Excuse me, do you sell puppuccinos?

 Have you ever been on a dog walk and been hit with a sudden hankering for a coffee?

I'm sure it's happened to plenty of us, but how many places in your local area would allow your dog in for a treat as well?

Before I even adopted Clover I had dreams of taking my wee dog out on little dates for coffee and puppuccinos. I had NO idea however, just how difficult this venture would become.

You see, taking your dog out for a meal isn't usually as simple as a spur of the moment decision to go. Most places just now do not allow dogs for many reasons, and the ones that do are usually rather busy.

Here are Clover's top tips for going on a successful doggy date for food:

  1. PLAN AHEAD! It's really important you do your research on what venues allow furry friends and to book in advance where possible. There's nothing more disappointing than getting rejected from a place you really wanted to go! 
  2. Ensure the venue is suitable for YOUR dog. How much do you trust your dog? How well trained is your dog? Is your dog capable of sitting by your table for an hour or so without getting restless/barking? All good questions to ask yourself before taking your dog out to a public restaurant.
  3. Familiarise yourself with the venue's terms and conditions of brining your dog along, check their barking policy/maximum pet policy- this could make or break your experience. The last thing your dog wants to do is get you thrown out of your favourite coffee shop for barking at a wee granny!
  4. Expect and prepare to be seated outdoors. For many hospitality venues that welcome dogs, they will seat owners away from the general public so not to disrupt their experience. This sometimes means you will have to sit outside- so bring a warm weather proof coat!
  5. Think! Is this something my dog would enjoy? For a lot of dogs they are really happy as long as they are by their owner's side. However, dogs with a nervous disposition or an aggressive streak may not enjoy the company and noise of other people/dogs and might not enjoy their trip. In this case, it may be better to leave the pup at home!

Now some inspiration for you!

These are venues around the Glasgow area that we have been personally that made for a fantastic venue for the dog!

Gilmartin's Bakery, Stewarton:
Lovely little lunch date, Clover was allowed inside and could sit anywhere we wanted. Dog snacks available!

Powmill Milk Bar, Kinross
Handy pit stop on the way to St Andrew's, dog friendly section indoors and dog snacks available. 

And of course, Gro Coffee in Irvine/Ayr
Possibly the most dog friendly place we have EVER been. Dog items on the menu, seating anywhere inside or outside and the best atmosphere towards pets! Not to mention the most amazing coffee and it's right by the beach.



So there you have it!

Hopefully this post informs you well enough for preparing your dog for a wee day out! Having a good plan and an idea of where to go is key. But of course if you don't feel confident going into a cafe for a puppaccino, there's always the Starbucks drive thru! 




Be sure to leave any suggestions you have in the comments below- we really appreciate it! And if we go, we'll let you know!



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