6 things you can do to set your pup up for success for your patio adventures this summer in Edmonton Alberta

Training, Uncategorised

set your pup up for success on the patio

Bringing your furry friend to a patio can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are some things you can do to set your dog up for success and ensure that the outing goes smoothly. Here are some tips (or a video of the tips) to keep in mind when bringing your dog to a patio:

  1. Check the patio’s pet policy: Before heading to the patio, it’s important to check if pets are allowed and what the patio’s specific pet policy is. Some patios may have restrictions on the size or breed of dogs allowed, while others may require that your dog be leashed or well-behaved.
  1. Prepare your dog: If your dog has never been to a patio before, it’s important to prepare them for the outing. Start by getting them used to being in busy environments with lots of people and noises. You can also practice obedience training and commands, such as sit, stay, and come, to help them behave appropriately in public.
  1. Bring water and treats: It’s important to bring water and treats for your dog, especially if you plan on staying on the patio for a while. This will help keep them hydrated and happy, and can also be used as a reward for good behaviour.
  1. Create an ‘exit plan’ ahead of time: Even the best-behaved dogs who are best suited for hanging out on a restaurant patio can reach a point where they are uncomfortable, overstimulated, hot, and/or tired and need to be finished with the experience. To set you and your pup up for success create a plan to leave the area quickly if you need to! This may include setting up a meeting spot with the rest of your party if you and the pup need to step away early, or asking your server for the bill and a takeout box when you order just in case. 
  1. Monitor your dog’s behaviour: Keep an eye on your dog’s behaviour and body language throughout the outing. If they seem anxious or uncomfortable, it may be time to take them home. Also, be aware of other dogs and people around you, and make sure your dog isn’t bothering or intimidating anyone.
  1. Be respectful of others: Finally, it’s important to be respectful of others on the patio. Not everyone may be comfortable around dogs, so make sure to keep your dog away from people who aren’t interested in interacting with them. Also, make sure your dog isn’t barking excessively or causing a disturbance.

Bringing your dog to a patio can be a great way to spend time together and enjoy the outdoors. By keeping these tips in mind, you can set your dog up for success and ensure that the outing is safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.


If you notice you are regularly needing to use your ‘exit plan’ much quicker than you expected, then your pup may benefit from some extra confidence-building, socializing or desensitization training! Contact our Dog training team at Dog Jogs here to learn more!