You might’ve heard of the Dog-friendly Pub Awards. We launched the Awards because our recent survey of UK dog owners revealed the startling fact that although we Brits love quaffing a pint with our dog in tow, it’s not all that easy to find establishments that are truly dog-loving.
(1 in 3 dog owners report leaving a pub because it was not welcoming to their four footed friend).
When it comes to making dogs feel welcome in pubs, we reckon our friends at Snuffle Dog Beer – maker of beers specially for dogs – know a thing or two. That’s why we’re super excited they’re giving away a crate for each of our 12 regional winners, so doggy visitors can quench their thirst with a tasty bottled beverage!
We caught up with Snuffle top dog Tom De Nert to get the scoop on what makes his tail wag.
DogBuddy: What inspired you to make beer for dogs?
Tom De Nert: To be honest, it was the look in my dog Rover’s eyes when I popped into the pub after a long walk. We ordered a nice ice cold beer and started feeling really guilty about not having something for the dog. With Snuffle Dog Beer at least we are able to ‘share the moment’.
DB: Dogs can’t give verbal feedback to let you know if it’s too hoppy or bitter, so how do you do your testing?
TDN: At Snuffle, we don’t take ourselves too seriously so just wanted to have a bit of a fun. Our Dog Beer does not contain any hops, alcohol or carbonation, instead it contains minerals, vitamins and liquid which is really suitable for dogs nutrition. And because only the best is good enough for our best friends, Snuffle has been brewed in a proper Belgian brewery with ingredients that are also used in products for human consumption.
DB: How do you measure ‘customer’ satisfaction?
TDN: Before we started selling it in the UK, we went to a fantastic pub in the New Forest to try it out after a walk through the beautiful countryside. We gave some Snuffle Dog Beer to our friends’ dog Kai. After Kai finished it, I swear I could see him smile. That’s when I knew UK dogs would love Snuffle Dog Beer! And Kai recognises me, months later!
DB: You have Chicken and Beef flavours. What’s next for Snuffle Dog Beer?
TDN: We have some great ideas in the pipeline and have a team of highly creative dog enthusiasts. So watch this space!
DB: For the health conscious pup, how many calories are in a pint of Snuffle Beer?
TDN: Less than giving your dog a treat. Liquid refreshment is really effective. Like us humans, it’s really important that dogs rehydrate after a run in the park too! As mentioned before, Snuffle Dog Beer doesn’t contain hops, alcohol or carbonation. These three ingredients are not healthy for dogs. Rather than giving your pooch your last swig of Guinness, ask for a healthy alternative, a Snuffle Dog Beer, instead.
DB: What would be the perfect dog-friendly bar snack partner for a tipple of Snuffle?
TDN: Oh anything goes. There are loads of local, crafty people who make tasty treats that go perfectly with a Snuffle Dog Beer, like Harry’s Gourmet Treats.
DB: What do you do to promote responsible dog drinking?
There are guidelines on the bottles how much you can give your dog according to his/her size.
It’s a fact that dogs don’t drink enough as they only drink when they’re really thirsty. A well-hydrated dog will have a nice shiny coat. But as the saying goes, drink responsibly!
Thanks, Tom!
Don’t forget to vote for your favourite dog-friendly pub and help them win a crate of Snuffle dog beer as well as the enviable title of one of the UK’s best dog-friendly pubs! Plus you’ll be in with a chance to win a hamper of goodies for you and your dog to enjoy – worth more than £500!