Are dogs allowed inside restaurants?

Arnold Hofstra · 17 May 2026

Whether dogs are allowed inside a restaurant depends entirely on the restaurant’s own policy. In the Netherlands, restaurants and bars are not required to allow dogs, but many restaurants choose to be dog-friendly. On De Blije Dobber , you’re always welcome—we’re all about a warm atmosphere and hospitality. In this article, we’ll answer the most frequently asked questions about dogs in restaurants, so you can head out well-prepared.

Are restaurants in the Netherlands required to allow dogs?

No, restaurants in the Netherlands are not legally required to allow dogs inside. The law does not require restaurants to permit pets. It is up to the restaurant owner to decide whether dogs are welcome, both inside and on the patio. This also applies to service dogs.

There is one important exception: officially certified guide dogs and service dogs for people with disabilities fall under a different category. Although there is no absolute legal obligation for the hospitality industry in this regard either, restaurants are expected to handle this matter with care. In practice, guide dogs are allowed virtually everywhere.

So, for regular pets, the restaurant makes the rules. Some restaurants clearly state this on their website or social media, while others have an informal policy that you can inquire about by phone.

How do you know if a restaurant allows dogs?

The most reliable way to find out if a restaurant allows dogs is to ask directly by phone or email before making a reservation. Many restaurants also list their dog-friendly policies on their website, in Google reviews, or on social media. Search for terms like “dog-friendly” or “dogs welcome” along with the restaurant’s name.

Practical ways to check this:

Call the restaurant in advance and ask specifically whether dogs are welcome, both inside and outside
Check the restaurant's website for information about pets or the outdoor seating area
Read reviews on Google or TripAdvisor where other guests share their experiences
Search social media for photos of the restaurant, as dog-friendly establishments often post pictures of dogs there
Use apps or websites that specifically list dog-friendly restaurants in a region

If you're unsure, always get in touch. This way, you'll avoid any unpleasant surprises when you arrive, and you'll give the restaurant a chance to reserve a suitable spot for you and your dog if needed.

What are the rules for dogs on a patio versus indoors?

In the Netherlands, the rules for dogs on outdoor patios are generally more lenient than the rules for dogs indoors. Many restaurants allow dogs on their outdoor patios, while those same establishments do not allow dogs indoors due to food safety regulations. The distinction between outdoor and indoor areas is therefore the most common policy in the Dutch hospitality industry.

Dogs on the patio

At most restaurants, dogs are allowed to sit on the outdoor patio on a leash, provided they are well-behaved and do not disturb other guests. There are no legal restrictions on dogs on outdoor patios, but restaurants are free to set their own rules. Some establishments even offer a water bowl or dog treats as a gesture of hospitality.

Dogs allowed inside the restaurant

Indoors, the situation is more sensitive. The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) enforces hygiene guidelines for food service establishments, and although there is no explicit law prohibiting dogs in restaurants, restaurants may choose to keep dogs out in order to comply with those hygiene standards. Restaurants that do allow dogs inside usually ask that the dog stay on the floor and not climb onto chairs or sofas.

How should you behave as a guest with a dog in a restaurant?

As a guest with a dog in a restaurant, you are responsible for your pet’s behavior. Make sure your dog is well-socialized, can lie quietly, and does not beg for food from other guests. Always let the staff know upon arrival that you have a dog with you—even if you’ve already mentioned this over the phone—so they can arrange a suitable spot for you.

Please follow these basic rules to ensure a pleasant visit:

Always keep your dog on a leash, even if the restaurant is spacious
Keep your dog on the floor and don't let it climb on the furniture
Make sure your dog doesn't bother other guests or the staff
Do not feed your dog food from the table or from the menu, unless the restaurant explicitly offers it
Clean up any spills immediately and notify the staff
Leave the restaurant if your dog is persistently restless or barking

The better you and your dog behave, the more likely the restaurant is to remain dog-friendly for all future guests. Good behavior on the part of dogs and their owners directly contributes to a positive image of dog-friendly restaurants and cafes.

Why are more and more restaurants adopting a dog-friendly policy?

In 2026, more and more restaurants are consciously adopting a dog-friendly policy because it appeals to an attractive and growing demographic. The Dutch are avid dog owners, and many of them don’t want to leave their pets at home when they go out to eat. A dog-friendly restaurant sets itself apart from the competition and attracts guests who might otherwise choose not to visit.

There are several reasons why restaurants make this choice:

Dog owners are loyal customers who return to places where their dogs are welcome
A dog-friendly policy fits in with a warm, informal, and welcoming atmosphere
Positive reviews from dog owners boost online visibility
The terrace will become more appealing to a wider range of visitors
It is part of a broader trend toward inclusivity and hospitality in the restaurant industry

Restaurants in unique locations—such as along the waterfront or surrounded by nature—benefit particularly from a dog-friendly policy. Hikers and cyclists exploring the region with their dogs are looking for a place to take a break, and a restaurant that welcomes dogs is a natural choice for them.

De Blije Dobber Dogs Welcome in a Unique Setting

At De Blije Dobber , hospitality is key. The restaurant is beautifully situated on the waterfront in Anjum, nestled in the heart of the Frisian countryside between the Wadden Sea and Lauwersmeer. This makes it a popular destination for hikers and tourists exploring the region, often with their dogs on a leash. Would you like to know if your dog is welcome and what the current options are? Here’s what De Blije Dobber offers:

A relaxed atmosphere by the water, perfect for lunch or drinks after a walk
A varied menu with something for everyone, from classic Dutch dishes to vegetarian options
A warm and welcoming environment, thanks in part to the unique concept involving Alex-Cares clients
The option to make reservations for larger groups or special occasions

For questions about our dog-friendly policy and reservations, please call 0519 20 20 40 or visit the website of De Blije Dobber. That way, you can be sure that you and your dog are welcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to let the restaurant know in advance that I’m bringing my dog when I make a reservation at a dog-friendly restaurant?

Yes, we strongly recommend that you mention right away when making a reservation that you’ll be bringing a dog. This allows the restaurant to reserve a suitable spot for you—such as a table at the edge of the dining area or a spot on the patio. This prevents any surprises upon arrival and gives the restaurant the opportunity to be well-prepared for your visit.

What should I do if my dog isn't used to busy environments? Can I still take him to a restaurant?

It’s a good idea to assess this honestly before bringing your dog along. If your dog gets stressed easily, barks at strangers, or has trouble lying still, a busy restaurant isn’t the ideal environment for him—or for the other guests. You might want to start with a quiet visit to the patio on a peaceful afternoon to help your dog get used to it. A well-socialized dog that can lie down and relax makes the restaurant visit more enjoyable for everyone.

Are there any special apps or websites I can use to find dog-friendly restaurants in the Netherlands?

Ja, er zijn verschillende handige hulpmiddelen beschikbaar. Websites zoals Bringfido.com en Dogfriendly.nl bieden overzichten van hondvriendelijke horecagelegenheden in Nederland, gesorteerd op regio. Ook Google Maps is nuttig: zoek op ‘hondvriendelijk restaurant’ gecombineerd met een plaatsnaam en filter op recensies waarin gasten hun hond vermelden. Sociale media, met name Instagram en Facebook, zijn eveneens een goede bron, omdat hondvriendelijke restaurants daar vaak actief foto’s plaatsen van viervoetige gasten.

What if my dog has an accident in a restaurant? What's the best way to handle it?

Be honest and upfront with the staff about this—don’t try to hide it. Clean up as much as you can yourself and offer your apologies. Dog-friendly restaurants understand that this can happen sometimes, but transparency and a good response are essential. Bringing a small cleanup kit, such as a roll of bags and some wet wipes, is a practical precaution that every dog owner should take when dining out.

Can I give my dog water or food while we're at the restaurant?

It’s always a good idea to bring water or ask for a water bowl, and most dog-friendly restaurants provide these themselves. As for food: don’t give your dog leftovers from your own plate, unless the restaurant explicitly allows it or even offers a separate dog menu. Human restaurant food often contains ingredients like onions, garlic, or spices that can be harmful to dogs. If desired, bring your own dog treats.

Are there different rules for puppies or large dogs in a restaurant?

There are no legal regulations that specifically distinguish based on a dog’s size or age, but individual restaurants are allowed to enforce their own policies. For example, some establishments only allow small dogs inside or ask for extra caution with large breeds due to space constraints. Puppies require extra attention: they are curious, harder to control, and may bark or jump unexpectedly. Always check in advance to see if your specific dog is welcome.

Can I bring multiple dogs to a restaurant at the same time?

This is certainly possible, but always check in advance whether the restaurant allows multiple dogs per party. The more dogs there are, the greater the chance of commotion, especially if the animals distract each other or other guests. Make sure you have enough people to keep all the dogs under control, and preferably choose a quiet time or a spacious patio. Restaurants like De Blije Dobber, located in the open Frisian countryside, are well-suited for a visit with multiple dogs thanks to their spaciousness and relaxed atmosphere.