Laughing Dog Coffee House on Monument and Broadway is an establishment that stays true to its name. The coffee shop, which has been open for a year and three months, displays a multitude of doggy odds and ends that give the quaint place an even more picturesque feel.

The self-described “locally-owned meeting place,” is open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily and has plenty of eclectic second-hand vintage tables and chairs that people can reserve in advance for meetings or study groups. If a meeting goes a little later than business hours, people are welcome to stay as long as they don’t need a barista. Laughing Dog Coffee House also features local art in the form of tote bags with pictures of dogs. The proceeds go to CLAWS Rescue and Adoption Center, while it also donates dog biscuits to the Roice Hurst Humane Society.

Along with coffee and tea, Laughing Dog Coffee House serves smoothies, Italian sodas, daily items like fresh fruit and a variety of pastries, including several gluten-free options.

It’s generally never too busy, with plenty of seating options and a drive-thru for those who are on the run. The indoor ambiance is mellow with songs like “Free Fallin’” and “Mary Jane’s Last Dance” to set the mood for relaxed conversation or studying.

CMU students should be aware that as great as Laughing Dog Coffee House is, it is not close to school and a bit out of the way. However, its quality coffee and comfortable atmosphere make it worth the ten-minute drive from campus.

★★★★☆

arildefonso@mavs.coloradomesa.edu