The dog-friendly pub after the walk
There is a particular joy in a muddy walk that ends with a warm pub, a dog flat out under the table and good company. It is very British, and we think very much worth planning for.
Ask any of us what makes a good walk and a pub will come up within about five minutes. Not for everyone, and not every time, but a drink or a cup of tea at the end is how plenty of walking groups turn into proper friendships.
As a small team of dog owners, we have all fallen asleep on a pub bench with a Labrador across our feet. This is our guide to doing it well, so you, your dog and the other customers all go home happy.
Check before you go
Not every pub welcomes dogs, and those that do often have rules about which rooms or areas are open to them. Some allow dogs only in the bar, some only in the garden, and some have a separate dining area where dogs are not allowed.
A quick look at the pub's website or a phone call will tell you what to expect. We always do this before the walk, because it is far better than arriving with two wet spaniels and finding a sign on the door. If you are meeting new people, agree the pub together in your Packmates chat, so nobody is surprised.
Make it part of the plan
The best pub stops, in our experience, are the ones people have talked about beforehand. When you post a walk or agree the details with the organiser, you can mention a pub stop as part of the plan. That way everyone knows whether it is a quick half-hour or a proper Sunday lunch.
Remember that some people will not be able to stay, whether because of the dog, the time or the budget. Make it easy to say no, and never let a pub stop feel like an obligation. For us, the walk is the main event, and the pub is a bonus.
Keeping your dog settled
A pub is a busy place for a dog. There are new smells, dropped crisps, other dogs and people with plates. A tired dog copes far better, which is one more reason we always walk first.
Pub etiquette for dogs
- Keep your dog on a lead at all times, and keep it short around tables and walkways.
- Keep four paws on the floor. Dogs should stay off the seats and the tables.
- Bring a bowl and fresh water so your dog does not need to drink from the pub floor.
- Bring a towel for muddy paws, and perhaps a blanket for your dog to settle on.
- Ask the staff before letting your dog sniff round the bar or the kitchen door.
- Pick up after your dog, indoors and out, and tell the staff straight away about any accidents.
Our tip is to choose a spot out of the main thoroughfare if you can, ideally somewhere your dog can tuck under the table. Corners are lovely, because staff and other guests are less likely to trip over a dozing dog.
Being a good guest
A dog-friendly pub is a favour as much as a facility, and we try never to forget it. The landlord and landlady are looking after everyone, including customers who are not dog people. The more calm and tidy we are, the longer pubs will keep saying yes.
- Do not feed your dog from your plate or from the table. It is untidy, and some human food can upset a dog.
- Be careful with anything dropped on the floor, because it can be harmful to dogs. Keep an eye out and clear it up quickly.
- Keep your dog away from children and other diners unless they are happy to say hello.
- If your dog is anxious or barky, step outside for a break rather than hoping it will pass.
- Leave the table as tidy as you found it, and say thank you to the staff.
Some dogs are happier at a pub garden table than inside, especially in cooler months when there are fewer people about. In warm weather, make sure there is shade and water, and read our advice on walking dogs in hot weather.
When the pub is not for your dog
Some dogs just do not like it. Nervous dogs, reactive dogs and very young puppies can find a crowded pub exhausting. That is absolutely fine, and we mean it. Your dog does not have to enjoy everything, and a friend who understands is far more important than a perfect pub photo.
If your dog is on a Needs space walk or a Senior / slow one, say so, and suggest a quieter alternative, such as a bench, a flask of tea in the car park or a short sit by the path. There are plenty of ways to end a walk well, and we have tried most of them.
Agree it in advance
Mention the pub idea when you chat to the organiser or the others, and check everyone is happy with it.
Check it welcomes dogs
Look at the pub website or ring ahead, and find out where the dogs are allowed to sit.
Finish the walk first
A tired dog is a settled dog. Walk, then stop, rather than the other way round.
Settle and enjoy
Find a quiet spot, offer your dog water, and let them lie down. A chew from your pocket can help, if your dog likes them.
Leave on a high
Head home before anyone gets restless. Short and sweet is a good way to end.
Many walking friendships begin at the pub table, ours included, which makes a good case for the post-walk drink. If you are heading out with new people for the first time, our guide to your first Packmates walk is a handy read.
Cheers
A walk, a drink and a dozing dog is hard to beat. If you would like to find company for your own, we would love you to take a look at walks near you or join the beta. Just check the pub welcomes dogs first, and remember: leads on, paws off the seats, and bring the water.
