Can I Bring My Dog Inside Orlando Restaurants and Stores?

Oct 12

You've got errands. Your dog's got FOMO. Before you load them in the car, here's where dogs are actually welcome in Orlando.

Can I bring my dog inside Orlando restaurants?

Inside? No. Florida law doesn't allow pet dogs in indoor dining areas. Service dogs are the exception.

Outside is a different story. Florida lets local governments allow dogs on restaurant patios, and Orange County runs a Dog Friendly Dining permit program. Restaurants that participate need a permit and have to follow rules.

The move: look for a patio, check for a dog-friendly sign, and ask before you sit down.

Can I bring my dog into Walmart in Florida?

Generally, no. Walmart welcomes service animals, but pets aren't allowed inside. Same goes for most grocery stores, since they sell food.

What stores in Florida allow dogs?

A number of retailers are known for welcoming leashed, well-behaved dogs, though policies vary by location and can change. Ones commonly reported as dog-friendly include:

Pet stores like PetSmart and Petco (obviously)
Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's at many locations
Tractor Supply
Some outdoor and sporting goods stores
Local boutiques that put a water bowl out front

Always check ahead. A store being dog-friendly in one city doesn't mean every location is.

Dog etiquette for public places

Short leash, always
Bring bags and clean up right away
Skip it if your dog is anxious, reactive, or not house-trained
No dogs in carts unless the store says so
Bring water, especially in summer

Where your dog is always welcome

Tired of guessing? At Dougie's Dog Bar, dogs aren't tolerated, they're the guest of honor. Off-leash yard, splash zone, cold drinks, and food for you. Dog are always welcomed on our patio with or without a membership. Only service dogs are permitted inside of the inside bar area.

And when you've got errands where your pup can't come along, The Ark next door has daycare so they're not stuck home alone.

Dougie's Dog Bar, 1965 W. New Hampshire St., Packing District | dougiesdogbar.com

Adam Harbin