How to Make Your Pub Dog-friendly

As the proud owner of a pub, you understand the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere where customers can relax and socialise. But what if we told you that by embracing our four-legged friends, you could enhance the charm and appeal of your establishment? That’s right – making your pub dog-friendly can attract a whole new demographic of loyal customers while fostering a warm and inviting ambiance. In this guide, we have put together some tips on how to make your pub dog-friendly.

Is your Pub Dog-friendly?

1. Know the Rules: Before opening your doors to canine companions, familiarise yourself with local regulations and health codes regarding pets in food service establishments. Compliance with these guidelines is essential to ensure a safe and hygienic environment for all customers.

2. Designate Dog-Friendly Areas: Create designated areas within your pub where dogs are welcome. This could include outdoor seating areas, spacious patios, or cosy corners indoors. Clearly mark these areas with signage to inform patrons of your dog-friendly policy.

3. Provide Water and Treats: Keep a bowl of fresh water readily available for thirsty pups, especially during warmer months. Consider offering dog-friendly treats or snacks for sale at the bar, or even complimentary treats for furry visitors to enjoy.

4. Offer Dog-Friendly Amenities: Enhance the comfort of canine guests by providing amenities such as dog beds, blankets, or even toys to keep them entertained while their owners relax and socialise. This is especially important for pubs with accommodation – be sure to include a dog bed in the designated dog-friendly bedrooms. Some pubs go the extra mile by offering doggy menu options or hosting special events for dogs and their owners.

5. Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean and sanitise designated dog-friendly areas to ensure a hygienic environment for all customers. Provide waste disposal stations equipped with bags for dog owners to clean up after their pets promptly.

6. Train Staff: Educate your staff on how to interact with dogs and their owners in a friendly and respectful manner. Encourage them to offer water and treats to visiting dogs and to be attentive to their needs while maintaining professionalism and cleanliness.

7. Promote Your Dog-Friendly Policy: Spread the word about your pub’s dog-friendly policy through social media, signage, and word-of-mouth marketing. Engage with local dog owners and pet communities to attract their attention and encourage them to visit with their furry companions.

8. Host Dog-Friendly Events: Organize special events or themed nights specifically for dog owners and their pets. This could include doggy happy hours, dog costume contests, or fundraising events for local animal charities. Such events can create a buzz and attract a loyal following of dog-loving customers.

9. Create a Welcoming Atmosphere: Above all, strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Encourage interaction between dog owners and foster a sense of community within your pub.

10. Seek Feedback and Adapt: Continuously seek feedback from customers, both with and without dogs, about their experiences at your pub. Use this feedback to make improvements and adjustments to your dog-friendly policy as needed, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective.

By following these tips, you can transform your pub into a beloved destination for dog owners and their furry companions alike. Embracing dogs not only expands your customer base but also adds an extra layer of warmth and charm to your establishment.

If you enjoyed this article, you may like to read Discovering the Best Dog-Friendly Pubs in the UK.