Dog-Friendly Restaurants & Cafes in Franklin County
Taking the Lead • July 17, 2025
At Taking the Lead, we love to gather our alumni and their dogs for brunches, trivia events, and patio hangouts — and many of our favorite spots are on this list! If you’re looking for new places to grab a bite or a drink without leaving your pup behind, check out these local favorites:
1. Ohio Brewing Company
Ohio Brewing Company’s Columbus location offers a casual atmosphere, delicious pub food, and plenty of outdoor seating for you and your dog. We love hosting patio meet-ups here — it’s always a hit with our alumni pups!
2. Hofbräuhaus Columbus
If you’re in the mood for German fare and a lively atmosphere, Hofbräuhaus Columbus is a must-visit. Their big outdoor patio is dog-friendly, and they often host events and live music. Bring your pup, grab a pretzel and a pint, and soak up the summer vibes.
3. Grove City Brewing Company
Another Grove City gem, Grove City Brewing Company welcomes dogs on their patio and serves up craft beers and hearty pub food. It’s a great local spot to relax after a weekend walk with your dog or join one of our alumni brunches!
4. Land Grant Brewery
Land Grant is a Columbus staple, especially in the summer. Their huge beer garden is dog-friendly and hosts food trucks, trivia nights, and live music. Bring your dog, grab a cold one, and enjoy the fun community vibe.
5. BrewDog
BrewDog’s Franklinton location has a fantastic patio that’s perfect for dogs. Known for their craft beers and dog-friendly culture, BrewDog even has “Dog Pawties” — birthday parties for your pup! We often host casual brunches and patio trivia here, so keep an eye out for our next alumni gathering.
Make the Most of Patio Season
Summer is the best time to explore Columbus with your dog. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for brunch or a lively night with fellow dog lovers, these dog-friendly patios make it easy to include your pup in the fun.
We hope to see you and your dog at our next patio brunch or trivia event — tails wagging, drinks in hand, and plenty of sunshine to go around!
When it comes to dog training, having the right equipment can make a huge difference. From walks to at-home practice, these tools help make training smoother, safer, and more effective. Here are some of our top recommendations: 1. Treat Pouch Keep treats handy for rewarding good behavior on the spot. Check it out here . 2. Long Lines Perfect for recall and off-leash training: Waterproof 30 ft: See it here Cloth 30 ft: See it here 3. Leashes Durable leashes help maintain control during walks: Leather Leash: Shop here 4. Comfortable Beds & Cots Provide your dog a safe, comfortable space to relax: Fabric Cot: Check it out Industrial Kuranda Cot: Shop here 5. Kennels & Crates From everyday use to training or travel, having a secure kennel or crate is essential: Ruffland Kennel: Shop here Affordable Plastic Crate: See it here Heavy Duty Options: KBC Collapsible Crate: Check it out Impact Crate: Shop here 6. Muzzles For safety and peace of mind during training: Baskerville Muzzle: See it here Choosing the right equipment makes training more effective and keeps both you and your dog safe and comfortable. These are our go-to tools that we recommend to every dog owner, whether you’re just starting out or reinforcing advanced skills.
Every dog needs regular exercise to stay healthy, happy, and well-behaved — but the right amount varies depending on your dog’s age, breed, and overall health. Whether you’re caring for a curious puppy, a busy adult, or a relaxed senior, finding the right balance of activity will keep your dog in great shape physically
Fall is more than just colorful leaves and pumpkin-spiced everything—it’s also one of the best seasons to focus on your dog’s training. With cooler weather, fewer distractions, and the holidays approaching, autumn provides the perfect setting to build new skills and strengthen your bond with your pup.
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