Dog-Friendly Patios in the DMV Where Your Pup Is Truly Welcome
Love cooking at home but sometimes just need a break with your dog by your side?
As much as I enjoy spending time in my kitchen, there are days when I just want to relax with friends, sip something cold, and let someone else handle the cooking. The catch? My dog Olive has pretty intense separation anxiety, so leaving her behind isn't really an option. If you’ve ever tried to find a patio that actually welcomes dogs—not just tolerates them—you know it can be hit or miss.
Olive, enjoying some sun at Aslin Beer Company
That’s why I started putting together a list of truly dog-friendly restaurants and bar patios around the DMV area (that’s DC, Maryland, and Virginia if you’re new here). This isn’t just a roundup of spots that technically allow dogs. These are places where my pup Olive has been greeted with water bowls, head scratches, and a whole lot of tail wags.
The DMV has so many great places to eat and hang out, but not all of them are ideal for dog owners. Some patios are too cramped, too loud, or make it clear dogs are just barely tolerated. After a few awkward experiences and lots of research (and sniff tests, courtesy of Olive), I created a Yelp collection to help fellow dog lovers find places that are actually enjoyable for both humans and pups.
This guide is definitely geared toward locals, but if you ever find yourself visiting the DMV with your dog, be sure to bookmark a few of these spots—you might just find a new favorite.
So grab the leash, pack a few treats, and check out these dog-approved patios around the DMV.
Let’s dive in!
