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Dog-Friendly Events, Patios and Parks in Bell County

Love bringing the pups everywhere? Here's where they can hang out!

By Brittany Joyner August 26, 2025

The Dog Days of Summer are "technically" over, but we still love our pups and want them to get out and have fun with us! Here are some upcoming Bell County events, along with patios and dog parks where well-behaved dogs are welcome.

Should you take your dog? 

Before choosing to take your dog out and about in Bell County, consider whether your dog (and you!) will have a good experience. Typically, well-behaved, socialized dogs who are comfortable around people and other dogs are ideal for these settings. Ensuring your dog is friendly, leash-trained, and non-disruptive will help everyone enjoy their time. Always check specific venue policies and consider your dog's temperament to ensure a pleasant outing for all.


Dog Friendly Events

Fort Hood Remembrance Ruck & 5K (Belton) September 6

Soggy Doggy Day (Belton) September 6

Bow Wow Luau (Killeen) September 6

Dunkin' Doggies (Temple) September 6

Dog Days are (Almost) Over Vendor Market (Killeen) September 21

Dog Adoption Day at the Shed (Salado) October 5

Rescue Magazine Pet Adoption Extravaganza (Belton) October 11 & 12

Barktoberfest (Salado) October 25

Santa's Beer Run 5K (Salado) December 20


Pet-friendly Patios

Here are the restaurants, breweries and bars in Bell County with dog-friendly patios:


Dog Parks in Bell County, TX

Click here for our review of each!

  • Central Texas Bark Park

  • Heritage Park Dog Park

  • Mickey's Dog Park

  • Monarch Dog Park

  • Purser Dog Park

Bell County Animal Shelters and Volunteer Opportunities

These might not be the best places to take your own dog, but we wanted to give our Bell County shelters a shout-out too and let you know about potential volunteer opportunities for your family that give you a chance to make a difference in the lives of pooches in need in Killeen, Belton, and Temple!

Bell County Animal Shelter

  • 2509 S. Loop 121, Belton, TX 76513
  • 254-933-6780
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Call or visit for information

Harker Heights Pet Adoption Center

  • 403 Indian Trail, Harker Heights, TX 76548
  • 254-953-5472
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Call or visit for information

Heart To Home - Animal Adoption Center

  • 620 Mama Dog Circle, Temple, TX 76501
  • 254-298-5732

Killeen Animal Services

  • 3118 Commerce Dr, Killeen, TX 76541
  • 254-526-4455
  • Volunteer Opportunities: Apply here (Must be 18+)

Know of a Bell County event, dog-friendly restaurant or dog park we're missing? Let me know at brittanyj@macaronikid.com and we'll add it to our list!