Patio Dining Etiquette: How to Be a Perfect Restaurant Guest with Your Dog 🍽️🐶

Sharing a meal with your dog on a sun-drenched patio is one of the simple pleasures of summer. As more restaurants across the country open their doors (and patios!) to our four-legged friends, it’s more important than ever for us as pet owners to be responsible and courteous. Good restaurant etiquette isn't just about making your experience enjoyable—it's about ensuring these welcoming spaces remain available for all dogs in the future.

Before You Arrive: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way 📝

A successful dining experience starts long before you order an appetizer.

• Call Ahead to Confirm: Even if a restaurant is listed as "pet-friendly," always call ahead. Ask if dogs are allowed and if there are any specific rules, such as dogs only being permitted on the patio. Policies can change, so it's best to be sure.
• Ask for the Best Spot: Inquire about the ideal table for a dog. A corner spot or a table against a wall can provide more space and make your dog feel more secure without getting in the way of staff or other diners.
• Tire Them Out: A tired dog is a well-behaved dog. Before you go, make sure your pup has had a long walk, a good play session, or a potty break. This helps them settle down and relax while you enjoy your meal.

During the Meal: Mastering Patio Manners 🍴🐾

Once you’re seated, it’s all about being a considerate guest to the restaurant and your fellow diners.

• Keep Them Leashed: Your dog must remain on a leash at all times. The leash should be short enough that your dog can't wander under other tables or into the path of servers.
• Choose a Safe Spot: Position your dog under your table or beside your chair, out of the main walkway. You want to make sure your dog isn't a tripping hazard for anyone, especially staff carrying trays of food.
• Bring Your Own Water Bowl: While many restaurants provide water, bringing your own portable bowl is a smart move. It’s more sanitary and ensures your dog has access to water exactly when they need it.
• No Table Scraps: Resist the urge to feed your dog from the table. Giving them food from your plate can lead to begging, which can be annoying to other patrons and isn't good for your dog's health.
• Manage Barking and Noise: If your dog starts to bark, address it immediately. Use a calming voice or a high-value chew toy to distract them. If the barking continues, be prepared to take them away from the patio for a short break.
• Clean Up Any Accidents: If your dog has a potty accident or spills something, clean it up right away and discreetly inform a server so they can sanitize the area properly.
• Respect Other Diners: Do not allow your dog to approach strangers or other dogs without explicit permission. Not everyone is a dog person, and some may have allergies or a fear of dogs.
• Mind the Time: If your dog is getting restless, consider getting a to-go box or eating in shifts with your dining companions. A long, drawn-out dinner can be tough on a dog who is used to being active.

The Golden Rules of Respect and Responsibility ✨🤝

Being a responsible pet owner at a restaurant is about more than just managing your dog.

• Be Mindful of Staff: Servers and bussers need to be able to navigate the patio safely. Be aware of their movements and make sure your dog isn't in their way.
• Tidy Up: Before you leave, check the area under and around your table for any pet hair or dropped food. A quick sweep or check with a lint roller is a simple gesture that shows your respect for the space.
• Tip Generously: If the staff was friendly and accommodating to your dog, consider leaving an extra tip as a thank you.

Knowing When to Call It a Day ⏰👋

Sometimes, a dining experience just doesn't go as planned.

• Know When to Leave: If your dog is overly stressed, excited, or won't stop barking, the most responsible thing to do is to pack up and leave. It’s better to cut your losses than to create a negative experience for everyone else.
• Practice at Home: If your dog struggles with restaurant etiquette, start by practicing at home or in less-crowded public spaces. You can also try picking up takeout and having a picnic in a park to practice "staying" and "settling" in a new environment.

By being a responsible and considerate pet owner, you help ensure that more and more restaurants remain open to our furry friends, creating a more welcoming world for all.