Photo credit to Pariz Z on Four Square (main image)
Fido doesn’t have to be left at home when you leave Toronto for a day of adventures and dining in the country! There are plenty of dog-friendly restaurants, patios, breweries and cafés in Caledon, where you can enjoy a meal with your furry friend. Plus we’ve got some tips and tricks for dining out with your dog in Caledon (near Toronto).
Where is Caledon?
Caledon is located in the Headwaters region of Ontario, and is known for its green space, rolling hills, and cute small towns and hamlets. It’s also home to the Cheltenham Badlands. We think it’s the perfect place to take your dog for a majestic hike, and then enjoy a relaxing meal afterwards.
Caledon is part of the Greater Toronto Area and is about an hour drive from the city of Toronto. So, if you are looking for “dog friendly patios in Toronto”, Caledon might be the place for you and your pup (just a scenic drive away from Toronto!).
What are the best dog friendly restaurants near Toronto (in Caledon)?
Here are a few of our favourite dog friendly restaurants which are mostly patios! Patios are open seasonally, so be sure to check ahead before making the trip!
Most, if not all, of these establishments do not allow pets inside. Please keep your dog on a leash.
Hungry for a take-out picnic?
Heatherlea Farm Shoppe & Café
Before we dive into a few of our favourite spots – we’ll mention that we are dog-friendly too! The adorable photos you’ve been sharing of your pups at Heatherlea on Instagram have us convinced that we’re not the only ones who think pups make life a little brighter.
If you haven’t been to Heatherlea, our dog-friendly patio/café is located on a working farm and offers a rustic, homey atmosphere in the country. We have an outdoor patio that is perfect for enjoying the fresh air with your furry friend. And, of course, we serve up some delicious food made with fresh ingredients from the farm. The steak sandwich and reuben are favourites!
Goodlot Farmstead Brewing Co.
This brewery specializes in “hyper-local farm-raised beer using ingredients grown on our farm and by other small Ontario Farmers”. Their large wood-chipped patio area is dotted with picnic tables and covered with sun shade sails that provide some coverage for you and your pooch. Their patio is open from Mid-May to Mid-October.
Caledon Hills Brewing Co.
This brewery is located in a restored 19th century church in Palgrave, Ontario. Master Brewer Stefan Reidelsheimer specializes in cold fermentation which brings out better flavours from the choice ingredients they use.
Their outdoor patio that is perfect for spending a sunny afternoon with your pup. Find them conveniently on the way up to cottage country from Toronto.
Spirit Tree Estate Cidery
Cider lovers rejoice! This family-run cidery is located on a beautiful farm in Caledon with lots of green space, picnic tables and a patio by the orchards. They have a classic and rotating selection of ciders, made with apples from their own farm as well as other local farms. And, of course, they are dog friendly outside!
Badlands Brewing
This brewery is located in the heart of Caledon and is a great place to stop while exploring Caledon. They have a large lawn and patio for your pup to stretch their legs. You can often find live music and a rotating selection of farm brewed beers.
Tips to Dining with Dogs
1. Do your research ahead of time
Not all restaurants are created equal when it comes to accommodating dogs. Call ahead or check the restaurant’s website to make sure they’re pet-friendly before you head out. If they do allow dogs, a common rule is to keep your dog on a leash.
Note that most Caledon restaurants mentioned here have dog-friendly patios, however they may not want furry friends inside.
2. Well-mannered dogs wanted
This one should go without saying, but it’s worth repeating. A good rule of thumb is that if your dog wouldn’t do well in a crowded room full of strangers, they probably won’t do well at a busy restaurant or patio.
The Caledon restaurants we mentioned here are owned by families (not corporations) and they care deeply about making sure everyone has an enjoyable visit. If your pooch is acting up (continuously barking or growling at others etc.), be respectful and move away from others to settle your pup down or go for a walk before returning to your seat.
And, if you’re not sure how your dog will react in a new environment, it might be best to leave them at home.
3. Bring along some goodies
Dogs get bored just like humans do, so it’s always a good idea to bring along some toys or treats to keep them entertained while you’re waiting for your food. This will also help to keep them from begging for your food!
4. Be prepared to clean up after your dog
Accidents happen, and it’s always better to be prepared. Be sure to bring along some poop bags and a towel or blanket to wipe up any messes your dog might make.
5. Have fun!
Dining with your dog can be a great way to bond with them and create lasting memories. Enjoy the experience and make sure to take plenty of pictures!
With so many dog friendly restaurants in Caledon, there’s no reason to leave your furry friend at home when you head out for a day of exploring and dining! And our tips and tricks will make sure that both you and your pup have a great time. So next time you’re planning a day trip from Toronto, be sure to include some of these dog friendly spots in your itinerary!
