Pet ownership in the UK surged during the global pandemic and has shown little sign of letting up, with a huge 62 per cent of homes in Britain having at least one pet as of 2022.
Dogs are the most popular pet, with over a third of households having a canine pal – equating to a total of around 13 million pups across the country.
With pet owners spending an estimated £10 billion every year on their dogs, it’s a massive growth industry that has now spread to the hopitality sector.
It’s now commonplace to see signs outside pubs, cafes and even restaurants welcoming dog owners – with some offering treats, blankets, bowls of water and even dog-friendly ‘beers’ and ‘coffees’ (puppuccino anyone?).
So, we thought we’d look at a few places to stop for a drink with your pup – whether it’s walkies in Leith, playing fetch in the Meadows, or a day out in Stockbridge.
Here are 13 of Edinburgh’s most dog-friendly pubs.
1. The Golf Tavern
Bruntsfield boozer the Golf Tavern is so dog-friendly that they even offer a canine menu and own-brewed doggy beer, Dr Barkington's Dog Grog. Photo: Google Maps
2. The Tynecastle Arms
There's always a water bowl behind the bar for your four-legged friend when you visit the Tynecastle Arms, in the shadow of the Hearts stadium. Photo: Google Maps
3. The Torfin
Well behaved dogs are welcome in Corstorphine's Torphin bar until 8pm - with towels, water and biscuits all provided. Photo: Google Maps
4. The Wally Dug
As the name suggests, the Wally Dug, on Northumberland Street, is welcoming to dogs and will lay on a bowl of water for your pet. Photo: Google Maps