Every dog-lover understands that these furry friends aren’t just pets – they’re family and, like family, they want to tag along everywhere. With Doha gradually embracing a more dog-friendly culture, there’s no need to part ways with your beloved pet when you head out. From cosy cafés to sprawling parks, Doha is rolling out the welcome mat for dogs (and other pets) of all shapes and sizes. So, leash up and embark on a tail-wagging adventure through the most pet-friendly places in Qatar.

Qatar has experienced a remarkable surge in the number of establishments opening their doors to four-legged companions. But while the country’s stance on dogs has become more relaxed, it’s important for dog owners to respect local rules and customs. Here are some dining-out guidelines to keep in mind when you’re with your canine bestie:

1. Ensure you’re up to speed with the rules of the establishment around their pet policy. Call ahead before you venture out.
2. Ensure your dog remains leashed at all times and avoid leashing them to furniture, particularly if your pet is large. This helps prevent accidents in case your dog becomes excited and moves or jumps unexpectedly.
3. Be mindful about choosing a spot that will cause the least distraction for your dog as well as other patrons. Don’t assume that every customer is a dog lover.
4. Avoid feeding your dog at the table. To manage this, ensure that they are fed at home before the trip out. A small treat and some water are acceptable.
5. Be prepared for your outing by bringing essentials like water, treats and toys to ensure that both your pet and you are comfortable during your outing.
6. Avoid sitting or mingling around children (other than your own) while you’re out with your dog. Even if your dog is good with little ones, the excitement or newness of the environment may cause him to react in ways he normally wouldn’t.

Pet-friendly Café’s

There are several spots where you can enjoy a cuppa with your best friend in tow. Some allow for dogs inside the restaurant while some others limit pet entry to outdoor seating. We recommend calling ahead to find out.

• Coffee District Qatar, located at Al Asmakh Tower, 14th Floor Call 5000 3022.
• Café #999, Mohammed Bin Thani, Doha. Doha Fire Station Museum. Call 4452 5650.
• Amora Pizza, 112 Building, A02 Lusail Street, Lusail. Call 3111 7147.
• Jones The Grocer, The Gate Mall. Call 4407 7175.
• Twisted Olive, The Burj Doha. Call 4425 2727.

OUTDOOR SPACES

Dogs love open spaces, and there’re plenty of them around Doha. Whether you’re heading to the park or beach, these tips will help make it an exciting adventure for both pooch and you:

1. It goes without saying that owners must pick up after their pets and dispose of waste properly to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. So don’t leave home without all your supplies – a pooper scooper, disposal bags and wet wipes.
2. Avoid feeding other dogs with treats, and don’t allow strangers to feed your dog either. Each dog is unique and may have specific dietary restrictions.
3. Unless in designated off-leash areas, dogs need to be kept on a leash at all times to ensure their safety and the safety of others. Whether your dog has been trained or not, leash laws are in place to avoid accidents and, most importantly, to ensure control in public spaces.
4. Be respectful of other pet owners and dogs you may encounter at the park or beach. Common sense and kindness can go a long way in diffusing misunderstandings with other dogs. Owners should supervise their pets when interacting with other dogs and people to prevent any conflicts or accidents.
5. Not all park-goers or beach-lovers are dog friendly, so keep your dogs away from other people who may not wish to be close to or touched by a dog.

Parks

Doha has a number of sprawling green spaces with lots of room for your dog to run and play. It’s also a hot spot for other dog owners just like you, so get ready for some tail-wagging fun and plenty of socialising opportunities.

• Al Bidda Park. For more information call the Al Bidda Park Information Centre at 4428 7777 or visit www.albiddapark.com.
• Barkers & Mittens Dog Park. Located at Al Bidda Park. Call 500 0733.
• 5/6 Park, Onaiza.
• Oxygen Park, Education City.
• Box Park, Old Doha Port.
• Al Muntazah Park. Located along C-Ring Road.
• Abu Hamour Park.
• Pet Park, Pearl Island.

Beaches

Beaches might not be for all dogs but for those who are inclined, it’s a great place for dogs to frolic and splash around.

• Maroona Beach
• Al Wakra Beach
• Fuwairit Beach
• West Bay Beach

WARNING
If you are taking your dog out in public to any place where they might encounter fellow canines, make sure they are fully up to date with all their vaccinations to protect both your own pet and others.