A dog-friendly bar typically has an outdoor patio area where pups are free to join their owners. The bar may even provide water bowls and treats for your dog, while you enjoy a drink or a light bite to eat. Before visiting such an establishment, there are a few things you need to know.
1. Consider the Location
Keep in mind that most dog-friendly bars only allow the pup outside at patio seating, likely due to local health code rules. Some dogs can become easily stressed by a lot of traffic or noise, so keep in mind your dog's temperament and the location of the bar before visiting. If your dog barks and becomes stressed when there is a lot of honking, then a bar by a busy, loud intersection may not be the best place to take them.
2. Know the Leash Rules
In most cases, your dog must remain on a leash the entire time you are at the bar. The one exception is those bars that also feature a play yard or off-leash area for pups to play and run free. In the on-leash areas, make sure that you keep them on a short leash — don't let your pup wander around on a long leash or set the retractable leash so that the dog can wander at will. Not only is this usually against the rules but it is also frustrating for other patrons and it can be dangerous for your dog.
3. Only Take Trained Pups
The same rules apply to dog-friendly bars as those that apply to dog parks — only take your dog if they are well trained and follow commands. They must especially be able to follow the "sit," "stay," "drop," and "quiet" commands without hesitation. Even friendly dogs can run into stressful situations when around other dogs and people they aren't familiar with, so it's vital that your dog can be controlled.
4. Leave Them on the Ground
No matter how small or cute your pup, don't allow them on the table and avoid the urge to feed them table scraps. It is likely against the rules to have dogs on the table due to health code restrictions. Food on the ground can also be left behind by your pup, which means it could be ingested by another dog against the owner's wishes.
5. Pay Attention
Always pay attention to your dog. If the bar has an off-leash area, stay by it and be prepared to control your dog if necessary. This isn't a drop-off and play situation where you can set your dog free and then return to your table.
To learn more, visit a local bar like PG & J's Dog Bar.
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