One of our favourite pastimes in Toronto is enjoying the weather on a patio.  If we can take our dogs with us, even better! So you’ll be happy to know that dogs are now officially permitted on restaurant patios in Ontario.

In January of 2020 The Better for People, Smarter for Business Act introduced legislation that reduced restrictions related to dogs being allowed on patios and some indoor food premises such as craft breweries.

This made it possible to have dogs in outdoor seating areas like restaurant patios; and indoors in eating areas where beer, wine, cider, or spirits are made, and where beverages and pre-packaged foods are served.

While restaurant owners are not obliged to have dogs on their patios, it is definitely welcome news for dog owners as we have a long list of dog-friendly patios in Toronto.

So get out with your pups and enjoy our wonderful summers while it’s hot, hot, hot!

Here are 7 of my favourite dog-friendly patios in Toronto.

1. Black Lab Brewing. Named for the owners’ black Labrador mix, this is perhaps one of the most well known of the dog-friendly restaurants.
   818 Eastern Ave.

2. Against the Grain. It’s the perfect place to enjoy lunch in a beautiful setting right on the Waterfront.
   25 Dockside Dr.

3. Liberty Commons at Big Rock Brewery is a modern-day Canadian brewpub. Oliver & Bonacini and Big Rock Brewery have teamed up to celebrate the union of good food and good beer—all in good company.
   42 Liberty St.

4. Keating Channel Pub and Grill. With a breath taking view of Lake Ontario and the cityscape, beautifully manicured greenery, and  free parking, this a a great place to chill with a cold beverage and a bite to eat al-fresco.
   2 Villiers St

5. Hothouse. This is one of Toronto's destination food and wine eateries, located in the historic St. Lawrence neighbourhood near many local landmarks.
   35 Church St.

6. Cibo Wine Bar King West. . Cibo Wine Bar has become the hot spot in the stylish King West neighbourhood. Enjoy traditional rustic Italian food while relaxing on the patio. 522 King St W

7. The Goodman Pub and Kitchen Grab your beers, enjoy some good food, and kick back in the sun.  You’ll even get a doggie menu!
   207 Queens Quay W.

While we are on the subject of enjoying summer with our dogs, let me mention that it is also a perfect time to get that dog portrait that you may have been thinking about. With beautiful greenery and flowers all over Toronto, your dog and family photo session will be bursting with colour and good times!

Consultations are always encouraged so simply call, text or email me.

Keeping on the theme of patios, my fellow photographer New England Dog Photographer Darlene Woodward shares her favorite NH vineyard to enjoy sipping wine on the outdoor patio with your dog this summer.