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At the height of lockdown, many welcomed furry friends into their homes, creating a puppy boom. However, now that life has returned to normal for some and others are experiencing job uncertainty, several owners have sadly had to place their dogs in shelters.According to Battersea, 31% of people who acquired a dog or cat during lockdown hadn’t considered becoming pet owners previously, indicating that getting a pet was an impulsive decision based on having an unusual amount of free time. At the height of lockdown, many welcomed furry friends into their homes, creating a puppy boom. However, now that life has returned to normal for some and others are experiencing job uncertainty, several owners have sadly had to place their dogs in shelters. According to Battersea, 31% of people who acquired a dog or cat during lockdown hadn’t considered becoming pet owners previously, indicating that getting a pet was an impulsive decision based on having an unusual amount of free time. Being abandoned can cause dogs extreme anxiety and put pressure on local charities, but, thankfully, recent research has revealed a huge interest in adopting dogs across the UK. When choosing a dog for adoption, we recommend you read about which breed of dog would be a good fit for you and your lifestyle. Benchmark Kennels has analysed the number of visits to dog shelter websites around the 100 most populated UK towns and cities to discover the areas with the highest demand for rehoming pups. The top five areas with the most interest in dog adoption Across the UK, different regions show varying levels of interest in dog adoption. Here’s a list of the top five areas where interest is at its peak: Watford Bristol Edinburgh Cardiff Newcastle Interestingly, Belfast residents show the lowest interest in dog adoptions with only 820 visits. However, this low figure isn’t hugely surprising as a recent survey cited Belfast as the sixth least dog-friendly place in the UK. Has dog adoption increased over lockdown? The overall interest in dog adoption has increased by 14.7% over lockdown. In the first six months of 2020, there was an average monthly number of 1,474 residents per UK town or city visiting dog adoption sites. A year later, this figure climbed to 1,692. How many people are surrendering their dogs? Here at Benchmark Kennels, we found that from January to June in 2020, there were an average of 22 monthly visits to ‘giving up your dog’ websites in each of the 100 most populated towns and cities across the UK, which lowered to 17 during the first six months of 2021. However, the RSPCA claims to receive 40 calls a day regarding abandoned animals. Cheryl Sampson, Marketing Manager at Benchmark Kennels, says: “It’s so heartening to see that there’s been an increase in dog adoption, especially considering that lockdown has also spurred a rise in dog theft and abandonment. “Adopting a dog is such a wonderful act of kindness, as it gives the pup another chance at a forever home while also bringing so much joy into the new owner’s life. “Dog adoption is also a huge responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly, as you don’t want to repeat the mistakes of the former owner and have to give up the pup later down the line. “Before committing to this decision, consider if you have time to train, exercise, and care for the pooch, as well as giving them the attention they deserve. There’s also the ongoing costs involved to keep in mind, such as vet bills, food, petsitters, grooming, toys, and beds. “If you’re certain dog adoption is right for you, try to ease any stress they may be feeling when welcoming them into your home, and help them adjust to you as their new owner. Providing them with a crate or kennel will give the pup a place to get some peace and quiet if they’re feeling overwhelmed.” Contact your local dog rescue centre for further advice or information on adopting a dog in your area. About Benchmark Kennels Benchmark Kennels manufacture bespoke dog kennels to suit dogs of all breeds, shapes and sizes. You can customise your outdoor kennel to be as luxurious or minimalist as required, built using various materials from Wooden dog kennels to WPC eco-thermal kennels with extra insulation. You can order a kennel directly from our website or get in touch with us for further advice on the best kennel for your dog’s needs.

Worried your pup isn’t enjoying the sun as much as you are? Especially if you have an excitable young puppy or your pet is nearing the end of its life, staying cool is hugely important, for your dog’s general happiness as well as their health. Some breeds are more sensitive to heat exhaustion than others. If your pup is a flat-faced breed like a pug or chow-chow or has a thicker, heavy coat like a golden retriever, you’ll need to be even more vigilant when it comes to keeping them cool, hydrated and out of the sun. As a general rule, if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog. Benchmark Kennels have rounded up the best ways to keep your pup cool, so you can enjoy the sunshine with your furry friend, in as safe a way as possible. How to Cool Your Dog Down Avoid exercise during the hottest part of the day Although summer seems like the perfect time to enjoy endless walks with your pup, be aware that exercising in the hot sun can cause your dog’s temperature to rapidly overheat. If you can, take your dog out in the early morning or late afternoon, when the air and pavements are both cool enough for your pup to have a proper runaround, without the risk of overheating. If it’s just too hot to take your dog on your usual walking route at all, you’ll need to introduce other activities that involve limited energy, but still help your pup get some mental stimulation. Brain games at mealtimes will ensure your dog can enjoy getting rid of some excess energy and spend some bonding time with you too. Choose an insulated kennel It’s important for your dog to have a shady, safe space they can relax in when it gets too hot for them to play outside comfortably. Kennels with insulated panels like Benchmark’s insulated timber cabins help keep your dog protected from the elements all year round. When the temperature heats up, thermal insulation regulates temperatures inside your kennel, so your pup can stay cool during summer, and warm during winter. Low maintenance eco-thermal kennels are also a great option for your pup, offering ventilation, space to move around and play in, and a shaded area away from direct sunlight so that your dog can cool down easily. Elevated kennels with a raised bed help improve the airflow too, keeping your animal’s cosy home cool and well ventilated. Make sure you have water with you at all times The easiest and most important way to keep your dog happy and healthy in the summertime is to make sure they stay hydrated. Dogs need access to cool, clean water at all times. If you’re out and about with your pup, make sure to keep a bottle of water with you, or you could even use a frozen toy to entertain them while regulating their temperature at the same time. You can also use cool water to pour over your pup if they seem to be panting heavily, or they’ve spent time in the sun. Remember though, you should never give your dog any ice or an icy cold drink when they’re too hot. This could encourage their body temperature to cool down too quickly, and ultimately make their symptoms worse. Never leave your dog in an unattended car Unventilated spaces can feel stuffy, claustrophobic and unbearably hot to humans, so imagine how uncomfortable they will be to our furry friends. You should never leave your dog in your car. Even if you leave your pup with water, crack the car windows or are only intending to leave them for a short period of time, your car can heat up incredibly quickly. Most pet owners know the risks, but even after just a few minutes, a hot car can cause serious and potentially fatal issues. Your pet’s hair should be long enough to stay comfortable, without the risk of it becoming matted, tangled or dirty. Even for dogs that moult a lot, regular brushing and grooming can give you the opportunity to check your puppy’s fur and skin for any issues, burns or bites, as well as helping you form an even closer bond with them. Taking the time to regularly give your dog a good brush gives you the chance to spend some quality time with your pup, and stop their matted fur from becoming hot and irritated in the summer heat too. Remember that animal fur has evolved to act as insulation in the winter and as a cooling system in the summertime. Because of this, you should never shave your pup or trim their coat without the help of a professional groomer. Spotting the signs of heat exhaustion With higher sensitivity than us, dogs are unfortunately much more likely to suffer overheating, heat exhaustion and dehydration than we are. If your dog isn’t kept cool, they could suffer uncomfortable symptoms of heatstroke, a condition that can be fatal if it’s not noticed quickly. To protect your pup during the summer, it’s important to recognise the signs of heatstroke, as well as how to prevent it from happening. Excessive panting and dribbling Vomiting Reddened gums Mental confusion General discomfort Weakness or collapse You know your furry friend better than anyone. Keeping an eye out for any signs of unusual behaviour in your dog, as well as taking measures to keep them as cool as possible, will help stop the temperature from affecting them, so you can enjoy the sun safely and happily. Heatstroke can cause serious problems, quickly, so keep your dog close by on hot days to make sure you can monitor them carefully. If you’re looking for the perfect kennel to ensure your pup is as healthy, happy and cool as possible during the summer months, Benchmark Kennels offer a range of kennel options for your dog to call their own, as well as advice on the best kind of home for your extra family member.

Having access to a garden is a great way for dogs to stay physically active and mentally stimulated. Being outdoors brings variety to your pup’s day and allows them to burn off any built-up energy. The smells, sounds, and textures outside stimulate their senses too. However, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect your dog from potential dangers lurking in the garden and prevent the pup from damaging the outdoor space too. To help you create a dog-friendly garden, Benchmark Kennels have put together a guide on the most effective adjustments you can make. Ensure your dog is comfortable Tailoring your garden to enhance your dog’s comfort can help them feel calm, which is especially beneficial if your pup is anxious. Outdoor dog kennel An outdoor dog kennel can act as a den for your dog, providing them with a relaxing area when they need some alone time but still want to reside outside. To encourage your pup to use it, equip the kennel with blankets, food, water, and toys. However, don’t use the kennel as punishment and carefully follow a responsible training plan, so the dog doesn’t feel isolated. Eliminate harmful gardening elements Unless designed with a dog in mind, gardens are often rife with toxic elements that can cause accidents. Dog-friendly plants Certain plants are poisonous for dogs and, if ingested, can cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, and drooling and would require immediate veterinary attention. Although consuming too much of any plant can harm pups, here are some low-risk options: Sunflowers Rosemary Camellia Fennel Roses Coral bells Snapdragon Sage Also, avoid using chemical gardening products and use natural alternatives instead. Lock your shed If your shed contains chemicals and sharp gardening tools, keep it locked at all times in case your dog wanders inside it. Protect your pup against theft Unfortunately, thieves commonly take pups from their own garden, but you can minimise the risk of dog theft by making a few additions to your outdoor space. However, there’s no guarantee that your dog is ever fully protected against theft, so always supervise them when outside. Fencing Fitting a fence that’s at least six feet tall will prevent your dog from jumping over the garden and running away and make it more difficult for thieves to access the garden. Gates Keep any garden gates locked and fit a bell onto the door to scare off any thieves and notify you if anyone opens it. Kennel Place the kennel near the house as fitting it at the bottom of the garden can appeal to thieves. Always keep the kennel locked, too, and consider placing bells on the door, so you’re alerted if it’s opened. Avoid damage to your garden Although your dog’s safety is the priority, don’t forget to protect the garden from your dog too. Select a designated toilet area When dogs urinate on a lawn, it causes unsightly brown patches. To prevent this bad habit from developing, follow a toilet training process to encourage them to use a specific spot in the garden that’s out-of-sight. If your dog does urinate on the grass, rinse it down immediately to minimise the damage. Create an obstacle course A bored dog might destroy your garden out of frustration but you can keep them entertained by designing a play area with toys. You could also create a dog agility training obstacle course to help keep your pup active, teach them tricks and commands, reduce their anxiety, and strengthen your bond. The equipment can include tunnels, tyre jumping, weave poles, and balance beams. Pathways Dogs often enjoy patrolling the garden, so having clearly defining paths can keep your pup from walking right through the flower beds and flattening them over time. Dedicated digging spot Digging is an instinctive canine behaviour that can ease boredom and anxiety, but it can quickly destroy your garden. Providing your dog with a toxic-free sandbox for digging can deter them from digging up your flower beds and plants. Precautions for hot weather During summer, dogs can quickly overheat and develop heatstroke if you don’t implement preventative measures, such as: Avoid using artificial grass, as it retains more heat than natural grass, which can burn your pup’s paws. Keep plenty of clean, fresh, and cold drinking water in the garden so your dog can rehydrate. Install a shallow water feature or set up a doggy paddling pool so your dog can cool down. Create shaded areas in the garden with large trees and shrubs. However, even with these measures, don’t keep your pup outside for too long in the heat, and if they’re exhibiting any signs of heatstroke (e.g., heavy panting, vomiting, weakness, and excess drooling), take them to the vet straight away as it can be fatal if unaddressed. Implementing these adjustments to your garden will allow you to enjoy spending quality time with your dog outside free of worry. Need an outdoor kennel to complete your dog-friendly garden? Outdoor kennels are an excellent way for your dog to enjoy being outside safely and comfortably. At Benchmark Kennels, we offer a range of sheltered, secure and spacious kennels that you can customise to suit your dog’s breed, personality, and size. For more information on our range of outdoor kennels, contact us via phone or order a wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennel directly from our website today.

The demand for puppies dramatically increased during lockdown, with many suddenly having an abundance of time to train a new pet. However, the rise in people buying dogs resulted in huge price inflations. Since March 2020, puppies have surged in value by an average of £1,249. The escalated puppy prices have unfortunately led to a 250% growth in dog theft nationwide. Some breeds are particularly at risk, with Chow Chows now worth an estimated £3,700 and golden retrievers more than doubling in price. Patterdales have increased in value by a staggering 328% too. As well as the chance to profit from stolen dogs, the crime is also relatively low-risk for thieves. Although the maximum penalty for dognapping is seven years imprisonment, recent reports found that less than 5% of cases result in criminal conviction. Unsurprisingly, this development in dog theft has left many owners worried and scared of losing their beloved family pet. To help put your mind at ease, Benchmark Kennels have put together a thorough guide on how to protect your puppy against theft. Identify your dog Microchipping Owners are required to get their dog microchipped and registered by the time they’re eight weeks old. If any of your details change, such as address or phone number, update your microchip account. Collars with your name, address and neutered information Place a collar on your dog, with an ID tag that has your surname, address, and mobile number engraved. Don’t put your dog’s name on the collar, though, as thieves can use it to lure the pup away. Some collars also come with GPS tracking and can connect to your phone. If your dog is neutered, mark this on the collar because it could discourage thieves who steal dogs for breeding. Photos of you and your dog together Keep clear and up-to-date photos of your dog from different angles, with a groomed and ungroomed coat, in case of the worst happening. Take images of yourself with the pup, too, so you can prove ownership if necessary. Dog walking safety Many owners have become frightened to walk their dog after horrifying stories emerged of dogs being stolen in muggings. To enhance your and your dog’s safety when out and about: Vary your walk schedule and routes as thieves may try to learn your routine. Always remain aware of your surroundings by staying off your phone and not wearing headphones. Walk with someone else where possible. If alone, carry an alarm or referee whistle to help you feel more secure and deter attempting thieves – but only use when necessary as it can scare your dog. Be extremely wary of strangers asking for information about your dog, wanting pictures with the pup, or trying to stroke them. If someone suspect approaches you or a car slows down next to you, don’t walk home straight away as they might follow you. Report any suspicious incidents to the police. Only let your dog off the lead if they’re unlikely to stray away from you. In case they do run far ahead, dress them in a reflective coat during winter to help you spot them and train them to return on command. Alternatively, use an extendable lead so they can run around without getting lost. Don’t leave your dog alone Leaving your dog alone in public, such as in a car or tied up outside a shop, makes them vulnerable to theft. Try to attend dog-friendly establishments so they can stay by your side. Enhanced garden security Unfortunately, even when you’re in your own space, you still need to take precautions. According to The Pet Theft Census, 52% of dogs are stolen from their gardens. Never leave your dog in the garden unsupervised and avoid placing them in front gardens, as this makes it easier for thieves to snatch them. Lock any gates you have and fit them with bells to alert you when someone opens them. Ensure your fence or other garden boundary is 6ft high with no gaps to keep your dog from escaping and make it harder for thieves to access the garden. If your dog loves being outside, invest in a secure dog kennel for them to relax in. Benchmark Kennels offer a range of sheltered and insulated outdoor kennels secured with two pad bolts per door. Place the kennel near your property rather than at the bottom of the garden. Always keep the kennel locked and fit it with a bell or alarm to warn you if someone’s trying to break into it. To make your home safer at night-time, fit outdoor lights in your front and back garden that activate when someone approaches the house, which can deter thieves. Install CCTV for outside your property too. Always keep your doors and windows locked and shut your curtains and blinds when you’re out. Try to avoid indicating that a dog lives at your home, such as leaving toys in the garden or hanging ‘beware of the dog’ signs. Safety inside the home Keep your dog safe at home by installing a security system with an alarm and cameras inside the house so you can check on your dog when you’re out. With smart security devices, you can view the camera footage remotely on your phone and receive notifications if any unusual activity occurs. Be vigilant of strangers coming to your front door, especially if they’re inquiring about your dog, as they could be thieves assessing your home. Trustworthy dog-sitters Dogs who are frequently left alone are vulnerable to theft but hiring a dog-sitter or walker can put off potential thieves. If you can’t use a family member or friend to look after the pup, choose someone from a reputable and licensed company. Check their references, qualifications and whether they’re certified with any professional organisations. Social media security Many owners love to show off their puppy on social media, with many dogs becoming Insta-famous, but this can put them on a thief’s radar. If you post about your dog online, always blur out their ID tags, keep your account private and avoid using location tags or hashtags. Never respond to a stranger messaging you about the dog, either. What to do if your dog is stolen Implementing these precautions can lower the risk of dog theft, but it’s still a possibility. If the worst happens and your dog is stolen, act quickly to increase your chance of finding them. Follow the below steps: Ring 999 to report the theft and get a crime reference number Report the theft to the microchip database Report the theft to the local council’s dog warden (if they have one) Tell local dog walkers to keep an eye out Post about your missing dog on local Facebook groups Post about the incident on your social media accounts and ask friends to share them Inform local vets Report the theft on missing animal sites Contact local animal shelters and rescue charities Hang posters in your area with clear photos and contact details Depending on your pet insurance policy, you may be able to claim advertising fees and reward costs to help you find your dog. However, don’t specify the reward amount as this could attract hoax callers or put the dog at risk of theft in the future if found. In response to this worrying increase in dognapping, more than 300,000 people signed a petition calling for tougher penalties. Until further action is taken, owners need to be highly cautious when out with their dog, enhance their home security, and prepare for the worst. Need an outdoor kennel to keep your dog safe in the garden? Outdoor kennels are a great way for your dog to enjoy being outside safely. At Benchmark Kennels, we offer a range of secure and spacious kennels that you can customise to suit the dog’s breed, personality, size, and other requirements. You can order a wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennel directly from our website today or contact us via phone to find out more about our excellent range of kennels.

The festive period is always an exciting time of year, especially when spending it with your adorable dog. Whether you’re celebrating your pup’s first Christmas, or your family dog has been with you for years, ensuring your home remains pet-friendly is key. Decorate your home gradually Although it’s tempting to deck your entire house out with wreaths, ornaments, tinsel, and lights in one go, this can be quite unsettling for dogs. Instead, introduce the decorations gradually and leave your Christmas tree bare for a few days so they can adjust to their environment’s change. Christmas tree precautions Christmas tree pines can get stuck in paws or become lodged in a dog’s throat if ingested so ensure you sweep any fallout from the tree straight away or opt for a fake tree instead if you have a new puppy around. Dogs can sometimes use Christmas trees as urinals too to mark their territory, so avoid leaving them with it unsupervised and conduct a refresh on toilet training if needed. To dog-proof your Christmas tree: Leave the bottom branches bare. Place any fragile ornaments towards the top of the tree. Avoid hanging any edible decorations, e.g. candy canes and chocolate novelties that are poisonous to dogs. Hide any electric wires they could chew. Never leave Christmas lights switched on unsupervised. Anchor the tree to the floor or wall to prevent it falling over. Avoid toxic plants Most Christmas plants, including mistletoe, holly, and poinsettia, are unfortunately unsafe for many animals, including dogs. However, some suitable options can make your home look just as festive, such as red roses, Christmas Cactus, and Autumn Olive. Create a dog-safe haven It’s important to provide your dog with somewhere quiet they can retreat from the festive excitement and be undisturbed. An outdoor kennel allows your dog space to relax, play, or sleep in private. As well as providing warmth, safety and shelter, kennels are insulated and big enough for dogs to play in. Being outdoors can also be calming and reduce any excess energy that comes from being cooped up indoors. Many people light fireworks through the Christmas season which you, unfortunately, can’t avoid. To help your dog feel as relaxed and safe as possible, why not turn an indoor crate into a cosy den. Make it comforting by filling it with soft bedding, toys, and water. Then cover it with blankets to muffle the noise and dim the lights of the fireworks. It’s important to ensure your dog can still see out of it and leave if they choose to so they don’t feel trapped. Christmas day adjustments It’s common for usual daily errands and habits to be forgotten about on Christmas day but don’t let this interfere with your dog’s routine. Continue to walk and feed them at the usual times to avoid causing any unnecessary upset or disasters with dogs stealing your Christmas dinner. If you’re hosting guests or you have young children, make everyone aware of how to keep your dog from getting stressed. For instance, remind them not to approach the dog when in his den or to feed him unsafe food. While we indulge in lavish food during this period, it won’t benefit your pup to do the same. A lot of the typical Christmas food for humans such as mince pies, chocolate, and onion stuffing isn’t dog-safe, so don’t sneak them any under the dining table or leave unwashed plates out for them to lick. You can still give them a few dog treats, but a sudden dietary change such as a bowl full of turkey can cause stomach upset and lead to toilet accidents around your home. Many Christmas dinners are followed by pulling crackers, using party poppers, and popping champagne corks, but these noises can be scary for your dog. You could either avoid these traditions altogether or ensure your dog isn’t near or is kept in an outdoor dog kennel when they’re happening. Adapting your Christmas to suit your dog’s needs doesn’t have to disrupt your entire routine, but can stop them from getting overwhelmed and allow them to enjoy the festivities along with you. Need a bespoke kennel for your dog to feel comfortable in this Christmas? Benchmark Kennels are a manufacturer of bespoke kennels, giving dogs a secure and spacious place to stay outdoors when they need some peace and quiet. Each kennel can be customised to suit your dog and home perfectly in terms of size, shape and material. You can order a wooden or WPC eco-thermal dog kennel directly from our website today or contact us via phone to find out more about our excellent range of kennels.

Back in May 2020, in the midst of lockdown, the Benchmark Kennels team asked you to get involved and tell us your favourite dog-friendly pubs around Yorkshire. It was a wonderful opportunity for dog-lovers and owners alike to honour our favourite dog-friendly pubs and help spread the word about these welcoming and cosy places to grab a pint. First of all, thank you! Our readers didn’t disappoint, with more than 300 of you placing your votes and telling us why your locals are so special to both you and your animals – we absolutely loved hearing from you. With Boris deciding to lift some lockdown restrictions on 4th July and many pubs now reopening, its the perfect time to see who our winners are and give credit to the top five and much-loved pubs of Yorkshire. Drum roll, please… 1. The Crown & Cushion, Welburn The Crown & Cushion in Welburn, North Yorkshire really do take the crown on this one. They received the majority of votes from dog owners and locals due to their gorgeous setting and friendly approach to dogs joining their families for food or drinks. With the building dating back to the 18th Century, its a stunning environment offering locals a place to pop in for a casual drink after a long walk or get dressed up and visit for a fine dining experience. In winter, the open fires make the pub a cosy and welcoming place to spend a Sunday, and in summer, the rear terrace is ideal for drinks in the sun. Welburn village is located in the district of Rydale, not far from Malton and York. It’s easy to access from the A64 or can be found via foot with there being many popular walks and bird-watching spots around the area that can start or finish at the Crown & Cushion. 2. The Wheatsheaf Inn, Carperby Next up is The Wheatsheaf Inn in Wensleydale, set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales National Park and hugely popular with avid walkers and explorers. There is an abundance of Yorkshire attractions around the area making it the perfect place for a pint at the end of a long day either spent hiking in the dales with your furry friends or simply mooching around the quaint village shops. If you’re planning a big walk with the dog and need a place to rest your head afterwards, you can even book a room with your pooch, with many of their single, double and family rooms being completely pet-friendly and offering a home-from-home experience. 3. The Fountain Hotel, Hawes Another North Yorkshire pub comes in at third – The Fountain Hotel in Hawes. This hotel and local prides itself on its wholesome and home-cooked pub grub, welcoming all dogs and children with open arms. Popular with sports fans, the pub hosts three screens showing live sport, ideal for watching premiere football which has recently made its post-corona comeback. The pub is a favourite of both locals and visitors to the town, with many calling in for a drink or staying the night after a walk around the lovely village of Wensleydale and the Yorkshire Dales. 4. The Oak Tree, Helperby In at fourth is The Oak Tree in Helperby, a village full of character and within reach of a range of lovely walks along rivers Ule and Swale or along the old railway line. You can book a room with your dog or simply visit for a few drinks after a nice stroll, with a huge array of local beers, hand-pulled ales and delicious wines to choose from. For those looking for a venue for a special occasion, you can even hire out a private party room to host birthdays, cocktail parties or any family gathering and bring your dogs along. 5. Rose & Crown, Sutton-on-the-Forest Last but by no means least is the Rose & Crown. Located in the picturesque village of Sutton-on-the-Forest in North Yorkshire, this pub is the heart of the village community, being the last standing pub in the village and offering a mean Sunday lunch. Known to serve some of the best pub food in York, they offer curry nights, steak nights and fresh fish Friday’s – all of which welcome dogs and families to join in. If you’re looking for an affordable place to stop off for a pint and a bite to eat after a long day out around York with it being just eight miles out of the city centre. If you can’t see your favourite on the list, don’t be disheartened, it was a close call! There were tons of runners up that are equally as beautiful places to call in for a drink with your dog or family, like the Trafalgar Bay in York and The Coverbridge Inn in East Witton. Get in touch with us on social media to let us know if your favourite dog-friendly pub made the top five and whether you’re planning to brave the pubs post-lockdown or stick to drinks at home for now.