After a leisurely walk in the countryside or a stroll around town with your canine companion, nothing beats heading to a nearby eatery to unwind and refuel before heading back home. Even better, more and more restaurants nowadays are pet-friendly, so there's no need to leave your pooch behind! However, the experience of dining out with your dog can occasionally be somewhat unpleasant for you, other diners and especially for your pup, who might become restless and frustrated, which could lead to whining, barking, and even stealing food. This could leave you with no choice but to quickly finish your meal in order to prevent your pup getting any more agitated.
To make sure you and your pup have the best possible time at a dog-friendly restaurant, here are some tips to help you out...
First and foremost, make sure the restaurant you're visiting is in fact dog-friendly. Additionally, it may be worth inquiring about whether there are tables available for dogs both indoors and outside. If the eatery is cramped and tables are close together, it may be less stressful for your pup to dine outdoors - provided it's not raining!
Remember to feed your pup before you go out! It may seem small, but if your dog is feeling a bit peckish, being surrounded by food could tempt them to misbehave or even try to steal some for themselves.
If your pup is super energetic when you arrive at the restaurant, it may be a challenge to get them to stay still. They need to find a way to use up all that energy and it can often lead to barking, pacing, whining, and other unwanted behaviours. To avoid this, make sure to give them a good walk beforehand.
Bringing toys and treats to keep your pup occupied while you eat is a great way to ensure they don't get bored! Chew toys and tough-to-chew treats can be a great way to keep them engaged and help them practice good manners.
It's important to keep your pup on a lead when you're dining out. Not only does this help keep other people in the restaurant safe, but it also helps your dog feel more secure as they are connected to you. Our Cafe Leads are perfect companion to al-fresco dining with your hound; simply hook the handle around the chair or table leg and secure with the extra lobster clasp.
Finally, and probably the most important thing of all is getting to know your pup! Some dogs are totally relaxed when eating out at restaurants, but it can be overwhelming for others. Only you know your dog and what situations make them feel relaxed. If eating out with your pup causes them stress, it might be best to leave them at home (and bring them back a doggy bag).