As a devoted dog parent, there’s nothing quite like seeing your furry friend gaze longingly at your ice cream cone. The good news is, you don’t have to resist those puppy-dog eyes! There are fantastic Places That Sell Dog Ice Cream Near Me (and hopefully near you too!), offering special treats designed for our canine companions. We embarked on a delightful quest to find the best dog-friendly ice cream shops in Denver, where pups can cool off with their very own delectable desserts.
Finding the perfect spot to enjoy a sweet treat with your dog is about more than just the ice cream; it’s about the experience. These local establishments not only welcome dogs but go the extra mile to provide safe and tasty options, making them ideal destinations for a fun outing. From classic vanilla pup cups to specially crafted dog-friendly ice cream sandwiches, Denver’s vibrant ice cream scene has something for every good boy and girl.
Uncover Delicious Dog Ice Cream Spots in Denver
Denver is known for its dog-friendly atmosphere, and its ice cream parlors are no exception. We’ve explored some of the city’s most beloved spots, each offering unique charm and, most importantly, delightful dog treats. Whether you’re looking for a quick stop during a walk or a relaxing patio experience, these places that sell dog ice cream near me have you covered.
Bonnie Brae Ice Cream: A Timeless Treat for Pups
Nestled in a charming neighborhood, Bonnie Brae Ice Cream stands out as one of Denver’s pioneering dog-friendly establishments. For over 25 years, they have been crafting special ice cream sandwiches specifically for dogs, truly setting a trend for canine confections. This longevity speaks volumes about their commitment to both human and animal customers, making them a must-visit when searching for dog ice cream near you. The dedication to their furry patrons is clear, with the owners themselves being proud parents to four dogs: Ziggy, Ozzie, Zooey, and Moose. Our photoshoot there captured the various adorable reactions of dogs savoring their unique treats, from eager gulps to delicate licks.
The shop is not just a local favorite for its delicious ice cream but also for its welcoming outdoor seating. You’ll find numerous shaded tables with umbrellas, providing a comfortable spot for you and your dog to relax. While it’s located on a busy street, the ample patio space allows for an enjoyable experience, though keeping a firm grip on your dog’s leash is always recommended. For those looking to extend their outing, a stroll west from the shop leads directly to the beautiful Washington Park, perfect for burning off some treat calories.
Little black dog enjoying an ice cream sandwich made with Milkbones and vanilla ice cream outside Bonnie Brae ice cream shop in Denver, Colorado
A humorous anecdote from Bonnie Brae involves an employee once spotting a human mistakenly eating a dog ice cream sandwich! The politeness of the staff meant the mystery of “why” or “how it tasted” remains unsolved. This tale adds to the playful spirit of the shop, highlighting its unique offerings. If your dog tolerates dairy, a small kiddie cone is also an option, but their signature ice cream sandwich, made with two Milkbones and vanilla ice cream, is a beloved choice for just $1. Bonnie Brae truly embodies the spirit of a community-focused, dog-loving ice cream parlor.
Inside Scoop Creamery: Downtown’s Pup Cup Paradise
Inside Scoop Creamery, with its vibrant downtown Denver location, is another gem for dog owners seeking delicious treats. This small business adds to the unique charm of the city, largely thanks to its friendly owner and resident mascot, Blue. Blue, a beautiful Native American Indian Dog (NAID), is an enthusiastic taste-tester for the shop’s famous Pup Cups and can often be spotted alongside the owner. His presence reinforces the store’s dog-friendly ethos, making it a welcoming place for all four-legged visitors.
The Pup Cups themselves are a simple yet incredibly popular offering: a dollop of vanilla ice cream topped with a generous swirl of whipped cream, offered completely free of charge. Blue, despite his gentle nature, transforms into a focused treat enthusiast when a Pup Cup is in sight, much to the amusement of onlookers. The downtown location provides a few comfortable benches outside, perfect for enjoying your ice cream while soaking in the city atmosphere. If you’re keen to explore further, Confluence Park is just a few blocks south, offering a picturesque setting along the river for a leisurely stroll with your happy pup. Inside Scoop Creamery also has a location in Downtown Littleton, expanding its reach for those looking for quality dog ice cream near their respective neighborhoods.
Large dog eagerly eating ice cream from a cup held by a woman in front of Inside Scoop Creamery in downtown Denver, Colorado
Nuggs Ice Cream: Whipped Cream Wonders
While we often favor ice cream shops within walking distance, Nuggs Ice Cream caught our eye during a drive down Colfax, and we simply had to stop. This spot is clearly run by dog lovers, as the owner boasts two Golden Retrievers, Bruce and Dexter, who are undoubtedly the best taste-testers around. Our visit turned into a mini photoshoot where these sweet Goldens enjoyed whipped cream for breakfast – an absolute dream day for any dog! Their speedy consumption of the whipped cream was a testament to how much they adored their treat.
Nuggs offers a simple yet satisfying treat for dogs: a cup of whipped cream, also free of charge. For pups who might enjoy a more traditional dairy-based treat, a small vanilla ice cream cone is also available for purchase. The shop features a delightful patio area, complete with high-top tables and benches. What truly sets it apart is the fenced, dog-friendly dining space, a thoughtful touch given its location on the bustling Colfax Avenue. The festive overhead party lights create a wonderful ambiance, especially in the evening, making it a great spot to relax with your dog.
Golden retriever enthusiastically eating whipped cream at Nuggs ice cream shop in front of a mural featuring a large ice cream cone
Located in East Denver, in the heart of Park Hill, Nuggs is conveniently situated for those visiting City Park, the Denver Zoo, or the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. It’s the perfect stop for a refreshing treat on your way home, fulfilling the search for places that sell dog ice cream near you with a welcoming, dog-centric atmosphere.
Sweet Cow: Cones for Canines
Sweet Cow is another fantastic establishment that quickly became a favorite for dog owners. Despite passing by its charming location many times, often after a meal at the adjacent Park Burger, it wasn’t until recently that we discovered the joy of their dog-friendly offerings. Now, it’s a destination in itself! Our photoshoot with Ivan, a magnificent Black Russian Terrier belonging to the Platte Park store manager, showcased the shop’s welcoming spirit. Surprisingly, Ivan, despite his size, delicately licked his cone, proving even the biggest pups can have refined manners.
Sweet Cow’s dog treat is a delightful cake cone topped with whipped cream, offered free with the purchase of a human ice cream. This makes it an excellent value and a perfect reason to treat both yourself and your dog. The Platte Park location, while having limited seating, offers a quiet street that’s ideal for a leisurely stroll with your dog and your cones. The friendly and helpful staff, like Ivan’s owner, further enhance the experience, demonstrating the genuine warmth and dedication found in these local small businesses. Sweet Cow also boasts multiple locations across Denver, including Highlands, Stanley Marketplace, Boulder, Louisville, and Longmont, making it widely accessible for many dog owners.
Action shot of a Black Russian Terrier eating whipped cream on a cake cone, held by a man in front of Sweet Cow ice cream shop
Essential Etiquette for Dog Owners at Ice Cream Shops
While the growing trend of dog-friendly establishments is wonderful, it’s crucial to remember and respect the rules of engagement. Dogs are generally welcome on outdoor patios, but health code regulations strictly prohibit them from entering retail food establishments, unless they are certified service animals. Denver has been a pioneer in this area, becoming one of the first towns in Colorado to allow dogs on patios back in 2014. We should appreciate and respect these allowances rather than trying to bend the rules.
The employees at these shops are often dog lovers themselves, but they are also bound by regulations. They would much rather serve you with a smile than have to enforce rules about dogs being inside. A simple act of consideration, like tipping them well for their service and the treat they provide your pup, goes a long way in fostering a positive environment for everyone. By adhering to these guidelines, we help ensure that these fantastic dog-friendly policies continue to thrive, allowing more places that sell dog ice cream near us to welcome our companions.
Being a Responsible Canine Companion
Beyond health codes, general courtesy toward other patrons is paramount. Not everyone is comfortable around dogs, and some may even have allergies or fears. Therefore, always keep your dog on a short leash and under control, ensuring they don’t bother other customers. This is particularly important with treat-motivated dogs, who can be opportunistic. For example, my own Golden Retriever, Murphy, has been known to attempt to steal a lick from a toddler’s cone if not carefully supervised!
Being a Canine Good Citizen means being mindful of your dog’s behavior in public spaces. This includes preventing jumping, excessive barking, or approaching strangers without an invitation. By demonstrating responsible pet ownership, we contribute to a welcoming atmosphere for all, helping to normalize and encourage dog-friendly spaces. The more respectful we are, the more likely more businesses will become places that sell dog ice cream near you.
Playful outtake of whipped cream falling off a cone while a large black terrier eats it during a dog photoshoot
The next time you’re out for a walk with your beloved pup, remember these wonderful dog-friendly ice cream shops. They offer the perfect opportunity for both of you to cool off, enjoy a delicious treat, and create cherished memories. Supporting these local businesses not only brings joy to your dog but also reinforces the demand for more pet-inclusive environments in our communities. So go ahead, search for “places that sell dog ice cream near me” and treat your best friend to an unforgettable experience!
