Super Bowl Sunday is one of the most exciting days of the year. Great food, big plays, awesome commercials… and time with your furry best friend! Whether you’re cheering for the Seahawks, the Patriots, or just enjoying another Puppy Bowl before kickoff, here are fun and safe ways to include your dog in the big game.
1. Start with a Puppy Warm-Up: Puppy Bowl XXII
Before the real kickoff, make time for maybe the cutest sporting event of the year. Puppy Bowl XXII is airing Sunday afternoon and features adorable pups from shelters playing on a mini field — perfect for dog lovers of all ages.
Watching puppies chase fuzzy footballs and score Lombarky trophies is a great way to ease into game day — and it’s a reminder that every dog is a winner! 🐕🏆
2. Exercise First, Nap Later
Before friends arrive or the commercials start, take your dog for a walk or play session. A bit of exercise helps burn extra energy so your pup can relax while you’re elbow-deep in snacks and cheering on big plays.
3. Keep Snacks Safe
While game day snacks are legendary, many common foods are dangerous for dogs. Things to avoid include:
- Chicken wings and bones (can splinter)
- Chocolate, grapes, raisins
- Onion/garlic dips
- Chips and heavily salted snacks
- Xylitol-sweetened treats or gum
- Alcohol and caffeinated drinks
Keep food off low tables and clean up quickly so curious noses don’t get into harmful items.
💡 Tip: Put out a bowl of your dog’s favorite treats or chews during halftime so they have their own “game day snack”!
4. Create a Dog-Friendly Zone
Game day can be loud and bustling — especially with guests over. Give your pup a quiet retreat:
- A comfy bed with their favorite blanket
- Puzzle or treat-dispensing toys
- A designated safe room if they’re noise-sensitive
This gives them a cozy escape from cheering, music, and buzzing energy.
5. Set Up a Canine “Fan Station”
Make your dog part of the party with a themed dog area:
- A football-themed bandana or jersey
- Interactive toys labeled as “touchdown chews”
- A snuffle mat filled with dog-safe treats for halftime fun
This keeps dogs engaged and feeling included in the festivities!
6. Supervise and Entertain
Keep an eye on your dog during guest visits. Enthusiastic cheering, loud reactions, and strangers are all new experiences for pups. Some extra play breaks during commercials or at halftime can help them reset and stay calm.
7. Prepare for Safety
Game day gatherings sometimes mean medications, purses, or personal items left in easy-to-reach spots. Make sure anything harmful is stored securely away from your dog’s curiosity.
Keep your dog’s tags up to date and confirm that their ID and microchip info are current, this helps if excitement leads to an accidental escape.
Game Day Reminder
Whether you’re shouting at the refs, laughing through commercials, or watching cute pups tackle on a tiny turf field, the most important part of Super Bowl Sunday is having fun responsibly with your dog by your side. 🐶❤️