Pickleball is a super fun sport that’s easy to play and gets you moving. I love it, and I bet you do too if you’re reading this! But here’s the thing—I also love my dog, Buddy, and I hate leaving him home when I go play a pickleball game. If you’re like me and want your pet to join the fun, you’re in the right place. This guide is over 1000 words and full of simple, practical tips to bring your pet along for your pickleball game. We’ll talk about best pickleball paddle, pickleball gear, and how to make it a great time for you and your furry friend. Let’s get started!
Why Bring Your Pet to Pickleball?
First, why even do this? For me, Buddy is my best pal. When I grab my pickleball paddle and head out, I feel bad seeing his sad face at the door. Playing pickleball already makes me happy, and having Buddy there makes it even better. Pets make us feel good—less stressed, more smiley. Lots of people love pets (like, over half of us have one!), and mixing that love with a pickleball game is a win-win. It’s fun, it’s different, and it’s a cool way to hang out together.
Step 1: Get the Right Stuff
Before you play, you need to be ready. For me, that means my pickleball equipment—my favorite “strokess pickleball paddle”, a few balls, and a water bottle. I’ve got a little pickleball gadget too, like a sweatband, because I get sweaty fast. But Buddy needs stuff too, and I’ve figured out what works.
A harness is way better than a collar—it keeps him safe and comfy. I got a affordable one at the pet store, and it’s perfect. If it’s sunny, I tie a wet bandana around his neck to keep him cool. In my pickleball gear bag, I pack his leash (not too long, like 6 feet), a fold-up water bowl, and some treats. You don’t need fancy pickleball accessories—just the basics so you’re both set.
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Step 2: Teach Your Pet to Join In
Buddy’s not going to play with a pickleball paddle (though that’d be hilarious!). But he can still be part of the pickleball game. I had to teach him how to act, and it took a little time.
I started by taking him to the court when it was empty—just me, my pickleball gear, and Buddy. I’d hit a few balls, let him walk around, and give him a treat when he sat still. Now, he loves sitting by the side, watching me play. If your pet likes to move, keep a regular ball in your pickleball accessories bag. I toss it for Buddy sometimes, and he runs after it—it’s his job while I play. If your pet’s chill, like a cat, maybe bring a blanket for them to sit on. Make it fun for them, and they’ll love it.
Step 3: Pick the Best Time and Spot
Not every pickleball game works with pets. Busy courts are loud and crowded—Buddy gets nervous, and I don’t blame him. I go early in the morning when it’s quiet and cool. Fewer people, less stress, and Buddy’s happy.
My favorite trick? Playing in my backyard. I got a simple net online—not expensive, just something to mark the court. It’s awesome because I decide who’s there, and Buddy can wander a bit. If you use a public court, check if pets are okay. Some places let them come if they’re on a leash, but you’ve got to ask.
Step 4: Make It Fun for Both of You
This is the best part—making the pickleball game a blast with your pet. I taught Buddy to drop the ball to start the game. It took some treats and silly voices, but now he walks up, drops it, and wags his tail like he’s the boss. People love it!
If he’s lazy that day, I set up a shady spot with a toy from my pickleball gear. He chews on it while I play. When he’s full of energy, I use a longer leash and let him chase balls I miss—just not too close to the game. I’ve got a pickleball gadget that picks up balls fast, and Buddy thinks it’s part of the fun. Keep it safe—watch if they’re tired or hot—but it’s a good time for everyone.
Step 5: Pack Smart
I always bring a bag to the court. My pickleball equipment goes in—my pickleball paddle, balls, a towel. But Buddy’s stuff fits too. I pack water (a big bottle for us to share), his fold-up bowl, and some treats. A little toy keeps him busy, and I bring a hat or something for shade—he hates the sun. I toss in a couple Band-Aids too, just in case.
I used to jumble it all together, but now I keep my pickleball accessories on one side and Buddy’s on the other. No more digging through stuff to find what I need—it’s a small fix that makes life easier.
Dealing with Problems
It’s not always perfect. Buddy gets excited by other dogs or jumps if a pickleball paddle makes a loud noise. I’ve worked on calling him back fast, and he’s getting it. The game sounds can scare some pets, so I started slow—short trips, lots of “good boy” cheers. He loves people too much sometimes and tries to say hi mid-game. I just laugh, say sorry, and keep him close if it’s serious playtime.
Why It’s So Great
Having Buddy at my pickleball game is the best. His wagging tail makes me smile, even if I miss a shot. I feel relaxed, and it’s just fun having him there. Other players think it’s cool too—he’s way more interesting than any pickleball gadget. Whether he’s chasing a ball or napping by my pickleball gear, it’s our thing, and I love it.
Final Thoughts
Bringing Buddy to my pickleball game has made it so much better. All you need is your pickleball paddle, some pickleball gear, and a little effort to make it work. Start easy—try it out, see what your pet likes. For me, it’s Buddy’s happy face when I grab my pickleball equipment that makes it worth it. Pack your pickleball accessories, grab your pet, and go play—because the most fun games are the ones you share!
Author’s Bio:
Hemant Jani is a passionate pickleball enthusiast and the voice behind Strokess, India’s most loved pickleball paddle brand. With a deep understanding of T700 Raw Carbon technology and performance-driven paddle design, he helps players elevate their game with high-tech, durable, top-quality equipment.