Branded logo bakes: from 50p a biscuit

The 'hound pound': Almost half of dog owners willing to spend more if a venue is pet-friendly, survey reveals

by Queens Barkery

A new survey has found that 49% of dog owners are willing to spend more at a hospitality establishment if it is pet-friendly - with one-in-four ready to spend at least 26% more, including those prepared to double their spending. The findings come as the UK experiences a surge in dog ownership, with the population now estimated at 13.5 million dogs in UK and a third of UK adults owning a dog.

Over 1,000 consumers were surveyed in the snap poll, which was carried out by custom-branded dog biscuit providers Queens of the Bone Age. The findings align with research from the University of Surrey, which projects the dog-friendly hospitality and tourism market to reach $50.1 billion by 2030.

Becca Gallagher, co-founder of Queens of the Bone Age, said: “Our survey results highlight the immense potential for businesses that embrace dog-friendly policies. With nearly half of dog owners willing to spend more at pet-welcoming venues, there's a clear opportunity for establishments to differentiate themselves and boost revenue.”

The pandemic accelerated the ‘hound pound’ trend, with many businesses adapting their services to cater to dog owners. In addition to bars, pubs, hotels and restaurants, offices have become pet-friendly, dog-walking and grooming services have flourished and there has been an increased demand for pet products.

Queens of the Bone Age recommends the following strategies for hospitality businesses looking to capitalise on the trend and attract dog owners:

  1. Create designated outdoor spaces with secure leash posts
  2. Offer canine comforts like water bowls and high-quality dog treats
  3. Train staff on dog-friendly policies and proper pet interaction
  4. Introduce special ‘Yappy Hour’ promotions or dog-centric events
  5. Use social media to showcase the dog-friendly atmosphere and encourage customer engagement

Becca added: "As a B2B-focused start-up, we're seeing first hand the growing demand for dog-friendly services. Our logo-branded treats offer businesses a unique way to connect with their canine customers and stand out in this competitive market."

Founded by sisters in 2021, Queens of the Bone Age offers treats starting from 50p per biscuit, making them an accessible option for various dog-friendly businesses, including pubs, bars, hotels and cafes. Their commitment to using natural, human-grade ingredients and plant-based recipes appeals to the growing number of eco-conscious pet owners.

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