by Danielle Henson

Both humans and dogs are social beings who thrive in environments with lots of interaction. At home, these interactions between us and our four-legged friends only make up a small percent of what a dog could be experiencing when taken outside and into the public.

But, before you take Fido out into the world, be sure that he or she is ready! First and foremost, get your pup vaccinated! Core vaccines include canine parvovirus, distemper, canine hepatitis, and rabies. These vaccines can keep you and your pup safe while out in the world.

It is also recommended that any dog that is brought to public spaces is house-trained. This means that your pup should be able to withhold from having accidents inside or in an area where it would be deemed inappropriate (ie. Next to your table at a restaurant.) 

While out and about, remember to bring poop bags with you! If your dog does have an accident or even if they go in a patch of grass, the mess can be harmful to humans and other pets. Leaving feces behind is not only unsanitary, but it can spread diseases and expose dogs to intestinal parasites that can make them sick.

You will also want to make sure your dog is leash trained! It is not recommended to use retractable leashes while out in public. Train your dog with a regular, non-retractable leash that can keep them close to you at all times and under control. If you need more control, look into harnesses that can make for a more comfortable trip out of the house.

Some local Louisville businesses that allow dogs to come with their pet parents are:

Great Flood Brewery

2120 Bardstown Rd, Louisville, KY 40205

Old Louisville Brewery

625 W Magnolia Ave, Louisville, KY 40208

Garage Bar

700 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202

Dairy Del (Ask for a free Doggie Ice Cream!)

1516 S Shelby St, Louisville, KY 40217

Double Dogs

13307 Shelbyville Rd, Middletown, KY 40243

Royal’s Hot Chicken

736 E Market St, Louisville, KY 40202

Molly Malones

933 Baxter Ave, Louisville, KY 40204

3900 Shelbyville Rd, St Matthews, KY 40207

Comfy Cow

Multiple Locations in Louisville!

Mike Linnig’s

9308 Cane Run Rd, Louisville, KY 40258

Chains like TJMaxx, Marshalls, Anthropologie, Urban Outfitters, LUSH Cosmetics, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Tractor’s Supply Co., Lowe’s, and many other stores allow dogs inside of their stores as long as they are leashed and supervised at all times.

Note: TJ Maxx/Marshalls require dogs to be in shopping carts!

If you are unsure about a restaurant or store’s pet policy, we recommend always calling ahead before you go! You may be surprised by which places will let you bring your furry friend and which ones won’t, so it’s always best to give them a call so you won’t be disappointed upon arrival if your dog can’t go inside or hang out on the patio.