A brush of terrier fur against a patron’s open toes as she sips her morning coffee. A nudge from a rangy German shepherd beneath an outdoor table piled high with croissants. Paws scraping against the sidewalk in pursuit of dropped bits of omelet.

Until now, New York State health law has sought to spare restaurant-goers such minor indignities, which are regarded by many dog lovers as the pleasures of life among fellow devotees.

But as the weather turns warm and people begin choosing outdoor tables, the State Legislature is considering expanding the rights of dog owners, whom lawmakers describe as among their most vocal constituencies.

By a 60-0 vote on Wednesday, the State Senate approved a bill that lets food service establishments indulge four-legged guests, by allowing restaurants to welcome dogs (if accompanied by a diner) into their outdoor eating areas. The State Assembly is now reviewing its version of the same bill, and its sponsor is confident it will pass.