Fast-Food Chains That Offer Freebies

You’re 4-legged furry friend also deserves a sweet treat on your next coffee stop. My husky loves the free Starbucks “Pup Cup” more than life itself. Turns out Starbucks isn’t the only big-name chain to have unofficial menu items for your dog. No app required. Just a polite ask and a cute face. Here’s where to score them (and how to avoid paying a dime).

Here’s what you can request for your pooch at these national chains:

Starbucks

As far as I’m concerned, Starbucks is the O.G. when it comes to these dog treats and secret menu items.

Ask for a “Pup Cup” (also called a “Puppuccino”), it’s basically a little espresso cup filled with whipped cream.

In the vast majority of locations it’s offered free of charge with a purchase. I’ve personally never been charged for one.

Dunkin’

I always ask for a pup cup, also known as a “Cup for Pup” when I’m grabbing coffee. Just say it at the end of your order.

Most of the time they hand over this tiny whipped cream cup for free, no questions. Sometimes they charge a quarter, usually they don’t.

One time they gave me two for no reason. One time my dog got a whole Munchkin. No idea what the rules are as it’s a secret menu item, I just politely ask and hope for the best. Lol.

Chick‑fil‑A

First off, this secret menu trick only works at the drive-thru as I’ve never seen someone get a treat for their dog inside.

For me, it typically works like this….some days they see my dog in the back seat and automatically hand me a little dog treat without me saying anything.

If I end up asking for a treat for my dog, I typically end up with a small cup filled with whipped cream. I’ve never been charged.

Other times I’ll ask, and they look at me like I’m crazy. I usually wait to see how the worker seems and if they’re chatty or friendly, I ask. If they’re slammed or seem grumpy, I just let it go.

There’s no official pup cup or dog treat policy across all Chick-fil-A stores, so it really comes down to who’s working and how friendly their feeling.

Dairy Queen

DQ is wild. Some of them know exactly what a pup cup is and they hand you this perfect little doggie sundae with a biscuit in it like they’ve done it a million times.

Other times I’ve found they just stare at you like you’re from Mars. Doesn’t stop me, I still ask every time. It’s not on their secret menu or anything so you just gotta ask and see what happens.

Sonic Drive-In

Sonic is funny because there’s no app button or anything. So I order like normal, then I push the red button and I’m like, “Hey do y’all do a pup cup or anything?” And they’re like, “Sure!” and then it’s either free or 30 cents or whatever.

My dog is already halfway out the window by the time they bring it. I don’t even care what it costs, he loses his mind over it.

See Also: Order Something From the Sonic Secret Menu Today

And a few places where YMMV…

Culver’s

Some Culver’s will hand you a little scoop of vanilla custard for your dog if you ask for a pup treat.

Other times they act like you’re trying to rob the place and there seems to be zero consistency.

I always ask though, why not, especially since my dog starts losing it the second we hit the drive-thru speaker. Worst case they say no and I just whistle on.

In-N-Out Burger

It’s pretty well known that you can order a “pup patty”  or “scooby snack” which is just a plain ol’ hamburger patty, no salt, no bun.

But be warned, some spots charge a buck, and rarely will you get it for free. Totally depends who’s working.

I’ve had people know exactly what it is and add it with a smile, and I’ve also had to explain it slowly while the person stares at me like I made it up. Either way, my dog inhales it in one bite and I feel like some sort of hero.

Shake Shack

Technically they’ve actually got dog treats on the menu (it’s no secret) and they’re called the Bag O’ Bones and it’s made by some fancy pet bakery.

But not every location has it, and even if they do, it’s like five bucks. Sometimes I’ll ask if they’ve got anything for dogs and the person will sneak me a biscuit. Other times it’s a hard “No”. But I ain’t proud so I always ask with a smile on my face.

Is Whipped Cream Safe for Dogs?

Whipped cream in these mini servings is generally safe for most dogs as long as it’s given in moderation and your pet has no lactose intolerance or dietary sensitivities.

Still, veterinarians recommend treating it as a rare indulgence. Overindulgence may contribute to digestive upset or weight gain. There, that’s my disclaimer.

Why Brands are Onboard With This…

Though “secret menus” started as underground internet trends, many chains now embrace them quietly, especially dog-friendly versions.

It’s pretty dang obvious that 4-legged perks like these can boost goodwill, social media buzz, and promote a pet-friendly image.

Ask the Reader: Have you tried any of these doggie secrets before, or visited a local location that didn’t offer them? Let me know what’s been your experience.

By Kyle James

I started Rather-Be-Shopping.com in 2000 and have become a consumer expert and advocate writing about out-of-the-box ways to save at stores like Amazon, Walmart, Target and Costco to name a few. I’ve been featured on FOX News, Good Morning America, and the NY Times talking about my savings tips. (Learn more)