Ask Margar-etiquette about the Dog Lover’s Dilemma

Dear Margar-etiquette,

I have read your previous columns about dogs in public and am really struggling with this. I love my dog and take him everywhere I can—he’s well-behaved, quiet, and honestly better company than most people. But I’ve gotten a few side-eyes and comments when bringing him into certain stores or cafés. I never want to be rude, but I also don’t think it’s fair that people expect me to leave my companion behind. (Look up Horus, a Great Dane on a recent Viva Aerobus flight from Mexico City). Why are people so up in arms about these things?

Dog Devoted

Dear Dog Devoted,

It’s easy to understand your attachment—dogs are loyal, comforting, and often bring out the best in us. A majority of dog owners today consider their pets part of the family, and many invest in their well-being with special food, clothes, travel gear—you name it. It’s beautiful to see that kind of love.

That said, public spaces are shared spaces. Not everyone feels at ease around dogs. Some people live with serious allergies, others have phobias, and many simply prefer animal-free environments when they’re shopping, dining, or traveling. Good etiquette means thinking not just about your own comfort, but about the comfort of others around you.

It’s also important to understand the distinctions between different kinds of animals in public:

• Pets (even the sweetest and most well-trained) are generally only allowed in businesses or venues that are explicitly pet-friendly.
  • As it relates to Horus, the flying Great Dane, he seems to fall under this category.  I am sure his owner got prior permission from the airline and paid full fare for his seat on the plane. But I am not sure if all of the passengers were “on board” with that situation. But the decision is made by the business, who are apparently pet friendly.
    
• Service animals are protected by law and permitted almost everywhere, but only when performing trained tasks for a person with a disability.
  
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) do not have the same public access rights.
  
• Therapy animals are allowed in specific places by invitation, not by general right.
  

So unless a business clearly states it welcomes pets, it’s best to check ahead or leave your furry friend at home. You might also consider advocating for more pet-friendly options in your community—a gracious and constructive way to support other dog lovers while respecting public norms.

Remember: just as you value the freedom to include your dog in your day, others value the ability to move through public spaces without unexpected animal encounters. True courtesy is about balancing those interests with kindness and care.

With respect and a wag of the tail,

Margar-etiquette