What are your thoughts on dogs in restaurants/cafes?

[-]

29Ratma29@reddit

I have a shared older dog with my ex. I absolutely love dogs and all other animals. However, there is a time and a place for dogs and I do not agree with the sheer number of local eateries that now allow dogs inside. My dog would not really enjoy just laying there, so I wouldn't take her. My current partner (who I live separately from) is really, really allergic to dogs. I must admit that I was a bit naive and thought it really could not be that bad and he would just be sneezing a bit. When we first got together I invited him to visit a family member with me and I didn't even think about the fact that he had a dog, as I have been around dogs all my life. We got there and I realized and I was so apologetic to my partner. He said he would be fine, but he gradually started sneezing, tearing up, itching, wheezing. It got to the point where he almost couldn't breathe and it was terrifying. It took about 2 hours to subside. He used to be a bit allergic around me when I stayed with him due to my dog's hair, so I have now started keeping separate clothes away from my dog at home and at his place so I can make sure they are washed separately and the washing machine is kept clean etc so that I can minimise the amount of dog hair I might be exposing him to when I visit him. His allergy has prevented us being able to go out to a lot of local cafes, restaurants and pubs, as they are all increasingly allowing dogs and he literally cannot breathe. I also have a friend who is absolutely terrified of dogs and she has similar issues. Unfortunately it is the bad dog owners who give it a bad name. My dog is a well-trained Malinois and if I were to take her out, she would just lie under the table and mind her own business, whereas for example me and my partner had to leave a local (not country) pub the other day because a man came in with a dog, not on a lead, and it was running around and barking at people, and then my partner's wheezing started again.

[-]

Microchi@reddit

Location, location, location. Cafe on a popular walking spot or in a country park, rural pub etc. Accept a dog.

Out for dinner in a restaurant. Absolutely not.

[-]

Gisschace@reddit

Right I go up to the lakes often and a pub not allowing dogs is odd and wouldn’t be able to function.

But in central London I would not expect to see Dogs unless they were service dogs. It’s not even a nice place to take dogs.

[-]

wdwhereicome2015@reddit

On e of my dogs is a Covid puppy.
Can be left alone fine. However out her in an area away from her usual spots and also in a crowd and she gets completely stressed out.

As have been said pubs in countryside fine. City centre restaurant no chance. Pubs with separate areas for dogs fine as well

[-]

fezzuk@reddit

I think an ourdoor festival is fine, depends on tbe dog.

[-]

IAmDyspeptic@reddit

I always say this when I see people out shopping with their dogs in tow. Why would you bring your dog? That is not a fun walk for them.

[-]

rachw39@reddit

People had their dogs at the London marathon last week. All those noisy, busy crowds and the dog is stuck in the middle of it all!

[-]

Cirieno@reddit

I also feel it's a bit cruel: all those wonderful smells and the dog isn't allowed to investigate them.

[-]

EpochRaine@reddit

Why would you bring your dog to such a place? It must have been so uncomfortable for them.

Because some dog owners are highly inconsiderate people - that extends to their own animals, except they don't see it that way.

For some perverse reason, they do this shit and then wonder why their Dog has acted out of character. It becomes a "complete surprise" that little suzy isn't enjoying it as much as they are...

[-]

SafiyaO@reddit

Why would you bring your dog to such a place?

Because people don't see dogs as animals anymore, but little people in fur coats. This is detrimental to dogs and wider society.

[-]

SenorBirdman@reddit

City dogs are socialised to that environment at a young age so they don't find it uncomfortable.

I was amazed how many places would let you take a dog in london, I was not expecting it at all. WE wandered around looking for a cafe that would do us a takeaway bacon butty for breakfast, ended up being ushered into a table in a quiet turkish cafe for breakfast. Genuinely amazes me how often we're et in places with dogs. Never expect it though.

[-]

SpudFire@reddit

That's my thought as well. If it's a muddy boots and sweaty cyclists welcome place, dogs aren't an issue.

Nicer restaurants and more upmarket food pubs shouldn't have dogs inside though. Well behaved dogs are welcome in beer gardens though.

Apart from being unhygienic, dogs absolutely stink. Owners don't realise how much they stink.

Eating food around then is horrible.

People are also scared of dogs.

[-]

ToughImprovement276@reddit

Just saw this video and I’m rather disgusted. Country pubs and the like, I couldn’t care less if there are well behaved dogs about. They’re generally set up for people to come with their pets and have more space.

In restaurants, it’s generally a no from me because why does your dog (or other pet) need to be there? But if it’s a well behaved pet, I guess i wouldn’t care as much.

What I find disgusting and unsanitary is when I see dogs eating off owners plates, paws on the table, drinking out of cups. I don’t care how clean their tongues are or what disinfecting routine the establishment has, it’s uncouth and nasty.

Peeing and pooping in a restaurant deserves a ban and I hope someone reported that to the relevant authorities. The manager absolutely should’ve made that guest and their pet leave.

[-]

Inevitable-Plan-7604@reddit

why does your dog (or other pet) need to be there?

On a practical level, you're probably on holiday. It's cruel to leave them in the car in summer and you can't leave them in the hotel room alone as you could get kicked out - and you're probably a good drive away from your hotel anyway.

[-]

baldeagle1991@reddit

You're not going to be taking a dog to a hotel anyway. The vast majority aren't dog friendly.

And if you do take your dog on holiday, you should really be bringing a dog crate with you.

[-]

Inevitable-Plan-7604@reddit

Obviously if you have a dog you go to a dog friendly hotel? Not really sure what your point is. About 20% of hotels are dog friendly in my experience.

And if you do take your dog on holiday, you should really be bringing a dog crate with you.

Dogs aren't allowed to remain in the room on their own even if crated. Crating them in a hot car is worse than leaving them free in a hot car. Crating them in the restaurant is idiotic

What exactly is your point?

[-]

baldeagle1991@reddit

You're talking about practicalities.....

'Practically' the vast majority of people on holiday taking dogs with them are going to take to them somewhere rural where they can exercise them fairly openly. At the very least somewhere semi-rural.

If someone is taking their dog for a week long city break, that's not really fair on the dog and I think there's likely bigger issues there.

This means they're not using hotels, usually statics, holiday homes, cottages etc. Far more allow dogs and virtually all the ones I've ever used have requested the use of crates for the dogs to be left at the property alone.

And I never said they should be crated in a car or restaurant.

[-]

TexasBrett@reddit

London is well known for having many famously dog friendly hotels such as the Park Lane, Pan Pacific, and the Savoy. London and the UK is incredibly dog friendly compared to most other countries.

[-]

Friendly_Yak_2713@reddit

I mean all the stuff gets cleaned before anyone else uses it. If you're concerned about how the tableware was previously used then you should probably just not go out. It's no worse than a person with herpes or aids or something.

[-]

ToughImprovement276@reddit

I’m aware that it gets cleaned, I even mentioned that in my comment. Logically I know that it’s “fine” from a bacteria pov most probably.

But ultimately, I’d prefer to not share tableware with animals and would prefer that people don’t share things intended to go in human mouths with animals. That isn’t unreasonable.

[-]

I’m aware that it gets cleaned, I even said in my first reply to you that it probably is fine from a bacteria pov.

I just don’t care to share utensils with animals and I really don’t understand why that’s such a controversial opinion? It’s not like I sit down and ruminate on where my tableware has been every time I’m in a restaurant, but seeing animals using these things really isn’t something I care for.

If you’re happy to use the same utensils as your pets, more power to you.

[-]

EpochRaine@reddit

They don't understand mate.

Effectively, they are demonstrating that they consider themselves equal animals, and other humans less than animals. It is like a religion to them.

Agree. I have a dog. I love my dog more than life itself but I also don't want him in a nice city centre restaurant with me. It is very handy for him to be allowed in some places though when we are out for the day otherwise we couldn't go in. We are Yorkshire based so are lucky that a lot of pubs and cafes around parks or walking spots do let them in. Most have dedicated dog areas and then a separate space for those without.

[-]

New_Cap3283@reddit

This is definitely the right answer

[-]

whyilikemuffins@reddit

I'd expect a dog in a spoons,harvester/chain gastropub or take away.

www.mirror.co.uk/news/breastfeeding-mum-storms-out-caf-29780492

www.mirror.co.uk/news/breastfeeding-mum-storms-out-caf-29780492

Wetherspoons www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/breastfeeding-mum-shamed-told-cover-14994699

[-]

DrFirefairy@reddit

My friend has twins. Happened to her less than 6months ago. I know several other bfing mums it has happend to

burnafterreading90@reddit

You said ‘diaper changing in public is one of the most hygienic things I’ve seen’ that’s being arsey about those in deprived areas…

[-]

Bitter_Tradition_938@reddit

Yes. People living in deprived environments have less money and tailor their activities accordingly. They are more likely to go and get drunk than see the Nutcracker, for example.

Moreover, substance abuse (which is associated usually with amtisocial behaviour) is more common in the North compared to the South.

I work in healthcare, we have stats, maps showing the prevalence of different disease - you can actually see liver disease progressing in numbers as you imaginarily go up the M62. Same for smokers’ distribution maps (and I’m not judging, as I smoke like a chimney myself).

Do an evening of people watching on Friday night in Leeds train station, do one in King’s Cross, then get back to me.

[-]

burnafterreading90@reddit

None of what you’ve said has anything to do with what I’ve said? You’re being vile about those who have a lower socioeconomic background.

Also work in healthcare (doctor doing a masters in public health) I don’t need to people watch - I work directly in the poorest boroughs.

I hope i never have to work along you in my future though.

[-]

Bitter_Tradition_938@reddit

Let’s be clear about one thing here - are you an actual PhD or a physician?

[-]

It does as I ahr witnessed it before when working in a coffee shop. It is not tolerated though.

[-]

btec-gamer@reddit

Yeah but that’s done in the bathrooms/baby changing rooms. Also a baby is a human and mothers with children shouldn’t be criticised in restaurants. I’d rather sit next to a family than a dog if I’m eating food if I’m honest.

[-]

Bitter_Tradition_938@reddit

You would be surprised by number of people that use restaurant tables as opposed to changing rooms.

[-]

No they're not.

[-]

YchYFi@reddit

If we tolerate mothers changing diapers in restaurants and cafes.

We never tolerated wheb I worked in a coffee shop people changing babies on the coffee tables.

[-]

PM-ME-PEANUT-BUTTER@reddit

We don’t. There are bat change units and people are rightly scolded for changing a nappy in a public place.

[-]

artesianoptimism@reddit

I have a dog, but I wouldn't take to to a nice restaurant...especially inside.

Country pub on a hiking path...probably and I'd ideally try to stay outside.

Cafe is also a hard one, there are so many nuances.

[-]

SeriousFortune1392@reddit

Honestly, I don't care. I've had a dog, a large portion of my life; I really don't think it would bother me.

however, I do know the video you're talking about, and I think in that situation, I understand others being uncomfortable and would be a bit uncomfortable myself, because of the whole pee pad, i think they either should have eaten outside, or not gone in, if the dog isn't trained yet, because if it can wee and poo and there's a chance it might, not fair on customers.

[-]

Certain_Dream5575@reddit

As a dog owner, puppy pads inside are imo going way too far.

We took our puppy at 3 months old to a pub for a meal (critical socialisation window), obviously this is mid-toilet training.

What I did was ensured we sat directly next to the door so we could take him outside immediately if he needed the toilet, and I took him out every 30 mins anyway. I also took cleaning supplies in the car for the small chance of an accident and would have thoroughly cleaned up (with many apologies!) if that happened.

[-]

Digginginthesand@reddit

I appreciate you would have cleaned it up but it could just as easily have pooed on the floor, and if it had done that on the floor near me it would have put me off my meal.

[-]

Certain_Dream5575@reddit

Sure, in that case I could only apologise. But you make sure the chance of them toileting is close to 0.

This is also in my local country pub and dog walking hotspot. Dogs are expected and welcomed there, most customers in there also have dogs with them.

In a town restaurant I would be fine with a no dogs policy (and wouldn't take my dog there anyway).

Problem is, getting your puppy used all settings you want to take them as an adult should be done before 4 months old, otherwise you miss the socialisation window. You just ensure they've toileted before going inside anywhere (trains, buses, pubs etc) then get them in for 30 mins, toilet check, 30 mins back in, toilet check. Being courteous to others but, also, you need to socialise your dog or it'll be a nervous wreck (see, lockdown puppies).

[-]

I agree, so many dog owners are insufferable these days. They take the dogs everywhere, think everyone is enamoured with their pet and get upset if you don't want it shedding hairs in your food and putting it's dirty paws on your lap.

[-]

Nice_Back_9977@reddit

Its up to the owners ultimately, in a seaside town or in other areas popular with dog walkers they will miss out on business if lots of people would have popped in for lunch or a drink but have their dog with them so can't. Those people will just move on to the next cafe or pub that has a 'dogs welcome' sign on the door and that place will get their money instead.

[-]

Tall-Budget8130@reddit

Completely understand the logic, still hate it.

[-]

WHawkeW@reddit

Some places I expect to be dog friendly - brunch spots, county pubs, casual cafes.

Some spots I expect not to be - nice restaurants, bars, especially evening venues.

[-]

WillowCreekWanderer@reddit

Agree about service dogs - I am absolutely fine with. They are trained to be calm in noisy and unsettling environments like restaurants and pubs

Organisations like Guide Dogs are also really good at selecting dogs whose temperaments are well-suited to being calm in public spaces, which honestly is not something a lot of regular dog owners even consider when deciding if they should bring their dog somewhere

[-]

kingofb0ng0bong@reddit

As a waiter who works in a dog friendly restaurant, I hate it - personally I think it should be banned for all restaurants (excluding service dogs). Mostly for sanitary reasons but also dogs can be unpredictable. The room is loud, busy, lots of smells, they could potentially bark at staff or other customers, often the dog is in my way when I’m delivering food/ drinks, people have dog allergies.. recipe for disaster in my books!

[-]

WillowCreekWanderer@reddit

That's understandable, tripping over a little dog while carrying plates of hot food would most definitely not be fun for either you or the dog

[-]

nameymcnameyboy@reddit

It depends on the dog and the owner, its a given you should have a decently trained dog, won't pee indoors and isn't reactive or aggressive etc

[-]

Neffervescent@reddit

It bothers me because people let them eat off plates, or you'll see dogs on seats or tables and I find that very off-putting.

As someone with cats, rabbits, and snakes, it also bothers me that it's a courtesy extended only to dogs. I know full well if I sat down and my ball python uncurled from around my neck, the reactions would not be favourable, even though she couldn't do anywhere near as much damage as even the smallest dog. Of course, I understand this is because dogs are walked, so they go more places with their people (and that a phobia of snakes is very common and one of humanity's primal fears), I get why dogs get to go places, but on a very hot day coming back from the specialist vet and needing to pop into somewhere to grab some water for myself, feeling weird about taking my rabbits in their carrier into my local Costa (rather than leave them in a hot car) was strange. I realised if they were dogs, I could have walked straight in.

I also think it feeds into the dog beer/dog cupcake/dog ice cream market, as a number of dog-friendly places will have something like that on offer, and I think that's weird, too. And annoying (again) as someone who owns other pets, because no other animal gets half the variety in food that dogs get in pet shops.

[-]

WillowCreekWanderer@reddit

I love dogs, but too many people just see "dogs welcome" without ever pausing to think about whether their dog would be comfortable and well-behaved in that space

[-]

0oO1lI9LJk@reddit

Here in Spain it's very common to have dogs at resturaunts and bars. Almost always allowed outside, sometimes allowed inside. I like it personally.

[-]

agoentis@reddit

We’re in a quite fancy restaurant in Bristol for my birthday, Cor. The next table for two comes in and is seated next to us with a massive Alsatian! The dog goes underneath the table but I am very anxious around dogs. Hellish situation for me. Raise this with the waitress and it’s us that has to move - they clear some space on the bar for us. Mental.

[-]

callisstaa@reddit

So you anger the other family to move because you didn’t like their dog?

They’re obviously going to advertise themselves as dog friendly as I doubt anyone is just going to show up to a fancy restaurant with an Alsatian without inquiring about it first.

[-]

agoentis@reddit

A large, actually smelly Alsatian, comes and sits next to me and my partner while we’re having a relaxed candle lit meal because some couple are too tight to get a dog sitter? I mean I love my cats but I can manage to be without it them for a couple of hours on a Saturday night.

[-]

TexasBrett@reddit

Cor openly advertises that they are dog friendly. It’s on their website and social media.

[-]

agoentis@reddit

I’ve just checked. It’s right at the bottom of the final section of the booking page once you have made all your selections. I can’t find it on the website. Checked all the pages. So as far as I can see after making a special effort to find it, I can only find it in one place which is way too late in the process.

[-]

AssumptionBudget279@reddit

I think it’s completely fine in general as long as you are warned before hand. As long as they have something outside saying we welcome dogs, then if you don’t want to share a restaurant or cafe with them, you can just find somewhere else.

I do think untrained dogs like dogs using a pee pad definitely shouldn’t be let into cafes or restaurants.

[-]

eques_99@reddit

Love dogs, love to see them and interact with them. Happy to see them in restaurants.

I draw the line at having poo and wee in them though, I must say.

There are plenty of examples of middle class and wealthy Romans having gravestones carved (at significant expense) for deceased dogs. There have always been examples of close emotional bonds to both working and non-working dogs.

This whole 'rah people treat dogs like kids these days' is just a narrative fad fed by a) people being stupid on the internet and b) people being stupid about those people on the internet.

It's also untrained dogs I have the biggest fear of, so guide dogs are fine and dogs I have got to know are fine generally, especially if they are calm. However, I still find them a bit gross and do not like dogs jumping on me or barking. I don't think I need more therapy to address that, owners should be the ones addressing their pet's behaviour.

It's so annoying that work can be undone by crap owners too, and that bad behaviour is minimised or ignored. I worked so so so so hard to not let my son see me nervous about dogs or project my fears (while still teaching him to give dogs space and wait for permission from the owner before engaging with dogs). Then he was out for a walk with my dad and a dog jumped up and knocked them both over completely out of the blue, he wasn't even 2 at the time! He's no where near as scared of dogs as I was but he's definitely more nervous around them than I hoped he would be.

[-]

IsOkay_No@reddit

I agree with you, I’ve had a phobia of dogs my whole life. I avoid spaces that have dogs like fields and parks etc I hate bringing a football to a park because a dog might run away with my ball and there’s NOTHING I can do to stop it because I’m frozen with fear.

I avoid their spaces so I hate that they are creeping into spaces I shouldn’t expect to see them

[-]

trappedgal@reddit

I, for example, am not so fearful that I can't look at a dog. When a dog is in my immediate vicinity I will be slightly on edge, hyper aware of it, ready to defend my body against it jumping, sniffing, biting, barking. If I walk by a well trained dog on a leash I'm fine, it's only a couple of seconds. Sitting next to a dog in a restaurant is much more distressing and while I could cope I would not enjoy my meal at all.

Proper guide dogs do not jump, bite, sniff, bark or even approach. I'm not in love with them but I'm much more comfortable around them.

As a dog lover, I completely agree. Unless a cafe is adjacent to a park and they’d alienate too much of their customer base, I don’t think they should be allowed inside a cafe.

A dog just lying there chilling while its owners eat. No issues at all.

Using a pee pad???? What the ever-loving hell is wrong with those people?? Did they later ask for a bucket for themselves to piss in?

Anyone who describes their dog as a fur baby usually doesn't look after that dog properly and sees it as an accessory

[-]

lizaanna@reddit

With my old pup we would go everywhere, mostly to vegan places, I would also prebook and let the places know that he’d be coming, we generally always had people have positive feedback and want to say hi to him.

Having worked in pubs and restaurants, I can tell you that a dog is not the most unsanitary item in a pub or restaurant, children are far worse and so are the other patrons

[-]

BabyAlibi@reddit

<Anyone who describes their dog as a fur baby usually doesn't look after that dog properly and sees it as an accessory

Restaurant thing aside, that's a bit unfair. I've had dogs all my life. It's just me and the dog, no kids. My world revolves around her. She is no accessory.

[-]

tcpukl@reddit

A pee pad sounds disgusting any where in public.

I've never even heard of them before.

[-]

Do what you want with your dog, the point is that you shouldn't bring it to a restaurant.

[-]

Nice_Back_9977@reddit

I don't tend to take my dog to places like that as she's old and gets tired easily, but if I did it would be up to the owners of the restaurant, not you.

[-]

tomtink1@reddit

Well, if they don't want to leave it home alone when they go to a restaurant a dog-sitter is a fine option. Taking the dog and having it piss in the restaurant is not!!

[-]

WelshBathBoy@reddit

Yeah, I never used them training my dogs, just take the dog outside at regular intervals when they are puppies and wait for them to pee - they soon cotton on "oh I pee out here". Using pee pads basically means you toilet train them twice, first to use the pad, and then to pee outside - just skip the pads and tech them to pee outside straight away.

I understand pee pads for elderly dogs or dogs with bladder issues, but as a puppy teaching toll they are far more work.

Totally depends on the dog. Well behaved and will just curl up under the table? Yeah I’m good with you literally anywhere.

Barking, jumping, causing a ruckus? Na.

Pee pad? Arrest the owners.

[-]

Illustrious-Plum1766@reddit

Yeah the pee pad is disgusting 🤢 I would complain.

[-]

thecatsothermother@reddit

I was with you till that last spiteful comment. No, I'm not a dog owner but of the ones I know, the ones who call them "fur babies" are exceptional owners who have their vaccinations up to date and take them to the vet if they need it.

[-]

Jealous-Shallot-3071@reddit

I have 4 dogs and 4 cats and would never refer to them as "fur babies"

As much as I love dogs - have been brought up with them and have my own... There are really times they need to be left at home. This includes eating out in cafes and restaurants.

Also whilst I'm at it - those extendable leads need banning.

[-]

blahblahblah1234_@reddit

I hate extendable leads with a passion. I think they’re dangerous and you don’t train your dog properly.

[-]

Queen_of_London@reddit

Extendable leads are great when used well. They're also much easier and safer to make very short than traditional leads, which is very handy if there are lots of cyclists on a shared path, when crossing the road, etc.

[-]

SparklePenguin24@reddit

Or ban the people the people who don't use them properly. I've just had to remove my dogs toy from another dog who wandered over on it's extendable lead and a collar that was so loose I could have slipped it off them. I loudly said "oh where did you come from?" My dog started growling because he doesn't share! Still the stupid owners didn't realise that they had a problem.

[-]

SafiyaO@reddit

those extendable leads need banning.

Too often they are used as a substitute for any training, particularly in terms of having recall. Then the poor dog doesn't get any time off the lead, ever.

[-]

Substantial_Self_939@reddit

As someone who is utterly terrified of dogs, I completely agree.

When I'm in public, I know that as long as I stay further away from a dog than the length of the lead, I'll be fine. Those extendable leads though... 🙃

I do understand the irritation at people who bring dogs to restaurants though, if they are specifically leaving the house for that purpose.
IE; not out & about with their dog anyway, and looking for a place to eat. So that's why I asked about the weekend part.

Keep fighting the good fight with your caravan 🚐

[-]

1CharlieMike@reddit

You do realise that your dog can be left alone while you go out for lunch, right?

[-]

Growing up in the countryside, I can honestly say that most pubs didn't have dogs. They certainly didn't have holidaymakers' dogs inside. It's a relatively recent thing in my experience that people expect to be able to take their dogs indoors in a pub if they're not a regular/local.

[-]

TomatilloOrnery4944@reddit

Fucking stupid and unsanitary. No good reason for it.

[-]

TechnicolorTRexx@reddit

Honestly it depends on the setting and how well behaved the dog is, but the majority of dogs (that I know anyway) are much more well behaved and cleaner that some of the children that I’ve had to put up with while out and about

[-]

Waste_Push1276@reddit

To some extent I think its another sign of the growing entitlement and selfishness of people. The way they just want everything and everyone else to revolve around what is convenient to them.

I don't like it. I don't want animals where I'm eating. In the last year or so I've witnessed dogs fighting in a pub restaurant, a dog continually farting in a restaurant whilst the owners just hooted with laughter, a dog tripping up a waitress carrying meals and a dog having a diarrhea attack in between tables. If you going to be eating out, leave your dog at home.

[-]

Big-Cartographer-556@reddit

I bring mine with me more than most, including into central London but almost exclusively to pubs or Market Hall type places versus actual restaurants. I seek places out for their dog friendliness and make sure he's as unobtrusive as possible while there. He usually curls up under the table and most around us don't realise he's there.

Granted he's a 7kg Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and we find staff, other patrons that do notice him enjoy greeting him which he of course loves.

I can see it being different for a bigger dog and if you abuse the privilege but being able to have him with us as much as we do is honestly one of my favourite things about this country because I'm well aware it's not this easy elsewhere.

[-]

Marxandmarzipan@reddit

My dog gets separation anxiety when he’s not with, so if it’s dog friendly he’s coming with, and I will look if there’s any gif friendly options.

EfficiencyRecent4528@reddit

Went for lunch today in a restaurant in Kensington and they tried to seat us on a table next to a couple with a dog and I requested a different table and said why. I like dogs but I think they could be in the outside space.

[-]

Amazing_Goal_8003@reddit

Nope. I’m in a tourist spot and sometimes there as almost as many dogs inside the cafe/restaurant as people.

Resident dogs and a few wanderers attached to rambling owners in a country pub with big spaces between tables - yeah sure. Everyone loves a doggo in a pub of a Sunday lunchtime.

gholt417@reddit

If the restaurant wants people to bring dogs it is totally fine (these are the places I go with my dogs) but if the restaurant doesn’t want dogs that also fine too.

[-]

Evening-Fix-9039@reddit

As a dog (lab) owner: - small cafe - maybe - cafe - yes but I'll always check - restaurant, definitely fucking not, unless outside and casual / beach holiday sort of place - I HATE when people let small dogs on seats / laps at the table - unsanitary.

2nd biggest hate is when people dont train there dog and tolerate poor behaviour because of "nerves" when they just bought a mix or aggressive breed (looking at you sausages) but dont train / indulge them...that causes a lot of resentment from "non-doggers" 👀👀👀

[-]

Prudent-Pressure2146@reddit

Yeah if any aspect of th is stresses me out it’s on behalf of the dog, not me- I have pals who bring their dog absolutely everywhere with them and then wonder why the dog is a nervous wreck who can’t be alone for half an hour

[-]

ToughImprovement276@reddit

I grew up around dogs, and I’m genuinely very surprised by the lack of crate trained dogs.

And I don’t mean that the dog should be left at home alone all day everyday, but if you’re gonna step out for a couple hours the dog should know to go to its bed or another permissible area and just chill out for a bit.

My colleague was saying she couldn’t go to her family’s Christmas morning because there was no space for her big German shepherd, and he couldn’t be left alone for a couple hours.

[-]

Queen_of_London@reddit

Dogs don't need to be crate-trained in order to be left at home alone for a while. My dog's a particularly needy breed, but even she's fine for up to four hours, no crate, just chilling out in the living room. Any longer than that is what friends or even paid dog sitters and dog walkers are for.

I do take her to pubs etc, including for meals, but wouldn't even consider asking about it at any reasonably high-end restaurant, unless maybe it had an outside area. She is unusually calm and happy in busy environments, but it's about the other customers, not just her (or me).

[-]

Current_Fly9337@reddit

That’s wild. I have a colleague like this too. ‘Have to see if I can get someone to watch the dog’ to go for a meal! Mine gets pissed off when I come home and disturb his sleep by daring to enter whatever room he’s sleeping in 😂 he’s a grumpy old fella now. He was crate trained as a pup and loved his crate until he was big enough to jump on the couch/our beds

[-]

Current_Fly9337@reddit

There’s been loads of times we’ve been somewhere and my son has said ‘ah dogs are allowed’ like we should’ve brought ours. I know my dog and wouldn’t take him to somewhere I know he’d be stressed out because there’s too many people. He’s much happier at home on my bed.

I don’t like it when people have them at fireworks displays and stuff. Mine isn’t remotely bothered by fireworks but I still know he’d rather be in bed than traipsing round a busy park in the dark.

[-]

tracedecay81@reddit

This is how we are too. Yes, I love my lab and love having her out and about with me but her happiness and comfort comes above my want for her to be by my side. People forget that they don't enjoy things just cos we do.

[-]

Evening-Fix-9039@reddit

Agreed, appropriate socialisation is as important as independence

[-]

Current_Fly9337@reddit

I have a tiny dog. Miniature Jack chihuahua mix. He’s extremely pleasant and not at all like the terrier he ‘should’ be.

At home he is almost always in someone’s lap. I wouldn’t dream of allowing it in a public space and he just sits under the table at my feet, usually hoping we drop some food for him.

You’d be surprised. I work in a WHSmith/TGJones and one of our members of staff had to clean up after a toddler did a wee on the floor. The parent didn’t even offer.

We weren’t super happy one time that a dad had a potty out on the floor because his kid was going to have an accident. But things do happen sometimes and he cleaned up. And we happened to have some spray

But the one who just left it there? Wow

[-]

SparklePenguin24@reddit

As someone who has potty trained a toddler I can say that sometimes they don't give you enough notice. I don't think my lo actually used their potty in a shop... But I could make a very long list of places that they did. Including in the boot of the car, behind a planter in a busy street, a tree in every national trust property within twenty miles of home!

[-]

laughinggrvy@reddit

I've worked in care. That meant cleaning up shit and piss a lot - they couldn't help it. So you'd supress your gag reflex and try put them at ease with jokes or chat about anything else.

Now in retail and just no, absolutely not.

[-]

BillyJoeDubuluw@reddit

As a long-time dog owner, it’s a no from me.

With the exception of assistance dogs, my hounds don’t need to lunch with me… They need interesting and well thought out walks, not a mooch at Gordon’s menu…

I can see why country pubs save a space for dog walkers… But I can’t really get my head around “handbag dogs” and treating pets like something out of white chicks.

[-]

i don’t care mostly. i think some owners ruin it though. i wouldn’t complain about a relaxed dog just laying or sitting causing no issues.

i once took my dog (rescue, he’d clearly been a pub dog with his old owner bc he’d just assume his laying position as soon as we were seated lmao) into a pub and he nearly got bitten by a clearly reactive dog. if you know your dog is going to react that way, do not bring it into confined spaces where you know other dogs will be.

i saw the video you were referring too and it knocked me sick. how the hell they though that was okay is beyond me. i would’ve walked out without paying too.

[-]

nugget600@reddit

Agreed, my dog is a reactive rescue and I would never dream of bringing him into a pub or restaurant! Would be setting him up to fail, stressing myself out, and causing havoc for everyone else 🙃 personally I love seeing dogs out and about but mine? He’s at home 😂 maybe one day we will venture to an outside seating area when it’s quiet…but certainly not any time soon haha

[-]

YouveEatenMySausage@reddit

i emphasise with you because what happened in my comment before was with my dog who passed. i got another (rescue) dog after him, and he’s also reactive.

it’s a stressful experience as it is taking him out for walks actively avoiding dogs. i would never dream of entering a public building with him unfortunately. i wholeheartedly agree with you and wish some other owners would as well, they just don’t see that their dog has a problem sometimes. and there’s nothing wrong with actually admitting that they do, it saves a whole lot of stress and heartbreak 🙃

[-]

nugget600@reddit

Reactive dog ownership is really a whole different ball game! I’m working with a behaviourist but it really is tough to tackle. For sure I think as dog owners we have to take responsibility and not put our dogs in situations where they will struggle and make others uncomfortable!

[-]

Aggravating-Day-2864@reddit

More dogs less people....

[-]

Curious_Peter@reddit

depends on the location.
we have a couple of places that we can't take our Puppy to, including our favorite restaurant, which is understandable.

[-]

f8rter@reddit

If they behave and sit under the table fine

[-]

TheSecretIsMarmite@reddit

I don't mind dogs in country pubs. It's normal to see them at cafes outside too, especially in dog walking territory.

However there's a department store in my local city and they allow dogs in, because their clientele are a certain class of mostly older women who would throw an absolute fit if their dog wasn't allowed in with them. I hate it when I see them sniffing around in the food hall and just don't go in any more because of it.

[-]

ThatPrettyPrincesss@reddit

not a fan, keep them outside

[-]

Professional_Deal565@reddit

You can barely go anywhere now without dogs being there too. Usually on a stretchy lead. It is not rare and shows a real entitlement from the owner.

[-]

SpectreSingh89@reddit

I don't mind them but now that u mention about hygiene makes a bit sense now. Leicester High Cross allows dogs inside since 5 years ago.

[-]

DEADB33F@reddit

I take my dogs to pubs & beer gardens. I wouldn't take a dog to a restaurant though. And I wouldn't sit in a beer garden next to a table where folks are eating if I had the dogs (if someone came and sat on a table next to *us* when we're already there then that's their choice so is fine).

My dogs are extremely well behaved working dogs though. They'll just lie down and chill out if told to.

Eg...

Slothjitzu@reddit

Surely the majority of dogs are up to date with their meds for these?

I’m not convinced the majority are, or at least I can’t find any evidence to suggest that. And if we assume they are, the majority does not mean all. Even if we wanted to be incredibly generous and say all dogs are up to date on meds, the meds don’t prevent fleas and tics they just prevent infestation by killing them in about 24-48 hours. In other words it’s incredibly easy for any dog to bring in fleas even if fully up to date.

What's the problem with shedding?

I find it hard to believe that you need someone to explain why dog hair floating around somewhere that you’re eating is not sanitary.

I'm struggling with the pathogen part, you'll have to enlighten me.

Just a guess, but I assume they’re talking about the bacteria present in their saliva and fecal matter. Both of which they absolutely will be contaminating the area with.

What is the reason they're allowed outside and not inside?

Basically all of the above. It’s an attempt to compromise and allow people to bring dogs to eat somewhere, while also letting people not have their meal ruined by dogs.

[-]

Historical_Project86@reddit

I'm still nonplussed. It's pretty much possible for any person to cause most of the same type of concern as the above. People contaminate the area already. The chances of any of the above affecting anyone in the restaurant is slim at best. How many cases do you know of in France, for example, a country where dogs are allowed in to most cafes and restaurants?

[-]

Slothjitzu@reddit

You think people are drooling everywhere they go, rubbing their unwashed arseholes on the floor, licking their arsehole and then licking surfaces, freely shedding vast amounts of hair everywhere?

Come on man, that’s a silly claim on the face of it.

Even if any amount of the above was true, you can’t ban people from a restaurant. Otherwise there would be nobody working in it or buying the products, it’d just be an empty building.

The chances of any of the above affecting anyone in the restaurant is slim at best.

It’s actually fairly high, we just police it well and most people don’t bring their dogs into restaurants in the first place.

OutlawDan86@reddit

Assistance/service dogs are impeccably trained and the other point about them is exactly as you referenced - occasional. I‘m in my late 30s and can honestly count the number of times I’ve seen an assistance dog in a café/restaurant on 1 hand. I’ve probably gone entire years without seeing an assistance dog in public too.

[-]

londonlares@reddit

I completely agree with you. I think all well behaved dogs should be allowed, but if you're going to make the argument that *in principle* it isn't sanitary, then unfortunately it isn't sanitary for Service Animals either.

[-]

Slothjitzu@reddit

I agree that we should but we also balance that out with attempting to accommodate disabled people as much as possible.

Balancing the needs of the many with the few is always a tough line to walk, moreso in this particular instance than any other IMO.

The debate then is “do we allow service dogs in restaurants or not?” Regardless of which side we land on, the next part of it is not also allowing any other dog. That’s attempting to put the wants of the few over the needs of the many, which is silly.

[-]

arenaross@reddit

Sure.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

I love pigeons. Have thought about getting a rescue pigeon as a pet.

dedido@reddit

I don't think they should be on the menu at all

[-]

Taylor_Kittenface@reddit

Context and consent as always applies. Country pub where the dog is sleeping by the fire is nice.

However, where I live, people don't train their dogs, they bark all day and jump at you just trying to walk in a shop. I don't like that, I've been bitten badly by a dog and they can make me nervous.

BrilliantOne3767@reddit

I’ve seen it. Unfortunately!

[-]

Nice_Back_9977@reddit

Which one?

[-]

sshiverandshake@reddit

I've seen it and as the owner of a well behaved dog, it was lovely. They even had a doggy menu!

[-]

Conscious_Pass_1615@reddit

Im safe anyway, I cant afford a michelin star hehe!

[-]

AppropriateDeal1034@reddit

The worst bit is the double-standards though, they'll complain about quiet kids, probably wouldn't allow a lap cat, but a dog sat there is fine?

Pee pad has to be too far for anyone though, right?

[-]

anomalous_cowherd@reddit

I'll take my dogs into country pubs, but nothing more citified.

I wouldn't want them peeing in there though, they'd definitely get a walk around first and if they showed signs of needing it later, it's only basically the same as house training.

[-]

c-e-r-y-s@reddit

As long as they're outside or in a designated dog area, well away from other diners; not yappy/barking, sat nicely and not pissing inside. That's how most pubs/cafes are in my end of the countryside.

[-]

ReySpacefighter@reddit

I'm tired of dogs being fucking everywhere and treated like babies and not the animals they are.

[-]

IlIIIllIIlIlllII@reddit

I personally don't mind because I love dogs, but don't take the piss.

Honestly, I'd rather have a calm dog chilling out than a kid running around screaming at the top of their lungs.

Obviously, the dog needs to well trained though. Using a pee pad in the middle of a restaurant is clearly not ok, but I've thankfully never experienced anything but well behaved dogs in pubs/cafes/etc.

[-]

RoyalConsistent@reddit

Rank utterly disgusting

[-]

Ballbag94@reddit

A dog existing, fine, restaurant kitchens are sanitary but the actual restaurant area isn't any more sanitary than a regular room and a dog being on the floor isn't contaminating your food

Definitely shouldn't be pissing or shitting in any form though, that crosses a line

[-]

EnjoysAGoodRead@reddit

I like it. I've been to pubs, cafes, mid tier and top tier restaurants where dogs are allowed. As long as it's clear when you book that dogs may be there then I think it's fine, you make a decision that you are happy to go somewhere dog friendly. I am a dog owner, I sometimes take my dog to cafes and pubs, and occasionally to a restaurant or two by the seaside or where I live (London) when I know the place is dog friendly. But she is well trained and stays in her bag. Sometimes I go to these places without her, and there are other dogs there and I love seeing them out and about. Look, there are literally tens of thousands of restaurants in the UK, if you want to avoid dogs, go to one that doesn't allow them, they are in the majority and aren't exactly hard to find.

[-]

kiddj1@reddit

Non parents give us parents a list of strict rules that we must obide by

Dog owners should do the same

[-]

nugget600@reddit

Agreed, personally I love seeing dogs out and about, but my own dog is a crazy adolescent who barks at other dogs and can barely sit still outside the house 🙈 guess who stays at home when I go out 😅

[-]

Afraid-Priority-9700@reddit

I agree completely, it depends on the dog and their behaviour. I have a wee shi tzu who just sits under the table and curls up for a nap whenever we take him into pubs, but I wouldn't take a barky or aggressive dog into one.

[-]

WhatTheF00t@reddit

This is the key for me. A small dog, capable of laying under the table quietly for the duration, I have no issue with.

I generally dislike dogs so I'm probably not the person to ask, but I don't think they should be allowed in eating establishments.

SpaTowner@reddit

It’s about you as much as it’s about anybody else.

[-]

IsOkay_No@reddit

In theory yes, but in reality and judging by the comments how many people will go out of their way to accommodate me.

(Someone downvoted you but I personally agree with your point )

[-]

Worfs-forehead@reddit

Better than. Screaming kids.

[-]

googooachu@reddit

That video is in Battersea Power Station.

It’s specifically dog-friendly and dogs are explicitly allowed in the shops and restaurants. I believe it was a condition of the development.

I would never put a pad down myself or let me dog do its business inside a restaurant but as there is no video evidence of it doing a poo and the manger allegedly said it was OK, then tbh I expect there is so embellishment of the truth.

For full disclosure I took my dog into the Battersea Dishoom where there were other dogs. Nobody minded and no dogs made a mess.

"He's just sayi-" I was out the door before they could finish their predictable unapology.

I don't care how much of a weirdo this makes me, but if I'm going to have an unexpected nose/ crotch situation it's not going to involve a dog, and it's not going to be in a pub.

[-]

GreyOldDull@reddit

Neither will most dogs. My dog comes to the pub and cafés with me but if he needs a pee he is taken outside.

We take our dog to the pubs but they are mostly pub pubs and not fancy pants ones. We also live fairly rurally so that’s fine. However, restaurants absolutely not, although there is one we go to which is large and they have a specific dog area so that’s ok. Cafes? Depends on the cafe and location and of course size of it.

My dog is an under the table dog and has never barked even if others have kicked off.

I live and work in a reasonably small seaside town in North West Wales which is very popular with tourist, the area is very dog friendly and a lot of the premises including pubs and restaurants allow well behaved dogs inside, including my establishment which is a small coffee shop. I have no problem with dogs at all, as long as the owner keeps them under control and reasonably quiet. I have not had any problems in the 3 years I have been in business, I actually keep a stash of dogs treats on hand.

I love dogs, I have 3 myself, but I would not take them to a pub or restaurant that allows dogs, because they are all arseholes when out in public, they are only small dogs but they have typical "small dogs syndrome" and try to pick fights with bigger dogs.

Many people see their pets as part of the family, as do I, my dogs are my kids (I do not refer to them as my "fur babies", it's a bit twee) and I spoil them rotten. So why shouldn't establishments allow dogs in.

What gives you the impression that dogs are unsanitary?

If you don't like dogs in a certain pub or restaurant go somewhere else, I avoid places that have kids running around.

[-]

Psittacula2@reddit

>*”I love dogs, I have 3 myself, but I would not take them to a pub or restaurant that allows dogs, because they are all arseholes when out in public, they are only small dogs but they have typical "small dogs syndrome" and try to pick fights with bigger dogs.”*

As you say, depends on the pub and the clientele - some pubs dogs are part of the scene and generally add positive energy, social, enthusiasm, fun etc to the atmosphere albeit the odd small dog barking frenzy to remind the bigger dogs they are not rabbits!

[-]

SafiyaO@reddit

Smell completely ruined meal, just ended up feeling sick and I refused to pay and left halfway through main.

More of this needs to happen, because it is the only way restaurants will learn.

[-]

OutlawDan86@reddit

It is a risk you run. I’ve been in cafés that allow dogs and have seen one be sick and another pee on the floor. The issue I can see happening with this “fur baby, dogs are my family, why should they miss out“ culture is older dogs can be incontinent. I don’t trust owners to have the sense that when it gets to that point, such dogs really shouldn’t be being taken to cafés, restaurants, branches of John Lewis etc.

Exactly. I'm absolutely terrified of dogs but I wouldn't have a problem with a 'dog cafe' because I just wouldn't go. If someone doesn't like cats, then cat cafes are equally easy to avoid.

Meanwhile dogs are everywhere.

[-]

Greedy-Mechanic-4932@reddit

There's one in Birmingham, too.

[-]

Intruder313@reddit

Usually better behaved and less annoying than kids

[-]

OneCatch@reddit

It's entirely up to the proprietor, and once they've made a decision it's up to visitors if they want to go there. I personally like places that allow well-behaved dogs, but then I also tend to prefer high-quality casual dining to haute cuisine anyway.

Recently saw a post of a dog using a pee pad in a Gordon Ramsay pizza place

Broadly unacceptable. Dogs should be toilet trained as a general principle, and especially if they're going to public spaces indoors.

I find it uncomfortable sharing what should be a relatively sanitary space with an animal and tend to avoid such places.

Your prerogative, but I think it's rather irrational. You're far more likely to get ill from human illnesses spread by other humans, than from a well-mannered dog lying under the table.

‘fur babies’

It's irritating and infantile, but people do a wide variety of irritating and infantile things.

[-]

undercovergloss@reddit

Outside in restaurant gardens, pub gardens, cafe outside - as long as the dog is sitting by the table and not walking around whilst people are eating, I have no issue.

But inside, I don’t think that is fair or hygienic. People can be allergic and expect to eat - knowing their allergy isn’t going to be there. Why should it be?? Just inside is more airborne and it’s not really nice.

I’m tired of dogs being forced on everyone. My child’s school had a school dog, and I’d be attending meetings where this dog would running and jumping up all over me. The teachers thought it was cute and I was expected to be happy this smelly dog was all over me. It’s like if you have a problem with dogs, people think you’re the grinch - you get shit for just expressing an option like with this that you don’t want dogs where you eat. I’m an animal lover, but having animals in my space should be on MY terms and not forced upon me just because other people are selfish

[-]

OutlawDan86@reddit

My child’s school had a school dog, and I’d be attending meetings where this dog would running and jumping up all over me. The teachers thought it was cute and I was expected to be happy this smelly dog was all over me

This is why I’ve gone from being indifferent to not wanting to be near dogs at all. There is this expectation that you have to fawn over dogs (in a nutshell) and be happy to have strangers’ dogs jumping up on you. One word - boundaries. Specifically a lack of them or people not respecting others’ boundaries. It is inconsiderate.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

Ditto.

I really used to not care. Live and let live.

There was a reasonable balance. Some places allowed dogs inside, most allowed them outside. Having a dog is a life choice, and choices have consequences. Some positive, some not so positive. That appeared to be understood.

Somehow, something changed, and now we all live in a dogs everywhere all the time world whether we want to or not. Whether we can or not.

It shouldn't be considered anti social to want to spend time in social places without paws claws tongues and teeth omni-fucking-present.

[-]

OutlawDan86@reddit

I agree, it really shouldn’t be considered antisocial. What should be considered and is antisocial is situations like - and I’m sure you’ve experienced this too - being subjected to the equivalent of a symphony of barking! Without fail, one starts barking and it sets the others off.

I was at a McArthur Glen designer outlet a few weeks ago and they’ve been allowing people to bring dogs for a while. I was there early in the day and spotted at least 8 dogs. I managed one hour and left. The noise caused by dogs barking at each other was deafening. I also saw two dogs brushing right up against clothes on racks. I’d rather not be buying clothes that have dog hair/dander/fleas on them, thanks.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

Part of my breaking point with dogs was a neighbour who seemed utterly immune to her several small yappy typed dogs kicking off any and all times day and night at any every and nothing.

I just don't understand it. The pitch, the volume, the randomness, how do people live with that and not have an issue with it themselves, never mind not understand (or care) that others might really not enjoy it?

[-]

OutlawDan86@reddit

I had an experience like that about 10 years ago, which in hindsight probably started me veering from indifference to being intolerant. A neighbouring house was rented at the time and the tenants had a small, yappy dog they left out in the back garden a lot. Guess whose bedroom is closest to this back garden?

The slightest thing set the dog off. The number of times I’d be woken by the dog going ballistic early in the morning was beyond a joke. At the time I was working afternoons and evenings too, so being woken at 7am was not appreciated. Far too early to be allowing that to happen anyway in my opinion. I started leaning out the window with my phone in my hand as this seemed to prompt them to take it inside. I wasn‘t filming but they probably assumed I was collecting evidence. They never apologised.

Was so glad when they moved.

[-]

Capital-Ad6221@reddit

Mani (if not most) restaurants seem to allow dogs and I’m sick of it…

[-]

oportoman@reddit

Outside outside outside. Don't bring them in FFS.

It's like everywhere now seems to be friggin "bring in your dog" without any thought about whether the place is suitable. And then we have the situation where multiple dogs are in the same space. Sorry owners, but you've no idea how your dog is going to react.

Restaurants definitely should not have them. There's no reasonable argument in favour of that.

[-]

MegsSixx@reddit

Dislike having dogs in eating areas, outside a pub or cafe is fine generally but rest of the time no chance.

[-]

iSkiia@reddit

I'm not a huge fan. I went to a pub to eat once and a dog shat on the carpet next to us 🤮

[-]

PleasantCucumber2615@reddit

It's not normal to see dogs in proper restaurants. If it's a relaxed eating place or cafe some allow dogs and some don't.

You can either get a table away from the dogs, or choose a place that is dog free. There is choice for everyone.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

As I've said previously on a thread like this, the dog free choice is near non-existent around here, and I'd be surprised if this place is unique on that.

So no, there isn't choice for everyone. Those of us who would like to choose not to live in a 24/7 dogs life apparently have to meekly nod along, lest we be branded sociopaths and outcast from allegedly reasonable society.

Fuck me, all I want is a coffee and a cake without flatulence and fur floating around the place.

[-]

PleasantCucumber2615@reddit

Can the doctor not give you something for your flatulence?

I find it hard to believe finding a dog free space is nearly non-existent. Lots of places don't allow dogs. You must live somewhere that is really exceptional.

I googled it to see what came up. Apparently only 4.3% of cafes are dog friendly. I think that's very low, but it certainly isn't anywhere near non-existent.

At the end of the day people running their businesses are entitled to make their choices. Allowing dogs into their premises has proven to bring extra customers.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

Hmm, I just googled the same, and I see you're using the AI regurgitation as fact.

At the end of the day businesses can do as they wish... And people who wish they'd do otherwise are for now at least free to express their disapproval.

[-]

FraggleGoddess@reddit

Not if every place in town is dog friendly, which seems to be the case in my home town. I'm allergic and finding a dog free place is getting harder.

Once I reserved online somewhere I'd never been, not a mention of dogs on their site, so when I arrived and saw loads of them I had to quickly say I need non dog seats.

They had the cheek to be annoyed at me saying "we've always allowed dogs" as if I'm meant to be bloody psychic. It's become far too normalised imo.

[-]

Ok_Pomelo_3460@reddit

i don’t mind dogs in places if they’re well behaved, but stuff like that crosses a line. feels like there should be clearer boundaries in food spaces

[-]

linifloor@reddit

I was in a cafe and one dog peed on another dog’s head!

[-]

DeirdreBarstool@reddit

I would prefer if dogs were not allowed anywhere that serves food to be honest. In my city we are at the point where there’s more dog friendly places than not though and it’s becoming harder to avoid them.

If it’s a pub it’s just about tolerable. What isn’t tolerable is the dog being seated on the furniture or at the table/being allowed to eat off the crockery. It’s mind-boggling how many dog owners seem to think this is acceptable and also allowing their dog to roam around the place bothering people.

[-]

Short_Country_2693@reddit

My daughter pet sits, she has a customer who drops their dog off, to go shopping. It is never left alone.

[-]

dnf1957@reddit

Where I live we have a small village cafe which we like to support as often as possible. We were in there on Saturday morning for breakfast, quite a few dogs in there admittedly well behaved until another one comes in and starts barking and sets all the others off.

[-]

Neddlings55@reddit

No such thing as a service dog in the UK. Do you mean assistance dog?

I dont really care if i know the place is dog friendly, and any dog present is well behaved and quiet.

There are around 13-14 million dogs in the UK, and targeting their owners makes perfect business sense.

Ive often stopped for a coffee or a snack whilst out walking with my dog. If they werent dog friendly then thats lost revenue.

Every customer counts if you want to survive.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

And if I stopped for coffee and saw your dog in the place, I'd turn around and leave.

Not everyone wants to (or can) be in a space with dogs, and it's starting to become infuriating that there are no dog free spaces left in society.

There was a time, less than a decade ago, that dog people understood this and food places asked them to eat and drink outside. Why is that compromise now considered unreasonable?

[-]

Neddlings55@reddit

Because the amount of people that would leave an establishment because of a dog is minimal.

Places, especially small businesses, that serve food, drinks etc are struggling. The dog owning population is huge. People are accommodating dogs in order to keep themselves afloat and able to pay their bills.

I take my dogs on holiday with me so we go into ordinary family pubs and cafes with them to eat. We try to sit outside in good weather, or indoors in a booth or corner away from others. They are expected to lie down quietly and not be a nuisance to anyone.

I wouldn't personally take them to what I'd class as fine dining or a smart restaurant but I don't have any issues with people doing so if they behave. I definitely don't think you should have them in pubs etc if they are noisy, clambering over the seats, jumping about or pestering others - but the same goes for kids!!

However I also think it's acceptable to have pet free places or areas pets can't go into as there are people who are nervous or allergic and want to eat without dogs in close proximity and they have just as much right to go out without stress as we do.

fergie@reddit

The older I get, the less I like it.

[-]

Deep_Banana_6521@reddit

Depends entirely on the context and the animal itself. If it's cafe or a pub where you're just chatting and the dog is happy sitting under the table getting petted by strangers - Perfect, fill your boots.

If your dog is a biter, a puller, a yapper or has the tendencies to fight with other dogs or hates getting pets from strangers. Don't bring it in. If you "feel bad" about leaving it at home while you go for a few pints, stay at home.

As far as letting your dog shit on a pad in a restaurant, seriously grim. The owners might be noseblind because they haven't house trained their dog and are used to the smell of dog-shit, but if I were halfway through my meal and I got a whiff, I'd refuse to finish my food or pay and just leave.

The staff need to be more assertive too. "Customer is always right" is bollocks when it comes to stuff like this. Ask them to clean it up ASAP, if they refuse, refuse them service and get them to leave.

Shouldn’t be allowed

[-]

Sadwitchsea@reddit

My dog loves to go to a pub. No idea why. If I take her to a cafe I'll only do so if sitting outside. Restaurant definitely not. And if your dog is pissing in the dining area GTFO don't bring them at all

[-]

TempFroaway@reddit

On the menu? Definitely not!

[-]

CheesecakeExpress@reddit

I think country pubs, and specifically dog friendly places, ok. But otherwise? Nope.

Even if you like dogs, it doesn’t mean you want to be around unkind dogs. Especially if you have kids. I don’t know your dog and how they will react to my baby. Even more so if the dog is literally pissing or pooing while you eat.

In a pub? Fine

Fancy restaurant, not fine

[-]

Spikeymikey5050@reddit

You defiantly see this a lot more after Covid. A lot of people got dogs and now want to lead their normal lives now so feel entitled to being their dogs everywhere. It’s not just restaurants, it’s shops as well. Ridiculous

[-]

jasonbirder@reddit

now want to lead their normal lives now so feel entitled to being their dogs everywhere

They've got a dog, they've got money - it would be daft for hospitality (at a time when its struggling) to overlook that fact.

No issues with any establishment saying "no dogs" but i'm obviously not going to go in am I?

You pay your money, you make your choice.

[-]

TWLemonadeBanana@reddit

I always check before I take my dog anywhere and have taken him to dog friendly cafes and restaurants before. My preference is sitting outside in a quiet corner. He's well behaved and will sit or lie down and have a snooze.

I've been to pubs and restaurants where the owners have a dog that is part of the furniture and I find that charming.

I'd also rather go somewhere with well behaved dogs than badly behaved children.

[-]

jasonbirder@reddit

The obvious answer is - if the owner of the establishment wants to allow dogs (whether because they like dogs or as a commercial decision) then its up to them.

Cafe's, Garden Centres, Pub serving food all seem good...fancy restaurants maybe not so much.

[-]

2Fast2Mildly_Peeved@reddit

Cafes meant for casual visits/coffee dates, etc, sure. As long as it's listed somewhere as being dog friendly so those who are uncomfortable with dogs are aware of that.

A proper restaurant, unless it's a service dog, then absolutely not.

[-]

OutlawDan86@reddit

It’s getting beyond and is not a good development. Far too many shit owners, who haven‘t trained their mutts. I have a family friend, who was minding her own business and having a quiet drink with her husband in a bar. A dog came up to her and attacked. Completely unprovoked. Friend was bitten twice and the cowardly c**t of an owner ran off.

So that would be not under control 🤨 didn't defend that and clearly agree.

[-]

b-ees@reddit

dog was on the table in the dog friendly cafe i was at yesterday. given that that's amongst more ridiculous rhetoricals, how do you feel about that?

[-]

It’s a no from me. They smell. The owners expect you to walk over them or around them. They bark at each other. Then you have to listen to the owner go on and on at them not to bark. It’s a dog. It’s going to bark.

But I’m definitely no dog lover so not exactly an unbiased sample size.

[-]

jaanku@reddit

What about the dog makes unsanitary as opposed to the people who come in off the street?

[-]

blondegirli@reddit

A pub, a chilled restaurant or a cafe then have at it. I wouldn’t be taking a dog into a fancy restaurant.

However our dog is so exceptionally chill. He is small and will tuck in under the table for a nap. He loves to people watch and is very content to sit somewhere after a long walk (he will try to drag you into any pub!). We go to very clearly dog friendly places.

However we take him outside to wee. I wouldn’t dream of using a puppy pad inside a restaurant!

[-]

melanie110@reddit

I’m absolutely petrified of dogs so if there’s dogs in restaurants, I leave.

I have tried it a few times even with the pub across the road from me, tried to eat and owners just let their dogs jump up at our table telling me they were friendly. I just got up and walked out.

[-]

theoneandonlyvesper@reddit

Know your time and place, stay grounded, and don’t carry yourself like you run the world—check your privilege a bit.

[-]

Incident-Putrid@reddit

This is for everyone really 👍

[-]

padule@reddit

Last week I went out for a breakfast, in half an hour I witnessed two dogs putting their paws on the counter and another shaking its fur between the tables (sending who knows what flying in peoples cappuccinos).

It's gotten out of hand and it is disgraceful.

[-]

YchYFi@reddit

Yeah I was Lounges in Weston Super Mare and someone picked their dog up to put it on the bar. Most odd.

[-]

MahatmaAndhi@reddit

Post it as part of the information, like opening times or disabled access.

Dog Friendly: Yes or No. (Guide Dogs etc get a pass either way.)

Then the punters can decide whether they want to go or not. I, personally, would avoid a dog friendly location. But have no issue with a Guide Dog.

[-]

Daveddozey@reddit

Nothing wrong with dogs.

Dog owners though.

On 20 minute walk to the station on Thursday I counted 10 leavings, 6 in bags lying on the ground, and in one case hanging from a tree.

Time to bring bag licensing.

[-]

Master-Resident7775@reddit

I hate it. I hate it because well trained dogs are now a rarity. I cannot count the amount of times I've been told "it's okay, he's friendly!" as I'm hoisting my child up and away from a barking snapping dog

[-]

SunsetDreamer43@reddit

Had lunch in a dog friendly cafe once, went home covered in dog hair, never again. Parents get it in the neck for thinking everyone loves their kids as much as they do but dog owners are just as bad. I’ve seen it at work when management asked for suggestions for workplace culture and all the dog owners pile in with “bring your dog to work day” Eh, no thanks! They seem to think everyone is a dog lover!!

[-]

Critical-Lettuce-503@reddit

monstera-attack@reddit

Rather a well behaved dog than a badly behaved kid.

[-]

Saint-Bastard@reddit

Yeah I reckon my dogs better trained and listens more. If people don't want dogs in places then go to places where dogs aren't allowed.

[-]

Exasperant@reddit

Where, pray tell, are these places?

I'm begging you, where!?

Savool@reddit

If I had it my way? They would be allowed everywhere lol

[-]

Pleasant-Doctor-5711@reddit

I don’t mind dogs if they’re well behaved. It’s the owners that are the problem most of the time

[-]

Mickcmc@reddit

I detest dogs in places where I am, or may choose, to eat. If there is a dog in the restaurant, it is not somewhere I choose to eat. End of.

[-]

It's fine in pubs that just serve drinks with crisps/nuts. But once you get to pubs which serve meals on plates I'd say that's the same as a restaurant and no dogs either inside, or in the area where food is served.

Though there are some dogs which would be fine, unfortunately there are far more poorly trained dogs and it's easier to ban all than dogs which bark, jump up at tables or sniff people nearby.

Dogs should be banned from seats in any circumstance, I've unfortunately seen this, thankfully the establishment concerned has shut down (twice) since.

[-]

Kapika96@reddit

Not ok. Incredibly unsanitary and potentially dangerous. Shouldn't have cats, birds, monkeys, and so on in restaurants either!

[-]

Lightertecha@reddit

Dogs (all dogs) shouldn't be allowed in any restaurant, pub or cafe. They shouldn't even be allowed on public transport.

People call them ‘fur babies’ because they regard them as little human beings.

[-]

CasualGlam87@reddit

I have no issue with it when the dog is well behaved. Problem is there's too many bad owners who don't properly train their dogs so they just become a nuisance. Seems to have become a lot worse since lockdown when loads of people got puppies and weren't able to properly socialise and train them to behave in public.

[-]

Flapparachi@reddit

I totally agree with this. My middle dog was a ‘lockdown puppy’ (we got her just before lockdown started, she was not intentionally bought during the pandemic) and her behaviour was affected. She’s very nervous around unknown dogs, even now.

The difference is, I’m experienced with dogs and we still work on it as much as possible. She’s well-behaved, but you can still see how unsettled she gets.

I also think part of the pandemic problem was a lot of people heading back to work afterwards and not giving a thought to how it would affect things.

[-]

Waspkiller86@reddit

If it's a beer garden situation and the dog is well behaved then that's fine but inside where people are eating then it's a no.

[-]

willywam@reddit

Restaurants - no.

Impossible_Number_7@reddit

I think it’s more about consideration of other people.

Dog friendly places that are advertised as such, yeah that’s great. A pub with an outdoor area is fine if they’re well behaved and on a lead if it’s busy.

I love dogs and have a dog, as long as it’s in a sanitary way and they’re not constantly barking it wouldn’t really bother me, but it’s often forgotten about that not everyone does like dogs. Some people have allergies, some people have had bad experiences and some just don’t trust dogs they don’t know and would feel incredibly uncomfortable.

[-]

FireWhiskey5000@reddit

In some cafes and pubs I think it’s ok. But it is very location dependent (and even then I think if at all possible they should be at outside seating areas). So I’m more ok with a cafe in the park or a country pub on a popular walking route. But a cafe or pub on a high street in town less so. Restaurant though? Hard no.

I respect that people love their pets, but everyone thinks their dog is the exception that proves the rule.

[-]

mittfh@reddit

As others have said, countryside venues with plenty of outdoor space (so if it's pleasant weather, patrons can sit outside, and in all weathers, there's a grassy area well away from the dining area that can be used as a dog loo) are fine, urban venues with little to no outdoor space - very unusual / weird, unless they occupied a unit large enough to have separate dog / no dog dining areas, and somewhere out of sight / sound of the dining areas for use as a dog loo - but unless a service dog, you wouldn't normally expect to see many dogs in town centres anyway as almost all units will be off-limits to them (plus there won't be any doggy bins and likely very sparse general purpose bins for if/when they need to 💩 ).

Depends on the location and depends on the dog, quite honestly.

[-]

360Saturn@reddit

I find "fur babies" patently ridiculous, as well as the entire industry around it of treating pets as akin to children. It used to be that the odd person that behaved that way was looked upon as disturbing and delusional.

As to the OP, cafes, borderline but mostly I don't care for it, restaurants hard no. I don't like children running around in them either. If it can sit quietly under the table, fine, but that's a big ask on a dog surrounded by unfamiliar noises and scents.

[-]

jake_folleydavey@reddit

Since 2020, nearly everyone now has a dog.

It would be business suicide for places to not let them in.

Personally I really couldn’t care, it’s a dog. It’s not going to ruin my enjoyment of a meal because a dog happens to be existing within the same four walls as me.

[-]

LemmysCodPiece@reddit

Like Wetherspoons for example. I live in a seaside town. One of the reasons I think Wetherspoons is quite good, is that there are no Dogs.

The pub opposite, has an aroma of damp and sandy hounds.

[-]

Japhet_Corncrake@reddit

Up to the owners of the establishment. If you don't like dogs, go somewhere that doesn't allow them, and if you want to take your dog out with you, don't complain about places not allowing them. Plenty of people aren't dog fans.

There's enough room for all of it.

However, if your dog isn't toilet trained, bringing it into an eating establishment is pretty fucked up, and calling your dog a "furbaby" is a bit twatty in my opinion, but whatever floats your boat.

[-]

nfurnoh@reddit

Personally I hate it. I will not go into an establishment that allows dogs.

[-]

BlackUnicornUK@reddit

Animals are dirty and should't be allowed in enclosed places that serve food.

[-]

Fuck no. No animals on the furniture.

[-]

batman_not_robin@reddit

Pubs yes, restaurants no

[-]

Lukeautograff@reddit

I hate entitled dog owners who think everyone loves them as much as they do and that they should be able to take them everywhere.

Time and a place like a country pub is fine.

[-]

Someone going for "lady and the tramp" vibe, and failed?

[-]

ToughImprovement276@reddit

Just saw this video and I’m rather disgusted. Country pubs and the like, I couldn’t care less if there are well behaved dogs about.

In restaurants, it’s generally a no from me because why does your dog (or other pet) need to be there? But if it’s a well behaved pet, I guess i wouldn’t care as much.

What I find disgusting and unsanitary is when I see dogs eating off owners plates, paws on the table, drinking out of cups. I don’t care how clean their tongues are or what disinfecting routine the establishment has, it’s uncouth and nasty.

Cafes fine (on a leash, not on a chair).

Restaurants outright NO.

[-]

RianJohnsonIsAFool@reddit

It's become a thing because they get more customers. I've had two cafe owners tell me that.

The use of a pee pad in an eating establishment is disgusting and completely unacceptable. If you take your dog to a venue where they're allowed, any responsible owner will make sure to take them outside to pee as often as necessary. The use of a pee pad suggests either the dog is not trained or is incontinent. Either way, you do not take the dog to somewhere indoors that is not the owner's home.

[-]

I have to share the cafe with customers who don't wash their hands after using the toilet then touch the cutlery and sugar, I'm not worried about a quiet calm dog under a table

[-]

seola76@reddit

Depends on the place.

The more fancy a restaurant the less I think dogs should be there. If the place is just trying to casually feed people I think it's fine, if it's trying to create a an experience then no dogs.

For pubs I'd find it strange not to be allowed dogs in at least some part. I know dog free pubs exist but it still very much goes against my experience of them (I grew up in a village, all the pubs were independent and allowed dogs).

[-]

w1gglepvppy@reddit

I love seeing dogs in pubs but hate seeing them in restaurants & cafes- couldn't really tell you why.

[-]

I'm not all that bothered if they're well behaved, don't bark and just keep themselves to themself.

leftintheshaddows@reddit

Most of the time they are better behaved than humans.

Cafes and 'outdoor' eating spaces and pub gardens are fine but and thing else is just grim.

Most places simply dont have the space to have a dog sat about if nothing else.

[-]

When replying to submission/post please make genuine efforts to answer the question given. Please no jokes, judgements, etc. If a post is marked 'Serious Answers Only' you may receive a ban for violating this rule.
Don't be a dick to each other. If getting heated, just block and move on.
This is a strictly no-politics subreddit!

Please help us by reporting comments that break these rules.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.