Which Breweries in Hamilton Allow Dogs Inside?

Brewery Dog Etiquette

Here are 4 key points to remember before bringing your pup to a dog-friendly brewery:

1. Know Your Dog

Before starting visiting a brewery with a dog it is important to evaluate your dog’s temperament. 

Given all the exciting new smells, scents, people, and noise, not every dog is a good candidate for taproom lounging.

Here are some quick questions to ask yourself to help you determine whether you will have a relaxing time together, or if it might be better to leave your pooch at home:

1. Does your dog get anxious in new, unfamiliar settings?
2. Is your dog high-energy?
3. Is your dog prone to barking when excited, anxious, or bored?
4. Is your dog comfortable meeting new people and potentially, other dogs?
5. Is your dog prone to potty accidents or marking in new settings? 

Note:  Some breweries may ask you and your dog to leave the taproom if your dog’s behaviour is deemed unruly or causes a disturbance to other guests in the brewery. 

2. Bring Your Own Supplies

While some breweries offer dog treats and provide water bowls, always play it safe and at the minimum, bring the following supplies with you:

1. Water Bowl (please don’t allow your dogs to drink through glassware used by customers)
2. Poop Bags
3. Any additional cleaning materials for potty accidents like paper towels, gloves, or urine spray if you’re super conscientious! 

I highly recommend purchasing collapsible silicone bowls with clips. Collapsible silicone bowls are so easy to maintain, take up very little space when collapsed, and if you get the one with the clips – it’s so easy to have your dog carry it for you (on their harness), or clip on the outside of your bag. 

Tip: Call ahead before bringing dog treats and dog food inside the taprooms. Due to the health and regulations, some breweries are more strict with letting external food (including dog treats and dog food) indoors. 

3. Keep an Eye on Leash Length

Make sure your pup is comfortably harnessed or collared when leashed inside the brewery. Ideally, use a non-retractable, loop-handled leash to prevent accidental tangles and to keep your dog nearby. Leashes should be no longer than 6 ft in length (and while indoors should be kept to 1ft away to keep your dog nearby).

If you’re looking for a new one – I recommend supporting a local Toronto business and purchasing the 6ft standard braided leash by 4 My Merles. You can embroider your phone number or text on the leash and choose up to 3 different colours to make your leash!

Tip: You can easily loop the leash around your chair or put the leg of a chair inside the loop handle to keep your dog secure while you enjoy your drinks.

4. Play Before You Go

Set some extra time to take your dog for a walk, and play a quick game of fetch or tug to help you and your dog settle in at the brewery if you’re planning on staying for a while. The extra time will also give your dog an extra opportunity to take care of potty and poop business too to avoid indoor accidents.