Dog-friendly Austin: Restaurants, breweries, & things to do

Updated 6th Feb 2026

Live in the capital of Texas with a furry friend, or thinking about house sitting as a pet sitter in Austin? You’re in the right place — below find the ultimate guide to dog-friendly Austin’s restaurants, breweries, coffee shops, walks and activities. Notepads at the ready!

Dog-friendly restaurants in Austin

After a long day of dog walking, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite! Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Austin fare like barbecue and Tex-Mex, or something a little different, explore the dog-friendly restaurants Austin offers below.

Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden

Are sausages your thing? This restaurant has a whole menu dedicated to them! Head to the dog-friendly seating area for a hearty Texan meal and great beer selection.

Location: 79 Rainey St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Terry Black's BBQ

This is a famous BBQ spot (cuz, when in Texas, right!) with a lovely, spacious outdoor patio designed with pups in mind.

Location: 1003 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

The Little Darlin'

The Little Darlin’ in South Austin is a homey eatery that welcomes dogs outdoors, where you can choose from house-made burgers, salads and lunch plates.

Location: 6507 Circle S Rd, Austin, TX 78745, United States

Moonshine Grill

Moonshine Grill is a dog-friendly restaurant loved by locals - and for good reason! Reserve a table to enjoy Southern classics like shrimp and grits, and grilled meats.

Location: 303 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701, United States

Bouldin Acres

Conveniently located in South Lamar, Bouldin Acres is a bar and grill loved by locals, where dogs are welcome. Explore the menu of burgers, sandwiches and shareable plates, or stop by for a morning coffee.

Location: 2027 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

De Nada Cantina

In the mood for tacos, chips or quesadillas? Check out De Nada Cantina - a taco restaurant in Austin where furry friends are welcome.

Location: 4715 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702, United States

Chuy's

Or how about Tex-Mex? Chuy’s on North Lamar Boulevard is a local favorite for huge burritos and enchiladas.

Location: 10520 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753, United States

Bouldin Creek Cafe

Looking for somewhere that serves up well-reviewed meat-free dishes? Check out Bouldin Creek Cafe where you can choose from fajitas, curries, pasta dishes and more.

Location: 1900 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704, United States

Sour Duck Market

If you’re in the mood to try somewhere a little different, check out Sour Duck Market in Austin Eastside. It’s a neighborhood cafe, bar and beer garden - where dogs are welcome in the yard area.

Location: 1814 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX 78702, United States

Ski Shores Cafe

Or maybe lunch with a view is on your list? Make a reservation at Ski Shores Cafe, where you’ll choose from tenders, burgers, sandwiches and tacos with views of the Colorado River. 

Location: 2905 Pearce Rd, Austin, TX 78730, United States

Tips for visiting dog-friendly restaurants in Austin

• Call ahead before arriving - not all restaurants in Austin allow dogs, so it’s always good to check beforehand.
• Make a reservation - even if a restaurant allows dogs, it’s always best to make a booking so that staff are aware they’ll be having furry guests.
• Socialize your dog - it’s important to get your dog used to busy environments like restaurants and pet-friendly patios from a young age.

Dog-friendly coffee shops in Austin

Nothing quite beats a morning walk with your pup and a coffee stop. Below, explore some of the dog-friendly coffee shops Austin has to offer - and remember to always check dogs are welcome before taking a seat.

Cosmic Pickle

With a spacious outdoor area, this spot welcomes dogs and offers specialty coffee, beer, and food trucks serving up poke, smash burgers and tacos.

Location: 121 Pickle Rd, Austin, TX 78704, United States

Kerbey Lane Cafe 

This is one of Austin’s most popular cafes, probably because of its pet-friendly patio seating! It also might be because of their delicious home cooking and excellent coffee, too. And if you love this spot, you’re in luck - as Austin is home to three Kerbey Lane Cafe locations.

Locations: 

• (Central) 3704 Kerbey Lane, Austin, TX 78731
• (South) 3003 South Lamar, Austin, TX 78704
• (Northwest) 13435 Hwy 183 Ste 415, Austin, TX 78750

Dog Day Coffee

For a coffee shop in Austin that truly loves furry friends, head to Dog Day Coffee in Allandale - the hot coffee gets great reviews from locals, as well as the cold brews.

Location: 6701 Burnet Rd #101, Austin, TX 78757, United States

Epoch Coffee

Next to Waller Creek, you’ll find Epoch Coffee - a local chain with dedicated regulars and a pet-friendly patio.

Location: 221 W N Loop Blvd, Austin, TX 78751, United States

Dear Diary Coffee

Been looking for a vegan coffee shop that checks every box? Sit at the dog-friendly patio to enjoy your morning beverage and a sweet treat with your furry friend.

Location: 1212 Chicon St #103, Austin, TX 78702, United States

Stouthaus Coffee

Ever heard of a coffee shop that’s also a bar? Somewhere that every palate will approve of, Stouthaus Coffee serves up specialty coffee, cold beers and community vibes.

Location: 4715 S Lamar Blvd #102, Sunset Valley, TX 78745, United States

The Hive

Serving up coffee by day and cocktails by night, dogs are always welcome at the outdoor seating area of The Hive. And be sure to check out the food menu for breakfast tacos and sandwiches.

Location: 10542 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78748, United States

Tips for visiting dog-friendly coffee shops in Austin

• Don’t assume they’re dog friendly - while many local coffee shops and cafes in Austin welcome dogs, always check before taking a seat with your pup.
• Expect rules to change - business owners change, and so do rules around dog-friendliness, so always ask whether dogs are allowed if the cafe has changed ownership.
• Shop around - Austin is filled with dog-friendly coffee shops with incredible drinks and community vibes, so try out a few before deciding on your favorite.

Dog-friendly walks in Austin

Let’s face it - all your dog wants to do is walk! Below, explore some of the dog-friendly places Austin has to offer that your pup will love - whether you’re new to the city or you’re house sitting in Austin.

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is home to almost 300 acres of trails, off-leash areas, shaded patches, and hiking paths. Plan your route ahead (as signage can be limited) and watch out for mountain bikers on the paths.

Location: 12138 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78753, United States

Red Bud Isle

Surrounded by water on three sides, this peninsula provides 13 acres of land for you and your dog to roam. It’s a great place for dogs to socialize, swim, frolic, and play - without any serious hiking.

Location: 3401 Redbud Trail, Austin, TX 78746, United States

Zilker Metropolitan Park

Looking for somewhere to walk your dog in the heart of Austin? Escape the busy city and step into Zilker Metropolitan Park - a 351-acre area with green space and shaded paths to explore with your furry friend. 

Location: 2100 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704

Norwood Estate Dog Park

Want a spot where your dog can run off-leash in a safe, designated area? Find a local dog park - like Norwood Estate Dog Park - where you’ll find separate sections for small and large dogs.

Location: 1018 1/2 Edgecliff Terrace, Austin, TX 78741, United States

Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk

Soak up the waterside views in the center of the city at Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk - the perfect place for a morning stroll with your dog on a leash.

Location: 1820 S Lakeshore Blvd, Austin, TX 78741, United States

Auditorium Shores Dog Park

Located along Lady Bird Lake, this urban park has an off-leash dog area by the water, allowing dogs to play freely and practice their doggy paddle.

Location: Austin, TX 78704, United States

Texas Farmers Market at Mueller

Held every Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM, this market is pet-friendly and features local vendors, including dog treat stalls. It's a great place to shop for fresh produce while your dog enjoys the lively atmosphere - and a casual stroll around the city.

Cost: Free entry

Date and time: 10 am-2 pm every Sunday

Location:2006 Philomena St, Austin, TX 78723, United States

Tips for walking your dog around Austin

• Keep your dog on a leash - unless you’re in a designated dog park or off-leash area, keep your dog on a leash and under control.
• Carry waste bags - always come prepared with poop bags and clean up after your dog, no matter where you are.
• Socialize your dog - make sure your dog feels comfortable in busy outdoor spaces before heading to popular parks

Dog-friendly breweries in Austin

Got a taste for craft beer? You’re in luck - there are quite a few dog-friendly breweries in Austin - a great place to get to know your local community, and rest after a day of exploring the city. Take a look below for a taste of the breweries that welcome dogs in Austin, and remember to always check the rules before taking a seat with your pup.

Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. (ABGB)

Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. is a must-try if you’re into your beer. This microbrewery serves up IPA, helles and pilsner year-round, along with a rotating menu of darker brews.

Location: 1305 W Oltorf St, Austin, TX 78704, United States

Meanwhile Brewing

For a brewery that loves dogs just about as much as beer, check out Meanwhile Brewing. Located north of McKinney Falls State Park, it’s a favorite amongst locals, loved for its impressive beer selection.

Location: 3901 Promontory Point Dr, Austin, TX 78744, United States

Hi Sign Brewing

Dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area of Hi Sign Brewing - loved for its friendly vibes, delicious pizza truck and house-brewed beer menu.

Location: 730 Shady Ln, Austin, TX 78702, United States

Lazarus Brewing Co. East 6th

Maybe one of the most well-known breweries in Austin, Lazarus is a local favorite for a reason. Stop by and try one of the 70 different beers available throughout the year, and the menu that pairs perfectly with a cold one.

Location: 1902 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702, United States

Austin Beerworks

In North Burnet, you’ll find Austin Beerworks - a local brewery popular for IPA, pils, lager and stout. And naturally, dogs are welcome at the outdoor seating area.

Location: 3001 Industrial Terrace, Austin, TX 78758, United States

Yard Bar

Okay this may not be a brewery, but we had to include Yard Bar! Loved by locals, it’s a unique venue combining a bar and an off-leash dog park, allowing you to enjoy a drink while your dog socializes.

Location: 6700 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78757, United States

Tips for visiting dog-friendly breweries in Austin

Along with confirming dogs are still allowed, we’d recommend shopping around! There are countless dog-friendly breweries in the city - more than we’ve listed here, and all working hard to serve up delicious house brews to the local community.

Tips for pet parents

• Prepare your pup for the heat. As you can imagine, Austin can get very hot. So making sure your dog stays safe and hydrated is super important. Carry a water bottle and a collapsible bowl for your dog during outings. In the summer, schedule walks in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat, and remember to use pet-safe sunscreen.
• Familiarize yourself with the local leash laws. Be aware of leash laws and local dog park rules in Austin, even if they're called a dog park. For accurate, up-to-date information, consult local council websites for park rules and regulations.
• Plan ahead for your vacation. Your pup will never run out of things to do in Austin, but what about when the time comes to go on vacation? As vets agree pets are happier at home, why not welcome an in-home pet sitter to keep them company while you’re away? Click below to find out how it works.

Tips for pet sitters

• Get advice from pet parents. As mentioned, things can get hot in Austin, particularly during the spring and summer months. Always check ahead on what the temperature will be if you’re planning a pup outing, and ask the pet parents for a walking schedule their dog is comfortable with.
• Plan ahead for a day out. It’s always best to be over-prepared, particularly when dog sitting. Be sure to familiarize yourself with walking routes and local dog-friendly places, with marked places to stop in the shade or to take a break. Pack plenty of supplies, including a first aid kit, and have a 'plan b' in your pocket in case your pup pal becomes tired or wants to go home.
• Experience Austin through house sitting. There’s nothing quite like experiencing a place as a house sitter! Living like a local in a real neighborhood with a real, furry tour guide is the best way to truly experience a place. So to get your adventure started, find out how house sitting works by clicking below.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Austin

Thinking about house sitting near Austin, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• A guide to dog-friendly places in San Antonio, TX
• Dog-friendly Houston: Things to do in Houston with a dog
• A guide to dog-friendly Fort Worth
• A guide to dog friendly, Dallas TX
• What to do in Austin while house and pet sitting
• A guide to the best dog parks in Austin, Texas
• Dog-friendly Arlington: things to do in Arlington with a dog