In Paris, a growing number of dog-centric bakeries and cafes are catering to the city’s estimated 100,000 canine residents, offering specialized treats and social spaces designed for both dogs and their owners. One such establishment, Casa del Doggo, founded by 26-year-old Clara Zambuto, provides pet-friendly pastries alongside coffee, allowing dogs and their humans to enjoy shared outings in a city where pet-friendly venues remain limited.

Zambuto was inspired to open Casa del Doggo after adopting her Pomeranian, Hulk. Seeking to recreate the experience of a classic Parisian cafe visit but with accommodations for her dog, she recognized a gap in the market for accessible spots where pets can accompany their owners without boredom or restriction. The bakery’s menu features a range of canine treats, such as the five-euro “Le Merveilleux,” made from banana puree, cream cheese, apple, and beef, as well as heart-shaped options like the “Le Mignon,” which includes sweet potato, cream cheese, and blueberry. Zambuto emphasized the importance of avoiding ingredients harmful to dogs, including chocolate, avocado, grapes, and onions. Assisting in the kitchen is a trained pastry chef, who helps produce gourmet products tailored to canine dietary needs.

Veterinarian Lolita Sommaire, who specializes in canine and feline nutrition, stresses moderation in feeding such treats to avoid weight gain. “If they’ve been to a patisserie, you need to adjust their next meal, cut back a little, or get them doing more exercise,” she said, adding that occasional indulgences are generally manageable.

Another example of this trend is Le Bone Appart, a dog-first cafe opened by Rebecca Anhalt. The US-born entrepreneur launched the venue after receiving a fine for letting her whippet Napoleon off-leash in a park. Her goal was to create an environment where pet owners can relax without the stress of restrictions or reprimands. Le Bone Appart features a terrace where dogs can freely roam and enjoy canine-themed treats such as croissant- and baguette-shaped snacks priced around four euros.

Despite the existence of more than 40 off-leash dog areas in Paris, advocacy group Paris Condition Canine has criticized the parks for being insufficient, unevenly distributed, and sometimes poorly designed to meet dogs’ needs. The issue has even featured in local politics, with newly elected Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire showcasing his engagement with the dog-owning community on social media, while mayoral candidate Rachida Dati organized a dog-focused social event during the campaign.

For many pet owners like pharmacist Sarah Elgamal, visits to places like Casa del Doggo provide more than just treats; these outings strengthen the human-animal bond in a social setting outside of home or work. Others appreciate the social aspect of dog-friendly cafes. According to Anhalt, dogs serve as “really good connectors” among patrons, facilitating interaction among neighbors and newcomers alike. One regular, who visits daily with his 17-year-old dachshund, says the cafe has helped them become part of a community. “You’ll talk to anybody about your dog,” Anhalt noted, underscoring the central role of pets in forging social ties in Parisian life.