More and more dog owners are seeking ways to include their companions in everyday activities outside the home. And why shouldn’t they? For 97% of pet-owning households, dogs are now considered part of the family, meaning they deserve to be part of everyday experiences. This shift has sparked a heated debate, both online and offline, about whether dogs should be allowed in public spaces like malls, restaurants, and stores.

Enter Brindleden. It’s not for everyone, but it’s for those who firmly believe that Dogs Deserve to Go Out, too.

In recent years, the status of dogs in our households has transformed dramatically. No longer just pets, dogs are increasingly viewed as full-fledged family members. According to a 2021 survey by the American Pet Products Association, around 70% of U.S. households own a pet, and 85% of those pet owners consider their dogs to be part of the family. This cultural shift reflects deeper emotional bonds between humans and their dogs, moving beyond companionship to something more profound. The rise of “fur baby” culture means people are more invested in their dogs’ happiness and well-being, creating a new kind of familial connection.

This evolving bond is evident in many aspects of society, from how people organize their homes to how they spend their money. Reports show that U.S. consumers spent nearly $136 billion on their pets in 2022, a huge jump from $95 billion in 2019. This spending includes not only pet food and medical care but also luxuries like pet hotels, grooming services, and dog-friendly activities (Dallas Observer). Social media is brimming with hashtags like #dogmom and #dogdad, further signaling the proud embrace of dogs as beloved family members.

The Shift: Why More People Want Their Dogs To Come Along

It’s not just about convenience. For many dog owners, bringing their dogs along when they go out is a natural extension of family life. After all, we wouldn’t leave a family member at home when heading out for dinner or a day at the mall. Dogs are part of the family, and people want to do more with them—whether that’s going on a weekend brunch outing, strolling down to the beach, or shopping for groceries.

However, public spaces haven’t always kept up with this shift. Restaurants, malls, and parks—traditionally human spaces—are now being asked to reconsider how they accommodate dogs. This creates tension, as not everyone is comfortable with dogs in these settings. As one Reddit user in a popular discussion put it, “I love dogs, but I don’t want to deal with them at dinner. It’s not the same as bringing a human family member. Some dogs are messy and unpredictable.”

The Great Debate: Can Dogs and Humans Share the Same Space?

This growing demand for pet-friendly spaces has sparked significant conversation, both in public forums and in the media. On Reddit, discussions about bringing dogs to restaurants, malls, and other public spaces have drawn thousands of comments from people on both sides of the argument. A popular thread in the Pets and Dogs subreddit, with over 3,000 comments, highlights the strong feelings people have about this topic.

Dog owners argue that bringing dogs to public spaces is a natural progression of their increasing role in our lives. “We want to include our dogs in our outings just like we do with our kids,” one Reddit user explained. However, others express concerns about allergies, cleanliness, and general discomfort. “There’s nothing wrong with dogs, but I just don’t want to deal with them when I’m out to eat or shopping. It feels intrusive,” commented another user. It’s clear that while some people enjoy the idea of dogs being more integrated into society, others feel that public spaces should remain dog-free to avoid disruptions.

A Growing Need for Spaces That Accommodate Dogs and People

As the debate continues, there’s no denying that dogs are becoming an integral part of our social fabric. Dog owners are pushing for more dog-friendly spaces, and there’s a growing need for establishments that cater to this passionate group of pet families. Yet, many pet parents feel like it’s become harder with many places cracking down on pets. A couple years ago, patrons at Westfield Valley Fair in San Jose noticed large signs restricting dogs, where it wasn’t uncommon to run into a labor doodle or French bulldog. Even outdoor spaces are feeling more restricted with farmer’s markets and city festivals cracking down. 

Brindleden, scheduled to open in Summer 2025 in the South Bay area, is designed to meet this need. Brindleden will provide a unique environment for people who want to experience life with their dogs outside the home. The facility will feature off-leash play areas, on-leash dining options, and spaces for both dogs and humans to enjoy together. You can enjoy a beer, while your dog plays with friends.

For those who view outings with their dogs as an extension of family experiences, Brindleden will offer a safe, clean, and welcoming environment. The establishment plans to host dog and people centric events, movie nights, live music, provide high-quality food and drink options, and offer enrichment activities for dogs. Its aim is to foster a community where dog lovers can connect and thrive with their pets.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable environment, access to off-leash areas will require paid memberships. These memberships will include important criteria like temperament testing, up-to-date vaccinations, and other necessary guidelines. Membership will be limited, offering exclusive perks such as discounts and early access to events. Once the membership reaches capacity, new applicants will be placed on a waitlist, preserving the quality of the experience for all. Interested individuals can sign up for the Brindleden Newsletter at brindleden.com to stay updated on our progress and receive priority notification when membership opens. Additionally, signing up gives you the chance to secure a discounted membership, and with the limited capacity and attractive offers, it’s likely membership will fill up before opening. Newsletter subscribers are also automatically entered for a chance to win a three-month free membership.

Visitors without a paid membership can still enjoy access to all on-leash areas, including beverages from the bar and treats from local food trucks.

Dogs deserve to go out, too—and Brindleden is making sure they can.