School break is just around the corner—and it’s the perfect opportunity to share quality moments with your dog and your family! Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or more into indoor activities, here are five original ideas to make the most of this week with your four-legged companion.

1. Visit a dog-friendly shopping mall

Did you know that some shopping malls allow dogs? Take advantage of the break for a shopping trip with your buddy! Not only will your dog have a chance to socialize, but it’s also a great environment to practice focus amid plenty of distractions. You can enjoy some family time without leaving your furry friend behind.

Here’s a list of pet-friendly shopping centers in Quebec and Ontario:

  • Quartier Dix30 – Brossard
  • Place Versailles – Montréal
  • Royalmount Shopping Centre – Montréal
  • Place de la Cité – Québec
  • Place Ste-Foy – Québec
  • Outlet Collection at Niagara – Niagara-on-the-Lake
  • CF Toronto Eaton Centre – Toronto
  • Yorkdale Shopping Centre – Toronto

These shopping centers are generally pet-friendly, but some individual stores might have different policies.

 

2. Stop by a dog café

Dog cafés are becoming increasingly popular and are an ideal activity on a cold or rainy day—or simply for a delicious pit stop after a family walk. Most of these spots offer treats for both you and your furry friends, ensuring everyone is happy while sharing a special moment together!

  • Café Maison Pawz – Griffintown
  • Ruby Café – Petite-Bourgogne
  • Café Arthur – Laval
  • Café Harmonia – Lévis
  • Dog-Eared Café – Paris (Ontario)
  • BE Cafe & Barkery – Hamilton (Ontario)
  • Playground Café – Toronto

Photo of Ruby Café on Instagram

 

3. Host a themed movie night featuring dogs and cats

Why not turn your living room into a cozy cinema for an evening with your dog? Pick a film starring dogs, prepare treats for both the family and your pup, and snuggle up under a blanket. It’s a wonderful way to pay tribute to the canine and feline stars that enriched our childhoods—and to discover some new favorites! Here’s our list of top dog/cat movies:

  • Beethoven
  • Rescued by Ruby
  • Homeward Bound
  • Snow Dogs
  • Marley & Me
  • The Secret Life of Pets
  • Puss in Boots

Photo from the film Rescued by Ruby available on Netflix

 

4. Treat your dog to an indoor swimming session

Several establishments offer dog swimming sessions—either privately or in small groups—in 30-minute or hourly formats. Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise, perfect for both active dogs and those with joint pain. It’s a fantastic way to bring joy to your furry friend while providing some laughs for the whole family during playtime!

Photo of Doggieville (associated with Ruby Café in Montréal)

 

Remember to book with the establishment beforehand. Note that there’s usually a limit to how many people can be in the pool area at once.

 

5. Go for a snowshoe or winter hike

To fully appreciate the stunning winter landscapes, nothing beats a family hike! In addition to being generally free or very inexpensive, it’s an activity accessible to everyone. We recently wrote a blog post on various dog-friendly parks (where dogs must be kept on a leash) located within 3 hours of Montréal. Click here to read the article.

 

Enjoy the break with your dog!

No matter which activity you choose, the important thing is to spend quality time with your family. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, these experiences will make your break even more memorable. So, which activity will you try first? 🐶