How to make your cafe dog friendly (and whether you should)?

In Australia, you can let dogs into your outdoor dining area if you choose to, as long as it isn’t enclosed. Dog owners are loyal, tend to stay longer, and actively look for venues that welcome them. Done well, being dog friendly is low-cost and sets you apart. Done badly, it can annoy other customers. This guide covers the rules, the pros and cons, and how to do it right.

An Australian guide for café, pub and venue owners. Last reviewed: 7th of October 2026

Can my café legally allow dogs?

Generally, yes, in outdoor areas. Since 2012, Food Standards Australia New Zealand has let restaurants, pubs and cafes choose whether they allow dogs in outdoor dining areas. A few key points:

It’s your decision. You can also set additional conditions, like dogs staying on the ground and on a lead.

Outdoor areas only. Pet dogs aren’t allowed inside, and NSW Food Authority guidance says a dining area that is enclosed, even temporarily with blinds or an awning, isn’t permitted for pet dogs while enclosed. 

Assistance animals are different. They must be allowed in all areas customers use.

Check locally. Your council or state food authority may have extra rules, especially for footpath dining permits. Confirm with them before you put up a sign.

Should my café be dog friendly? The pros and cons

Roughly 50% of all the households in Australia live with a dog. The role of our pets has also changed significantly over the years with them being more integral part of our social lives.

The upside

Dog owners choose venues around where their dog can go, and they tend to become regular and very loyal customers.

Happy dogs get photographed, and tagged posts bring in new customers.

It costs little to start: signage, water bowls and a treat.

Dog-friendly venues are easy to find on directories such as Pupsy and Google searches like “dog friendly cafe near me”.

The downsides to plan for

Some customers are nervous around dogs, allergic, or simply prefer not to share space.

Barking, accidents and unfriendly dog introductions can happen.

Hygiene needs attention, especially near food preparation and service areas.

How to manage it: Most of these risks are handled with a clear policy, sensible seating and a confident team, which the steps below cover. Venues that welcome dogs and set clear expectations tend to avoid the awkward moments and keep everyone happy.

How do I make my café dog friendly? 8 steps

1. Put your policy in writing. State where dogs can sit and your basic rules on your website, Google profile, socials, dog friendly websites such as Pupsy and a door sign. Dog owners often check this before they visit for the first time.

2. Provide water. A fresh bowl at the entrance is the clearest “dogs welcome” signal there is. Use non-tip bowls and refill often, especially in summer.

3. Set up the space. If possible, leave room for dogs to lie down without blocking walkways, add a lead hook or tie-up point (if customers order at the counter inside), and offer shade. Hot pavers and metal can burn paws in summer.

4. Train your team. Everyone should know the policy, how to politely explain it to other customers, and how to calmly handle a barking or unsettled dog. Staff should ask before greeting a dog and never feed one without the owner’s okay.

5. Keep seating balanced. Where you can, separate dog and non-dog tables so everyone is comfortable. This is not always possible in which case the Step 6 becomes even more important

6. Keep rules simple. For example: dogs on a lead and under control, owners clean up, and dogs stay off seats and tables. You can make the signs with a hint of humour such as “If you bark, to the park” or “Playtime after coffee, not during”

7. Offer something for the dog. This is probably the most effective step that turns your venue from “dogs are allowed” into “dogs are welcome” and makes dog owners to come back again and again. See next section for more details about the treats.

8. Show it off. Add photos of dogs at your venue to Google and Instagram, encourage reviews that mention it, and list your venue on dog-friendly directories like Pupsy.

What should I serve dogs in my café?

A small dog offering gives owners a reason to choose you and share the visit. The simplest options:

Fresh water, always.

High Quality dog treat handed out with the water bowl or sold at the counter.

Let’s talk about “puppycinos” first. Although they are generally fine in small quantities, they surely are not healthy for most dogs. Dairy, sugar and sweeteners are not recommended for dogs, some of which (such as xylitol) can actually be toxic. Many adult dogs have trouble digesting dairy. Eating whipped cream can cause gas, stomach upset, or diarrhea. And finally, despite this popular name, they are not recommended for puppies as their bellies are not fully developed to handle diary. Non-dairy options tend to be healthier, however same rule applies for sugar and sweeteners.

What to look for in a venue treat:

Short, simple ingredient lists with no artificial colours or preservatives.

A protein that suits dogs who can’t handle common ones like chicken or beef. Kangaroo is a popular option for dogs with sensitivities, though every dog is different.

Air-dried rather than heavily processed as they are more nutrient rich.

Individually sized and shelf-stable, so there’s no refrigeration or mess for you.

Australian made.

Handling tip: Keep treats at the counter in sealed packs or a covered jar, hand them over rather than serving on plates or simply let the dog owners to pick up the treats from the jar themselves. That keeps them well away from food preparation areas.

Foods to avoid giving dogs: chocolate, onion, grapes and sultanas, macadamias, and anything containing xylitol. There are plenty of helpful articles for more complete list.

Treats can also make a small add-on sale. Many owners happily buy a couple extra for the walk home. Already more than 400+ dog-friendly venues across Australia are selling Pupsy Kangaroo Chews, some of them making $5000+ in annual treat revenue.

>> FIND OUT MORE ABOUT PUPSY KANGAROO CHEWS<<

Frequently asked questions

Are dogs allowed in cafes in Australia?
Pet dogs can be allowed in outdoor dining areas that aren’t enclosed, at the venue’s discretion. Assistance animals must be allowed in all customer areas.

Do I need a permit to make my café dog friendly?
Federal food rules don’t require a separate permit, but local councils and state authorities may have conditions, particularly for footpath dining. Check with yours.

What if a customer doesn’t like dogs?
Offer separate seating, state your policy clearly, and keep dogs on leads. Most customers are comfortable when expectations are clear.

Can I put out a dog menu?
Yes. Keep it small and clearly dog-safe, and keep dog items away from food preparation areas.

How do I let dog owners know I’m dog friendly?
List your venue on Pupsy and other dog-friendly directories, update your Google Business Profile, and post photos of dogs at your venue.

Ready to welcome more furry customers to your venue?

Get in touch and we will help you to get it all set up in 3 simple steps:

STEP 1: Quick 2 min call to understand your business

STEP 2: We will send free dog treat samples for your furry customers to judge them

STEP 3: Decide if you would like to order the treats (100% Buy Back Guaranteed) or just get your free listing created for you