Bringing your dog to the pub: how to make it a good visit for everyone

A pub with a dog asleep under the table feels like a proper pub. That’s why The Owlet’s Bar is dog friendly, and why so many of the people who walk the hills around New Mills finish their day with us. If you’ve not taken your dog to a pub before, or you’ve got a youngster who is still learning the ropes, here are a few things that help.

Before you come in

A tired dog is a calm dog. If you can, come in after the walk rather than before it. Ten minutes of sniffing about outside also takes the edge off a dog that gets excited by new places.

Give muddy paws a quick wipe if you can, and keep a towel in the car. Nobody minds a bit of mud at a country pub, but it makes life easier for you when it’s time to sit down.

Once you’re inside

• Keep the lead on. Even the friendliest dog can get in someone’s way at a busy bar, and not every visitor is a dog person.
• Pick your spot. A table by the wall or in a corner gives your dog somewhere to settle out of the way of feet and trays.
• Bring something to lie on. A small blanket or mat tells your dog this is their place, and they settle much faster.
• Have water handy. Especially after a long walk on a warm day. Just ask at the bar.

Reading your dog

Pubs are full of new smells, noises and people. Most dogs take it in their stride, but watch for the signs that yours has had enough: pacing, panting when it isn’t hot, whining or trying to hide. If that happens, a few minutes outside or in the beer garden usually does the trick.

Quiz nights and live music nights are louder and busier than an afternoon. If your dog is new to pubs, start with a quieter time and build up.

Other dogs

You may not be the only dog in. Let them say hello if both owners are happy, and keep them apart if not. A short lead makes it easy.

The beer garden

When the weather is kind, the beer garden at our New Mills bar is a lovely spot to sit with a dog. There’s more room, fresh air and space for them to stretch out.

That’s really all there is to it. Come in, find a seat, and let us pour you something while your dog has a well-earned rest. You’ll find our hours and directions on the Find us page.