For many dog parents, dining out with their pets is a far cry from a peaceful, relaxing experience. While spending time with our four-legged family members can be full of joy, it often requires us to be extra alert, anticipating their needs—especially when we’re in public spaces. But that’s not the case for Carl, the Bernese Mountain Dog, and Steve, the Newfoundland, who recently proved that a well-behaved pup can make dining out feel just as serene as a meal at home.
An Instagram video shared by their owners (@carlthemountaindog) is going viral, showing these two massive dogs perfectly at ease in what appears to be a high-end restaurant in Switzerland. Both dogs, who are known for their calm demeanor, are lying quietly beside their owners, completely unfazed by the bustling restaurant atmosphere. It’s hard to believe they’re even there—until you catch sight of them lying so elegantly under the table.
“We’ve been taking Carl and Steve out to all kinds of restaurants since they were puppies, so now they know EXACTLY what’s expected of them—to just lie down and hang out,” their owners wrote in the video’s caption. And indeed, the two pups do exactly that, demonstrating that with enough training and practice, dogs can enjoy dining out without disrupting the experience.
Dining Out With Dogs: The Key to Success
As anyone who has dined out with their dog knows, the key to a calm and enjoyable meal lies in preparation and practice. The more frequently a dog visits restaurants and public spaces, the better they become at it. The owners of Carl and Steve have evidently perfected the art of dining out with their dogs, showing that a relaxed meal is possible—no matter how large or energetic your pet might be.
If you’re thinking about bringing your dog along for your next meal out, the American Kennel Club (AKC) offers a few tips to make your dining experience more enjoyable:
Choose the Right Time and Place: If your dog is new to dining out, start with a less crowded time of day to avoid overwhelming them. Finding dog-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating is a good way to ease them into public dining.
Training and Socialization Are Key: Your dog should be well-trained and accustomed to being around people and other dogs. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “quiet” are essential to maintaining good behavior in a busy environment.
Pack the Essentials: To ensure your dog remains comfortable, bring along a collapsible water bowl, a towel or blanket for them to sit on, and some treats to reward good behavior. A quiet, engaging toy can also help keep them entertained.
Patience and Practice: Like any new skill, dining out with your dog requires patience. If your first few experiences don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped, keep trying. Over time, your dog can become a pro at dining out too.
Carl and Steve’s impeccable manners at the restaurant are a testament to the power of consistent training and positive reinforcement. For many dog owners, having a peaceful meal with their pets is a dream, and with enough practice, it might just be possible!
Related topics:
Icelandic Sheepdog Gains Pedigree Recognition After Centuries of History
Senior Dog, 15, Proves There’s No Age Limit on ‘Zoomies’
Dog Rescued After Falling Through Ice on Ottawa River
