Pubs encouraged to capitalise on dog walkers

30th January 2012, 11:16am

A survey from Best Dog Walks UK has found that 91% of dog owners visit pubs and two-thirds take their dogs along with them.

The survey asked dog walkers to reveal what factors influence their decisions to visit pubs with or without their pet pooch. 

Customers who don't take their dog to the pub said the overwhelming reason (67% of respondents) was that the pub in question does not accept dogs.
Significantly 70% of dog owners choose which pub to visit depending on whether the pub is dog friendly.

When asked what pubs can do to attract dog owners we had a variety of responses the most common of which was a clear sign from outside that a pub allows dogs; it seems many people are too embarrassed to ask and/or like to know beforehand.

Other recommendations include the provision of water bowls, dog treats to buy and designated dog friendly areas. Some more unusual requests include supplying dog beer, puppy crates and doggy dinners. 

Karen Lloyd of Bestdogwalksuk.com commented on the findings: "The results of the survey show that Pubs who welcome dogs can take a few simple steps to capitalize on their Dog Friendly status including clear signage and registering on dog friendly websites." 

Following the results Bestdogwalksuk.com has produced some "Dogs Welcome" window stickers for pubs. If you are a public house you can request one by emailing walkwithboomer@gmail.com

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