Blog: Taking Your Dog to Eat Out in LA?

By now dog owners in Los Angeles have heard the news that you can take your four legged friend to sit with you on restaurant patios while you enjoy a bite to eat. This ruling definitely makes a lot of dog owners happy but is your dog ready to head out to the local diner and have lunch with you?

Sometimes it is tough for avid dog lovers to remember: Not everyone loves dogs as much as you. They may LIKE dogs but that does not mean they want to be around dogs or even want to deal with dogs. I have 3 dogs (a Malamute and 2 German Shepherds) and when I am out in public with them people will look and comment, especially on the Malamute, but if I ask if they want to pet the dogs some people just back away and do not look comfortable. I am not offended at all nor do I react negatively because some people are just not comfortable with all kinds and sizes of dogs.

Now think about that situation in terms of going out to eat at your favorite diner/restaurant in Los Angeles. Not only may you get some people that do not like dogs at all but especially in a situation where they are having a quiet lunch or dinner. If you have never been to a place to eat before and are thinking of bringing your dog it might be a good idea to eat there a couple times, check out the vibe (people and dog) and see what times might be good to bring your dog with you.

It is also important to think of the temperament and manners of your dog. By that I am not only talking about whether your dog is aggressive with people or other dogs. While that is a pretty obvious thing to understand about your dog you might want to look at how excited a dog gets when out in public with other dogs or people. My malamute is a talker and sometimes when he sees other dogs he will whine a lot or let out small howls trying to say hello. At home it is quite funny to watch but when I am taking him to a restaurant patio I am much more aware of his noisy little outbursts.

Also look at the comfort level of the dog in public. Are they nervous when there is a lot going on such as cars, a lot of people or other dogs being around? This can lead to an unpleasant experience for the dog but also for you and other while eating. The dog may whine a lot, fidget around the tables or just appear to want to get out of there as fast as possible. This obviously makes it tough to relax and eat for you and whoever is joining you or sitting near you.

Not everyone will be a fan of dogs being allowed on some restaurant patios but just a few simple things can make this fun for both of you and more comfortable for people that you come in contact while visiting a local restaurant or diner with your dog. And remember that Blue Collar Working Dog does offer training in Pack Leadership, Basic Obedience, Heeling, Street Obedience and more to help with any issues that may arise with your dog or if you just want to ensure you have a comfortable and well behaved dog at the dinner table.