Dogs in pubs:  Is it ok to take your dog to the pub? 

As a nation of dog lovers, it’s no surprise that many of us want our four-legged friends to join us everywhere — even for a cheeky pint at the local. According to the Kennel Club’s research, 98% of dog-friendly pubs believe four-legged customers improve business. But is it really in your dog’s best interest? And what about the people around you? Before you clip on the lead and head out for a pint, here’s what you need to know about the do’s, don’ts, and doggy considerations of pub visits.

Are Dogs Legally Allowed in Pubs?

From a legal standpoint, you can take your dog into a pub, but the proprietors do retain the right to refuse you and your dog.  The law only prohibits dogs in food preparation areas.  That means the kitchen is off-limits, but dogs can be in the bar or dining areas if the pub owner permits it. Service dogs are the exceptions and are legally allowed into pubs regardless of their policy. 

Common Issues with Dogs in Pubs

Unfortunately, not every dog (or owner!) is pub-ready. Problems often arise when dogs:

• Block staff walkways

• Bark or whine

• Approach other tables uninvited

• Beg or scavenge food from patrons

While you might think your dog is just being friendly, others may feel differently. As a nation of dog lovers, it is necessary to remember that some people are afraid—even petrified— of dogs.  Imagine if an exotic pet owner suddenly started taking their pet tarantulas or snakes with them for a pint!  Consideration must also be given to people with allergies. Some people may be enjoying their pub meal, a dog walks in, and their allergies start up—streaming nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing everywhere.  A most unpleasant experience for everyone!

What About the Dogs Themselves?

From the dog’s point of view, what enjoyment do they actually get from having their lead tethered to the leg of your chair, smelling tempting food aromas which they’re not allowed to partake in? Pubs are often noisy, sometimes playing loud music that our dogs dislike.  Some owners will go to the pub, spending three or four hours there, with their dog becoming increasingly bored and unhappy.  Wouldn’t your dog prefer a quiet night at home dreaming of chasing a ball rather than being subjected to a crowded, noisy, enclosed space, tethered by a lead?  The reality of taking your dog to the pub is that it depends on the dog, the type of pub, and the time of day you go.  It also requires a lot of time to train your dog in preparation for visiting these places.   

Training your dog to go to a pub takes a lot of time and patience before you even take them there.  You need to train a ‘settle’ (e.g. on a special mat). Train them to be happy to ‘settle’ under a chair or table so they are out of the way.  This all needs to be done thoughtfully so you don’t overwhelm your dog, allowing their confidence to grow gradually.  Many dogs don’t like other dogs getting too close or in their face, which can be difficult to avoid if another dog comes in and sits close to you.  Many establishments tend to have designated areas where you and your pooch are allowed to sit, and it can get a bit crowded.  Dog fights in pubs do happen—hardly a relaxing atmosphere for you or other patrons nearby, whose tables, drinks, and dinner plates may get knocked over!  So, the problem lies with the lack of preparation and training.   

Things to consider before taking your dog to a pub

• Is your dog good with other people? 

• Is your dog good with other dogs? 

• Does your dog have good food manners?  Or, will they swipe your dinner the moment your eyes are elsewhere? 

• Can they settle at home when asked, and for some duration?  A good assessment would be: Can your dog stay on their bed whilst you eat your dinner at the table?

Tips for a Successful Pub Visit with Your Dog

• Go when it’s quiet in the pub. 

• Find a quiet spot away from other people, children, dogs, and where the staff tend to walk through.   

• Be aware of how your dog is.  If they are anxious or cannot settle, then your dog isn’t ready or is getting bored, so time to leave.   

• Don’t allow too many people to greet your dog, as this could make them overexcited or anxious and difficult for them to settle. Instead, explain to people that your dog is in training, and ask them to ignore your dog instead. 

• Take treats with you, a comfortable mat or blanket, and reward your dog for calmly lying on their mat/blanket. Practise encouraging your dog to settle on this mat/blanket at home before taking them to the pub.

• Take introductions to the pub slowly, starting with short durations, and building up to being able to stay for a meal.   

• Taking a chew or puzzle feeder toy will help keep them busy for a while, and encourages them to build a positive association with the experience. However, be mindful if another dog comes nearby in case your dog feels the need to resource guard his/her food or toy!

• Know when your dog has had enough and wants to leave, by looking at body language for signs such as lip licking, panting, yawning, and getting restless.  Don’t forget to toilet your dog before you go into the establishment — you do not want the embarrassment of your dog lifting their leg on a table!