More Dogs Could Show up in Outdoor Dining Spaces—Not Everyone Is Happy About It

Monty Hobbs (R) and his dog Mattox sit next to another pet dog on the patio at the Olive Lounge in Takoma Park, Md., on May 4, 2023. Jose Luis Magana/AP Photo

Just in time for the summer dining season, the U.S. government has given its blessing to restaurants that want to allow pet dogs in their outdoor spaces.

But even though nearly half of the states already allow canine dining outdoors, the issue is far from settled, with many diners and restaurants pushing back against the increasing presence of pooches.