As more people are including their dogs in family activities, the desire for pet-friendly restaurants grows. In Denver, CO, there are many options for dog-friendly dining for well-behaved pups! Here are some tips for dining out with your dog in Denver from the team at All Pro Dogs.
Teaching Your Dog Basic Commands for Going to a Restaurant
Before heading out to your favorite brunch or coffee spot with your pup, ensure that they are well-trained and know basic cues. It is easy to bring a dog that already knows voice commands to a busy eatery. Restaurants are full of distractions and owners might have issues controlling poorly behaved or nervous dogs. Instead, they should know basic commands like sit, leave it, and/or stop. This way you will have control of your dog and keep them from brother other diners or the staff.
What You Should Bring
Your dog should always be on a leash secured to their harness or collar when going out to a restaurant. Even though your dog might have amazing manners with the best training and behavior, they need to be on a leash. There is always the chance they might go after a small animal or be scared by something unfamiliar.
Tables and chairs are not stable enough to hold onto your dog. So instead of tying them to the furniture, keep the leash looped on your wrist or use a waist leash. Adjust the length of leash slack depending on whether your dog is more comfortable sitting or standing, but ensure that they do not have enough space for both other patrons or wait staff walking around or carrying food.
While some restaurants might provide a water bowl for your pooch, it is a good idea to bring one just in case. Being well-behaved while out to eat can be thirsty work and a responsible owner will make sure a dog has access to a refreshing drink. You should also bring some of your dog’s favorite treats. This way you can reinforce their good behavior!
Benefits of Dining Out With Your Dog
Dining out together is a great way to bond with your dog. Spending quality time benefits your relationship by strengthening it, as well as improving your dog’s social skills! Eating out at your favorite dog-friendly brunch exposes your dog to new things and teaches them impulse control.
Top 3 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Denver, CO
#1 The 49th Alaskan Food and Spirits
Location: 4550 S Kipling St, Denver, CO, US, 80127-1100
Contact: (720) 255-2021
With six dog-friendly outdoor tables, the 49th Alaskan Food and Spirits is a great place to eat out with your dog. The owner brought a little piece of home with him when he relocated to Colorado after being an Alaskan for 20 years. The 49th State gives Coloradans a taste of Alaska, offering specialty burgers like the Denali Burger! The Denali burger has two patties and is topped with caramelized onions, cheddar, bacon, and horseradish aioli. If you are looking for something a little more unique, try their Elk River Meatloaf. This entree has two slices of elk and beef meatloaf with green beans, garlic potatoes, and an in-house pan gravy. They are open every day for lunch and dinner, from 11 am to 12 am.
#2 Kaos Pizzeria
Location: 1439 S Pearl St, Denver, CO, US, 80210
Contact: (303) 733-5267
Kaos Pizzeria offers an outdoor, pet-friendly patio. Enjoy a glass of wine and one of their popular smokehouse pizzas.
#3 Bonnie Brae Ice Cream
Location: 799 S University Blvd, Denver, CO, US, 80209
Contact: (303) 777-0808
With some of the best-tasting ice cream in town, Bonnie Brae Ice Cream is extremely pet-friendly. Sit out on the dog-friendly patio and make sure to get your pup their doggy ice cream sandwich!
Going out to eat with your dog is not only a great way to strengthen your bond but also provides a unique opportunity to socialize and train your dog. If they enjoy being in public places, are good on a leash, and can behave themselves around the many distractions, there is no reason you and your pup cannot enjoy the pet-friendly dining options around Denver, CO. Where do you think you will go next? Burgers, pizza, or out to share an ice cream with your furry best friend?