How to attract dog owners to your bar: the ultimate guide for pet-friendly establishments

by Queens Barkery October 9, 2024

In today's competitive hospitality landscape, catering to dog owners can significantly boost your bar's appeal and customer base. With the rising trend of pet-friendly establishments, learning how to attract dog owners to your bar is not just a novelty—it's a smart business move. This guide will walk you through effective strategies to make your bar the go-to spot for patrons and their furry friends.

Why focus on dog-friendly services?

Before diving into the how-tos, let's understand the why:

Expanding customer base: Dog owners are a large and growing demographic.
Increased loyalty: Pet-friendly establishments often enjoy higher customer retention.
Social media buzz: Dog-friendly spaces are highly shareable, boosting your online presence.
Competitive edge: Standing out in a crowded market of bars and pubs.

Creating a dog-friendly atmosphere

Designate outdoor spaces:

Create a spacious patio area where dogs can comfortably accompany their owners.
Install secure leash posts to ensure safety.

Offer canine comforts:

Provide water bowls in various sizes.
Stock up on high-quality, branded dog biscuits for four-legged patrons.

Train your staff

Educate employees on dog-friendly policies and proper interaction with pets.
Ensure staff can handle both human and canine customers with ease.

Menu innovations for dog owners

Doggy menu:

Introduce a special menu featuring safe, dog-friendly treats.
Partner with local pet bakeries or dog food brands for unique offerings.

Human-canine shared plates:

Create appetisers that are safe for both humans and dogs to enjoy together.

"Yappy Hour" specials:

Offer discounts on drinks for dog owners during specific hours.
Include complimentary dog biscuits with human drink purchases.

Marketing your dog-friendly bar

Social media campaigns:

Use hashtags like #DogFriendlyBar #PawsAndPints
Encourage customers to share photos of their dogs at your bar.

Partner with local dog organisations:

Host events with local shelters or dog walking groups.
Sponsor local dog shows or pet-related charity events.

Optimise your online presence:

Update your website and Google My Business listing to highlight dog-friendly features.
Encourage and respond to reviews mentioning your pet-friendly atmosphere.

Hosting dog-centric events

"Bark & Brew" nights:

Organise monthly themed nights for dogs and their owners.

Dog birthday parties:

Offer special packages for celebrating canine birthdays.

Doggy speed dating:

Host events for single dog owners to mingle and connect.

Ensuring safety and compliance

Know local regulations:

Stay informed about health codes and local laws regarding animals in food service areas.

Implement clear policies:

Display rules for dog behaviour and owner responsibilities.
Have a plan for addressing any issues that may arise.

Maintain cleanliness

Implement rigorous cleaning protocols to ensure a hygienic environment for all guests.

Transforming your bar into a dog-friendly establishment opens up a world of opportunities. By implementing these strategies, you'll not only attract dog owners but also create a unique, memorable experience that keeps both human and canine customers coming back for more. Remember, the key to success is creating an inclusive, safe, and fun environment where everyone—on two legs or four—feels welcome.

Start your journey to becoming the town’s favourite dog-friendly bar today, and watch your business grow one wagging tail at a time!