1. Understand the Opportunity

The market for dog-friendly venues in the UK is growing fast. Many dog owners seek cafés and restaurants where they can bring their pets — and businesses have seen clear benefits. A survey by The Kennel Club found that 71% of businesses gained new customers after introducing a dog-friendly policy, and half saw guests staying longer when dogs were present.  Recognising this opportunity is the first step.

2. Set Clear Dog-Friendly Policies

To run a successful dog-friendly café, you need clear, consistent policies. Consider the following:

• Specify whether dogs are allowed inside, on terraces, or both.

• Require dogs to be on leads and well behaved.

• Identify designated areas (e.g., specific tables, zones) to avoid conflicts with non-dog-owners.

• Review local health & safety regulations related to pets in food establishments.
  By making expectations clear, you reduce risk and improve comfort for all guests.

3. Provide Dog-Friendly Amenities

Small touches make a big difference. These show dog-owners they and their pets are truly welcome. Consider:

• Clean water bowls always available.

• Dog treats or a simple dog-menu.

• Comfortable space with enough room for dogs and their owners.

• Hard-wearing, easy-to-clean flooring in high-dog-traffic areas.
  Such amenities help transform dog-friendly from “we tolerate dogs” into “we welcome them as guests”.

4. Train Your Team & Manage Environment

Your staff should know how to welcome pets, manage the space, and maintain high standards. Key training and operational points:

• Teach staff how to greet dogs and owners respectfully.

• Have a protocol for cleaning up accidents and managing dog-related incidents.

• Arrange the layout to ensure dog-areas are safe and don’t interfere with service.

5. Promote Your Dog-Friendly Status

Once you’re set up, it’s vital to let people know you’re dog-friendly. Try:

• Highlighting it on your website, social media and in-store signage.

• Using branded dog bowls and dog-menu cards to visually signal your offering.

• Encouraging guests to share photos of their dogs in your café (which increases your reach).
  By leveraging this, your café becomes a destination for pet owners looking for dog-friendly spots.

6. Start With the Perfect Starter Box from Chef Woof

To elevate your dog-friendly offering right away, check out the starter box from Chef Woof. It includes custom dog bowls, mess-free odour-free treats and POS materials to communicate your welcoming stance to guests. You can view more details here: Trade Dog Treat Range.
With this starter kit, your café is ready to impress dog-owners from day one.