1. Make Sure Your Dog Actually Wants to Be There
For many dogs, crowded patios packed with strangers, kids, and other dogs are an acquired taste. (Kind of like a strong IPA for us humans!) Some dogs can absolutely become brewery dogs with a slow introduction. Try visiting during off-hours instead of a busy Friday night, and and hang out near the edge of the patio where they can take everything in without feeling overwhelmed.
Unfortunately, there are plenty of dogs out there that will never love this, and you’ll do your dog a solid by accepting this. A brewery outing should be fun for your dog, not just for you. If your dog is stressed or overstimulated, they might be happier relaxing at home.
2. Practice Good Dog-on-Dog Manners
Your dog doesn't need to greet every person or dog that walks by. Even if your dog loves meeting new dogs, this isn’t a dog park, and a brewery isn’t the place for dogs to wrestle. You can politely ask another friendly-looking dog if the dogs can say hi, but know that many folks prefer that their dog doesn’t interact with other dogs on leash in a crowded place. Lastly, always keeping your dogs close, calm, and out of walkways helps everyone enjoy the space including the folks balancing flights of beer.
Check out our Art of Doing Nothing blog post for training tips to help your dog remain zen in the face of distraction and stimulation.
3. Come Prepared
Bring the essentials: water, a bowl, poop bags, treats, and a leash that keeps your dog close without becoming a trip hazard. Some dogs (who don’t resource guard) enjoy gnawing on a bone at your feet. Wilderdog pro tip: our Sleeping Bag is key for a portable ‘place’ they know is theirs to settle down on.
4. Exercise First, Brewery Second
A long walk, hike, swim, or game of fetch before heading to the brewery can make all the difference. Tired dogs are more likely to settle at your feet and enjoy the outing. Just make sure they’re not too gross from the adventure when they arrive at the brewery!
5. Know When It's Time to Go
Even the best brewery dogs have their limits. If your dog starts pacing, whining, barking, or looking overstimulated, it's probably time to wrap things up. Ending on a positive note helps ensure they'll enjoy the next brewery visit too.
Closing thought: Well-behaved brewery dog helps keep breweries dog-friendly. A little preparation and awareness go a long way toward making sure everyone - dogs, humans, and brewery staff - has a great time. 🐾🍻
