Dog-friendly dining isn’t just a trend, it’s good for business, new research shows

Toronto, ON (August 27, 2026) Restaurants that go beyond simply allowing dogs on patios, by offering dedicated menu items for them, can significantly boost customer traffic, spending and word-of-mouth, according to new research from Toronto Metropolitan University.

Published in the Journal of Culture, Tourism and Hospitality Research, the study reveals that dog-specific menu offerings meaningfully increase diners’ intention to visit, how much they spend, and how likely they are to recommend the restaurant to others.

Led by Associate Professor of Marketing Management at the Ted Rogers School of Management Rishad Habib, the research examines the growing phenomenon of shared pet-human dining experiences and provides new evidence on how pet inclusion influences consumer behaviour in hospitality settings.

“Restaurants that actively welcome dogs are tapping into an emotional connection between people and their pets,” said Habib. “Small, thoughtful additions like a dog menu can elevate the experience and translate into measurable business outcomes.”

A growing “dog economy”

The findings come at a time when pets are increasingly viewed as family members. Spending on pet-related products and experiences continues to rise, alongside growing demand for dog-friendly public spaces. Online searches for dog-friendly restaurants have surged in recent years driven by a post-pandemic boom in pet ownership and shifting consumer preferences that reflect a shift in how consumers choose where to dine.

Despite this cultural shift, research on how pet-friendly offerings affect customer behaviour has been limited—until now.

Key findings:

• Restaurants offering dog-specific menu items increase customers’ intention to visit
• Diners report higher spending when pets are included in the experience
• Dog-friendly features drive greater word-of-mouth
• Thoughtful pet inclusion enhances the overall dining experience for owners

Beyond the patio

The study highlights a key distinction: allowing dogs on patios can be made more effective by

also providing menus for dogs. Restaurants that actively cater to pets signal a higher level of hospitality and inclusivity, strengthening emotional engagement with customers.

This shift reflects broader changes in consumer expectations, where experiences are increasingly personalized and lifestyle-driven. This includes the integration of pets into everyday activities like dining out.

Media opportunity

Professor Habib is available for interviews

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Media Contact:
Tania Ulrich (she/her)
PR & Communications Specialist
Central Communications
Toronto Metropolitan University
tulrich@torontomu.ca
647-785-0984