Dog-Friendly Farms & Markets in Maryland: Fresh Produce & Fun

Imagine strolling through rows of ripe apple trees, warm sunshine on your back, and your dog trotting happily beside you a tail wagging, nose twitching with every new scent. You reach out and pick a peach straight from the branch while your pup greets another friendly farm visitor.

It sounds like a wholesome dream, but for many Maryland pet parents, it’s an everyday possibility. Dog-friendly farmers markets and pick-your-own farms are becoming popular weekend destinations, offering fresh produce, outdoor fun, and a chance for you and your dog to explore together.

These outings aren’t just about shopping. They’re about slowing down, breathing in fresh air, and sharing experiences that enrich both you and your dog’s life.

Why Farmers Markets and Farms Are Perfect for Dogs

1. Sensory Adventure – New smells, sights, and textures make for a mentally stimulating experience.
2. Socialization Opportunities – Meeting new people and friendly dogs helps build confidence and good manners.
3. Healthy, Fresh Treats – You can pick produce that doubles as safe, nutrient-packed dog snacks.
4. Outdoor Bonding – A peaceful walk-through farm rows or market stalls makes for quality time together.

Dog-Friendly Fruits & Veggies You Can Find

When you’re visiting local farms, keep an eye out for produce your dog can safely enjoy:

• Apples (no seeds) – A crunchy, hydrating snack with vitamins A & C.
• Peaches (no pits) – Sweet, juicy, and packed with fiber.
• Carrots – Crunchy, low-calorie, and great for teeth.
• Green Beans – Fresh and low in calories.
• Blueberries – Perfect antioxidant-rich training treats.
• Watermelon (seedless) – Hydrating and refreshing for warm days.

Always wash produce and remove seeds, pits, and stems before sharing with your pup.

Maryland’s Dog-Friendly Farms You’ll Love

1. Baugher’s Orchards and Farms (Westminster, MD): Baugher’s is a dog-friendly paradise for produce lovers. Famous for their pick-your-own apples, peaches, and seasonal vegetables, the orchards and farm grounds welcome well-behaved dogs on leash. You can wander through rows of fruit trees, shop their market for fresh pies and jams, or grab a treat at their ice cream shop.

Pet Tip: Bring a portable water bowl because the orchards are big, and you’ll want to keep your pup hydrated while exploring.

2. Mackintosh Fruit Farm (Berryville, VA)

Just a short drive from Maryland, Mackintosh Fruit Farm offers a welcoming spot for pet owners. With pick-your-own fruits and vegetables, an on-site market, a kitchen serving fresh dishes, and a cider room, it’s an easy way to spend an entire afternoon. Dogs are welcome on the property as long as they’re leashed.

Pet Tip: Try visiting early in the morning to beat the heat and enjoy fewer crowds.

3. Good Dog Farm (Upperco, MD)

This farm lives up to its name, it’s a vegetable farm committed to organic, sustainable practices, and they’re naturally pet-friendly. While they operate primarily through a CSA program, you can visit during open hours to pick up produce and support local agriculture. Their wide variety of vegetables makes it easy to find dog-safe snacks like carrots, sweet potatoes, and green beans.

Pet Tip: This is a quieter, more relaxed farm compared to large orchards — perfect for dogs who prefer calm environments.

Planning Your Dog-Friendly Farm or Market Trip

1. Research Before You Go: Check each location’s website or call ahead to confirm pet policies, seasonal schedules, and any special rules.
2. Pack a Dog Day Bag
   Bring:
   Fresh water & a collapsible bowl
   Waste bags
   A sturdy leash (non-retractable preferred)
   Small treats for good behavior
   A towel for muddy paws
3. Time It Right: Choose cooler hours (morning or evening) and avoid midday heat, especially on sunny days.
4. Keep Visits Short at First: If it’s your dog’s first farm trip, limit your time to prevent overstimulation.

Farm Etiquette for Dogs

• Keep your dog leashed and close at all times.
• Don’t let your dog sniff or lick produce for sale.
• Always clean up after your pet, even in fields.
• Step aside for crowds or farm vehicles.

Fun Ways to Use Your Farm Haul for Your Dog

1. Frozen Fruit Cubes: Chop seedless watermelon or blueberries and freeze them in ice cube trays with water for a hydrating snack.
2. Sweet Potato Chews: Slice sweet potatoes and bake at a low temperature until chewy.
3. Apple-Carrot Pup Pops: Blend apple slices (no seeds) and carrots with a bit of water, then freeze in silicone molds.

Safety Notes Before Sharing Produce

• Avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, avocados, and cherry pits — these are toxic to dogs.
• Introduce new foods gradually to prevent stomach upset.
• If your dog has special dietary needs, check with your vet first.

Maryland’s dog-friendly farms and markets aren’t just a great way to stock up on fresh produce, they’re an opportunity to make memories with your dog in the open air. Whether you’re apple-picking at Baugher’s Orchards, sampling farm-fresh bites at Mackintosh Fruit Farm, or enjoying the quiet charm of Good Dog Farm, you’ll return home with more than just a bag of fruits and veggies.

You’ll come back with a happy, enriched pup, and maybe a few new favorite spots to add to your weekend routine.

So leash up, pack your tote bag, and head out for a farm-fresh adventure that’s good for your fridge, your health, and your best friend’s tail-wagging happiness.