Last updated on January 12th, 2024 at 12:55 pm

Does Golden Corral Allow Dogs Inside? Is Golden Corral Pet Friendly? Pet Policy 2024 Guide

Does Golden Corral Allow Dogs? Short answer: Golden Corral allows service animals inside, while emotional support animals and pet dogs are only allowed on designated outdoor patios and terraces.

This allows Golden Corral to comply with FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulations while also allowing customers to bring their dogs with them on their visit.

The abundant selection of food at Golden Corral makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a wide variety of meal options that cater to different dietary needs. Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, vegan, or simply general healthy eating plan, you’ll find something delicious and satisfying at Golden Corral.

Does Golden Corral Allow Dogs Inside?

Do you think can you take your dog into a Golden Corral restaurant? Does Golden Corral Allow Dogs Inside? In a nutshell, you are not allowed to bring your pet dogs into Golden Corral Restaurant. Only service animals are permitted on the premises, and you can bring your pet dog outside to the restaurant’s patios and terraces.

Discover all that Golden Corral has to offer, from loyalty programs such as “Golden Corral Rewards” and “Good as Gold Club” to our pets-welcome policy. Plus, learn how you can get a free visit to Golden Corral on your birthday! Planning your next visit is easy!

Is Golden Corral dog-friendly?

Golden Corral is most of the time dog-friendly. Non-service dogs are allowed on outdoor patios and terraces at Golden Corral. Water dishes are generally available for them. In contrast, service dogs are also allowed inside Golden Corral restaurants. 

It’s vital to keep in mind that no animals, including service pets, are permitted to drink or eat from utensils not made specifically for that purpose.

There are currently a slew of customer testimonies on social media from customers of this buffet restaurant. Customers in two different categories submitted these evaluations: some from service dog owners, and others from people who have seen other people bring their visibly non-service dogs to the eatery.

Here’s a look at some of that feedback from the Internet:

1. One of Golden Corral customers from Georgia writes about how other customers bring their pet dogs into the restaurant and refuse to take them out even after being warned by staff:

” I very seldom eat at buffetts but as we were in Jax decided to stop here. Very crowded! It was a Sunday. The people behind us in line had a Pomerian dog on a leash (NOT a service dog) I asked the cashier if dogs were allowed and pointed out the dog.

She informed them dogs were not allowed. They do not take dog out. Another person manager? told them they still didn’t take dog out. I had gone to find a seat and hubby said they still had dog. In fact they were seated a booth away from us, along with their dog!

I thought they had taken it out or I would have gone to manager. I think it was very rude and inconsiderate of them. I mean the rules don’t apply to you! duh! I would not blinked twice if it had been a service dog. Also my steak was so salty tough and flavorless, I could not eat it. We won’t be back there.

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserReviews-g60805-d397029-r339734275-Golden_Corral-Jacksonville_Florida.html#

2. Another customer of the restaurant chain is outraged that one dog owner brought their animal into the restaurant and carried it over the buffet:

“If I could give 0 stars I would. I understand service dogs are allowed in establishments but how in the hell do someone think it’s acceptable to carry your dog in your arms and be at the buffet.. spoke to a manager and she was lost and confused as to how to handle. We left needless to say”

3. One dissatisfied client writes: 

” I have a problem with dogs in a restaurant…I understand certain people have to have them. But this particular dog did not have the traditional vest that indicates it was a service dog, so this is VERY questionable…how is this hygienic?

Dog jumps on his table to request a sample…he handles the dog with his hands then handles the utensils on the buffet…can there be a special room for pets so that we can co exist? I’m just not comfortable eating next to a dog in a restaurant setting.

I didn’t enjoy my visit, thinking about all the possibilities: fleas, flying hair, accident on carpet etc etc etc.”

https://www.complaintsboard.com/golden-corral-supposedly-a-service-dog-c937409

4. Yet another dissatisfied client review. The owner of a professional dog:

” Today I took my service dog Taki, my wife, and a friend who’s a military veteran with his service dog to the Golden corral. Almost from the time we arrived, the managerial staff was either harassing us about the dogs or standing behind the glass service counter watching us at our table.

It seemed every time I got up from the table and left my service dog in the care of my wife and my friend the management staff would come to the table with some new issues. Apparently I’m not allowed to give my service dog water from my cup. Apparently I’m not allowed to give them something that I’m eating.

Now mind you they are fully trained, remained under the table and made no noise. They are both service dogs for PTSD, and as such are very laid back. The third management trip to the table, we decided to leave. I did ask for a refund and the site refused, the general manager was unwilling to do anything to resolve the confrontation that happened at the restaurant.

Needless to say, I won’t be spending any of my money at Golden corral again and I learned a valuable $50 lesson. I’ve been with my dog in hundreds of restaurants and out of them have only had three bad experiences this being one of them. I do however want to put it out there that if you have a medium to large size service dog I would recognize you not visiting Golden corral in Ocala.

As far as the food, the shrimp and fish was great what I got to eat of it before the staff made it unbearable. The site uses abused plastic plates and cup, which were unpleasant, but like I said the food is edible.”

As can be seen, people frequently transport even non-service dogs into Golden Corral restaurants, which is a lawful cause of grievance for other patrons of the chain. Then again, employees at certain Golden Corral restaurants in the network may create substantial and unwarranted difficulties for service dog owners.

The easiest approach to ensure that your dog is allowed to go with you to Golden Corral is to call ahead and inquire about the policy on dogs on outdoor patios. As far as we can tell, most Golden Corral restaurants will be delighted to welcome dogs if they are well-behaved. Remember that only service animals are permitted inside the restaurant itself; other dogs must remain outside.

Regardless of whether you have a regular dog, an emotional support animal, or a service animal-or no pet at all-it’s always useful to know your rights and responsibilities when dining out.

Stay in the loop with us and we’ll keep you updated on all places that allow your furry friend:

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What Is the Official Golden Corral Dog Policy

Golden Corral does not have an official policy regarding pets, but there are rules set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that prohibit animals from being present in areas where food is prepared and served. Therefore, even well-behaved common household pets are not allowed in restaurants.

However, service dogs are always permitted since Golden Corral follows state law on Americans with Limited Abilities (ADA). Service dogs are allowed in both covered and uncovered eating areas according to the Law for Americans with Limited Capabilities (ADA).

Owners of non-service dogs (such as pet dogs, and emotional support dogs) may still bring their furry friends into the restaurant. However, they can only dine on the restaurant’s outdoor terraces and patios.

Does Golden Corral Dog Policy Vary By Location?

The dog policy in Golden Corral restaurants vary from place to place. In some locations, dog owners are allowed to bring their pets onto the outdoor patio area, while in others they are not. Most Golden Corral restaurants allow guests to bring their dogs into the outdoor patio on a leash.

Since Golden Corral restaurants operate via franchising in many cities, the decision lies with the manager of each establishment. At Golden Corral, service animals are always welcome.

To summarize, it is important to call ahead before bringing your dog to Golden Corral, as this will help you understand the local restaurant’s policies regarding pets. Be aware that some restaurants may not allow pet dogs at all, so it is important to check with the establishment in advance.

Which restaurants allow dogs? You may be surprised by the answer:

Is Hard Rock Cafe Pet Friendly? Pet Policy Guide

Does Chipotle Allow Dogs Inside?

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What states allow dogs on outdoor patios?

A total of seventeen states in the US allow you to bring your dog with you onto restaurant patios as long as the animal is behaving appropriately and does not disturb other customers. Whether you are relaxing with a meal on a sunny day or just taking a quick break from shopping, this policy ensures that both you and your pet can enjoy the outdoors together.

The following 17 states in the United States allow non-service dogs on outdoor and restaurant patio: California, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Oklahoma and South Carolina.

Golden Corral Rules for Dogs on Outdoor Patios

To follow the rules for keeping pets on Golden Corral’s outdoor patios and terraces, your dog must be well-behaved at all times. This means it must be leashed and you must clean up any mess it makes, as well as ensuring that it does not lie or stand on furniture.

Additionally, you should not feed or drink from utensils intended for humans, and refrain from allowing your pet to bark, jump, or run around others.

Finally, it is important to remember that while many people enjoy having animals at restaurants like Golden Corral, not everyone feels the same way. Therefore, it is crucial to respect others’ preferences when bringing your pet along for a meal.

If you follow these simple guidelines, both you and your pet may enjoy your time there!

Pet Dogs’ Rules at Golden Corral

Rule for Pet Dogs	Description
Location	Only allowed on designated outdoor patios and terraces.
Leash Requirement	Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Clean-Up Responsibility	Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.
Indoor Access	Not allowed inside the restaurant; restricted to outdoor areas.
Behavior Expectations	Dogs should be well-behaved and not disturb other patrons.
Food and Utensils	Dogs are not allowed to eat or drink from utensils intended for humans.

Does Golden Corral have a menu for dogs? 

Overall, it is unlikely that you will be able to feed your dog food from the Golden Corral buffet, as this restaurant does not have a special menu for dogs and does not allow people to pick up food from the buffet and give it to their pets.

However, you may be able to get permission from the staff to feed your dog some of the suitable foods that are available at this restaurant, such as small pieces of meat or vegetables.

What Can Dogs Eat at Golden Corral?

If you’re looking for a healthier and more palatable option for your dog than fast food restaurants, Golden Corral is a great choice. The meal can be customized to meet your pet’s specific dietary needs, and it features high-quality ingredients like beef or turkey that are less processed than many of the fillings found at other fast food chains.

However, you should avoid including onions and peppers in your dog’s meal, as these ingredients may upset their stomachs. Additionally, before feeding your pet any table scraps or human food, it’s important to consult with your vet first to ensure that their diet is tailored to their individual needs.

The Golden Corral Loyalty Program

Golden Corral has two loyalty programs called “Golden Corral Rewards” and “Good as Gold Club.” “Golden Corral Rewards” offers clients a compensation for their purchases. Clients earn one point for each dollar spent and may trade their points for discounts on future orders.

You will earn 1 point for every dollar spent on qualified purchases. Once you have earned 100 points, you will receive a $10 discount. It is necessary to download the application from the Apple App Store or Google Play, after which you must search for “Golden Corral.”

All Golden Corral restaurants in the United States and Punta Gorda, Florida are part of Golden Corral Rewards, with the exception of Punta Gorda.

What makes “Golden Corral Rewards” different from the electronic “Good as Gold club”?

Members of “Good as Gold Club” will receive an exclusive birthday offer in addition to continuing receiving offers and news from Golden Corral. Guests registered in the “Golden Corral Rewards” program will still get offers and news about Golden Corral, but now they’ll also be rewarded for their meals with Golden Corral.

Can you get a free gift on your birthday at Golden Corral?

The program “Birthday” is now exclusively available to the postal service “Good As Gold”. If you’re already a member of “Good As Gold Club”, you’ll get an email marking your birthday.

What is the difference between rewards and offers?

Rewards are given for accumulated points which can be used separately or saved up and combined for special occasions. They will be valid for 365 days.

The offers are more like coupons in that they may be provided when certain conditions are met or simply as a bonus. Offers are only valid for a limited time and cannot be combined with other offers or rewards.

Are All Service Animals Allowed In Golden Corral? What Are The Service Dog Rules At  Golden Corral?

Service dogs have been trained to help people with disabilities and are allowed in all parts of Golden Corral restaurant, both inside and out. They must always be kept on a leash or under some form of control. Golden Corral staff may ask you to remove your service dog from the premises if it is causing problems.

Service Dogs’ Rules At Golden Corral

Service Dog Rules	Description
Leash or Control	Must be kept on a leash or under control at all times.
Behavior	Should be well-behaved and not disrupt other patrons.
No Food or Utensils	Not allowed to eat or drink from utensils meant for humans.
Cleanliness	Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their service dogs.
Premises Access	Permitted to enter all areas, including indoor and outdoor spaces.
Disturbance Management	May be asked to leave if causing disturbances or safety concerns.
Service Animal Status	Must be a trained service dog for individuals with disabilities.

These rules ensure a positive and safe experience for all customers while accommodating individuals with disabilities and their service animals.

Are Emotional Support Dogs Allowed In Golden Corral?

While emotional support animals soothe and calm those with mental disorders, they are not technically service animals according to the ADA. Thus, Golden Corral can deny entry to you and your animal friend. However, no need to worry! You both can still enjoy a meal together outside the restaurant.

Emotional Support Dogs’ Rules At Golden Corral

Rule	Description
Entrance Permission	Emotional Support Dogs (ESDs) are not automatically allowed entry; permission must be obtained from the establishment.
Outdoor Areas Only	ESDs are typically restricted to outdoor areas, such as patios and terraces, and are not permitted inside the main premises.
Leash Requirement	ESDs must be kept on a leash or under control of the owner at all times to ensure the safety and comfort of other patrons.
Owner’s Responsibility	Owners are responsible for any mess or disruption caused by their ESDs and should promptly clean up after them to maintain a clean and pleasant environment.
Behavioral Guidelines	ESDs should exhibit well-behaved behavior, avoiding barking, jumping, or any activities that may disturb other customers.
Food and Utensil Restrictions	ESDs are not allowed to eat or drink from utensils meant for humans. Special arrangements, if needed, should be discussed with the restaurant staff in advance.
Compliance with Regulations	Owners must comply with local, state, and federal regulations governing the presence of ESDs in public places, ensuring a harmonious experience for all patrons.
Advance Inquiry Advised	It is recommended to inquire with the establishment beforehand about their specific rules and policies regarding Emotional Support Dogs.

Note: The rules for Emotional Support Dogs may vary by establishment, and it is crucial for owners to communicate with the venue and adhere to their guidelines to create a positive experience for everyone.

Golden Corral Pet Policy (Table)

Type of Dogs	Allowed Inside	Allowed on Outdoor Patios	Notes
Pet Dogs	No	Yes	Allowed only on designated outdoor patios and terraces. Owners responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.
Service Dogs	Yes	Yes	Allowed inside and on outdoor patios. Must be well-behaved and under control.
Emotional Support Dogs	No	Yes	Allowed only on designated outdoor patios and terraces. Owners responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.

Why Does Golden Corral Have a No-Pets Policy?

No pets are allowed in Golden Corral restaurants for several reasons. First, this helps the organization comply with federal and state laws, as well as FDA (Food & Drug Administration) and ADA (The Americans with Disabilities Act) rules.

Pets are not permitted in food preparation spaces because they might contaminate the food – which could make customers sick. They may also freak out customers who have allergies or phobias.

In addition, having a no-pets policy allows Golden Corral to provide an enjoyable atmosphere for all of its customers by reduces potential risks related to animals.

What are the deals at Golden Corral restaurants?

Golden Corral is a buffet-style restaurant chain that offers a wide variety of menu items, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Special deals at Golden Corral may vary by location and time of year, but here are some examples of deals that are often available:

• Breakfast deals: Golden Corral may offer discounted prices on breakfast items during certain hours of the day.
• Senior discounts: Golden Corral offers a senior discount for customers who are 60 years or older.
• Military discounts: Golden Corral offers a military discount for active duty and retired military personnel.
• Kids eat free: Golden Corral may offer a “Kids Night” promotion where kids can eat for free with the purchase of an adult meal.
• Holiday specials: Golden Corral may offer special menus or promotions for holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
• Promotions: Golden Corral may run promotions for limited time periods, such as a discount on a specific menu item or a free dessert with purchase.

It’s always a good idea to check with your local Golden Corral or visit their website to see what deals are currently available.

FAQ

Are  Golden Corral safe for dogs? What can my dog eat at  Golden Corral?

Golden Corral is a great place for dog owners to take their pets, as they offer chicken and meat that are safe for dogs to consume. However, onions, garlic, and spices should not be given to dogs as they can cause them harm.

Can I take my dog to Golden Corral to pick up my order?

You’re allowed to bring your dog with you when you pick up your order at Golden Corral, as long as they don’t go inside the restaurant. Only service animals are allowed in Golden Corral restaurants and they must be kept under their owner’s control at all times.

Can I take my dog in Golden Corral?

At Golden Corral understand that customers’ dogs are part of the family. That’s why Golden Corral allow them on patios, so they can enjoy a meal with their owners. However, for the safety and comfort of all guests, Golden Corral do not permit dogs inside the restaurant. They can be a distraction to other customers, cause allergies or medical issues, and present a safety risk if they’re loose in the restaurant.

Can I bring small dogs to Golden Corral?

According to the FDA and state legislation, only service dogs are allowed inside Golden Corral restaurants. However, small dogs are allowed on the patio area.

Conclusion. Are Dogs Allowed In Golden Corral?

If you are looking for a pet-friendly restaurant, Golden Corral is a great option. This chain allows dogs on their outdoor patio at most locations, though they must remain on a leash and you will be responsible for cleaning up any messes that your dog makes.

Dogs are not allowed inside the restaurant, except in cases where they are service animals. To keep your dog comfortable while dining at Golden Corral, you may want to avoid ordering foods that contain onions or peppers, as these ingredients can upset a dog’s stomach.