09/09/2026
Letās talk about dogs at markets!
Most outdoor markets welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs, but you should check your marketās rules and consider how your petās presence may impact other customers. Here are some tips to ensure your market is a safe, comfortable environment for everyone:
š¦®Remember that service dogs are on the clock, and should be left alone to do their job!
š¾Short leashes keep your pooch close to you, and out from under other shoppersā feet or vendorsā coolers.
š©Barking or fighting with other dogs make shoppers feel unsafe and make vendorsā jobs more difficult.
š¾If human kids are part of your group, take the time to teach them dog manners! Kids should not approach strange dogs, and dogs should never be teased.
š¶Understand that in some cultures, dogs are predators, not pets, and the presence of dogs in othersā personal space can be another barrier to some Mainers attending markets.
š½Dogs who āmarkā should stay home. Urine on vendorās totes, tables, and goods is NOT OK.
šJust like with strollers or carts, if youāre stopping to chat with a friend or arrange your bags, take an extra second to move out of the main walkway with your dog so that others can keep shopping.
š¦“If youāll be holding the leash while going through the checkout line, consider practicing with your dog to sit and stay while you pay for and gather your produce. Then your dog wonāt be tripping other shoppers!
šAs with in any public space, remember that just because your dog is friendly does not mean the person or pet your dog is approaching wants to be approached.
Thanks for keeping Maine farmersā markets a welcoming, safe place for all shoppers!