Getting dogs to make friends isn’t quite the same thing as getting humans to make friends. A meeting between dogs unacquainted with one another can quickly go awry if not properly managed, resulting in lots of growling, lip licking and intense staring. Learn how to help your precious furkid befriend others of their kind in a safe and controlled manner. And soon, your pup will have a pack of their own for playdates!

Benefits of Dog Friendships

Dogs feel immense love for their human companions, that much is true. But they love to be in the presence of other dogs too. Research shows that dogs, being naturally social animals, often seek out interaction with other dogs and can even experience loneliness when deprived of it. Here are a few compelling reasons why, alongside your infinite love and attention, your dog will thrive with the companionship of fellow furry friends.

Social Skills

You might have heard about the importance of pet socialisation: exposing your pet to novel situations, especially when they’re young, to train them to be less fearful and more well-adjusted. While this seems to apply to meeting new people, socialising dogs with other animals matters too. Dogs who have spent quality time with other dogs develop better communication skills, are more comfortable, cooperative, and confident in social situations, and are less disposed to aggressive behaviour.

Mental and Emotional Health

Your pooch has the time of their life with you, but there are some parts of their brain that, despite being their best bud, you just can’t scratch. Meeting new dogs stimulates them mentally, keeping boredom at bay and sharpening their minds. Plus, regular socialisation lays the foundation for a healthier life—new situations become less intimidating, and can even help reduce separation anxiety. This is especially life-changing when trips to doggy daycare or the groomers are on the horizon!

Physical Exercise

Playtime with other dogs is the perfect way for your pup to burn off pent-up energy through running, chasing and wrestling—something a simple walk can’t always provide. These high-energy sessions not only help them let off steam but also contribute to a healthier weight, stronger muscles, and sturdier bones. In turn, this lowers their risk of chronic diseases and can even add years to their life.

Where Dogs Can Make Friends

The dog park and beach aren’t the only places your pup can make friends! Even here in Singapore, there are plenty of options to choose from based on your dog’s personality and comfort level.

For example, training classes are perfect for puppies to learn the basics of obedience and socialisation, offering structured interactions that teach them how to behave around new dogs and people. As they grow more confident, group walks and neighborhood playdates provide a gentle way for dogs who need a slower introduction to make friends.

And if you’re looking for a relaxed setting where both you and your furry companion can unwind, pet-friendly cafés are the perfect spot to socialise in a laid-back environment. The best part is, many of these places have pet menus—allowing your good boy/girl to enjoy delicious, dog-friendly treats while you sip on quality coffee.

How to Establish a Pawsitive Canine Connection in a Pet-Friendly Café

As fur mums and dads, it’s your job to help your furkid get off on the right paw when making new friends—even of the four-legged kind. Here are some simple rules to follow to ensure they have a fun and fulfilling time at the café. Make sure to observe pet etiquette—consult our guide here.

1. Introduce in neutral territory

Neutral territories refer to places that haven’t been marked by other dogs. While areas with lots of space like parks and open fields are good options, pet-friendly cafés like Two Bakers provide a comfortable, weather-proofed and supervised space for animals to interact.

2. Keep them apart first

You might assume that sniffing rear ends signals a clear start of a dog’s friendship. But not keeping them separated upon first meeting means that things can quickly go south if one feels threatened by the other. Make sure to keep them apart initially to allow for a calm and controlled introduction before letting them interact freely. At a café, this might be letting them quietly observe other dogs before gradually approaching and sniffing each other.

3. Let them know who’s in charge

Every pack has a leader, and that’s you, along with the other dog’s owner. Assert your position and remember that you set the tone for the meeting. Stay calm, confident, and in control of your four-legged friend’s behaviour. Always keep them on a leash and have them follow your lead for a conducive session—that is, no jumping, barking or overly excited behaviour that could unsettle or disrupt others. We recommend bringing along your dog’s favourite toy to keep them occupied and composed in the beginning of your time there.

4. Supervise and observe body language

While pet-friendly cafés are designed to be welcoming spaces for pets, this doesn’t mean that all animals will instinctively feel at ease with strangers around. Watch out for defensive or aggressive behaviours that could point towards shyness, nervousness or territorial tendencies. This could present in raised hackles, snapping, cowering—all the signs dog owners should know how to look out for. Give them space and prevent interaction until you’re sure they feel more comfortable.

5. Distribute your attention and keep it relaxed

We love dogs, and that makes it all the more difficult not to fawn over a pup you’ve met for the first time. But remember, your pooch has one best friend (up to that point anyway), and that’s you. Make sure to spare enough attention for them and show that they are your priority. And set an example for your dog; by keeping things stress-free and calm, your pup will better adjust to their new environment and make friends more easily. One way to do this is to offer treats or meals! This creates a positive association with meeting new dogs, which can help them perceive café outings as enjoyable and rewarding!

Two Bakers, Where Fun, Friendship and Food Come Together

There’s no shortage of things for locals and their fluffy friends to do in Singapore, but one of the newest activities up for grabs is visiting a pet-friendly establishment.

As a newly certified pet-friendly café, we at Two Bakers open our doors to pets, ensuring that our unique meeting ground offers endless fun, valuable friendships, and scrumptious food to make each weekend (or weekday, if you’re free) special. Drop by at 88 Horne Road, Singapore 209083 for a paw-some time with your furry companion! And treat your pup to the tastiest dog-friendly meals that you can ever find in Singapore.

How to Help Your Dog Make Friends, Pet-Friendly Café Edition