Dog Friendly? The Truth about Dogs at Cafes and Shows.
We love to see the words ‘dog friendly’ on café signs and event posters – but how often do we stop to ask:
Friendly for who?
As more and more public spaces open their doors to dogs, we’re seeing a rise in well-meaning owners bringing their dogs along for a trip out.
But it may surprise you that many dogs are quietly struggling, overwhelmed by crowds, baking in the sun, and pushed beyond their comfort zone.
Dogs rely on space & scent to feel safe.
In noisy or busy environments, they can’t escape, decompress, or process what’s happening.
Some dogs can appear to look ‘okay’ but to the professional eye it’s easy to spot the signs.
Tense lowered body & tail low/tail tucked This isn’t about blaming owners, I’m not about that.
It’s about recognising that not every outing is as enjoyable for our dogs as it is for us!
Think Like a Dog1
Just because dogs can go with us, doesn’t mean they should.
Their natural preferences often don’t match our human plans.
Walking Miles Isn’t Natural
Dogs don’t naturally choose to walk for long distances without purpose.
Naturally in hot weather they conserve energy and move in short bursts (e.g., to sniff, explore, find food).
Walking for hours, especially on a lead, isn’t mentally enriching.. rather it can be tiring, frustrating, or even overwhelming.
Busy Crowds Can Feel Unsafe.
A crowded pub garden, garden show or market might feel fun to us but can become extremely overwhelming to dogs.
Closed tight mouth or heavy panting
Ears back
Unfortunately I noticed many of these signs at a country show I attended a couple of weeks ago.
It was a hot, sunny day, and as we walked through the gates, I remember saying to my family, ‘ I hope there aren’t any dogs in here. It’s far too hot and not a suitable environment for them’
But as soon as we entered the show… lo and behold, dogs were everywhere.
I was genuinely shocked and honestly, I found it really upsetting.
I did my best to ignore, but once you understand dog body language, it’s hard to look away.
It’s a bitter sweet curse!
Having said this, there were a few dogs that I did see (by reading their body language) who were genuinely enjoying themselves:
Loose body
Wavy slow wagging tail
Open mouth, soft eyes.
What to Consider Before Taking your dog out for the day.
How’s your dog feeling? Have they Been to the vets or groomers in the last 24 hrs? Are they tired, under the weather or elderly?
• How long will you be there for?
• Is there space for them to move, sniff, and rest?
• How busy will it be?
• Will it be too hot?
• How is your dog in close proximity to other dogs and people?
• Do they actually enjoy coming or do they come because we expect them to?
• Could they be happier at home or taken on a sniffy walk earlier in the day?
