AKC is a participant in affiliate advertising programs designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to akc.org. If you purchase a product through this article, we may receive a portion of the sale.
Bringing your dog to a pet-friendly restaurant can be a great way to spend more time together and practice their manners training in a new environment. While only service dogs have public access to any restaurant, some dog-friendly restaurants and outdoor dining options allow your pet to come along.
Remember, it’s crucial to assess whether your dog will enjoy the experience before bringing them along to any restaurants. Before heading out for a meal, consider these factors to ensure that your dog is up to the challenge.
Practical Application of Training Skills
Consider brushing up on your dog’s training before bringing them to brunch or your favorite patio happy hour. For example, has your dog earned their CGC (Canine Good Citizen) title yet? CGC tests your dog’s ability to be an all-around polite member of the community. These are the same skills you’ll want your dog to have before going out to eat together.
Before heading to a restaurant with your pet, you may want to review the “leave it” cue. Outdoor dining and dog-friendly restaurants are full of distractions, including being surrounded by food that could potentially be dropped near your table. Making sure your dog understands “leave it” will allow you to get your pet’s attention and prevent them from snacking on any food that may have fallen.
Another useful skill to practice is the “watch me” cue. This will help keep your dog’s focus on you and prevent them from approaching other people’s tables. A “place” cue can also be helpful. Practice this cue using a towel or small blanket to indicate where you’d like them to settle. At the restaurant, put the towel under your table, then use your place cue to tell your dog you’d like them to settle on their “bed” while you eat.
What Should I Bring for My Dog?
When going out to eat with your dog, be prepared with everything your pet will need to be comfortable, including items such as:
- Collapsible water bowl and water for your dog
- Towel, mat, or blanket for your dog to lie on
- 6-foot (or shorter) leash, which should be on your dog at all times at the restaurant
- Treats, which you’ll want to have on hand to reinforce calm and appropriate behavior
Your dog is more likely to repeat behavior that is rewarded. Therefore, praising and treating your dog for lying under the table and being calm is better than scolding them if they get restless. You can also bring your dog a chew or other small toy to entertain themselves while you’re eating.
What to Do With Your Dog at a Restaurant
Always keep your dog under your table or close by. This way, they won’t block aisles or bother restaurant staff or other guests. For everyone’s comfort and safety, avoid letting your dog approach others without their permission. When it comes to interacting with people, it’s up to you to advocate for what will make your dog most comfortable.
If your dog is social and enjoys meeting new people, feel free to allow them to greet a person who asks if they can pet your dog. However, if your dog isn’t a fan of strangers or easily gets overstimulated, feel free to politely decline. If necessary, you can then explain your dog is shy or that they’re in training and learning to relax in distracting environments.
Similarly, your dog doesn’t need to greet other dogs at the restaurant. Even if your dog likes other dogs, it’s best to avoid on-leash greetings with other dogs at this time. Instead, we want to encourage dogs to be neutral and ignore any other animals accompanying their owners.
How to Find a Dog-Friendly Restaurant
Many restaurants have begun offering outdoor seating options. Many, though not all, are dog-friendly. Before heading out to eat with your dog, it’s best to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead and ask if dogs are allowed to accompany their owners.
Some restaurants also now allow you to order on your phone before you sit down. Restaurant staff can then bring your meal outside to where you and your dog are sitting.
How Can I Ensure My Dog Will Have Fun?
While you might want to bring your dog everywhere, your pet might not enjoy every destination. If your dog is reactive, wary, or stressed around other people or animals, it’s best to avoid bringing them out to eat. Instead, opt for takeout or delivery. For your first time eating out with your dog, aim for a time when the restaurant will be less crowded. Having less distractions present can also help you assess if your dog needs more training before going at a busier time.
The most important thing to keep in mind is your dog’s temperament and how they feel around other dogs and people. If you know your dog is stressed about crowds, you’ll want to leave them at home. On the other hand, if your dog is trained to ignore distractions and enjoys new experiences, consider giving dining out together a try.