A coffee with your dog by your side can be a lovely outing. For it to stay lovely, it needs to suit your dog, not just you. Here is our practical advice.
Is your dog ready?
Busy cafés are full of noise, smells, food and strangers. Dogs who are relaxed in new places, settle on a mat and can ignore food on the floor usually enjoy them. Dogs who are anxious, reactive with other dogs or very young may find it overwhelming.
Before you go
- Check the venue’s pet policy and whether dogs are allowed indoors, on the terrace or neither
- Make sure vaccinations, parasite prevention and registration are up to date
- Take your dog for a walk and toilet break first, so they are ready to settle
- In summer, choose early morning or evening and shaded or indoor seating
What to bring
- A short lead and a mat or blanket
- A water bowl and fresh water
- Their own treats or a long-lasting chew
- Poo bags
Food: be careful what you share
Many human foods are risky for dogs. Avoid sharing anything with onion, garlic, chocolate, grapes or raisins, xylitol (often in sugar-free products), cooked bones, or very fatty and salty dishes. A plain “puppuccino” of whipped cream is not ideal either, especially for sensitive stomachs. Your dog’s own treats are the safest choice.
Reading your dog
Yawning, lip-licking, panting without heat, trying to hide under the table or not taking treats are signs your dog is stressed. Keep the first visits short and leave on a good note.
Signs it is time to call the vet
If your dog vomits repeatedly, has diarrhoea, seems uncomfortable or may have eaten something toxic after an outing, contact us straight away.
