Dog cafes are popping up all over Bali — promising coffee, cuddles, and cute Instagram moments. But not all of them are what they seem.
If you’re thinking about visiting a dog cafe in bali during your trip, it’s important to understand the difference between pet-friendly spaces and commercial dog cafes — and how to make an ethical, informed choice.
What Is a Dog Cafe, Exactly?
In theory, a dog cafe is a place where you can relax, have a drink, and spend time with friendly dogs. Some cafes allow guests to bring their own pets, while others provide dogs for visitors to interact with.
In practice, some of these businesses operate more like petting zoos — with dogs confined to indoor spaces, dressed up for photos, and passed around by tourists all day long. Many visitors assume they’re supporting animal welfare simply by showing up. But in reality, the welfare of the animals is often an afterthought.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
If you’re considering visiting a dog cafe in Bali, ask yourself:
- Are the dogs kept in small, concrete or tiled rooms with little space to rest or roam?
- Are puppies on display? (They may be too young to be vaccinated.)
- Are the dogs dressed in costumes or dyed for effect?
- Are they socialized and happy — or nervous, over-handled, and pacing?
- Is there any information about where the dogs came from, their health status, or who cares for them after hours?
If these questions go unanswered, it’s worth stepping back and reconsidering your visit.
The Health Risks Are Real
While these venues often sell a picture-perfect experience, they rarely disclose health and safety concerns. Overcrowding, stress, and poor sanitation can lead to the spread of disease — not just among animals, but to humans too.
This is especially worrying when puppies are involved. Many are not yet vaccinated for rabies, and in Bali, that’s not a minor issue. Learn more in our article on rabies in Bali.
Pet-Friendly Cafes vs. Commercial Dog Cafes
It’s important to draw a clear line between two very different types of spaces:
Pet-Friendly Cafes
These are welcoming venues where dog owners can bring their own pets. The animals are there voluntarily, with their people.
Dog Cafes (Commercial)
These venues provide dogs on-site — often owned or managed by the business — as part of the customer experience. The animals don’t leave at the end of the day. They’re there to perform.
While the former can be a lovely part of Bali’s café culture, the latter raises serious ethical concerns.
Looking for a More Meaningful Experience With Dogs in Bali?
At Mission Paws’ible’s Healing Centre, we do things differently.
Our centre is a safe, peaceful space for rescued dogs to heal and regain trust. Every dog in our care is:
- Vaccinated and fully vet-checked
- Socialised slowly and gently
- Given space, structure, and love — never forced interaction
- Part of a long-term mission to end animal suffering in Bali
Visitors are welcome by appointment. It’s a chance to meet real rescue dogs, learn about the work we do, and support ethical, compassionate animal tourism.
How to Be a Responsible Tourist
Before visiting any animal-based attraction — whether it’s a dog cafe, petting zoo, or wildlife sanctuary — take a moment to ask:
- Is this good for the animals, or just good for photos?
- Are the animals free to choose rest over interaction?
- Is the experience truly enriching for them — or just for me?
And if something doesn’t sit right with you, say no. You can also leave honest online reviews to help guide others toward more ethical options.
Connection Should Never Come at a Cost
We understand the desire to connect with animals — especially while travelling. But how we do that matters.
Choosing not to visit commercial dog cafes is one small but powerful way to stand up for animal welfare in Bali. Instead, support places that give dogs a future — not just a role in someone’s feed.
