Dog Walking, Hiking and Play Groups

If you're looking for fun things to do with your dog in the Columbia and Howard County areas--and you enjoy meeting other dog lovers and their dogs, there are a number of groups to check out.

Columbia Dogs-on-the-Go
This Meetup group (organized by this blogger) schedules walks, hikes and other activities in and near the Columbia and Howard County areas.

K9 Trailblazers
A dog hiking club located in the Baltimore/DC area that holds monthly, leashed hikes on dog-friendly trails in the area.

The Annapolis Active Dogs Meetup Group
Schedules activities in the Annapolis area, with lots of regular visits to the Quiet Waters dog beach.

The Baltimore Off-Road Dogs Meetup Group
Features dog hikes in the Baltimore area, and also plans visits to fenced off-leash parks, and maybe even a "canoe ride and camping trip every now and then..."

The Bethesda Active Dogs Happy Hour Fun & Play Meetup Group
Features dog hikes and indoor dog play times in the Bethesda area.

The DC Doggie Happy Hour Group
This group has a large membership and features happy hours at dog-friendly establishments in the D.C. area. (I haven't been to any yet, and am curious as to how it works out with 40-60 people and dogs attending.)

The NOVA Trail Dogs Meetup
Features day hikes in the D.C., Viriginia and Maryalnd, "but we'll have some overnighters thrown in there too."

Meetup.com also lists many other dog groups not too far from Columbia and Howard County. Some are for specific breeds and activities. Certainly worth checking out!