Are you tired of leaving your furry friend at home while you dine out? Looking for restaurants where both you and your four-legged companion can enjoy a meal together? You’re not alone! As pet ownership continues to rise across the United States, more restaurants are opening their doors (or at least their patios) to accommodate dog owners who want to include their pets in their dining experiences.
Understanding Dog-Friendly Restaurant Policies in the US
Before grabbing your pup’s leash and heading to the nearest eatery, it’s important to understand the laws and regulations governing dogs in restaurants. As of 2025, approximately 23 states have laws or regulations allowing dogs in outdoor dining areas of restaurants 1. This includes 14 states with specific laws and 6 states that permit dogs through state regulations.
However, these permissions almost exclusively apply to outdoor dining areas, not inside the restaurant. According to health codes across most states, non-service dogs are generally prohibited from indoor dining areas.
State-Specific Laws
Different states have varying regulations regarding dogs in restaurants:
- California: The state allows dogs in outdoor dining areas if the restaurant chooses to permit them. Dogs must have a separate entrance to the patio, cannot sit on chairs or benches, and must remain leashed.
- Minnesota: State law allows cities to create ordinances permitting dogs in outdoor restaurant spaces. Dogs must be leashed, kept off furniture, and under reasonable control. Restaurant employees cannot touch the dogs.
- Texas: Since 2019, Texas has allowed businesses to advertise themselves as pet-friendly and offer their outdoor patios to leashed pets.
- Florida: The state has “doggie dining laws” that require restaurants to obtain permits if they want to allow dogs to sit outside and keep hand sanitizers on tables where dogs are allowed.
- Georgia: The state rewrote portions of its health code to allow leashed dogs in outdoor areas, emphasizing that pets should have no direct contact with restaurant staff.
It’s worth noting that these regulations do not apply to service animals, which are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and allowed in all areas of restaurants where the public is permitted.
Top Dog-Friendly Cities Across the US
Some cities stand out as particularly welcoming to canine companions. According to research, these are some of the most dog-friendly cities in the United States:
- Orlando, Florida: With 334 dog-friendly restaurants and 535 dog-friendly hotels, Orlando takes the top spot for dog-friendly destinations.
- Tampa, Florida: Another Florida city that welcomes four-legged guests with numerous pet-friendly establishments.
- St. Petersburg, Florida: This city has 111 veterinarian practices and 153 restaurants that welcome dogs.
- St. Louis, Missouri, makes the top 10 list for dog-friendly destinations.
- Boise, Idaho: Known for its outdoor recreational activities, Boise offers 68 pet-friendly hotels and 108 dog-friendly restaurants.
- Denver, Colorado: Beyond boasting many parks and hiking trails, Denver offers many dog-friendly restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, including Kaos Pizzeria, Joyride Brewing Company, and Rock Bottom Restaurant and Brewery.
- Minneapolis, Minnesota: With over 180 pet-friendly restaurants, breweries, and patios, Minneapolis is described as an “insanely dog-friendly city”.
Popular Dog-Friendly Restaurant Chains
If you’re traveling and looking for reliable dog-friendly options, these national chains typically welcome dogs in their outdoor areas:
- Shake Shack (New York and nationwide): Beyond serving their famous burgers to humans, Shake Shack offers a special dog menu including a “pooch-ini” (dog-friendly vanilla custard), a bag of bones, and dog biscuits.
- Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar (Multiple locations): As the name suggests, this chain is extremely dog-friendly with locations in Downtown Summerlin and Town Square in Las Vegas. They offer patio dining for pets and their owners, plus a special pet menu including free water bowls.
- Olive Garden (Orlando, Florida, and nationwide): This popular Italian chain makes the list of pet-friendly restaurants.
- Starbucks (Nationwide): Most Starbucks locations allow dogs on their patios. Dogs must be leashed and kept off furniture.
Regional Standouts: Dog-Friendly Restaurants by Location
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers several dog-friendly dining options, particularly in the Stone Oak area:
- Ida Claire: Located in San Antonio, this restaurant welcomes dogs in its outdoor seating area.
- Mama’s Cafe: Offers dog-friendly dining options.
- Rock & Brews: San Antonio location allows dogs in designated areas.
Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas has numerous spots where you can dine with your dog:
- Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar: With locations in Downtown Summerlin and Town Square, this is a classic choice for pet owners.
- Egg Works/Egg & I: All locations serve breakfast favorites along with American and Mexican lunch specialties on dog-friendly patios. They provide water bowls, dog treats, and have a canine-loving staff.
- Grape Street Café: Located in Downtown Summerlin, this upscale venue for Italian and Mediterranean dishes offers a tranquil patio where dog owners can bring their water bowls.
New Braunfels, Texas
Top dog-friendly restaurants in New Braunfels include:
- Muck & Fuss: A popular pet-friendly restaurant in New Braunfels.
- Gruene Grove welcomes dogs in their outdoor spaces.
- Fork and Spoon: Another dog-friendly option in the area.
Mexican Dog-Friendly Restaurants
For those craving Mexican cuisine with their canine companions:
- Taco Temple (Morro Bay): Offers a diverse menu of Mexican-inspired dishes on a pet-friendly patio.
- Maya Restaurant (Morro Bay): Allows dogs in their outdoor area, where you can enjoy tacos, burritos, and other Mexican food.
- La Katrina (Morro Bay): Features an outdoor space where you can enjoy Mexican dishes and margaritas with your dog.
- Andele’s Dog House: Listed among the top dog-friendly Mexican restaurants in the United States.
Dog-Friendly Restaurant Etiquette: Tips for a Positive Experience
To ensure everyone has a pleasant dining experience, follow these etiquette guidelines when bringing your dog to a restaurant:
Before You Go
- Call ahead: Always check if the restaurant allows dogs and what their specific policies are.
- Prepare your dog: Make sure your dog has been fed, has gone to the bathroom, and is well-exercised before dining out to reduce restlessness.
- Assess your dog’s temperament: Not all dogs are suited for restaurants. If your dog is anxious, reactive, or not good with strangers, it might be best to leave them at home.
During Your Visit
- Keep your dog leashed: A valuable tip for dog-friendly restaurant etiquette is to make sure your dog is secured on a leash at all times.
- Bring supplies: Pack water, a collapsible bowl, treats, poop bags, and possibly a towel or blanket for your dog to sit on.
- Proper positioning: Keep your dog under your table or close by to avoid blocking aisles or bothering staff and other guests. Dogs should not sit on chairs, your lap, or anywhere they could access food on the table.
- Be considerate of others: Recognize that not everyone is a dog lover. Some people may have allergies or fears. Keep your dog to yourself unless someone explicitly welcomes interaction.
- Watch for cues: Pay attention to your dog’s behavior. Sniffing, circling, or restlessness might indicate they need a bathroom break.
- Clean up: Always clean up after your dog and inform staff if any accidents occur so they can properly sanitize the area.
- Extra tip: Consider leaving a slightly larger tip if the staff goes out of their way to accommodate your dog.
How to Find Dog-Friendly Restaurants Near You
Finding dog-friendly restaurants in your area has never been easier with these resources:
- BringFido: A comprehensive website and app that lists dog-friendly restaurants across the United States, with reviews and specific information about each establishment’s dog policies.
- Yelp: Offers a “Dogs Allowed” filter when searching for restaurants and recently published a list of the “Top 100 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in the US”.
- OpenTable: Provides information on dog-friendly dining options and allows you to make reservations.
- Local tourism websites: Many city tourism websites maintain lists of pet-friendly establishments.
- Social media: Local dog owner groups on platforms like Facebook often share recommendations for dog-friendly restaurants.
| City | Number of Dog-Friendly Restaurants | Popular Dog-Friendly Restaurant | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando, FL | 334 | Shake Shack | Special dog menu with treats |
| San Antonio, TX | Numerous | Ida Claire | Outdoor seating area for dogs |
| Minneapolis, MN | 180+ | Sea Salt Eatery | Large outdoor pet-friendly patio |
| Las Vegas, NV | Dozens | Lazy Dog Restaurant | Pet-friendly menu with free water bowl |
| Tampa, FL | Many | Multiple options | Florida’s dog-friendly laws make this a top city |
| Denver, CO | Many | Kaos Pizzeria | Outdoor spaces for dogs |
| New Braunfels, TX | Several | Muck & Fuss | Pet-friendly outdoor seating |
Service Animals vs. Pet Dogs: Know the Difference
It’s important to understand the distinction between service animals and pet dogs when it comes to restaurant access:
- Service Animals: Protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are allowed in all areas of restaurants where the public is permitted, including indoor dining rooms. These are dogs trained to perform specific tasks for people with disabilities.
- Emotional Support Animals: These are not service animals under the ADA and do not have the same access rights. They are generally subject to the same restrictions as pet dogs.
- Pet Dogs: Typically only allowed in outdoor dining areas where state and local laws permit, and only if the restaurant owner chooses to allow them.
Benefits of Dog-Friendly Dining
Including your dog in your dining experiences offers several benefits:
- Reduced separation anxiety: For dogs that get anxious when left alone, bringing them along can reduce stress.
- Increased socialization: Restaurants provide excellent environments for dogs to practice good behavior in public settings.
- More quality time: Instead of rushing home to your pet, you can enjoy more activities together.
- Exercise opportunities: Many dog-friendly restaurants are located near walking paths or parks, allowing for a meal plus exercise.
Key Takeaways
- Always check state and local laws regarding dogs at restaurants, as they vary significantly.
- Call ahead to confirm a restaurant’s dog policy before arriving with your pet.
- Keep your dog leashed and well-behaved when dining out.
- Bring necessary supplies like water, bowls, treats, and cleanup materials.
- Be considerate of other diners and restaurant staff.
- Know the difference between service animals and pets regarding access rights.
- Resources like BringFido and Yelp can help you find dog-friendly establishments.
- Consider your dog’s temperament before taking them to a restaurant.
FAQ
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, dogs are not allowed inside restaurants unless they are service animals. However, Minnesota law allows cities to create ordinances permitting dogs in outdoor dining spaces. The dog must be leashed, kept off furniture, and employees cannot touch them.
Are dogs allowed inside restaurants in California?
No, dogs are not allowed inside restaurants in California unless they are service animals. However, California law allows pet dogs in outdoor dining areas if the restaurant owner permits it, provided the dogs have a separate entrance to the patio, remain leashed, and stay off the furniture.
Can you bring dogs into Target?
Target’s official policy allows only service animals inside their stores. Pet dogs are not permitted inside Target locations, in compliance with health regulations regarding animals in establishments that sell food.
Where is the best place for a dog to eat?
The “best” place depends on your location and your dog’s temperament. Nationwide chains like Shake Shack and Lazy Dog Restaurant are known for being particularly dog-friendly, offering special menus for canine guests. Using apps like BringFido can help you find highly-rated dog-friendly restaurants in your specific area.
Are dogs allowed inside restaurants in Texas?
In Texas, dogs are generally not allowed inside restaurants unless they are service animals. However, since 2019, Texas law has allowed businesses to advertise themselves as pet-friendly and offer their outdoor patios to leashed pets.
What Mexican restaurants are dog-friendly?
Several Mexican restaurants welcome dogs in their outdoor seating areas, including Andele’s Dog House, which is specifically listed among the top dog-friendly Mexican restaurants. Regional options include Taco Temple, Maya Restaurant, and La Katrina in Morro Bay, 28 and 25.
By being well-informed about local regulations and following proper etiquette, you can enjoy dining out with your four-legged friend and help create more positive experiences that encourage more restaurants to become dog-friendly in the future. Happy dining with your furry companion!
