How to Walk Your Dog on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk Successfully
The Rehoboth Beach boardwalk is one of Delaware’s most popular attractions, filled with people, food stands, seagulls, music, and plenty of surprises. For humans, it’s a lively and fun experience. For dogs, it can sometimes be overwhelming. If you’re planning to bring your pup along, you’ll want to make sure they have the right skills for success. Walking your dog on the boardwalk isn’t just about exercise—it’s about safety, manners, and making sure the experience is enjoyable for both ends of the leash.
Skills Every Dog Needs on the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk
1. Calm Observation
Your dog will encounter everything from children running by to the sudden crash of waves or a skateboard rolling past. Dogs who can calmly observe new sights and sounds without barking, lunging, or panicking will feel more comfortable and secure.
2. A Tight Heel
A reliable heel keeps your dog close to you in crowded areas. On the Rehoboth boardwalk, where foot traffic can get dense, this skill helps prevent tangling leashes or sudden darting into strangers. Practice this skill in quieter settings first before bringing your dog into a busy environment.
3. Tolerance for the Unexpected
The boardwalk is full of surprises: dropped food, loud noises, or a stranger who suddenly bends down to pet your dog. A dog who can tolerate the unexpected and quickly recover from startling events will enjoy the outing much more.
Not All Dogs Enjoy the Boardwalk—and That’s Okay
It’s important to remember that just because your dog can handle the boardwalk doesn’t mean they’ll actually enjoy it. Some dogs find the noise, crowds, and chaos stressful rather than fun. If your dog shows signs of anxiety—such as heavy panting, pulling to escape, or constant barking—it may be kinder to leave them at home. And there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a walk on the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk solo while your pup relaxes in their safe space.
Dog-Friendly Beaches Near Rehoboth Beach
If the boardwalk isn’t the right fit for your dog, you still have plenty of options for dog-friendly beaches in Delaware:
Cape Henlopen State Park (Lewes) – Open spaces, trails, and dog-friendly areas year-round.
Dewey Beach – Famous for being dog-friendly, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Bethany Beach (off-season) – A quieter alternative where dogs can enjoy sand and surf without the boardwalk bustle.
Final Thoughts
The Rehoboth Beach boardwalk can be a fun adventure, but it’s not the right environment for every pup. Focus on building your dog’s skills in calm observation, walking politely at heel, and coping with surprises. And if the boardwalk turns out to be too much, remember—you have plenty of dog-friendly beaches near Rehoboth Beach where your pup can thrive. The goal isn’t just getting your dog through the outing—it’s making sure you both enjoy the experience together.