You’re out and about, you’re hungry, the weather isn’t playing ball – and all you really want to do is enjoy a burger in a restaurant. Not just a quick takeaway at the drive-in, but sitting at a table inside with your dog.
And this is where the question arises: Are dogs allowed in fast food chains?
The answer is not entirely clear. In some chains, the restaurant management decides on site, in others there are clearer regulations.
We have looked at the chains’ official statements and compiled them here for you.
Otherwise, it’s worth taking a look at the DogMap before you set off. Individual branches are listed there and you can quickly see whether other dog owners have had good or bad experiences.
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Which fast food chain is dog-friendly?
Here you will find a short list with the opinions of some restaurants.
McDonalds – dogs allowed?
According to official feedback, the carrying of dogs in the restaurants is not uniformly regulated. Whether dogs are allowed at McDonald’s is a matter for the respective restaurant manager to decide. This means that in some branches dogs are allowed in the restaurant, in others not.
However, there is a clear exception for assistance dogs. These are allowed in every McDonald’s restaurant. If there are any uncertainties on site, the restaurant manager can be consulted at any time, according to the statement.
Burger King – dogs allowed?
At Burger King, there is no fixed rule that applies equally to all restaurants. Whether dogs are allowed inside is decided by the respective branch itself. The house rules lie with the local restaurant – so there may be differences.
The situation is clear for assistance dogs: they may be taken into the restaurant. If there are any questions, the management can be consulted.
Tip: First check the DogMap to see if there is already information about the store. If nothing is noted there, just ask briefly – and then enter your experience.
Subway – dogs allowed?
The feedback on Subway comes from Regina Jesse, PR and Social Media Manager:
“I’ve just been told by the head office that assistance dogs are very welcome in SUBWAY branches.”
However, a general statement as to whether dogs are generally allowed indoors was not made in the communication. Accordingly, as with other fast food chains, it may depend on the respective location.
Conclusion: dogs at fast food chains
If you want to take your dog to a fast food restaurant, you won’t get a one-size-fits-all answer. At McDonald’s, Burger King and Subway, the decision lies with the respective restaurant management. There can be serious differences between individual branches.
Fortunately, the situation is different for assistance dogs:
All three chains follow the exemption rule that assistance dogs are always welcome. This is clearly explained again in the food hygiene section of the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture.