How to Tell if My Dog Is Sick

Even small shifts in routine can hint at something more. When a dog isn’t feeling well, they often signal it through their body language, behavior, or energy levels, and sometimes all at once.

• Loss of appetite: A healthy dog usually eats with enthusiasm. Skipping meals can point to digestive upset, dental pain, fever, or infection.
• Body weight changes: Unexpected weight loss can indicate serious underlying disease, and weight gain can also point to certain medical conditions.
• Low energy or unusual tiredness: If your dog seems more tired than usual or rests in odd spots away from the family, it could be a sign they’re not feeling well.
• Behavior changes: Some dogs withdraw and avoid attention, while others become unusually clingy. Any sudden shift in demeanor is worth noting.
• Digestive issues: Repeated vomiting, soft or loose poop, or unexpected house accidents may indicate a gastrointestinal problem or internal issue.
• Respiratory symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or discharge from the eyes or nose could be signs of a respiratory condition that requires prompt care.

Serious Symptoms May Be Hard to Spot

Sometimes illness sneaks in quietly. You might see small things at first, such as a change in the way your dog moves, drinks, or grooms. Those changes can be easy to overlook, especially if they come on slowly.

Keep an eye out for signs like stiffness when standing, sudden disinterest in stairs or jumping, or excessive licking at one paw or joint. These may point to orthopedic pain or inflammation. A sudden shift in weight, bad breath, or frequent urination could signal internal problems like diabetes, urinary tract infection, kidney trouble, or dental disease.

Trust your instincts. If you’re asking yourself if your dog is sick — there’s a reason. When in doubt, make the call.

How to Help Your Sick Dog

First, take notes. Track symptoms, note when they started, and observe how your dog behaves throughout the day. This gives your vet a better picture of what’s happening.

Avoid giving human medications, even if symptoms seem mild. Keep your dog hydrated and comfortable, and reduce stress by providing a calm, familiar routine while you wait for professional advice.

Pet Insurance Is Here to Help

When your dog suddenly needs care, Healthy Paws is here to help you focus on what matters most: getting them the treatment they need. Our plan covers unexpected veterinary expenses like diagnostics, prescriptions, and emergency services, so you never have to pause when it’s time to act.

From puppy mischief to senior snoozes, Healthy Paws Pet Insurance helps you care for your dog every step of the way. Get a quote today.

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Common Signs of Depression in Cats

If you’re asking yourself, is my cat depressed? Start by watching for changes that go beyond the occasional off day. Most depressed cats show some combination of withdrawal or a loss of interest in their usual favorites:

• Reduced appetite:  When a cat begins eating less or skipping meals entirely, it’s a red flag.
• Less grooming: A healthy cat grooms daily. If your cat’s coat looks dull, clumpy, greasy, or unkempt, that might point to emotional or physical distress.
• Hiding more than usual: It’s normal for cats to enjoy a quiet nap spot, but excessive hiding can signal fear or low mood.
• Uncharacteristic aggression or irritability: A sudden change in temperament may reflect deeper discomfort, and so can caterwauling.
• Sleep pattern changes: All cats sleep a lot, but changes in how they sleep could hint at something serious.

What Causes Depression in Cats?

Cat depression symptoms tend to after a disruption to daily life. The loss of a companion animal or human family member can have a real emotional impact. So can major life changes—like a move, new partner, new baby, or an altered routine. Even boredom or lack of stimulation can trigger low mood, especially in indoor-only cats.

Underlying medical issues are another possibility. Pain or illness may contribute to a depressed cat’s behavior. That’s why a vet visit should always be your first stop if something seems off.

Tips to Help Your Cat Feel Better

To help your cat feel better, start small by focusing on bringing consistency and calm back into your cat’s space. Soft bedding, as much petting as they prefer, regular meals, and a stable routine can do wonders for emotional recovery.

If your cat used to enjoy toys, interactive play may help reignite their curiosity. Choose low-stress ways to engage them—think wand toys or a laser pen so you can play together and bond.

Another important tip is making sure your cat has safe spaces to retreat to, particularly if your home has changed recently. A high perch, a quiet closet, a cat tree, or even a cozy box can become a welcome refuge.

When in doubt, trust your instincts. You know your cat’s quirks and rhythms better than anyone. If you suspect they’re feeling down, they probably are. Think about how their routine has changed, and support them in the best way for them. 

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Remmy is an 8-year-old lynx point Siamese who, according to his pet parent Kathleen, is both fussy and opinionated. “He’s very much a mama’s boy,” she said. “He always comes running to meet me at the door, loves going outside in his harness, and adores kibble.”

An unexpected health scare

In the summer of 2024, Remmy vomited twice over three days—just before his annual vet checkup. “As it turns out, he might not have made it if I had waited another day,” Kathleen recalled. Tests revealed that Remmy’s liver levels were dangerously high, requiring immediate hospitalization.

For several days, Kathleen brought Remmy to the vet every morning at 8 a.m. and picked him up at 6 p.m. so he could receive care during the day while spending nights at home with her. Once stable, he remained under her dedicated care at home for over a month.

During this time, Remmy needed a subcutaneous IV and about eight rounds of medication daily. Extensive diagnostic tests ruled out cancer, bringing a sigh of relief.

How is Remmy today?

Fortunately, Remmy has made an incredible recovery. “He’s very much himself, and I’m so grateful,” Kathleen shared. “His doctor is thrilled with his progress.”

Remmy continues to have monthly blood tests with a specialist and takes a liver supplement every other day, which has helped maintain his liver health.

How Healthy Paws pet insurance helped

Kathleen credits Healthy Paws with making Remmy’s life-saving treatment possible. “Thanks to their support and quick reimbursements, I was able to afford the care he needed—something I wouldn’t have been able to manage otherwise, especially as a graduate student with a limited income,” she said.

A previous health scare had already reinforced her decision to insure Remmy and her two other cats, Cleo and Lincoln. A few years ago, Remmy suffered an acute pancreatitis episode that required emergency vet care, resulting in a $2,000 bill.

“Needless to say, I’m so grateful I made that choice,” Kathleen said. “I researched pet insurance providers and chose Healthy Paws based on their reviews. Our experience has been exceptional—easy policy management, fast claims processing, and consistently fair service.”

The claim scenarios described here are intended to show the types of situations that may result in claims. These scenarios should not be compared to any other claim. Whether or to what extent a particular loss is covered depends on the facts and circumstances of the loss, the terms and conditions of the policy as issued, and applicable law.  

Insured persons providing testimonials in this report have not received compensation for their statements.

The post Remmy’s Liver Disease: How Pet Insurance Helped appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

Do Dogs Think Humans Are Dogs?

No, dogs don’t think humans are dogs, but they do consider us part of their social group.

Dogs are masters at adapting their behavior to interact with humans. They pick up on our body language, facial expressions, tone of voice and routines. Rather than treating us exactly like other dogs, they create a unique relationship with us, adjusting their instincts and communication to fit a world shared with people.

Do My Dogs Know I Love Them?

Dogs may not understand love the same way humans do, but they recognize warmth, kindness, affection and care. In return, they offer loyalty and companionship that goes beyond words.

How Dogs Can Show Love

Dogs express love in many ways, including:

• Following you from room to room
• Leaning against you or resting their head on you
• Wagging their tails loosely
• Bringing you toys or treats
• Making soft eye contact

When you notice these signs, it’s a wonderful reminder that your dog feels deeply bonded to you.

How to Improve How Your Dog Sees You

Dogs thrive when they feel secure, loved and understood. Small daily habits can make a big difference, such as:

• Offering positive reinforcement during training
• Keeping a consistent routine for feeding, walks and playtime
• Giving your dog opportunities for mental enrichment and exploration
• Listening to their body language and respecting their signals

Being patient and attentive helps your dog view you not just as a caregiver, but as their most trusted companion.

Does My Dog Not Like Me?

If you’re worried and wondering if your dog doesn’t like you, it’s important not to jump to conclusions. Dogs have moods and preferences and can get tired and a little moody, just like people. 

If you notice changes in behavior, consider:

• Spending more one-on-one time together doing something your dog enjoys
• Using treats and praise to build positive associations
• Checking for signs of illness or discomfort that might affect behavior
• Giving your dog space and letting them come to you on their own terms (some pets are just not the touchy-feely type, even dogs!)

Pet Insurance’s Role in How Dogs See You

Taking care of your dog’s health is one of the biggest ways you show them love. Having pet insurance means you’re prepared to give your dog the medical care they need, whether it’s for unexpected accidents, illnesses or chronic conditions.

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance has a range of dog and puppy plans that can help you protect your best friend through all of life’s adventures. Get your quote today.

The post How Do Dogs See Humans? appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

Below, we explore key pet insurance considerations, like when might be the ideal time to enroll your companion and why getting started sooner rather than later often proves beneficial. You’ll also find helpful pointers on what to look for when comparing different policies and how various choices might align with your budget, all aimed at achieving valuable peace of mind.

When Should I Get Pet Insurance?

The best time to get pet insurance is when your pet is young — ideally right after you bring them home. Puppies and kittens are typically healthy at the start of their lives, which means fewer health issues to worry about. 

Proper Pet Insurance Tips

If you’re considering when to get pet insurance, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Start early. It’s easier to cover future illnesses if your pet is still young and healthy.
• Know the waiting periods. Most policies have a short waiting time before coverage kicks in, usually a few days for accidents and a couple of weeks for illnesses.
• Pick the right coverage. Choose a pet insurance plan that fits your pet’s needs and your budget, whether it’s accident-only, illness-only, or a full-coverage option.
• Read the fine print. Take time to understand what’s covered, what isn’t and how reimbursement works.

Typical Pet Insurance Cost

The typical pet insurance cost can vary depending on your pet’s breed, age and where you live. On average, the monthly premium for accident and illness coverage is around $46 for dogs and about $25 for cats. Larger breeds and older pets may cost more, while smaller or younger animals might have lower premiums.

Keep in mind that your deductible, reimbursement level and annual limit choices can all affect your monthly payment. 

Why You Should Protect Your Pet Sooner

Waiting to sign up for insurance can limit your options. Once a medical condition appears, it usually won’t be covered by a new plan. Getting insurance while your pet is still healthy helps make sure you have the broadest protection possible.

Early enrollment also means lower premiums and fewer worries about unexpected vet bills down the line. 

Animal Insurance Cost

If you’re budgeting for your pet’s future, knowing the animal insurance cost can help you plan. Healthy Paws offers accident and illness plans that can be customized based on your needs and budget. 

Healthy Paws Pet Insurance Is Here for You

At Healthy Paws, we believe every pet deserves great care — and we’re here to help you make that happen. With transparent insurance terms, customizable coverage, fast claims processing and no costly add-ons, it’s easy to find a pet insurance plan that fits your pet’s needs and your budget.

Ready to protect your best friend? Get a quote today and see how simple peace of mind can be.

The post When to Get Pet Insurance appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

Signs of a Clingy Cat

Every cat has their own way of showing affection, but some behaviors may hint that your cat’s attachment has crossed into clinginess. Watch for signs such as:

• Pawing, staring, meowing or nudging you for attention throughout the day
• Insisting on sitting on your lap, shoulders or head constantly
• Acting distressed when you leave the room, house or even their sight line
• Following you around 
• Refusing to engage with toys, treats, water or favorite spots unless you’re nearby

Spotting the signs of a clingy cat early allows you to gently guide them toward more confidence and independence.

Potential Reasons for Clingy Cats

If you’ve found yourself wondering, “Why is my cat so clingy?”, it typically stems from changes in their routine, environment or, in some cases, their health. Common causes include:

• Household changes. A move, a new pet, a new baby, visitors or even a shift in your daily schedule can leave a cat feeling unsettled.
• Separation anxiety. Cats can form deep attachments and may struggle when left alone for longer periods.
• Medical concerns. Health issues like arthritis, dental pain or gastrointestinal discomfort sometimes lead cats to seek extra comfort and reassurance.
• Aging or cognitive changes. Older cats might become more dependent as their senses, memory or confidence shifts.
• Natural temperament. Some cats are simply more affectionate by nature, especially breeds like Ragdolls, Siamese, Burmese and Scottish Folds.

You might also wonder, “Why is my cat so affectionate lately?” In many cases, increased affection is simply a reflection of growing trust and emotional bonding. Keep up the good work!

Remedies to Reduce Cat Clinginess

Helping your cat feel secure without relying completely on your presence takes patience and thoughtful support. If your cat is all of a sudden clingy, try:

• Building safe spaces. Set up cozy beds, cat trees, window perches or enclosed hideaways where your cat can be stress-free on their own terms.
• Keeping a steady routine. Consistent meal times, play sessions and quiet hours help your cat feel grounded and safe.
• Offering mental enrichment. Puzzle feeders, interactive toys, cardboard mazes or bird-watching stations can keep your cat stimulated when you’re busy.
• Encouraging gradual independence. Step out of the room for short periods and reward calm behavior with gentle praise, treats or soft petting that your cat enjoys.

Should I Consult a Vet?

Checking in with your vet gives you peace of mind and helps uncover any medical needs early. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance covers accidents, illnesses and hereditary conditions, helping you focus on your cat’s well-being instead of bills.

The post Why Is My Cat So Clingy? appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

But while humans can talk through these feelings with a caring friend, a loved one or a therapist, pets don’t have that option. Without a way to process and overcome these feelings, dogs and cats may exhibit certain destructive or alarming behaviors which can increase their own anxiety and cause concern for the people who love them.

Reading the Signs

Fortunately, while your dog or cat can’t tell you with words what’s making them anxious, they have other ways of telling you – and by picking up on the signals, pet parents can take steps to make their pets feel better and prevent anxiety from reoccurring.

Anxiety in Dogs

We all want our dogs to be happy, healthy, easygoing and playful. But anxiety can greatly diminish a dog’s quality of life and rob it of its health and natural joy. One Finnish study that looked at the links between canine anxiety and behavioral issues found that 72.5% of dogs – nearly three quarters of them – exhibited behaviors strongly suggesting anxiety as a root cause. That means that most dogs will experience anxious situations at some point in their lives.

Common Causes of Anxiety in Dogs

The two most common types of anxiety are:

• Fear-based anxiety: Triggered by things like loud noises (think thunderbolts or fireworks), unfamiliar people or objects (think delivery people or vacuum cleaners), or unfamiliar situations (think car trips to the vet).
• Separation anxiety: This occurs when a dog becomes distressed after being separated from its pet parent, fearing you might never come back.

Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

• Fear-based behaviors: Fear from a situation, a person, or another dog might manifest as whimpering, hiding or running away. Sometimes, however, fear-based anxiety can take the form of aggression: growling, excessive barking or even biting.
• Separation-related behaviors: Destructive behavior, such as chewing on or clawing at furniture, or urinating or defecating inside a house or a crate. Other telltale signs of stress and anxiety include pacing, restlessness, constant barking or (in some cases) behaviors that mirror obsessive-compulsive disorder in humans, such as self-mutilation by chewing off hair or skin, especially on the tail or front legs.

How to Help an Anxious Dog

The American Kennel Club has shared a number of ways that dog owners can identify and ameliorate anxiety in their pets. Among other things, the organization encourages owners to:

• Pay attention to body language. Check for visible or audible signs of discomfort (tail between legs, cowering, whimpering, panting, etc.)
• Socialize your dog. The more interactions your dog has with new people, children, other dogs, and unfamiliar experiences – with you or another trusted and beloved human at its side – the less likely he or she is to panic when encountering something it finds strange or intimidating.
• Explore obedience training. It’s about more than teaching Fido to heel, sit, or come on command. Dogs that understand rules and have faith in rule-based systems are calmer and less anxious than dogs for whom the world is a place of uncertainty.  
• Avoid stressful situations. It probably won’t take long for you to discover what’s causing your dog to feel anxiety. When you do, remove – if possible – the stressor from your furry friend’s life. Some dogs simply don’t enjoy car rides, going to the dog park, or frolicking on the beach (with all of those loud, crashing waves!)–and that’s okay.

Treatment Options

Treatment methods for anxiety in dogs fall into two categories:

Behavioral approaches typically involve engaging with the source of anxiety – together – and re-wiring the response pattern in your dog’s brain through counterconditioning and desensitization. When encountering the stressful stimulus, don’t give your dog a chance to spiral downward: Present him or her with a treat, a favorite toy, or copious amounts of affection in the form of rubs and soothing words. Over time, your dog will begin to replace the negative stimulus with a positive one and react with less and less anxiety.

Medication: If anxiety persists or intensifies, talk to your vet about SSRIs or antidepressants that can be administered to help calm and comfort your dog during especially stressful moments, or natural remedies such as calming treats, pheromones or aromatherapy.     

Anxiety in Cats

Cats experience anxiety for many of the same reasons that dogs do: loud noises, changes in environment, and separation. One commonly overlooked cause of feline anxiety, especially in older cats, is the pain associated with feline arthritis, which is believed to affect anywhere from between 70 to 90% of cats over 12 years of age.

Signs of Anxiety in Cats

Whatever the source, your cat will likely give off signs that indicate it’s afraid, nervous, or just having a rough time of it lately. Things to look for include:

• Hiding. All cats love curling up in secret, out -of-the-way spots, but you should be able to tell if your cat is doing so more than usual, or if he or she is hesitating to emerge from their hiding spot when they normally would – when you open the front door upon coming home, for example, or when you’re putting their food out.
• Excessive and/or unusual meowing. Cats have different meows to express different states of mind. If your cat’s meow sounds different – e.g., more pained or plaintive – and especially if this different-sounding meow lingers, that’s a strong sign that your cat is in a bad place.
• Litter box avoidance. If a cat that normally has no trouble using their litter box suddenly begins to use it only sporadically, or not at all, it’s usually a sign of an underlying physical or psychological issue. (Assuming the litter box is clean and easy to access, that is.)
• Overgrooming. If you notice a marked uptick in the amount of time your cat is spending grooming itself, it may indicate that your cat is stressed out or anxious about something: Cats lick and groom themselves to calm themselves down.
• Changes in appetite. Just like us, some cats self-soothe by overeating when under stress. Others may lose their appetite and pick at their food, or even avoid it altogether.
• Changes in body language. If your cat is keeping its tail close to its body (or flicking it), staring, or holding its ears back, it usually indicates something anxiety-provoking in their immediate environment.

How to Help an Anxious Cat

Again, as with dogs, treatment  for feline anxiety might entail counterconditioning, desensitization, pharmaceuticals, or some combination of any or all of these.

For milder cases of anxiety:

• Try toys or food puzzles to distract and soothe your cat.
• Consider using sprays or collars that emit calming scents – these are available in most pet stores.

Whichever route you take, it’s best to visit the vet’s office when you first notice that your cat is behaving unusually, since many anxiety symptoms can reflect underlying issues with your cat’s physical health. If your dog or cat’s anxiety is being caused by an illness or physical condition that’s covered under your Healthy Paws pet insurance plan, you’ll be reimbursed for up to 80 percent of your vet bills that pertain to that illness or physical condition.

Our pets bring us immeasurable happiness. The least we can do is make sure that they’re as happy as they can possibly be while they do.

The post Pet Anxiety: Spotting the Signs and How to Help appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

Why Does My Cat Bring Me Dead Animals? 

Cats may bring you dead animals because of:

• Instinctive behavior: Your cat comes from a long line of hunters. Bringing prey home is part of a cat’s natural urge to secure a safe place to eat or share.
• Maternal teaching: Mother cats teach kittens to hunt by catching and carrying prey. Your cat might be treating you like family and showing you what they’ve caught.
• Bonding and affection: Some experts believe this is a sign of love. By gifting you a dead mouse or bird, cats may be trying to include you in a family feast or say thank you for feeding them.
• Boredom or play: Active hunters might chase anything that moves to burn off energy. Once caught, the prey becomes a prize they’re eager to bring home.

What to Do When Your Cat Brings You Dead Animals

You can’t erase the hunting instinct, but you can guide your cat toward less gruesome outlets. Try these steps:

• Stay calm and avoid scolding: Your cat can’t understand you, and punishment can create fear and weaken your bond.
• Remove the prey discreetly: Wait until your cat is distracted. Use gloves or a paper towel to pick up any remains, and clean the area with a pet-safe disinfectant.
• Offer alternatives: Provide engaging cat toys and regular play sessions to satisfy hunting instincts without involving real wildlife.
• Consider indoor living: Keeping your cat indoors protects your pet and local animals.

Redirecting Natural Instincts

Redirecting that natural energy indoors helps reduce the urge to chase and deliver real prey. Try using toys for bored cats that mimic the movements of prey animals. For example, a feather wand can spark their curiosity, while a laser pointer encourages quick bursts of energy. 

Meanwhile, food-dispensing toys provide a different type of stimulation. They challenge your cat to work for their food, which can keep the body and mind active. Even small changes, like switching out toys regularly or introducing new textures, can hold your cat’s attention and prevent boredom from setting in.

If your cat enjoys time outside, you might consider a more structured experience. A screened-in catio lets them watch birds and explore scents without putting wildlife at risk or bringing home unwanted gifts.

Dealing With Your Cat’s Natural Instinct

Discovering a gift from your cat can be unsettling, but they don’t do it out of malice or mischief.  Give them lots of toys and regular playtime, and manage your cat’s environment to reduce the frequency of these surprises. 

If you’re worried that your cat’s hunting habits may lead to unexpected vet visits, protect your cat with pet insurance today. It’s a great way to make sure your loyal hunter receives the care they need whenever they need it.

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But why do cats bury their poop at all? The answer goes back to feline instincts, and your cat’s pooping habits may also reveal how comfortable they feel in their home.

Cats and Their Litter Box

Most cats cover their poop. It’s something they rarely need to be taught. But a cat’s relationship with the litter box can change quickly if something feels off. Maybe the box is too small. Maybe it’s not clean enough. Some cats even dislike certain types of litter.

A comfortable, quiet space makes a big difference. Cats prefer privacy, just like we do. Switching up the location or style of the box can disrupt their routine, so keep changes minimal unless needed. Adding a second litter box in multi-cat homes can also help avoid conflict.

Cat Instincts and Behavior

In the wild, cats rely on scent to communicate and survive. Covering waste helps them stay hidden from predators and avoids challenges from more dominant cats. That’s why cats cover their poop — it’s a way of keeping the peace and staying safe.

Even indoor cats carry these instincts. Burying their poop helps them feel secure and settled. When they stop doing this, it might signal your cat is stressed or uncomfortable in their environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Poop Behavior

Why Doesn’t My Cat Bury Her Poop?

This could be a result of a few things. Some cats never learn the behavior if they’re separated from their mother early. Others might be trying to make a point, such as claiming territory.

Dislike for the litter box setup is another common cause. Try changing the litter type or scooping more often. Joint pain could be a factor for older cats. Watch for other signs and check with your veterinarian if needed.

Do Cats Ever Stop Burying Their Poop?

Yes, poop burying behavior can shift over time. Stress, changes in routine, health or age-related issues might all play a role. Cats dealing with arthritis or other mobility problems might struggle to dig. Keep an eye out for patterns. Sometimes, a small change, like switching to a low- or high-sided box, can help your cat feel more comfortable.

Understanding why cats bury their poop helps you support your cat’s natural needs. It also gives you a heads-up when something’s not right. A healthy cat is a happy cat — and that includes what happens in the litter box.

The post Why Do Cats Bury Their Poop? appeared first on Pet Care Blog – Dog and Cat Health Advice and More | Healthy Paws.

Here’s a list of some of the most dog-friendly bars and restaurants in Seattle to easily plan your next outing.  

Remember that nearly all restaurants and bars require dogs to be on leash and well-behaved.  

The Fremont Brewing Co., 1050 N 34th S., Fremont 

The Fremont Brewing Urban Beer Garden is a dog-friendly taproom/garage attached to the brewery in the hipster neighborhood of Fremont. Gas Works Park, a Seattle institution, is a short walk away, making it a great walking option before lunch or dinner. Leashed dogs are welcome to relax with you at a table on their covered patio, equipped with heaters to keep you comfortable in cooler weather. They offer free pretzels and dog treats. The company also has a second location in the Columbia City neighborhood. 

The Barking Dog Alehouse, 705 NW 70th St, Ballard 

This beloved neighborhood brewpub in the historic and charming Ballard neighborhood offers a relaxed atmosphere with a dog-friendly patio. With various house-brewed beers and a menu that includes imaginative American pub fare, it’s a perfect place for you and your furry companion. The brewery is also committed to supporting dog welfare. They hold regular fundraisers for dog rescues, donating $1 for every pint. 

Coby’s Cafe, 101 Nickerson St Building B Ste 200 

Claiming to be Seattle’s “first health department-approved dog-centric coffee shop,” Coby’s Café is a welcoming space for dogs and dog lovers in the Fremont neighborhood. Enjoy time with pups in a dog lounge while savoring curated menus for dogs and humans. The coffee bar offers a cozy spot in a separate area with locally sourced coffee, matcha, lunch, and dessert options. They offer special events such as breed meetups and training sessions. This cafe works a little differently than others as it charges a daily rate of $9 for one dog or a monthly membership fee, which they say is used to clean and maintain the facility. 

Portage Bay Cafe, 5 locations 

A classic Seattle restaurant chain, Portage Bay Cafe is a dog-friendly eatery that focuses on local, sustainable fare. Breakfast is served all day, and lunch options include flank steak salad, cheeseburgers, veggie shawarma, and Cuban sandwiches. Dogs are welcome to join diners on the outdoor patios year-round, warmed with space heaters and blankets to make outdoor dining comfortable. 

The Dog Yard Bar, Downtown Dog Lounge, 1546 NW Leary Way 

A new concept popping up in some cities is an outdoor bar with space for dogs to play. The Dog Yard Bar in the Ballard neighborhood is a park, bar, and hang-out spot, all rolled into one. Parents enjoy adult beverages while pups socialize and romp off-leash in a safe and fun environment. Run by the folks who own the Downtown Dog Lounge daycare, all breeds are welcome. For the humans, they serve a variety of drinks and snacks, while fancy dog treats are available for the pup. They host a variety of meetups for specific breeds or types of dogs. Day passes for dogs are $16, while a monthly membership is $70.  

Reuben’s Brews, Ballard (5010 14th Ave NW) and Fremont (4401 Fremont Ave N.) 

This popular microbrewery in Ballard is known for its dog-friendly taproom and outdoor patio. They host “Yappy Hours” where dogs and their humans can enjoy special treats, trivia nights and Bingo. This is a must-visit for true beer lovers with a wide variety of beers and a lively atmosphere. The Ballard Taproom features a 15-barrel brewhouse right in the middle of the space. 

Café Campagne, 1600 Post Alley 

Nestled in downtown Seattle’s Pike Place Market, this charming French café has a patio dining area just alongside historic Post Alley where dogs are welcome. If you are looking for a step up from pub fare, this cafe offers an exceptional dining experience in traditional food and wine. Post Alley is the perfect spot to watch the world go by. The sunny terrace offers a view of the market and visitors, making it a great spot for locals and travelers to enjoy a relaxed dining experience with their dogs in one of Seattle’s historic and distinctive settings. 

Old Stove Brewery, 1901 Western Ave., Ste. A and two other locations.  

This popular brewery has patios with umbrellas where dogs are welcome. The newest and most spectacular location is in Pike Place Market, where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the city and Puget Sound. Try to be there at sunset! Men’s Journal named it one of the most scenic breweries in America. They offer house-made award-winning brews, house cocktails, brews, house cocktails and wine. Food options include salads, burgers, fish and chips, and wood-fired pizza. 

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