98% of publicans whose premises allow dogs say furry friends are good for pub business.

A country walk and a drink in the pub accompanied by a muddy dog is heaven if you’re a dog lover. And with 98% dog-friendly pubs believing four-legged customers improve business, the Kennel Club says other publicans should get in on the act.

The figures have been released by the Kennel Club to mark Be Dog Friendly Week, aiming to encourage more businesses to trial a dog-friendly policy, in a bid to combat the spiralling rate of pub closures.

As well as boosting profits, 82% of 251 pub managers noticed a rise in social interaction between guests when dogs were on the site, with more than three-quarters (79%) of publicans questioned attributing an improved overall atmosphere to the presence of furry friends.

So why the reluctance?

Some pub owners wrongly thought dogs wouldn’t be allowed on health and safety grounds. 76% of pub, cafe and restaurant managers thought health regulations meant animals could not enter their venue, apart from guide dogs. However, that is a common misconception.

Dogs are only banned from food preparation areas, but are allowed to access everywhere else – including where food is served – at the management’s discretion.

Of the businesses that are not currently dog-friendly, 73% questioned said they would consider changing their policy if owners could prove their pets were well-trained.

National chairman of Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), Colin Valentine, welcomed the research as a measure which might help publicans remain in business, but said there was “no simple solution to solving Britain’s pub crisis”. “Pubs play a vital part in many people’s lives, providing a place to meet and socialise and feel part of their community”, he said. “It therefore makes sense that in many cases a dog-friendly policy will help attract footfall to a local, particularly when paired with some great walking routes nearby.”

Contact the team at Lockyers to discuss insurance for your pub, we’re here to help.