Oh, the many joys of being a dog owner! People who love dogs often enjoy getting to train a faithful companion, build a relationship with a dog, and even take a four-legged friend around town with them. If you binge-watch Cesar Millan on TV and enjoy teaching your canine companion new tricks, you’ll probably enjoy this article. It’s very possible to bring your beloved dog with you while you sip coffee, run errands around town, or catch up with friends. Read on for a dog parent’s guide to teaching dog etiquette in a coffee shop – or any other public place.
Before bringing your canine pal along with you to your favorite local coffee shop (or any restaurant or public place, for that matter) there are several things you should take into consideration. First, is the establishment pet friendly? If you’re unsure, it’s always best to call ahead rather than showing up with your dog – and being politely asked to leave.
Second, has your dog been properly trained and socialized? A coffee shop shouldn’t be the first place you begin obedience training. Also consider your dog’s temperament. Is she fearful of other dogs and people? How does he react in new, uncertain situations? How much training has your dog already had? Dog trainers urge owners to consider these questions. Dog trainer, Jenna McDonald, warns owners to keep an eye on their dogs at all times and never leave your dog tied up outside of the coffee shop if your dog has ever snapped at anyone (playfully or otherwise). The same rule also applies if there’s any chance your dog might become aggressive towards another dog or human. Injuries or accidents simply aren’t worth the risk and can easily be avoided by keeping your pet close by.
Third, how will you (and your dog) respond to the behaviors of other people and other dogs at the coffee shop? This one is tricky, because you can’t control or predict the behavior of other people or someone else’s dog. However, it is a very important consideration – especially because people (and other dogs) love to walk up to you and interact with you at a coffee shop. If you’re quietly sipping a latte with your four-legged friend resting at your feet, and someone walks in with a large dog who unexpectedly charges at your dog, what will you do? How will your dog react?
Once you’ve taught your dog some proper recall ability, manners and basic obedience skills, a coffee shop or other public area can be a great place to practice those new skills. Be sure to bring a handful of treats with you, and reward your dog for following commands or exhibiting good behavior at the coffee shop.
Let’s not underestimate the importance of socialization for dogs and for ourselves as dog owners. Taking your dog on trips with you around town allows you both to interact with other dogs and dog owners. If your dog seems uncertain or doesn’t follow commands perfectly during your first trip to the coffee shop together, don’t give up on your dog. It may just be time to do some more practicing (and rewarding of good behaviors) before trying again.
Allowing your dog to accompany you to run errands, visit coffee shops, or on other trips around town is a very important aspect of dog ownership. Not only does it help teach proper behaviors to your dog; it also helps reduce fear and anxiety in uncertain situations. Best of all, it helps both you and your canine companion become a more integrated part of your local neighborhood and community.