Taking your dog on a date with a lady.

As you lay your head on the pillow, hugging your four-legged rascal as you drift off to sleep, a sudden thought crosses your mind. It’s been quite some time since you last shared an emotional connection with a human companion. Maybe you and Rover could both do with some company.

The thought keeps you awake, and by the next morning, you get out of bed tired but resolute. However, you wouldn’t choose anyone over your dog, and you want him to tag along on your dates to make sure the lady in question passes the ultimate vibe check. You download a dating app, scan your surroundings at the local park, or finally get the number of that girl who caught your eye at a friend’s party.

You secured a date! Now what?

You will probably spend hours picking the perfect outfit and asking friends for their opinions. But wait a minute—your dog needs to look and act the part, too! Bringing your dog on a date is the ultimate wingman move, but only if it is executed perfectly. Here is how to make sure this formidable duo is absolutely irresistible.

1. Brush Up on Canine Manners

This is arguably the most important point! If your dog is not well-socialized, they might not possess the necessary manners for a public date.

A dog that constantly begs, pulls relentlessly on the leash, or jumps up on people is a recipe for disaster. (Jumping is especially unappreciated if your date put a lot of effort into her outfit!) A misbehaving dog will continuously distract you, completely crippling any efforts at maintaining a good, flowing conversation.

Pick the right venue: You must also consider the environment. Dragging your dog to a loud, crowded bar at 11:00 PM will irritate your dog, stress them out, and make you look irresponsible. Opt for a quiet, dog-friendly outdoor cafe, a spacious park, or a scenic hiking trail.

2. Feed Your Dog Before You Leave

A hungry dog is not a happy dog. Taking your dog out with a rumbling tummy will give your date the impression that you are forgetful or don’t take proper care of your pet.

More importantly, it is a recipe for extreme embarrassment. You do not want your dog constantly begging for titbits, drooling on your date’s shoes, or staring intensely at everyone’s meals as if they haven’t eaten in weeks. Feeding your dog a hearty, high-quality meal before you leave the house ensures they are relaxed, satiated, and much less likely to embarrass you when the appetizers arrive.

3. Prioritize Grooming and Clean Gear

You can look as sharp as a razor blade, but if your dog looks scruffy and smells like a wet swamp, it immediately gives off a terrible impression.

• The Bath: Give your dog a thorough wash the day before the date. Ensure their coat is brushed out, their nails are trimmed, and their breath is reasonably fresh.

• The Gear: Take a hard look at your dog’s leash and collar. If they are in tatters, covered in mud, and look like they have been handed down through three generations of dogs, it is time for an upgrade.

Even if you are surviving on a tight budget, splurging a few dollars on a clean, handsome collar makes your dog look great. Showing that you feel it’s justified to spend money and effort on your beloved pet sends a very clear, positive subconscious message to your date: you are willing to invest in the people and animals you care for.

4. Prepare a Few Party Tricks

Having a few cute tricks up your sleeve is not only a fantastic icebreaker, but it also demonstrates that you actually spend quality, focused time with your dog.

Whether it is a high-five, a spin, or playing dead, a well-executed trick shows your date that you do not just treat your dog like a piece of living furniture. It proves that you are patient, you know how to communicate, and that when someone is important in your life, you readily invest time in building a strong relationship with them.