While City Brew Tours Austin can’t accommodate pets on our tours, we’re always excited to share the best dog-friendly spots with you and talk about our own favorite fuzz-balls. So, leash up, head out, and enjoy a local craft beer with your best friend today!
Happy International Dog Day! As we raise a glass to our furry companions, it’s the perfect time to celebrate the bond between beer lovers and their canine pals. At City Brew Tours Austin, we pride ourselves on offering all-inclusive VIP access to some of the best breweries in town. While our tours don’t allow pets to tag along, we’re happy to share that many of our brewery affiliates are dog-friendly, welcoming you and your four-legged friends with open arms outside of your scheduledCity Brew Tours experience.
If you’re planning to bring your pup to your favorite brewery, here’s a quick guide on proper brewery etiquette to ensure a paw-some time for everyone.
1. Check the Brewery’s Pet Policy
Before heading out, it’s important to double-check the brewery’s pet policy. While many Austin breweries are dog-friendly, each one may have its own rules. Some may allow dogs on outdoor patios only, while others might welcome them indoors.
Most breweries will have this information listed on their website on the Taproom, Visit Us, and/or FAQ pages. There are also several websites and blogs focused on visiting and reviewing pet friendly taprooms, but it is always best to go straight to the brewery website for the most current updates.
2. Leash Up Your Pup
Even in the most dog-friendly breweries, it’s crucial to keep your dog on a leash. This ensures that your pup is safe and under control at all times, especially in a bustling environment. A standard 6-foot leash is ideal—giving your dog enough freedom to move around while preventing any unintended canine chaos.
3. Mind Your Dog’s Behavior
Not every brewery visitor is a dog lover, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your pup’s behavior. Make sure they’re well-behaved, not barking excessively, and staying close to your table. If your dog is nervous or reactive in crowded places, it might be best to leave them at home.
4. Bring the Essentials
Pack a doggy bag with all the essentials: water bowl, poop bags, and maybe even a few treats. Many breweries will provide water bowls (and sometimes treats), but it’s always a good idea to bring your own, just in case. And, of course, always clean up after your pet—nobody wants to step in a mess while enjoying their local craft brews.
5. Respect the Space
Remember that not all patrons will be thrilled about sharing their brewery experience with dogs. Keep your pup close, avoid blocking walkways, and be mindful of other customers’ space. Respecting the brewery’s environment and other guests ensures that dog-friendly policies stay in place for everyone to enjoy.
6. Be Prepared to Leave Early
Sometimes, the atmosphere may become too overwhelming for your dog, or unexpected situations can arise. Be prepared to pack up and leave if your pup becomes too anxious or if the environment isn’t suitable for them. Your dog’s comfort and well-being is important!
7. Enjoy the Experience!
Austin’s craft beer scene is vibrant and diverse, and sharing that experience with your dog can be incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re visiting a pet-friendly brewery with your four-legged friends or joining a City Brew Tour with two-legged friends, enjoy your local craft beer and all that Austin has to offer.
8. Socializing with Other Dogs and People
Bringing your dog to a brewery is not just a treat for you but also an opportunity for your pup to socialize with other dogs and people. However, proper etiquette is key to ensuring positive interactions for everyone involved.
Introducing Dogs to Each Other
- Ask Before Approaching: Before allowing your dog to greet another dog, always ask the other owner if it’s okay. Not all dogs are comfortable with new encounters, and it’s crucial to respect their space.
- Watch for Body Language: Pay close attention to your dog’s body language as well as the other dog’s. Signs of stress, such as stiff posture, raised hackles, or excessive barking, indicate that it’s best to keep some distance. A relaxed body, wagging tail, and friendly sniffing are good signs that both dogs are happy to interact.
- Keep Greetings Short and Sweet: Initial greetings between dogs should be brief. Allow them to sniff each other and then gently guide your dog away. This helps prevent any over-excitement or potential scuffles.
Interacting with Other People
- Respect Personal Space: Just as with other dogs, not everyone at the brewery may be comfortable with dogs. Ensure your dog doesn’t jump on people or invade their personal space. A polite greeting is always appreciated, but it’s best to keep your dog close unless invited to interact.
- Supervise Interactions with Children: If there are children at the brewery, supervise any interactions closely. Teach your dog to remain calm and ensure the child knows how to approach and pet your dog gently. This creates a positive experience for both the child and your dog.
- Mind Your Manners: Just as you would in any social setting, remember to be courteous to those around you. This is a time to enjoy good company, great beer, and the camaraderie of fellow dog/beer lovers.
Handling Uncomfortable Situations
- Know When to Step Away: If you notice that your dog or another dog is becoming uncomfortable, it’s best to calmly step away from the situation. This might involve moving to a quieter area or distracting your dog with a toy or treat.
- Dealing with Overly Friendly Dogs: If another dog is too eager to interact with your pup and it’s not a welcome interaction, politely ask the other owner to call their dog back. Most dog owners will appreciate the heads-up and will gladly accommodate.
- Keep Calm and Relaxed: Your dog takes cues from you. If you’re calm and relaxed, your dog is more likely to be as well. If a situation becomes tense, calmly remove your dog from the area to de-escalate.
While City Brew Tours Austin can’t accommodate pets on our tours, we’re always excited to share the best dog-friendly spots with you and talk about our own favorite fuzz-balls. So, leash up, head out, and enjoy a local craft beer with your best friend today!
Cheers to you and your pup on this special day—Happy International Dog Day!