Dogs and their badly behaved people
Posted on May 14th, 2008 – 12:15 PMBy Josephine Marcotty
The Minnesota legislature is about to legalize what many of us have been doing anyway — sitting with our dogs at outdoor restaurants and coffee shops. In Europe, dogs are often allowed inside restaurants and other places that sell food. So this begs raises the question: Why the difference?
I thought maybe it was because of Americans’ greater obsession with cleanliness and infectious diseases, so I called Jeff Bender, an expert in zoonotic (animal-to-people) infections at the University of Minnesota. He said he really didn’t know the origin of the state laws banning dogs from inside restaurants. It might be just the nature of dogs, he said.
“Tough to encourage dogs to wash their paws,” he said.
Officials at the Minnesota Department of Health didn’t really know when or why the laws were established, so I moved on to Dr. Joni Scheftel, our state veterinarian. Turns out that, yes, there are some infectious diseases people can get from dogs, especially from “puppy poop,” she said. But the greater concern by far, she said, is dog bites. In contrast to Europeans, it seems, we are not very good at controlling our dogs.
“Most dogs are not that well behaved, not like in Europe where you see dogs everywhere. No question, they do a better job of training their owners,” she said.
She said her office gets 2000 calls a year about animal bites, and those are just the people who take the trouble to call. It’s getting worse. Between 1998 and 2005, the number of dog bites treated at emergency rooms increased by 40 percent in Minnesota, according to one study published last year in Minnesota Medicine. Most of the victims were children, and most were bitten by their family dogs, the study found.
Still, Scheftel worries that when a lot of badly-trained dogs gather around kids and food in crowded places — such as outdoor cafes — the number of dog bites could increase. Scheftel said she likes to take her dog to outdoor cafes, “but he’s been to obedience school,” she said. And so has she.
There are some things you and your kids can do to be safer around strange dogs.
Do not approach an unfamiliar dog.
Do not run from a dog and scream.
Remain motionless (e.g., “be still like a tree”) when approached by an unfamiliar dog.
Do not let kids play with a dog unless supervised by an adult.
Avoid direct eye contact with a dog.
Do not disturb a dog that is sleeping, eating, or caring for puppies.
Do not pet a dog without allowing it to see and sniff you first.
And here’s more from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
104 Responses to "Dogs and their badly behaved people"
no… keep the dogs out. i like dogs, but their people let them get away with just about anything… especially barking… here’s my backyard on an otherwise peaceful saturday. Bark-bark. bark bark bark bark. bark bark bark bark. Bark bark bark… brief pause. bark bark bark. bark Bark-bark. bark bark bark bark. bark bark bark bark. Bark bark bark… brief pause. bark bark bark. bark.
I have four dogs of various breeds and sizes… all which are well trained, good natured, and quiet dogs.
Inspite of that, I don’t want dogs in restaurants either. Most owners drive me batty - they let their dogs run out to the end of the retractable leashes tripping anyone in the wayward path, they don’t stop them from poor behaviors (no, seriously, I don’t want my dogs’ noses in my crotch, let alone your’s), and so on.
Keep dogs out of the eating establishments.
I agree with cecon. Leave the house pets at home in the house. That goes for street festivals and parades as well. Unless you have a tiny pocket dog you can carry, they just get freaked out.
People can’t even control their children in public. What makes them think that they can control their dogs any better.
Yea, we won’t let dogs into cafes because of disease concerns, but heck, we willingly allow any person from a different country carrying any kind of disease to freely enter our country. I wonder what the dogs would say if they could speak? As for bites, what does it say that most of the bites reported are children being bitten by the family dog? As for my experience sitting outside at coffee shops, I’ve rarely encountered a badly behaving dog, but plenty of badly behaving, obnoxious people. As usual, the irresponsible dog owners will ruin it for the responsible ones. This legislation punishes the responsible dogowners by limiting their ability to go to outdoor coffeeshops. AS for Cecon’s comment about his barking neighbor, he’s right…a dogowner should not allow his/her dog to be outside barking for lengthy periods of time. That’s not responsible to the neighbors. Cecon I believe can put in an anonymous call to the Mpls city line 311 and the neighbor will get a friendly reminder to be a considerate neighbor.
Ugh, I don’t want dogs at restaurant patios. I mean, some big dog that sits next to the owner’s chair and minds its own business wouldn’t really be a problem, but the last thing I want when I’m trying to eat dinner is somebody’s animal yapping, jumping around, or otherwise disturbing us. Why can’t dog owners just leave their pets at home? Pets are *not* children, despite however much some pet owners seem to think so.
And I really don’t understand why dog owners think they need the validation of saying how “she’s friendly” and trying to convince me that my daughter should pet their dog. I think they fail to understand that if by some “unusual quirk” their dog harms a person (especially a child), they’re likely to lose their dog. I’m glad they enjoy their dogs; but really, it’s in their best interest not to encourage its interaction with strangers.
We take our dog to outdoor cafe’s but always ask the server/greeter if it’s Ok. We sit away from others if possible and keep our pup on a short leash. She usually curls up under the table and falls asleep. Personally, I’d rather have a dog at the next table than most children! A trained dog is a happy dog and a good neighbor both at home and on the patio.
jinx- Want to be less annoyed by whether or not people can “control their children in public”? Have some of your own. No matter how well-parented they are, sometimes kids have tantrums. It’s part of life.
Let restaurant owners decide. Many Twin Cities restaurants with patios have already become doggie “hot spots” in the summer and 99% of these dogs are well behaved from what I’ve observed. Couldn’t a restaurant owner kick out a loud or misbehaving dog and it’s master? Also, wouldn’t many dining establishments choose not to allow dogs in order to attract folks like those who posted above? What I love about our country is the freedom of choice, but it seems more and more, even the little choices are being made for us. I hope someday we are able to chose to eat in establishment that allows pets if we like. I just wonder if those of us who chose to patron dog friendly establishments will be required to sign a waiver before entering.
I have never seen dogs in restaurants in France, Portugal or Spain. Dogs don’t belong in restaurants! Where in Europe does this happen? If you let in one kind of animal then you have to let them all in…
Anyone else notice too many dog owners who think their dog is “trained” because it can do a trick (like fetch the newspaper) but whose dogs don’t come to their owner, or necessarily even respond, when they’re called by their owner? Love is blind to poor behavior, even with dogs.
Until a dog has officially earned its “Canine Good Citizen” certification (or something simliar), it shouldn’t be permitted in restaurants or even outdoor cafes.
I’ve seen dogs in restaurants and pubs in England, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium and France. There is NEVER a problem with it in these places. why? Because they treat animals as dogs and not as small humans, and they train their dogs. They also have VERY stringent rules about pets who threaten/bark at others. In fact, in Scotland, if your dog barks in a perceived threatening manner to another human, it can and usually is put down at the owners cost. If there were training requirements to gain a dog license, we wouldn’t have this discussion and dogs would be able to quietly sit with owners at food/drinking establishments and not cause problems. Bad behavior by pets is completely the owners fault.
how can people compared an a dog to a human being. A Dog is an animal and children are little human being. that is sick.
To respond to Jonathan’s comment that he has not seen animals in restaurants in France, Portugal or Spain - I beg to differ. I travel to various countries within Europe regularly and see dogs in all sorts of restaurants, department stores, malls, outdoor cafes, etc. I have never seen a misbehaving dog - including the maligned pitbull.
Hum .. why the difference? I think it has to do with the idea that immediately popped into my head when I thought about it .. doodie and whizz. It’s not that this WOULD actually happen .. it is the fear it MIGHT happen as I am sitting there trying to eat. Doodie stink wafting over my Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad .. just the fear is enough to turn me into Amy Winehouse - “NO! NO! NO!”
It all is in my faith in other people. Realistically, folks would probably make sure Fido has been properly prepared [read: made doodie and whizz .. uh .. free, I guess!] before heading to the cafe. But .. it depends on your faith of other dog owners. I have a pretty good faith in dog owners [.. it’s the child owners that really scare me!]. But still .. I just don’t know that I could quell the fear. I guess .. even in Europe .. I would be less than receptive to a dog at the restaurant with me .. inside or out.
I have a big German Shepherd that is completely well trained, but she’s shy. We live in Uptown and walk around everywhere, and eat at 2 or 3 local places that let dogs on the patio. It’s awesome enjoying the day - outside. I don’t think it would be that great inside — too weird. But people, can you please stop running up to her and scaring her, and then saying she’s got an attitude problem? Jeez.
I have two little dogs and I have brought them into many restaurants without anybody ever knowing. Since my dogs are small I can stick them in a purse or a small carrier.
As far as dogs being thought of as children remains a debate. Many dogs take the place of children when they leave the house or are part of the family before human babies are conceived. Dogs can actually be cleaner than children, so I don’t know why people get so upset. Children don’t always wash their hands and they get into everything.
I think that it should be up to the owner of the establishment to allow or ban dogs as well as post signage. If somebody is offended, they may stop going. However, other people may start going to that establishment due to the new circumstances.
What people don’t know is sometimes the best scenario.
The author wrote: “In Europe, dogs are often allowed inside restaurants and other places that sell food. So this begs the question: Why the difference?”
In fact, this doesn’t beg the question. It raises the question. Begging the question refers to a circular argument. “The bible is the word of God. How do I know this? It states so in the bible, which I accept at the word of God.” That is begging the question.
I have mixed feelings about this. I love dogs, but normally I wouldn’t want to see them in a restaurant. However, I could see the need for it on a patio. If I’m traveling, I don’t want to have to leave my dogs in the hot car while I grab a quick bite to eat. Now as for cecon. If you have a dog owner who is letting their dog bark all day and night, call it in as a nuisance. Most dogs will bark, but a responsible owner will call the dogs in if they are barking. I know I call mine in.
You people are a bunch of facists. Just like smoking, let the establishments decide what they want to do. Personally, I would rather have dogs then your annoying children who carry a lot more germs then any dog. Plus they are a lot more loud. I’m for pets, against children.
There are many coffee shops, small places where dogs are very welcome….it is people who shouldn’t have a dog that screw it up for the rest of us….you know who you are - you worthless dog owners that don’t clean up after your dog at the park! You aren’t there to gab gossip about Sex and the City with your friends, you are there for your dog! PAY ATTENTION!
I love my dog! Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut, she is much happier at home. I would never consider taking her to a restaurant.
To the comment above: NO! The restaurant owners SHOULD NOT be allowed to make the decision. They are NOT allowed to make the decision whether people can or cannot smoke in their private establishment so why in the world should they be allowed to make a decision about pets???????????????
A letter to dog owners:
Never assume I love your dog like you do! Unless someone approaches your dog and wants to interact with it, keep it at your side.
I’m afraid of dogs because of being attacked by one when I was a teen. To me they all seem unreliable and untrustworthy. That’s my experience. Please don’t let them jump on me, sniff my crotch, bark at me, growl at me or take my food.
I like dogs when I can take time to get to know them and be comfortable around them, but strange dogs scare me to death.
Private businesses in NOT private. Sorry, but it’s all now run by the government based on what the tree huggers are screeching about.
We took our 85 lb. golden retriever with us everywhere in Key West - even into Sloppy Joes! It was a trip we could not have taken without the ability to bring our pooch. And, having her along kept US in line!
Having just moved to El Paso from the Twin Cities, I must comment that canines and kids are way different here. Dogs are outside dogs. And they all bark. Walking our dog is like setting off the smoke alarm in your house - one dog in the ‘hood starts barking and they ALL start barking!
Kids in restaurants is another story. You can be seated next to a table with five kids and not even know they are there. Folks discipline their kids here. It’s a different culture.
Plus, there’s no snow. Okay, I just had to throw that one in.
Dog parks, dog cafes, hey, they are all good things for people and their pets.
I have been bringing my dog to outdoor restaurants over the past couple years and I usually find myself shooing people away from her. And yes, I keep her away from other people’s tables and do not set her on my lap or anything like that - unacceptable. People seem to think it’s ok to touch any dog they see - what happens if you do that to a random person? You (probably) won’t get bit, but it won’t be tolerated. While it is my responsibility to train my dog and prevent her from bothering other people, it is everybody else’s job to keep their hands (and their children’s hands) away from unfamiliar animals.
The more people I meet, the more I like my dog. However, I do agree that there are a number of people that have no business having a dog at home let alone in public.
TJ: BAD ARGUMENT. Dogs don’t increase the chance of lung cancer for restaurant workers.
Dogs should be left at home. NOT in our eating establishments. They are for people NOT Pets. Plain and simple.
Those of you who say dogs aren’t children so they shouldn’t be allowed, are walking a risky road. I’m with Mike S. — some of us don’t appreciate it when your children run all over the restaurant, cry loudly, point stare, knock food over and roll over our feet with your HUGE strollers. I can guarantee that my dog is much better behaved than many children in this city so if dogs aren’t allowed perhaps children shouldn’t be either.
To Susan: Never assume I love your kids like you do!
Uh Dennis: Then don’t work there.
KC, I agree with you. Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to go someplace where there are NO kids allowed?
I’d rather sit next to a dog than a child. Seems most dogs I’ve encountered at outdoor cafes / restuarant are well-behaved and usually asleep under the chair or table. I’ve been around plenty of unruly and whining kids. Too bad the servers can’t tell the parents to leave because their children are running wild or behaving obnoxiously.
I have been around very well behaved dogs (and kids) in restaurants in Europe and Britain. In the US, I am forced to suffer with screaming, running out of control kids who throw food and wet their pants at the table while their inattentive parents ignore them. Ugh. I will take a dog as dining companion over a brat kid any day.
Muslims will love this, especially in St. Cloud.
i personally could care less about what is on a dogs paws. My children know better than to go near a strange dog either. What I ABSOLUTELY CANNOT STAND is the way dogs stare at you intently and desperately while you eat. I want to vomit watching the drool dribble down from their furry faces onto the floor. It is stressful avoiding/ ignoring their gaze or turning my back to them while i eat.I dont care how well behaved, adorable, or polite “dog people” think their fur babies are…I have never EVER been able to enjoy a meal, or even a snack around a dog. Might as well have a homeless person drooling on the window watching you eat. No thanks… not to mention the salty pungent stinky dog smell most peoples dogs have.
Yes, Im talking to YOU “dog person”. Your dog STINKS and just because you love him stink, drool and all doesnt mean other people do. Whats that? your dog is cleaner than other dogs therefore does not smell? I imagine this phenomenon of denial is akin to not being able to smell your own breath, or body odor due to the fact the smell undoubtedly permeates every fiber of your home, car and life. Speaking of fiber, I suppose your dog does not have fur that sheds either? I dont like fur floating around my food either. Most people don’t
Throw dinner parties and have all your dog loving friends and their fur babies drool stink eat and be merry!! dont forget to set places atthe kiddy table for the fleas and ticks too…its that time of year again! Yum!! It is all so appetizing, I just dont understand why anyone wouldnt like dogs in restaraunts. *gag* 
I’m good with Dogs…at least they’re on leashes…what about people that don’t control their children? Why don’t we have a law that enforces parental control in eating establishments that protects diners from out of control kids and the parents who don’t do anything to control them? Just sayin’.
Allergies anyone? I am a dog lover, but also have a family of sneazers - to not be able to eat out because you’re allergic to dogs just doesn’t make sense unless you want to transfer all of the smoking sections over to dander sections! Also, I love my dog and would say that she’s very well trained, but she also has a ton of energy - there’s a difference and I would never bring my well trained runner to a restaurant.
Thesse dogs stable? Tehy bite! Woulds like to traval to Eruope adn take ringtail cat wiht to pub.
If I see a dog at a restaraunt, I will just walk by and find a place where there isn’t one. The fact that 90% of dogs are well-trained and wouldn’t cause a problem is irrelevant. It’s the 10% that are going to bark - or even worse jump on the table or grab scraps from under my table - that will keep me away.
Ok, both sides are valid, but as a person who both owns a dog and has worked as a server for years, I would rather have a dog sitting at my table than kids who leave food all over the floor and whose parents don’t clean up after them. I would rather have a dog in my section than a person who is talking loud enough that it distracts other patrons. I would rather have a dog in the restaurant than people who go out to dinner, expect perfection, and don’t tip for crap. Honestly, where dogs can go isn’t really the big issue, people thinking that they can control every environment they are in are.
honestly, when I see a seeing eye dog around, people are really excited by the presence. I really don’t see a reason to keep them out of restaurants since nearly all dogs, at least around the twin cities, live inside a house anyway. of course, if the dog is a nuisance the dog should leave and that’s the same policy we have towards distruptive humans too.
I have been around many ill-behaved dogs AND children! I have a large dog (rescued greyhound) and 4 adult children. I never took my children to a restaurant (McDonalds doesn’t count) until they were old enough to behave and sit still. However, I have had awful experiences with young children screaming, running, throwing food, throwing a tantrum, crying, and basically ruining my meal at a restaurant. I think that dogs should be allowed outdoors at restaurant patios, but not inside the building. Get real, every male dog who enters a restaurant is going to “leave his mark” and what dog isn’t going to be tempted to try and get that steak off your plate, and God forbid, two aggressive dogs have to be seated next to eachother! No, restaurants are not for animals (service dogs excluded of course!) or for young, out of control children with parents that allow that behavior.
wow- its amazing how deluded “dog people” are to compare human children to a four legged animal thats licks its butt. Yeah, uncontrolled kids in eating establishments making a scene is not something i enjoy either, but a human is not a canine. Why do dogs deserve the privelege? Im sure my son’s hamster Buddy would be delighted to run around us in his plastic exercise ball the next time we eat out. Im sure everyone would think it was just as adorable as my son would, right?
Wrong.
Ahhh the Intolerant speak up. I’m sure they would be happier if the children and the elderly would just stay home also. Look if you want to bring your dog to a resturant and they will let you then thats great I think we all have to learn to be a little more tolerant in the public we share. So please do pass by the resturant with the dogs outside there more welcome than some one who has an attitude like that.
Personally I like dogs (cats too), but would not go to a restaurant that allows them in due to allergies.
To cecon:
I read your comment and immediately guessed you are a parent of human children. So the corollary to your perspective would be:
no… keep the children out. i like kids, but their parents let them get away with just about anything… especially screaming… Here’s my typical experience at a restaurant where parents with ill-behaved kids frequent:
Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that. Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that. Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that. Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that.
Parents argue and disagree about corrective measure.
Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that. Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that. Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that. Scream - giggle -cry. Stop that.
Cringe.
This is really a non-issue.
Business owners should get the choice allow dogs, and consumers have the choice to go to that buisness or not.
Have a problem with the buisness owners choice? As a consumer, it’s your job to let your feelings be known to that buisness, not the governments.
This would’ve worked just fine for the smoking ban as well.
Why is the legislature wasting it’s time on this. What do we pay those idiots for anyway? No wonder they need a special session every year. This is something any restaurant owner can decide for themselves. Do I want to allow someone with a pet at the outdoor portion of my restaurant, or not? Post a sign if this is a problem. Good grief let’s keep the government out of it. The customers will dictate if this is a bad idea or not.
You people who are against are wound a little too tightly. Relax a little - try enjoying the situation v. hastily and unknowingly thinking you have all the answers. Good dogs, bad dogs, good children, bad children, also extends to good adults, bad adults.
Relax, take a deep breath, enjoy the outdoors (with or without animals) and quit being so serious about such a petty issue. I’m thinking the health care crisis, economic situation, and heck a little thing that’s been going for years now - a war - might have more merit in discussions. Put it all into perspective folks.
God, thank you Paul…a voice of reason. And Jonathan…if you’ve never seen dogs at outdoor cafes in Europe then you’ve never been to Europe. C’mon. If people want to bring their dogs to an outdoor cafe or coffee shop, so be it. If you don’t like it, go to one that doesn’t allow them.
I just want to make a comment about this dog at restaurant article and to respond to some knucklehead by the name of Tom. I don’t nescessarily want dogs in a restaurant either but dogs are dogs and some are well behaved and some aren’t but what makes you think that I want to sit at a restaurant and be subjected to your twit of a kid who YOU can’t control. It happens ALL the time….yapping and crying and screaming….yikes! if the kid cries and misbehaves take it outside in the car! I doubt even a badly trained dog would behave this way…shame on you parents! yeah dog owners!
Hey, I know, let’s pick on cats. Why are they allowed to roam free when dogs aren’t? Especially this year, when the songbirds are already stressed by the late (nonexistent) spring, and thousands have already starved, I don’t want a cat chowing down on any of the ones left.
Forgot to mention, my license plate frame reads “The more people I meet, the more I love my dogs”….after reading some of the posts here its more true than ever. Some of you may have had bad experiences (maybe because you don’t know how to approach unfamiliar dogs? - dogs don’t like all people either!), but sitting in an outdoor patio with my dog(s) sounds OK to me. I have the option to go someplace that doesn’t allow them if I so choose, just like you do. Stop being so uptight people…good grief.
There’s a reason I have a tendency to order in.
1) No people talking loudly on their cell phones.
2) No screaming children - or children that lean over the back of their booth and stare at me throughout my entire meal.
3) No allergy attacks because the man or woman at the table next to me bathed in their perfume/cologne/body wash today.
4) I can snuggle up to my dog and/or husband while enjoying my meal in the comfort of my own home.
And in response to cecon’s first post about barking dogs on weekends. That’s a sign you have irresponsible neighbors. Report them. Most cities have rules against dogs that are nuisance barkers.
Too bad I can’t report the neighbors who allow their kids to run around screaming in MY yard.
Dogs at outdoor cafes? Let the owner of the business decide. Let’s have a little less government in our lives.
jinx101: Actually, I think it’d be better to allow dogs in restaurants and ban children.
Please. We can’t even get many “adults” to control their children, what makes anyone think people will be accountable for bringing along their dogs? Same concern: at what point are you infringing on the rights of the non-partakers?
To all who’s “ox is being gored”…All of these comments could be taken from the smoking ban brouhaha.
I guess it’s ok for a restaurant or bar to allow allergin infested four legged carrion eaters to sit by my table, but god forbid anyone light an aromatic cigar or pipe.
The unelected pushing for “rights” that never were…unbelievable.
Wow - I feel very sorry for those of you who have such negative feelings toward children. I don’t want to be near crazy, loud, messy kids either, but where are you all going? Stop going to Applebees if it bothers you so much. Of course my daughter is very well behaved, she has terrific manners for a 16-month old. Seriously though, we’ve never had a problem with her eating out, but I won’t take her out when I know she’s tired, etc. and there might be a breakdown involved.
That said, I love my dog, I usually am not very fond of other peoples’, however, the establishment should have the choice. I do try to multitask and take the dog for a walk while dropping of the dry cleaning, for example, and they do not have a problem with me bringing him in for a short time. I would like the option to sit out on the patio with him at local places for the same reason (multitasking - the dog and I get a little walk, and I get some wine), but I don’t think I would be comfortable bringing him inside, or being around other dogs inside.
To Nicole “so glad I don’t have a dog” B:
Your comment on dogs licking their butts…I used to babysit for a child who thought it was fun when he pooped in his pants to stick his hand down there and squish it between his fingers. Ofcourse this led me to make him wash his hands before doing ANYTHING but my point is, kids are twice as filthy as dogs are and it’s not really kids that people don’t like, it’s their parents lack of control over them. I enjoy a well behaved child just as much as the next person and we all understand that children cannot ALWAYS act like angels but if the parent can’t regain control over the situation in a resonable amount of time, the child needs to be removed from the public area. And to be clear, that means even if you just ordered your food and haven’t even eaten yet. Those are the type of sacrifices parents need to make, it’s part of having children and if it makes you bitter or unhappy to have to sacrifice such things on a regular basis then those people should’ve never had kids in the first place.
If i understand this issue correctly, it was recently determined that is actually illegal to allow dogs on the patios of restaurants, which is a relatively common practice. the bill currently being debated would allow restaurant owners to decide, legally, if they want to allow people to bring dogs on their patios. it will still be illegal to bring them inside.
so - this is just going to officially legalize something that is already relatively common, and completely harmless (yes, harmless - speak up if you’ve been bitten by a dog at a restaurant…anyone?) (also dogs grabbing food off your plate? has this happened to anyone at a restaurant either? definitely not something i’ve seen. they tend to be on leashes.)
take a deep breath, naysayers. your world is not turning upside down. in fact, it will barely change at all. no one is forcing dogs on you or your favorite restaurant.
Does the Legislature not have bigger fish to fry? Let’s remember our Midwest Sensibilities and not try to be some flaky coastal-mentality town.
TJ: Never assume I have kids.
Awh it will stop the first time a dog trys to hump someone or pee’s on someones $500.00 suite, or urps next to someones table.
I’ve brought my small dog to outdoor restaurants in Texas. On one visit I was there with some friends and one of their friends that had a small child. My dog was much better behaved than the kid! She was happy to lay across my lap and people-watch from under the table, while the child was throwing food, making a mess and being quite obnoxious.
I am also a parent and a grandparent. I realize that some times that children will misbehave, but if they do they should be removed from the situation. I always did so with my kids when they were small, and I continue to do so with my grandkids.
It all boils down to how well the child or the pet is supervised. Well supervised pets should be allowed in outdoor restaurants, as should well behaved children. Those who are unruly should be asked to leave - whether they are skin kids or fur kids.
Wait, I can’t walk in a restaurant with bare feet, but we’re going to allow dogs in!? This is ridiculous.
Let me get this straight…
We cannot smoke in a restaurant or nightclub, but people are free to bring an animal in?
Anywhere kids can go dogs should be allowed to go. Dogs are cleaner, quieter, less destructive and behave better. Sometimes dogs have bad parents but I guess you can’t ban them.
I see nothing wrong with allowing a leashed dog on the patio or terrace of a sidewalk cafe. If one is out walking one’s dog and decides she would like a cup of coffee or something to nibble on, should hse strap the dog to a light pole or turn around, take the dog home, then come back?
In Paris, dogs are allowed in restaurants, at the table. That’s a little much for me, and I have had dogs and cats all my life. Outside is finem and I’d rather have a large dog than a little yappy one in someone’s purse. That’s not only cruel but unhealthy.
J. Douglas must be kidding! You don’t know the difference. When you smoke you harm others physically plus ruin the eating experience. What is a dog going to do to you sitting 10 feet away?
This is a very sad discussion. So many of you are against dogs or children because you’ve seen some irresponsible owners or parents. But not all of us are irresponsible dog owners & parents!
I bring my two small dogs with me quite a bit in the summer. They are good dogs, but when they act up (won’t stop barking at other dogs, etc.) then I leave and take them home. I am responsible.
Same with my son. When he was small, he was not allowed to run around in a restaurant, or scream, or cry or make a scene. Yes, there were times that he did act up (all children do, even the ones with responsible parents). When he acted up, I took him outside to correct the problem or we went home.
I think people who don’t like dogs or children lack a genuine kindness and softness and I wouldn’t choose for them to be my friend. Sure, there are bad pet owners. But don’t make generalizations about all dogs or owners because we’re not all bad.
Plus - when life is giving me lemons, when I can’t count on my family or friends, my dogs are there - ready to love me unconditionally.
There are no bad dogs, only bad dog owners.
jim douglas,
you do not, in fact, have this straight.
you still won’t be able to bring a dog inside a restaurant. the bill merely allows restuarants to allow dogs outside on patios, if they choose to do so.
Last summer that place by Lake Calhoun ran out of dog treats, so they gave my pal an order of coconut shrimp. He gave it four woofs.
Hey cecon-
Do you live by me? I have the same d*mn thing. I’m ready to move. Called the cops three times in one month on this issue and nothing was done. I blame the owner-not the dog.
Why is our Minnesota legislature wasting time working on this proposal when there are so many other pressing issues to work on?
Bowser, you’re my favorite!
In general, I can’t say that I see that many pooches in restaurants. Unless it’s a service animal it should be left at home. People go out to restaurants to get away from home and for worry-free convenience. They shouldn’t have to be subjected to having animals around they don’t know.
Susan, I hear ya. I’ve been love-mauled by dogs as well. You never know how well animals are trained until one comes sniffing for you! And TJ, don’t assume that we love your comments as much as you do.
All I can say is that I will not be anywhere that I have sit in any proximity fo dogs, cats what have you. Animals are not cleaned like humans, the restaurant workers are required by law to wash trheir hands, I trust that the human patrons are hygenic, but I don’t think a dog cares about anything the second it is done licking it’s anus!
Let the dogs in, keep the owners out. Many dogs have more manners these days than people do!
Rebecca
The only dogs I want to see in restaurants are the ones you can put ketchup and mustard on, or maybe a little kraut.
Frank Lee, you are right about “begging the question.” One of my erstwhile editors here pointed that out as well. So I’ve changed it to “raising the question.” Sorry for the late response. I’m enjoying the discussion. When I started looking into this I was convinced that health laws were way over the top on this. I think dogs at outdoor cafes are okay as long as they are well behaved — like my dog, of course. JM
Achoo, achoo, achoo, achoo, achoo - that’s me at a restaurant with dogs. (And yes I’ve gotten my shots [allergy], can you verify every dog has!)
BARK! BARK! Let me in, humans. I want to eat your food and slurp your beer. I also bite the aforementioned unruly children. BARK!
Every place is different and we have been to a lot of places. In London dogs are allowed in pubs but that’s about it. We now live in Vienna which is the most dog friendly place we have ever seen. Not only do we take our small dog into all but the fanciest restaurants, as well as stores and shopping malls, but we, and many others, take dogs golfing! The only problem I have ever noticed in a restaurant is that occasionally a dog will get excited when it sees another dog, but for the most part, the dogs here are very well behaved. Many people even take them for walks around busy city streets without a leash, which is against the law, but nobody ever complains as long as the dog is well behaved. The Viennese are a little behind the US when it comes to picking up after their dogs, but they also still smoke in restaurants too. They have instituted a big campaign to change that…picking up after their dogs, not the smoking. We are not looking forward to returning the US which is one of the most dog unfriendly places there is. I have never heard of any disease that can be passed from dogs to humans. Dogs have been living intimately with people for thousands of years; most dog owners let their pets into their kitchens. Slobbery dogs are always licking their masters, usually in the face. I have never heard of anybody getting sick from a dog!
Well, the state vet says you can get an infectious disease from a dog. But you are far more likely to get one from another human anyway. And all the food poisoning outbreaks you hear about are not started by dogs. They are started by people who infect food. JM
You idiots act as if you were never children. Remember you were once a child. As for nasty dogs being allowed in the outdoor section of restaurants that is ludicrous. Some one made a comment that children carry more germs then dogs carry. Prove it, show me where you found such ridiculous information. It sounds like made up information by yourself.
My food arrives, I begin to enjoy it. It is hot, prepared the way I like it, and I am enjoying my lunch on a sunny afternoon. Then your dog decides he needs to drop a loaf at the next table. No thanks.
It’s unfortunate that no legislation can even be proposed without so many people lining up on both sides of the issue crying “the sky is falling” without even giving it a chance. Try it. If it becames a major problem, then you rescind it. I have dogs (both graduated obedience training with honors) and would love to bring them out more in public while shopping, dining, etc. They are always a huge hit when I brought them while visiting my grandma in her nursing home (never saw those people get excited about anyone’s visiting kids). As for kid vs. dog general behavior in public; dogs win paws-down.
Most of the objections to this bill sound like imaginary worst-case scenarios that, sure, could happen, but never do.
Dozens of times each summer I go to patios where other customers have brought their dogs along. I’ve never seen someone bring a “nasty” dog to an outdoor restaurant, nor have I ever seen (or heard of) someone’s dog pooping while on a patio.
I own 2 dogs and one I would take to a patio, the other I would not. I think this issue depends on the owner to make the right choice and to understand their dogs’ temperament. Many parents with colicky children do not take them with to the movies, nor would I take my shy pitbull to a patio because he might react badly. My chocolate lab is a perfect dream in public though and I believe most people would welcome him.
As far as the “poop” issue is concerned, I do not think that people are being reasonable. Most dog owners know when their dog needs a bathroom break and will leave to allow them to do this. Plus most patios are concrete or wood and I have never meet a dog who thought those surfaces look inviting to use.
Beyond the fact that many people do not train their dogs appropriately enough to dine in public, many of us are ALLERGIC to dogs.
To Peirce: Those are worst case scenarios and yes, they are not allowed inside. I feel it has not been an issue because dog owners have known it was illegal and they were getting a luxury. Now that it is “legal” what’s to stop the owner that has a hyper, barking, begging dog from coming to the patio? I can see it now, “Sir, your dog is disturbing our customers” -Owner, “It’s my legal right to have it here, blah blah blah” That’s the problem I see in this. Just don’t let me find a dog hair in my food! Human, is bad enough!!
I have two dogs. One is a registered therapy dog. When I have traveled I have searched for dog-friendly restaurants. Why? because I usually travel in summer and I shouldn’t leave my dog in my car, and never in the hotel. I end up getting take-out or delivery most of the time. I have looked for restaurants in the Twin Cities too. After a long day at work, I don’t like to keep the dog penned up even longer if I want to go out. As a responsible owner, I will exercise the dogs before going to outdoor seating at a restaurant. I’m not expecting indoor seating.
People here need to face the facts: there are more households with dogs than households with children. Dogs are not children, but they are family members. People like to eat out more than they did in the past. Why not bring the family member?
Any misbehaving person or pet should leave a restaurant. Period.
I agree that dogs need more training, in general, and they need more socialization, with other dogs and people. That’s why dog parks are essential to every community. Dogs kept in yards, often alone for hours, are the worst socialized and become nuisance barkers. Get the dogs out more, and Cecon and his fellow abused neighbors will have an easier time.
Perhaps I should expand… My example is extreme, to be sure. But, my point is, the mere possibility, and the idea that a wagging tail in a slight breeze may deposit a bit of loose hair in my potato salad, plus a miriad of other possible unfortunate incidents, is enough to distract me from having my best experience. I am not anti dog; I was raised with them (I currently have none- I’m in an apartment) and I love all animals. But I have boundaries, and they include one with stranger’s dogs while I’m eating.
I for one think it depends on the dog. I had a golden and I could take him any where without a problem. Never barked when he went outside and always behaved. The beagle that I have on the other hand, there is no way I would take her to an establishment. She just would not behave her nose would go crazy
Actually, in some restaurants, bringing in dogs might improve the atmosphere. They could cleanup the fallen food left under tables by grubby, misbehaving kids.
I can’t beliver people are so upset by this. I would not take my dog to a indoor nice place to eat. But I have and will take him to outdoor places like a DQ and sit at the park bench. There are dogs that should not do this however. I also have been in places that kids have been let to run wild. but most poeple do the correct thing and take care of it. I would like to see less goverment and laws. It”s the small precent of people on both sides that distroy thing for the rest of us. so take you kid out to eat just keep them under controll. and take your dog to the local DQ and keep it under controll.
Like I said, whatever the law is I won’t go somewhere that allows animals to comingle with humans in eating establishments, so why all the debate, don’t go there if the restaurant allows dogs. These restaurants will have to decide if they want to retain patrons who can pay or creat an atmosphere where dogs, who have to spending power are allowed. Beacuse right now these dog ownwers are already eating at restaurants without their dogs, at their choice - they boycott the restaurants that don’t allow pets. Parks, Zoos and backyards are the only place I want to see anyone’s animal.
Ok, let me rephrase…
I cannot smoke within 100 feet of an entrance (give or take depending on the city), but you can bring your flea infested, ear mite ridden dog that may or may not be able to control his bodily functions within 100 feet of that same doorway? And then while I am attempting to possibly eat, I get the pleasure of watching your furry friend lick his hind end…no thanks.
“And then while I am attempting to possibly eat, I get the pleasure of watching your furry friend lick his hind end…”
As opposed to having to listen to your little “treasure,” talk loudly and incessantly as I’m trying to enjoy my meal; or watch them jam their fingers into their nose and mouth, then grab for the salt & pepper shakers on the table; or throw/drop food on the floor for everyone to step in and “someone else” to clean up; or begin howling inconsolably when they don’t get every little thing they desire?
Waaaaaaaaaa! There are meanies in this blog! *picks nose and spits up food*
Wow, a sensible voice in a state of facist leftist liberal.
Neil says:
“May 15th, 2008 at 5:17 am
Like I said, whatever the law is I won’t go somewhere that allows animals to comingle with humans in eating establishments, so why all the debate, don’t go there if the restaurant allows dogs. These restaurants will have to decide if they want to retain patrons who can pay or creat an atmosphere where dogs, who have to spending power are allowed. Beacuse right now these dog ownwers are already eating at restaurants without their dogs, at their choice - they boycott the restaurants that don’t allow pets. Parks, Zoos and backyards are the only place I want to see anyone’s animal.”
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