Ah, the lovely Southern Highlands, with its lush bushland, rolling hills and speckling of charming, small villages. This area is filled to the brim with lovely cafes that let you soak in the ambience and scenery of either the bush or the atmosphere of the rural hubs. And what’s better than coffee? Coffee with company in the form of your beloved pooch.
The Southern Highlands has so much to offer for you and your dog. Read on for some of our favourite dog-friendly cafes, and for some tips to encourage good behaviour from fido so you can sip your coffee in peace without being in helicopter mode 24/7.
From recommendations on which cafes have water bowls at the ready to advice on keeping your pup well-behaved during your coffee date, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to discover the most pawsome cafes in the region and learn how to make your next doggy cafe outing a breeze. With this guide by your side, you and your pooch will be living your best lives sipping lattes and sharing pup-friendly treats in no time.
The Best Dog-Friendly Cafes in the Southern Highlands
Scottish Arms Hotel
Enjoy a cuppa in the morning or a cold beverage in the afternoon in the dog-allowed courtyard of this cosy, rustic Scottish hotel. Located in East Bowral, the Scottish Arms Hotel is a favourite local hangout.
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Gumnut Patisserie
No trip to Bowral is complete without visiting this popular bakery and cafe. The good news is, they welcome dogs too! Choose from Gumnut Patisserie’s drool-worthy selection of pies, sausage rolls and pastries, then find a spot on the grass or at a nearby park to enjoy your treats.
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The Kookabar Cafe
Located in Bowral, just a stone’s throw from the charming Corbett Gardens, you’ll find The Kookabar Cafe. Bring your furry friend along, and they can lounge with you at the front, complete with comfy mats and water bowls.
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Raw & Wild Cafe
Raw & Wild features a gourmet market with a dog-friendly cafe out the back where you can enjoy a cuppa with your pup after or before browsing the local produce. It also offers some delicious bites for both human and canine palettes.
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Il Pranzo
If your trip takes you out to Moss Vale, then Il Pranzo cafe is a must-visit if you’re in the mood for a bite to eat. You’ll be able to enjoy your time with your pup in the covered, outdoor area.
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Preparing for a Doggy Day Out at the Cafe
Before heading out for a doggy day at the cafes, there are a few things you’ll want to do to ensure you and your furry friend have an enjoyable time.
First up, check if the cafe you want to visit actually allows dogs. Many cafes in the Southern Highlands do welcome dogs, especially those with outdoor seating, but it’s always best to double-check. Once you’ve found some dog-friendly options, do a quick check of their rules regarding dogs – even if they’re featured on this list, it’s best to call first because company policy can change over time. Some may also have certain areas that are off-limits to pets or request dogs be kept on a lead.
It’s also a good idea to walk your dog before arriving at the cafe. A short stroll around the block should do the trick. Tired dogs are happy dogs, and it will make them more relaxed during your cafe visit. Pack some treats, a bowl, fresh water, waste bags, and maybe a towel or blanket for your dog to lie on.
Before choosing a table, do a quick scan of the area to make sure there are no potential hazards or anything your dog could grab. Try to choose a spot that’s somewhat separate from other cafe patrons, especially those with food. Not everyone appreciates dogs, so being mindful of others will make the experience better for all.
Once you’ve settled in, keep your dog on a lead next to your table. Offer them some water and maybe a treat to help them relax. Discourage begging for food by not giving them any table scraps. Enjoy your coffee or meal, give your dog some affection, and keep an eye on them to make sure they’re not causing any trouble.
With some preparation and responsible pet ownership, you and your dog can have a wonderful time exploring the dog-friendly cafes in Southern Highlands together. After all, life is better with your best furry friend by your side!
How To Make Sure Your Pup Is Well Behaved
Proper Training
The key to a successful cafe outing with your dog starts weeks to months before your first visit. Make sure your dog has mastered basic obedience commands like ‘sit,’ ‘stay’ and ‘leave it.’ Practise these commands at home and in public places with lots of distractions. This can be easier if you start when your dog is just a young puppy and get them used to the environment when they have less energy or are easier to manage. Reward and praise your pup when they obey the commands. If your dog struggles, consider working with a professional trainer.
Bring Enrichment Activities or Toys
To keep your dog occupied at the cafe, bring some interactive dog toys or puzzle feeders filled with treats. Puzzle toys or snuffle mats that make your dog work for a reward are great for mentally stimulating them in a cafe environment. You should also bring a mat, bed or blanket for your dog to settle on. Having their own space will make them more comfortable in an unfamiliar setting.
Monitor Behaviour and Reward Good Behaviour
For your first few cafe trips, closely supervise your dog at the cafe and reward them when they are being well-behaved. Give treats, belly rubs and praise to positively reinforce good behaviour like sitting calmly, lying on their mat or playing quietly with a toy. If your dog starts barking, jumping up or bothering other customers, it’s best to leave to avoid causing a disruption. With regular practice and positive experiences, your dog will get better at behaving during cafe outings.
By following these tips, you’ll be sipping coffee with your faithful furry companion by your side in no time. With proper training, enrichment activities and close monitoring, you can have an enjoyable doggy day out at the cafes of the Southern Highlands. Your dog will love the extra attention and socialisation, and you’ll love showing them off to admiring staff and customers. It may take some practice, but the rewards of quality time together are well worth it.
Top Tips for Enjoying Cafe Time With Your Dog
Taking your furry friend to a cafe can be a fun social outing for you both, but it does require some extra consideration. Here are some tips to help ensure you both have an enjoyable experience.
Choose a Dog-Friendly Cafe
Do some research online or call around to find cafes in the Southern Highlands that explicitly welcome dogs. Many places will advertise if they have dog-friendly outdoor seating or treats and water bowls for pets. It’s always a good idea to double check that dogs are allowed before you head out. Some cafes may have certain breed or size restrictions, so be sure to ask about their policy.
Have Your Dog Practice Cafe Etiquette
Before heading out for coffee with your pup, do some practice runs at home. Work on ‘sit,’ ‘stay’ and ‘leave it’ commands while you simulate having a drink and snack. This helps ensure your dog will be comfortable settling in for a while and ignoring food that’s within reach. Bring treats to reward and reinforce good behaviour.
Come Prepared
Bring everything you need to clean up in case of any accidents, like poop bags, paper towels, disinfecting wipes and hand sanitiser. It’s also a good idea to bring your dog’s bed or blanket, food, treats, toys and fresh water. Make sure your dog has gone to the toilet before arriving at the cafe.
Choose a Strategic Seating Location
Aim for an outdoor table away from high-traffic areas. This provides fewer distractions for your dog and less opportunities to beg for food from passersby. It also gives other customers ample space if they’re not keen on dogs. Try to sit with your back facing a wall—it can make some dogs feel more at ease in an unfamiliar environment.
Keep Your Dog on a Lead
Even if your dog is well-behaved, keep them on a short lead at all times for their safety and the comfort of other customers. Never leave them unattended. Make sure any treats, toys or food are kept off the ground to avoid tripping hazards for staff and patrons.
With some preparation and patience, you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a perfect puppy pick-me-up at a Southern Highlands cafe. Follow these tips and you’ll be sipping lattes together in no time!
Other Fun Things to Do With Your Dog in the Southern Highlands
Explore the Gardens
The Southern Highlands is renowned for its beautiful gardens, many of which welcome dogs on leads.
Visit the Wineries
Several wineries in the Southern Highlands allow dogs on leads and some even have water bowls and treats on hand.
Dine Al Fresco
There are plenty of dog-friendly cafes in Southern Highlands (and restaurants) with outdoor seating that welcome dogs.
With stunning scenery, fresh country air and so many dog-friendly activities, the Southern Highlands is a perfect place to enjoy time out with your furry best friend. Get out and explore – your dog will thank you for it!
Dog Cafe Southern Highlands FAQs
Taking your furry friend out for a bite to eat? You’re not alone. More dog-friendly cafes in Southern Highlands are popping up, but it’s best to do your research first. Here are some common questions dog owners have about visiting cafes with their pooches.
Do I need to call ahead?
It’s always a good idea to check with the cafe first to ensure they allow dogs and if there are any rules you should know about. Some dog-friendly cafes in Southern Highlands may require dogs to stay outside, only allow dogs in certain areas, or may have certain breed or size restrictions. Calling ahead will ensure you and your pup have an enjoyable experience.
Should I bring anything for my dog?
Bringing supplies for your dog is a must. Bring waste bags, cleaning wipes, a towel, treats, a collapsible water bowl, and maybe even a mat for them to lie on. Your dog’s comfort and any mess prevention will be appreciated by cafe staff and other customers.
How should my dog behave?
Even in dog-friendly cafes, it’s important that your dog is well-behaved. Keep them on a lead at all times, avoid excessive barking, and don’t let them approach other customers or tables. Make sure any mess is cleaned up straight away. Follow any rules set by the cafe regarding where dogs are allowed to sit or be. With good behaviour and responsible ownership, cafes will continue to welcome pups.
What if my dog isn’t allowed inside?
Most cafes only allow dogs in outdoor seating areas. Don’t fret, there are still ways to enjoy your coffee and meal. Sit at an outdoor table and bring supplies to keep your dog comfortable like food, water, shade, and entertainment. Take turns sitting with your pup if one of you needs to go inside. With the right set-up, alfresco dining with your dog can be great fun too!
Following cafe rules, bringing necessary supplies, and ensuring your dog’s good behaviour are the keys to a successful outing at a dog-friendly Southern Highlands cafe. With more places opening their doors to pups, you’ll be able to find the perfect spot to grab a bite with your furry best friend. Enjoy!
Can’t Bring Your Pup on Your Next Cafe Trip?
Unable to bring your pup along for your next café outing? We understand that sometimes our furry friends can’t join us, whether we’re running errands or visiting non-pet-friendly places. But fret not! At Pet Resorts Australia Southern Highlands, we offer top-notch pet accommodation for both short and long stays. Planning a weekend getaway? Check out our rates for overnight stays. Or perhaps you just want to treat your pup to a day of socialisation and play at our Doggy Daycare service. Backed by a team of expert pet trainers and carers, Pet Resorts Australia Southern Highlands ensures the best care for your beloved pets. For premium pet-sitting services, look no further—contact us today!
