📰Dog Walking and Pet Sitting News in January
10 Dog-Friendly Adventures in Chelmsford
If your usual dog walks are starting to feel a bit samey, Chelmsford has plenty of ways to mix things up. From café visits and sniffari adventures to photo walks and private dog fields, here are ten ideas for a fun, fulfilling day out with your dog — no standard park walk required.
1. Go on a Photo Walk
Grab your phone or camera and head out to capture your dog’s best angles around Chelmsford. Try the riverside paths, Central Park’s flowerbeds, or the colourful murals tucked around the city centre. It’s a great way to explore while creating lasting memories — and you might even end up with a new profile picture for your dog’s Instagram!
2. Visit a Dog-Friendly Café
Chelmsford has a growing number of cafés where dogs are warmly welcomed. Pop into Stewart’s Deli & Tearoom for a relaxed brunch, or Bill’s Chelmsford for a treat after running errands in town. The Central Park Café is another lovely spot for coffee and a breather mid-walk, complete with outdoor seating and water bowls for thirsty pups.
3. Book a Session in a Secure Dog Field
For dogs that love to run but can’t always be off-lead, a private hire field is perfect. Shakestones Dog Field in Writtle and The Bark Park Woodland Adventure Field both offer fully fenced areas for playtime and recall practice without distractions. Bring a few toys, practise recall, or just let your dog zoom to their heart’s content.
4. Try a Sniffari Adventure
Instead of a brisk walk, give your dog the gift of time to sniff. Choose a quiet area and let them take the lead — literally. Sniffing is mentally enriching and helps dogs unwind, especially after a busy week. You’ll be amazed how satisfied they are after a slow-paced, nose-led stroll through new scents.
5. Have a Doggy Pub Afternoon
A classic British outing with a canine twist! Head to one of Chelmsford’s dog-friendly pubs like The Butchers Arms, The Black Bull, or The Galvin Green Man. Enjoy a relaxed lunch or a drink in the garden while your dog lounges nearby. Many pubs even keep treats or biscuits behind the bar for their four-legged guests.
6. Join a Dog Training Session
Turn your outing into something useful and fun. A focused training session — whether it’s recall, lead manners, or impulse control — builds your bond and gives your dog valuable mental exercise. Training can be playful and positive, and it often helps improve how relaxed and responsive your dog is on future outings.
7. Plan a Dog-and-Human Picnic
Pick a scenic, dog-friendly green (like Admirals Park or Baddow Recreation Ground) and pack lunch for both of you. Bring a blanket, some dog-safe snacks, and a toy for light playtime. It’s a peaceful way to slow down and enjoy the outdoors together without rushing through a walk.
8. Visit a Local Dog Event or Market
Keep an eye on local listings — Chelmsford often hosts pet-friendly markets, fun days, or charity dog shows throughout the year. They’re great for social dogs and a fun way to meet other owners (and discover new treats or gear).
9. Create a Homemade Treat Trail
If you want to stay local, turn your garden or a quiet outdoor spot into a scent game course. Scatter a few treats or toys for your dog to find using their nose. It’s simple, mentally engaging, and perfect for a day when you want enrichment without much travel.
10. Book a Mini Dog Adventure Day
Combine a few of these ideas into one outing — perhaps a café stop in town, a secure field run, and some relaxed sniff time on the way home. Your dog gets a full day of mental and physical activity, and you get to enjoy it alongside them.
Make Every Outing Count
Chelmsford offers so many ways to enjoy time with your dog beyond the same old walking routes. Whether you’re sipping coffee, training new skills, or exploring a private field, each little adventure builds confidence and connection.
If you are often very busy but you’d still like your dog to enjoy some fun time, I’m here to offer engaging and stimulating walks that will keep your pup happy when you can’t.
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