Before you go

Check that the restaurant is approved (look for it on this map and for the official A3 sign at the entrance), and confirm its dog-friendly days and hours. When in doubt, call ahead.

Keep your dog under control

Your dog must be held by an adult on a leash no longer than 1.5 metres, or securely tied to a fixed object such as a wall hook or a bolted-down table — never to a movable chair.

This applies even if your dog travels in a carrier or stroller: it should still be leashed or secured.

Which dogs are allowed

Fighting breeds — including pit bull terriers, Argentine Dogos, Japanese Tosas, Brazilian Filas and their crosses — and any dog declared dangerous by a court are subject to strict controls and must wear an identifying collar, a muzzle and a leash. Check the rules carefully before bringing such a dog.

If your dog is unwell, in season, or uncomfortable around people and other animals, it is kinder to leave it at home.

Where your dog can and cannot be

Dogs must not enter food preparation areas, sit at bar counters, or come within 1.5 metres of a self-service or buffet counter. Your dog should not rest on dining tables, and tables are not seats for dogs.

Keep your dog in your own space — on the floor, in its carrier, or on your lap if the restaurant allows — and out of walkways where staff are carrying food.

Feeding your dog

Restaurants may only serve pre-packaged dog food — dry food, vacuum-sealed pouches or canned products — and cannot cook or reheat dog food for you (some may provide facilities for you to warm it yourself). Dog food must be served in disposable, non-plastic bowls, never the restaurant’s own dishes, and not placed on dining tables.

Clean up after your dog

Accidents happen. Clean up after your dog promptly and use the dedicated waste bins provided. Restaurants are allowed to charge a cleaning fee if they have told you in advance, so be considerate.

Be a good guest

The scheme is new, and how smoothly it runs depends on owners. A calm, well-behaved dog and a tidy table help keep these doors open for everyone. The rules above summarise the scheme — always follow FEHD’s official guidelines and any instructions from restaurant staff.