Local dog-friendly restaurants in Watford

Located in the heart of Watford, The Estcourt Arms Tavern is a classic British pub that serves a range of delicious and comforting classics in welcoming surroundings. Their menu features vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, and the bar has a full selection of beer, wines, and spirits. Well-behaved dogs are welcome to join their owners inside the tavern, but there is also a comfortable and beautiful beer garden and outdoor dining area where you can enjoy summer days and cool evenings. Don’t hesitate to ask for a bowl of water for your dogs if you need one. The staff is always happy to help.

The Prince George is a charming pub and restaurant on St Albans Road near the heart of Watford. They welcome well-behaved dogs of all ages and sizes to join their owners both in the main pub and in their enclosed beer garden. The menu is small but features a range of varied dishes from around the world, as well as vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. If you have any dietary restrictions or requirements, don’t hesitate to tell the staff. They are happy to make changes where possible. They will also be happy to bring you a bowl of water for your dogs.

The Round Bush pub offers a country pub atmosphere within easy reach of the center of Watford. Its cozy wood and stone interior makes the pub feel welcoming and casual. If you want to soak up the sunshine, there is also a lovely outdoor patio area where customers are welcome to sit with their dogs. The menu features pub classics but also has vegetarian and gluten-free options for those who have dietary restrictions and requirements.

Just a 10 minute drive from the center of Watford, The Horse & Chains is a gastropub located in a 17th-century building that is packed with character. They are dog friendly but do request that all customers keep their dogs on a leash for safety reasons. They also have a pub dog called Duff. Their menu is small but features modern twists on British and American classics using the best ingredients. There is a small garden and a snug for those who prefer a less busy environment for their canine companion.

Just a short drive from the busy center of Watford, The Old Orchard pub and restaurant is nestled in beautiful Harefield and surrounded by greenery. A proper, old-fashioned pub overlooking the water, it has a huge outdoor dining area and beer garden, as well as a gorgeous interior dining area. Well-behaved dogs are welcome inside and in the outdoor dining area, but the scenery and tranquil surroundings make the beer garden the perfect place for canine companions who love fresh air and sunshine. They have a varied menu that includes vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, as well as a dedicated kids section. This is the perfect family restaurant for a bite to eat after a day of walking with your furry best friend.

Keeping your dog safe and happy in a restaurant can be complex if you have a very young or nervous dog, but you can help them settle in. Firstly, make sure they have had something to eat, a chance to relieve themselves, and a walk before you arrive. This will prevent accidents and also ensure they aren’t bursting with energy or hungry enough to act out. Secondly, keep them on a lead. While some restaurants and pubs in the UK don’t require dogs to be on a lead inside, it is a good idea, especially if you are not certain whether your dog will stay by your side at all times. Finally, if your dog displays adverse behavior in busy spaces, book a virtual vet appointment with Vetster for guidance and help.