Dear PoP – Are Dogs Allowed in Coffeeshops?

Photo by PoPville flickr user Bogotron

“Dear PoP,

Do you know anything about the legalities of bringing your dog to a coffeeshop in the district? I used to live in an east coast city before moving down here two years ago, and there, more often than not, your neighborhood coffeeshop employees wouldn’t look twice if you brought your dog in while you worked on your laptop, talked with friends, etc. The other day I was told by the barista that dogs legally aren’t allowed in coffeeshops here. Is this true? As yet, I haven’t found a spot to hang out with my (well-behaved) dog, and of course we both prefer sitting outside. But I’d like to bring him along when I can during the winter months as well. Any ideas on such laws, or are these really just rules each coffeeshop sets? And if so, does anyone know of any spots to take their dog?”

Hmm, this is a good question. I think I’ve seen signs around town for shops and coffeeshops in particular that say “dogs welcome” or something like that. Hmm, does anyone know if there is a law forbidding dogs in coffeeshops? I feel like I just saw a sign saying dogs welcome – maybe at Peregrine on the Hill? Anyone know if there are coffeeshops that welcome dogs? What if people have allergies?

And of course – more generally – do you think dogs should or should not be allowed in coffeeshops or any shops?