Can you make your dining reservations before your room reservations? I have my dates but haven't decided on my hotel so will I have a problem when I call?
As Bob P said, you can make your ADR's 180 days in advance. If you want to eat at a very popular restaurant it is important to do this.
You do not even need to stay on Disney property to make reservations, they are open to anyone.
Have a great Trip
You can make reservations without a hotel for sure....up to 180 days out. However, if you book your hotel first, you get an extra 10 days....190 days out.