyful outdoor dining experience.A humorous anecdote from Bonnie Brae’s history involves an employee spotting a human eating a dog ice cream sandwich – a mystery that remains unsolved! Despite the occasional challenge of photographing dogs in front of the iconic neon sign on a busy street, the effort is always worth it to capture these special moments at a true neighborhood landmark.
- Dog Treat Details: An ice cream sandwich made of two Milkbones with vanilla ice cream in the middle, priced at $1. If your dog tolerates dairy, a kiddie cone is also an option.
- Patio Details: Plenty of shaded tables with umbrellas are available outside. Given the busy street, keeping your dog on a tight leash is advisable. For a post-treat stroll, head west from the shop to reach Washington Park.
- Website: Bonnie Brae Ice Cream’s website
- Location: 799 S University Blvd, Denver, CO 80209
Behind the scenes of a pet photoshoot: an Australian Labradoodle posing cheerfully outside a popular dog ice cream shop.
Pet photographer capturing a dog enjoying a treat outside Bonnie Brae Ice Cream, highlighting the shop's iconic Denver landmark status.
Inside Scoop Creamery
Inside Scoop Creamery in downtown Denver is another fantastic find. Blue, the owner’s energetic Native American Indian Dog (NAID), serves as the shop’s unofficial mascot and a very enthusiastic taste tester for their famous Pup Cups. This small business truly adds to the vibrant and unique character of downtown Denver. You might just spot Blue alongside the friendly owner, making your visit even more memorable.
Large, happy dog enjoying a refreshing pup cup from Inside Scoop Creamery in downtown Denver, a perfect dog ice cream treat.Blue is known for his gentle nature, except when a Pup Cup is involved – then it’s pure, unadulterated joy! This shop embodies the spirit of local businesses that make an area feel special.
- Dog Treat Details: Complimentary Pup Cups featuring a dollop of vanilla ice cream topped with whipped cream.
- Patio Details: The downtown location offers a few comfortable benches outside. If you wish to extend your outing, Confluence Park, just a few blocks south, provides a scenic spot to enjoy your ice cream by the river.
- Website: Inside Scoop’s website
- Locations: Downtown Denver: 1535 Platte St, Denver, CO 80202; Downtown Littleton: 5654 S Prince St, Littleton, CO 80120.
Energetic dog eagerly licking whipped cream from a complimentary pup cup, illustrating the joy of dog-friendly ice cream experiences.
Nuggs Ice Cream
While we usually stick to walkable spots, Nuggs Ice Cream caught our eye during a drive down Colfax, and we couldn’t resist. The owner, a fellow dog lover, has two Golden Retrievers, Bruce and Dexter, who once enjoyed whipped cream for breakfast during a mini photoshoot – truly their “best day ever!”
A delightful Golden Retriever happily eating a whipped cream treat at Nuggs Ice Cream, set against a vibrant ice cream mural.These sweet Goldens devoured their treats with gusto. The thought of capturing them with a triple scoop in front of the shop’s vibrant mural, or even hanging their heads out of the Nuggs ice cream truck, sparks inspiration.
- Dog Treat Details: Whipped cream in a cup, offered for free. A small vanilla ice cream cone is also available for purchase.
- Patio Details: Nuggs boasts a spacious, fenced patio with several high-top tables and benches. The fencing is a thoughtful addition, providing safety from the busy Colfax Avenue. Overhead party lights create a festive atmosphere in the evenings.
- Website: Nuggs’ website
- Location: 5135 E Colfax Ave, Denver. Located in East Denver’s Park Hill, it’s a convenient stop after a visit to City Park, the Zoo, or the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.
A cheerful dog enjoys a special whipped cream treat from Nuggs Ice Cream, illustrating a quick and refreshing dog-friendly stop.
Sweet Cow
Despite having passed by Sweet Cow countless times, often too full from the adjacent Park Burger, discovering their offerings was a revelation. Now, the ice cream takes precedence!
Regal Black Russian Terrier delicately enjoying a whipped cream cake cone outside Sweet Cow, a popular dog-friendly ice cream spot.During a photoshoot with Ivan, a magnificent Black Russian Terrier belonging to the Platte Park store manager, we were impressed by his gentle demeanor. Instead of a swift gulp, he daintily licked his cone. The staff at all these small businesses consistently demonstrate exceptional kindness and helpfulness. Ivan’s owners even showed off impressive dog grooming skills with his impeccably styled “home haircut.”
- Dog Treat Details: A cake cone topped with whipped cream, provided free with any purchase of human ice cream.
- Patio Details: The Platte Park Sweet Cow location has limited seating, but the surrounding quiet street is ideal for a leisurely stroll with your dog while enjoying your cone.
- Website: Sweet Cow’s website
- Locations: Denver Platte Park: 1882 S Pearl St, Denver, CO 80210. Other locations include Denver Highlands, Stanley Marketplace, Boulder, Louisville, and Longmont.
Striking portrait of a Black Russian Terrier savoring a dog-safe whipped cream cone, highlighting the joy of pet-friendly ice cream treats.
Essential Etiquette for a Paw-fect Outing
While the search for a “dog ice cream shop near me” is about finding enjoyable spots, it’s equally important to be a responsible pet owner. Adhering to proper etiquette ensures these dog-friendly privileges continue for everyone.
Remember that health code laws generally restrict dogs from entering retail food establishments, except for service animals. Dogs are typically welcome on outdoor patios. This wasn’t always the case; cities like Denver have progressively become more dog-friendly, with patio access for dogs becoming legal only in recent years. Be grateful for these allowances and avoid attempting to circumvent rules. Employees are there to serve you, and they appreciate cooperation. A generous tip for their friendly service, especially when they offer a treat to your pup, is always a thoughtful gesture.
Furthermore, strive to be a Canine Good Citizen. Not everyone appreciates dogs, so always keep your dog on a short leash and maintain control. This isn’t just about courtesy; it’s about safety. As any owner of a treat-motivated dog knows, opportunities for a quick lick of an unattended ice cream cone are rarely missed. My own Golden Retriever, Murphy, for example, is an expert opportunist when it comes to toddlers’ ice cream! Being mindful of your surroundings and your dog’s behavior ensures a pleasant experience for all.
Playful moment captured: a Black Russian Terrier eagerly devouring a whipped cream cone, an example of fun at a dog ice cream shop.
Beyond the Cone: Making the Most of Your Dog’s Ice Cream Adventure
Finding a “dog ice cream shop near me” is often just the beginning of a wonderful outing. Consider these tips to turn a simple treat into a memorable adventure. Look for shops that are conveniently located near parks, walking trails, or even dog parks. This allows you to combine the joy of a frozen treat with some exercise and exploration. A pre-treat walk can help burn off some energy, making your dog more relaxed and well-behaved at the shop. Afterward, a leisurely stroll through a nearby park provides an excellent opportunity for digestion and further bonding. Packing essentials like water, waste bags, and perhaps a travel bowl will ensure you’re prepared for any situation. Remember, the goal is to create a positive and enriching experience for your dog, strengthening your bond and making every outing special.
Conclusion
The quest for a “dog ice cream shop near me” is more than just about finding a cold treat; it’s about discovering places that welcome our furry family members and celebrate the unique bond we share. From classic doggy ice cream sandwiches to delightful pup cups, the options are growing, making it easier than ever to include your dog in your next sweet indulgence. Whether you’re a local to Denver or searching for similar gems in your own community, remember to prioritize safe, dog-friendly ingredients and maintain proper etiquette. The next time you and your pup are out for a walk, don’t forget these wonderful establishments where you can both cool off and enjoy a delicious treat. It’s these simple moments that make life with our dogs so incredibly sweet.
References
- Bonnie Brae Ice Cream: https://bonniebraeicecream.com/
- Inside Scoop Creamery: https://www.insidescoopdenver.com/
- Nuggs Ice Cream: https://nuggsicecream.com/
- Sweet Cow: https://sweetcow.com/
About the Author/Photographer
Karen Hoglund is a professional pet photographer based in Denver, CO, specializing in creating artistic portraits of dogs and cats for your home. Her photoshoots are tailored to each pet’s needs, ensuring a comfortable and relaxed experience. For more information, visit Karen’s portfolio or connect with her on Facebook and Instagram.
