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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 27, 2024

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

Paws in the Park (Harker Heights) March

Dog Days of Summer (Temple) August

Soggy Doggy Day (Belton) September

Bow Wow Luau (Killeen) September

Finnley's Birthday Bash (Belton) September

Dunkin' Doggies (Temple) September

Train Whistle Jamboree (Nolanville) September

Rescue Magazine Pet Adoption Extravaganza (Belton) October

Pup's Halloween Costume Contest (Killeen) October

Barktoberfest (Salado) October

Santa Paws (Temple) December


Pet-friendly Patios

Here are the restaurants, breweries and bars in Bell County people have said have dog-friendly patios (please know we haven't double-checked these recommendations. If you aren't sure about whether it's OK to bring your pooch, it's best to call ahead and ask!):

3 West Alehouse (Water Bowl on Patio)
Atrium Coffee Co. (Pup Cups)
Barrow Brewing Company
Bold Republic Brewing Co
Chupacabra
Coquí Café

Graley's Goodies (Water Bowl on Patio)
Jokers IceHouse Bar & Grill
Longbow Coffee Co. (Pup Cups)
Megg's Cafe
Pignetti's
Scores Pizza & Wings
Sly Fox Coffeehouse
Summer Moon Coffee Belton (Pup Cups)
Thai Thai
The Shed


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!