The days when dogs where chained in the back patio and fed leftovers are in the past in Costa Rica, although this may still be the case for many canine companions specially in the rural zones, the education and culture regarding pets in Costa Rica has changed a lot in the last decades, however, there is a lot of work still to be done when it comes to this topic, but, one paw at a time.

For now the good news is that the country has understood that there’s a large number of pet lovers in Costa Rica, and this segment of the population demands “dog friendly” options.

Here are some (we couldn’t include all of them) dog friendly places in Costa Rica that you might want to consider next time you are out with your four-legged friend:

City Place Santa Ana: This shopping center in Santa Ana offers several dining options (Cosi, Pizza Republica, Tap House Bar among others) most of which offer outside tables where you can enjoy a meal in the company of your dog.

Rey Cacao: This is an ice cream store located in Barrio Aranjuez, where you can get a delicious ice cream for you and another one specially made for your dog.

Avenida Escazu: Another shopping center in the west side of San José where you can find several restaurants with outside options for you and your dog, Bulali, Praha and Product C .

Taco Bar: This restaurant has several locations (Santa Ana, Curridabat, Escazú and Jacó) all of them dog friendly.

Albero Restaurant: Spanish restaurant in Curridabat, allows you to bring your dog but you have to call and reserve first.

Fresas: This restaurant in Heredia has declared itself pet friendly for years now, good food in good company.

Chez Christophe: The famous bakery also has a place for your dog.

The best practice before taking your dog with you somewhere is calling in to make sure they won’t give you any problems, as this could ruin your whole day, another recommendation is to make sure your dog is well behaved and clean, collar and leash are a must, and always carry water bottles and bags with you to be prepared for whatever your best friend might need.