A group of young friends and dog have delicious dinner on patio
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15 Dog-Friendly Restaurant Chains Where You Can Bring Your Pup

Dog > New Pet
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Looking for dog-friendly dining? While health department regulations prohibit pets inside restaurants, many national chains (not to mention local joints) welcome leashed, well-behaved dogs on their patios and outdoor seating areas.

This lineup of 15 dog-friendly restaurant chains has something for everyone—pups included! We also have tips for a successful outing from dog behaviorist Sally Grottini. So grab your leash, your pup, and your appetite. Let’s dish on dog-friendly dining spots.

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What Restaurant Chains Are Dog-Friendly?

If you’re a dog parent who loves dining out, you’re in luck! Thanks to recently updated food codes that allow dogs on restaurant patios, there are now plenty of options for pet-friendly dining in the U.S.

That said, restaurant managers and local or state laws still have the final say on whether or not dogs are allowed. So it’s always a good idea to call and check beforehand.

Johnny Rockets

Burger joints seem particularly dog-friendly, thanks to their casual vibe (and hey, what dog doesn’t love a burger?). In southern California, where the weather lends itself to outdoor dining year-round, select Johnny Rockets locations have expanded their menu to include dog offerings such as a doggy hamburger, carob “ruffles,” and ice cream treats.

Johnny Rockets restaurants are franchised, so every location sets its own rules. Call ahead to find out if your dog is welcome at the Johnny Rockets near you.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Johnny Rockets:

Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar

With a name like that, they’d better be dog-friendly! Lazy Dog welcomes your pup on their patio but asks that you respect a few rules:

  1. No dogs on the table, chairs, or your lap
  2. Avoid the “three B’s”: Begging, Barking, & Biting
  3. No eating off your plate or drinking from your glass
  4. Servers are not allowed to pet your dog
  5. Dogs must be leashed and within reach of the owner at all times

Lazy Dog takes it to the next level with a dog menu that includes canine-friendly meals like plain grilled chicken breast or hamburger meat over brown rice and veggies.

The chain started on the West Coast but has expanded operations. As of April 2024, Lazy Dog has 48 locations across eight states.

Cities where you’re likely to find a dog-friendly Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar:

Shake Shack

Originally a New York City exclusive, famous burger joint Shake Shack has expanded locations across America and is known for being dog-friendly. As their website notes, “We were born in a park, after all!”

Shake Shack offers a dog menu at every location in the U.S., so your dog can lounge in the outdoor dining area and enjoy a Pooch-ini (a tasty concoction of dog biscuits, peanut butter sauce, and vanilla custard) or a simple bag of biscuits. For humans, there’s an assortment of burgers, fries, and, of course, shakes.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Shake Shacks:

Cute spaniel eats burger sitting at table in cafe

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Olive Garden

The Olive Garden’s slogan is, “When you’re here, you’re family,” and at some locations with an outdoor dining area, that includes the family dog.

Even if your local Olive Garden has a patio, we still recommend double-checking their dog policy. You can also use a directory site like BringFido.com to check the dog-friendliness of restaurants in your area.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Olive Gardens:

Applebee’s

That’s right, America’s favorite family restaurant has gone to the dogs—well, in some locations, anyhow. If your local Applebee’s has a patio, chances are you and your dog can both “eat good in the neighborhood.”

Of course, you’ll want to call ahead to ensure your local Applebee’s welcomes four-legged patrons.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Applebee’s:

Joe’s Crab Shack

Love seafood, but hate to leave your dog behind? At Joe’s Crab Shack, you can get your shrimp fix while your dog relaxes at your side. Most locations have dog-friendly patios. The casual atmosphere makes it a low-stress outing with your dog in tow.

Cities where you’re likely to find a dog-friendly Joe’s Crab Shack:

Baja Fresh

This casual Tex-Mex eatery allows well-behaved pets to join their humans at outdoor seating areas. However, patrons should keep in mind that table service isn’t available. Dogs will either need to be tied securely outside or kept with a friend while you take turns ordering.

Cities where you’re likely to find a dog-friendly Baja Fresh:

La Madeleine

Your dog may never travel to Paris, but you can recreate the experience with an outdoor bite at casual French bistro La Madeleine. Most locations have charming outdoor patios, where you can enjoy the French-inspired ambience and delicious cuisine, while your dog relaxes in the fresh air.

Again, table service isn’t available on the patio, so you’ll need to tie up your dog or have someone hold them while you go inside to place your order.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly La Madeleines:

Sonic Drive-In

If you’re just driving in, your dogs are welcome to hang out with you in the car. If you want to stretch your legs, check with the staff before bringing your dog on the patio, as rules vary by location.

Some Sonics offer a special “doggy dish” of vanilla ice cream for your pet. Just remember, dairy can upset some dogs’ tummies, so it’s important to know your pet’s limits. If you’re feeling generous, you can share a tater tot (or two).

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Sonic Drive-Ins:

Shiba Inu dog offers owner paw under restaurant table

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Dairy Queen

When nothing but a Blizzard will do, head to DQ. Many locations have convenient walk-up windows, so you can order with your dog. Many also have pet-friendly outdoor seating, and some even offer complimentary scoops of vanilla ice cream for pups.

With more than 4000 locations across the U.S., Vermont is the only state without a Dairy Queen.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Dairy Queens:

Culver’s

When you’re feeling like burgers and custard, nothing hits like Midwest juggernaut Culver’s. You can use the drive-thru or dine alfresco with your dog. Maybe they’ll get lucky and score a “pup cup.”

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Culver’s:

Panera Bread

If your local Panera has outdoor tables, they will likely welcome dogs. Just be mindful that table service isn’t available. You’ll need a buddy to manage your pup while you order.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Panera Breads:

Starbucks

Generally, Starbucks welcomes dogs in outdoor seating areas. While you caffeinate, you can treat your dog to “puppuccino”: a small cup of whipped cream available off the menu.

Dog parents have a few options for ordering: go through the drive-thru, have someone watch your dog while you order, or use the mobile app to place an order ahead of time, minimizing the wait outside.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Starbucks:

  • Seattle, WA
  • Chicago, IL
  • New York, NY
  • Austin, TX
  • Houston, TX
  • Las Vegas, NV
  • San Diego, CA
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Orlando, FL
  • Cleveland, OH

Sprinkle’s Cupcakes

This bakery chain offers dog-friendly pupcakes with sugar-free cake and yogurt frosting. While some locations don’t have patios, many are in shopping centers with spacious sidewalks and outdoor spots where you can relax together. It’s a perfect way to combine a shopping trip with a sweet moment for you and your dog!

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Sprinkle’s Cupcakes:

In-N-Out Burger

While dogs aren’t permitted inside, you can enjoy a meal together at In-N-Out locations with outdoor seating. Some establishments even offer a “Pup Patty” if you ask for it by name—an unsalted, unseasoned, broiled patty without toxic garlic or onions.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly In-N-Out Burgers:

  • Los Angeles, CA
  • San Diego, CA
  • Sacramento, CA
  • San Jose, CA
  • Las Vegas, NV
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Salt Lake City, UT
  • Fort Worth, TX
  • Austin, TX
  • Denver, CO

Outback Steakhouse

This surf n’ turf chain welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating areas. Savor a Bloomin’ Onion while your dog relaxes by your side.

Cities where you’re likely to find dog-friendly Outback Steakhouses:

  • Orlando, FL
  • Tampa, FL
  • San Diego, CA
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Cincinnati, OH
  • San Antonio, TX
  • Fort Worth, TX
  • Richmond, VA
  • Virginia Beach, VA
  • Las Vegas, NV

Great Dane dog sitting at restaurant table

Cristi Croitoru via iStock

Should You Bring Your Dog to a Restaurant?

Even if a restaurant permits dogs on their patio, it’s important to consider whether bringing your dog is truly a good idea. Ask yourself if your dog generally has good manners in public and how they react to strangers or loud noises.

Sally Grottini, a behaviorist with JustAnswer, emphasizes that dogs should be under their guardian’s vocal control, comfortable around strangers, and able to stay in a designated spot—like beneath a table.

Along with basic cues, like sit and down, Grottini recommends teaching your dog a few additional cues, including:

  • Under (to guide dogs under the table)
  • Heel (to keep the dog out of another patron’s space)
  • Quiet (no one likes a barky dog while dining)
  • Leave it (useful if food drops on the floor)

If your dog tends to experience anxiety, it may be better to leave them home. Grottini advises watching for signs of stress, such as panting, tail tucking, yawning, shaking, or trying to get away. She also notes that noise-sensitive dogs might struggle with the bustling sounds of a restaurant.

Visiting during off-peak hours can minimize stress for you and your dog. It also provides a quieter setting for working on your dog’s manners without overwhelming distractions.

What to do if you can’t bring your dog to a restaurant

If you find yourself turned away at a restaurant because of their pet policy, it’s important to remain respectful and understanding. While disappointing, these rules exist for a reason, primarily to protect the health and safety of other guests. You should also avoid misrepresenting your dog as a service animal—too many companion animals can distract actual working dogs.

To avoid disappointment, your best bet is to plan ahead. Call the restaurant in advance to confirm their pet-friendly policies.

On a brighter note, there are several alternatives if your dog isn’t allowed. First, look for nearby dog-friendly spots where your pup might be welcome. If that’s not possible, consider hiring a local sitter for a few hours. This lets you relax and dine while your dog plays.

If all else fails, think about having a cozy meal at home with your pup by your side or bringing a packed picnic to a nearby park where dogs are welcome.

Further Reading

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Liz Coleman

Liz Coleman

Liz is a freelance writer with a focus on pets and their fur-covered folk. She’s also a member of the Cat Writer’s Association, and her work appears in several pet publications. She shares her home in Western New York with two cats, two birds, and (arguably) too many plants.


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