dog friendly restaurants

dog friendly restaurants

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🐶 America’s Best dog friendly restaurants for 2025

Sharing Meals and Memories With Your Best Friend

Imagine this: a warm summer evening, a bustling patio, the scent of freshly grilled food drifting in the air—and your loyal pup lounging at your feet, wagging their tail in delight. Sound like a dream? In 2025, it’s not. All across the United States, dog friendly restaurants are no longer a novelty; they’re a standard. Whether you’re traveling or just looking for a spot around the corner, you have more dog-friendly dining options than ever before.

In this guide, you’re going to discover the best dog friendly restaurants in the United States, what to expect, how to find them, and even what your furry friend can eat while you’re out.


Why Dog Friendly Restaurants Are Booming in 2025

The Rise in Pet Ownership Post-2020

Pet ownership in the U.S. has exploded. Since 2020, the number of households with pets has grown by over 13%, according to the American Pet Products Association. More of you are treating pets like family—rightfully so—and the hospitality industry is responding.

Restaurants Are Catching On

Restaurants aren’t just allowing dogs to tag along. They’re designing entire experiences around them:

  • Outdoor seating tailored for pets
  • Custom dog menus
  • Pet-safe table scraps
  • Doggy happy hours and events

You can now dine out without leaving your best friend behind, and that changes everything.


Best dog friendly restaurants by Region (2025 Guide)

West Coast

Los Angeles, CA

  • The Morrison: Known for its “Dog Menu” with items like “Chicken Bow Wow.”
  • Mud Hen Tavern: Patio space with dog water bowls and complimentary treats.

Seattle, WA

  • Dogs are allowed both inside and outside at Norm’s Eatery & Ale House.

San Diego, CA

  • The Patio on Lamont: Offers a gourmet pet menu and pet-safe patio.

Midwest

Chicago, IL

  • Parson’s Chicken & Fish: Offers a large outdoor space with dog-specific accommodations.

Omaha, NE

  • The Benson Brewery: Pet-friendly patio and organic treats available.

Minneapolis, MN

  • Psycho Suzi’s Motor Lounge: A unique tiki-themed space where dogs fit right in.

South

Austin, TX

  • Banger’s Sausage House offers a dog-specific cuisine in addition to an on-site dog park.

Atlanta, GA

  • Park Tavern: Pet-friendly seating by the lake and live music.

Nashville, TN

  • Frothy Monkey: Known for laid-back vibes and welcoming pups.

Northeast

Boston, MA

  • The Friendly Toast: Retro setting with a pet-positive patio.

New York, NY

  • Barking Dog Restaurant: Literally named after its four-legged clientele.

Philadelphia, PA

  • Morgan’s Pier: Overlooks the water and welcomes pups of all sizes.

Tip: Many of these restaurants are highly rated on BringFido and Google Maps. Always double-check current policies before you go.

BringFido – Dog-Friendly Restaurant Finder
Link from: “Apps like BringFido help you find dog friendly restaurants near you.”


What Makes a Restaurant Truly Dog Friendly?

Dog friendly doesn’t mean dogs are just tolerated—it means they’re embraced. When choosing where to dine, look for these key features:

Features to Look For

  • Wide outdoor patios
  • Shade and water availability
  • Dog-specific menu or snacks
  • Staff trained in pet hospitality
  • Clean and safe dining environment for animals

Sample Doggy Menus (Table)

RestaurantDog Meal NameIngredientsPrice
The Morrison (LA)Bow Wow BurgerGround beef, rice, carrots$7
Barking Dog (NYC)Puppy PancakesOats, banana, egg$5
Banger’s (Austin)Dog Sausage PlatterChicken sausage, sweet potato, kale$6

These aren’t just snacks—they’re thoughtfully crafted meals your pup will love.


How to Find Dog Friendly Restaurants Near You

Use the Right Tools

Your smartphone is your best friend here. These apps and sites will help you track down the perfect place:

  • BringFido: Filters by restaurant type, location, and dog-friendly features.
  • Yelp: Use “dog friendly” as a keyword.
  • PetFriendlyTravel.com: Great for road trips or vacation planning.

Local Tips

  • Ask in Facebook groups or dog forums
  • Check Google Reviews for user-submitted dog info
  • Follow local pet influencers or pages for recommendations

“Not all restaurant scraps are safe—before sharing anything dairy-based like cheese or ice cream, read up on whether dogs can drink milk.”


What to Know Before You Go

You wouldn’t take your child to a restaurant without preparation, right? Same goes for your pup.

Dog Dining Etiquette

  • Keep your dog leashed and by your side
  • Don’t allow barking or disruptive behavior
  • Bring a blanket or mat for them to sit on
  • Pick up any messes immediately

Comfort and Safety Tips

  • Avoid hot pavement or peak sun times
  • Pack a collapsible water bowl
  • Avoid going to the restaurant if your dog is agitated, nervous, or ill.

“Some restaurant dishes may contain mushrooms, so it’s worth checking if dogs can have mushrooms before sharing a bite.”


Bonus: Make Your Own Dog-Inspired Meal at Home

Want to bring the restaurant experience home? Here’s an easy, dog-safe treat inspired by dishes served at actual pet-friendly restaurants.

Peanut Butter Banana Bites Recipe (Table)

IngredientAmount
Peanut butter1/2 cup
Ripe banana1
Oats1 cup
Honey (optional)1 tsp

Instructions:

  1. Mash the banana and mix it with peanut butter.
  2. Stir in oats and optional honey until combined.
  3. Refrigerate for one hour after forming into small balls.

Perfect for road trips or rewards after a patio visit!


Conclusion: Dine Out, Tails Out

You don’t need to choose between quality time with your dog and enjoying your favorite restaurants. IBy 2025, taking your pet with you will be simpler than ever before.With more businesses embracing pet-friendly values, you can eat well, relax more, and make unforgettable memories together.

Don’t wait for the weekend—search “dog friendly restaurants near me” and plan your next outing today. Your dog will thank you.


FAQ: Dog Friendly Restaurants in the United States 2025

Are dogs allowed inside restaurants in the U.S.?

Generally, dogs are only allowed in outdoor seating areas, unless local regulations or special licensing permits otherwise.

Do restaurants provide food or water for dogs?

Many offer water bowls by default. Some go further with full dog menus, featuring snacks and meals prepared just for pets.

How do I verify a restaurant is dog friendly?

Use platforms like BringFido, Yelp, or check recent Google Reviews. When in doubt, call ahead.

Are there chain restaurants that welcome dogs?

Yes! Popular dog-welcoming chains include:

  • Shake Shack: Some locations offer dog-friendly “Pooch-ini”
  • Starbucks: Puppuccinos (whipped cream) are free!
  • Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar: Known for their dog-centric menu