Welcoming our four-legged friends

Looking for dog friendly pubs in Stoke-on-Trent?

Well, if you’re local or just passing through, you’ll be glad to know that each Caldmore Tavern proudly welcomes your four-legged friends.

From water bowls at the bar to belly rubs from the regulars, our venues are built around community. And that includes your canine companions.

To find out more about what makes a truly dog friendly pub, we had a brief chinwag with Michael, landlord at The Throstles Nest. He not only rolls out the welcome mat for dogs, but he and his pub have a deep, ongoing connection with the RSPCA.

We also had a natter with Guy over at The Fountain Inn. He told us of a certain biscuit-loving Westie, who’s a bit of a local celebrity.

ABSOLUTELY BARKING: Some of the dogs you’ll find frequenting The Bakers Arms in Cheadle.

DOGGONE IT! Landlord of The Wheatsheaf stores, Simon, with his Staffy, Diesel, and a couple of other regular ‘pet-rons’. Fur babies at The Sheaf can expect water bowls, treats and, of course poop bags at the ready!

TWO CUTE: A couple of small but mighty pooches from The Masons Arms in Knutton.

Situated near the popular Biddulph Valley Way walking route, The Throstles Nest has long been a pit stop for dog owners enjoying a stroll.

According to Michael, welcoming dogs was never an afterthought. Indeed, it’s been part of the pub’s ethos from the beginning.

“When we opened the pub, we knew we were going to be dog friendly,” he told us. “We get plenty of dogs in here and we continue to fundraise for the RSPCA, which is our house charity.”

That fundraising has already topped £400 on a number of occasions. Largely thanks to community raffles, Christmas hampers, and other in-house initiatives. But for Michael, the connection runs deeper than donations.

“Until recently, we fostered dogs as well as cats. In fact, we stopped fostering because we decided to keep the last one,” he said, the affection evident in his tone. “We’ve fostered six dogs while running the pub—all from puppies. The idea was to help get them used to a friendly environment.”

This hands-on approach to animal care is part of what makes the pub such a welcoming space for dogs and dog lovers alike.

As Michael explains, fostering gives dogs a better chance of adoption by helping them adjust to a home environment. Something a kennel simply can’t replicate.

IT’S A DOG’S LIFE: A few of our four-legged friends from The Little Vic (and Smite, of course! He’s the one with Toy Cockapoo, Dave, on his shoulder).

OVER AT THE WOODMAN: (clockwise from top left) Dexter, sporting a very fetching harness. Archie with his first ever pint. Jess – a bundle of energy and pure muscle—but as soft as they come (she loves it when her Dad shares his Guinness with her). Milo & Guinness – best behaved boys, who you’ll often find lying on the floor near the treat jar, hoping someone will oblige. Vinny – taking part in the quiz, as he does every week. TJ – loves nothing more than sitting on the sofa, protecting Mum and Dad, feeling very important. He has a serious case of little dog syndrome but he makes everyone laugh!

Speaking to Michael, it’s clear that dogs are more than just tolerated—they’re regulars in their own right.

“We’ve got treats and plenty of water bowls. There’s even an outside tap on the rooftop terrace so owners can top up water bowls on warmer days,” Michael says. “The dogs that come here are really popular. Customers tend to know them by name.”

It’s not just the occasional passing pooch either. Many customers visit regularly with their dogs, and some have a long history with the pub. Take Alfie the Labrador, for example. He first came in as a puppy before the pub closed in 2013, and made a joyful return when The Throstles Nest reopened in 2023.

“He remembers it well. He gets excited as soon as he sees his owners getting ready to come down. He absolutely loves it here,” Michael reveals.

Inside the pub, dogs are allowed in all areas. However, there are a few simple house rules to make sure everyone has a good time. Whether they’re on two legs or four!

“We ask owners to keep dogs on leads and remain responsible for them,” Michael continues. “We’ve got blankets to hand for anyone who wants to let their dog up on the furniture. Some owners bring their own if that’s what the dog’s used to.”

And yes, the dogs are even part of the drinks order.

“Regulars will come to the bar to get their drinks… and then ask for a bowl so the dog doesn’t miss out !”

HE’S SOXY AND HE KNOWS IT: [ABOVE] Landlord of The Beverley, Baz, with Mr Soxypants. We’ll let you decide which is which! [BELOW] – Some of the other regulars at The Bev including Nala, the XL Bully and Nova the Collie pup.

MANS BEST FRIEND: Winnie and her owner at The Travellers Rest in Goldenhill. Also Eddie the Chihuahua.

LOOK INTO MY (PUPPY-DOG) EYES: Some of the ‘regulars’ at The Sutherland Arms in Stoke.

TOP DOGS: A selection of The Crown and Thistle’s finest pooches.

DOG DAYS: A Tibetan Terrier from The Park Inn in Burslem, and a Vizsla from The Royal Oak in Biddulph.

BARK LIFE: Some of our fabulous furry friends from The Globe in Tunstall.

Over in Leek, The Fountain Inn is another dog friendly pub with a loyal following of furry visitors.

We caught up with landlord Guy, who shared a particularly endearing story about Dougal the West Highland Terrier.

“Dougal is a bit of a character,” Guy recalls. “As soon as he comes through the door, he makes a beeline for me. Then he just stares at me until he gets a biscuit. He won’t leave me alone until he’s had it.”

Once his mission is accomplished, Dougal trots off to relax like he owns the place.

“It’s become a bit of a ritual now,” Guy says. “Everyone knows Dougal, and he definitely knows where the treats are kept.”

INN FOR A HOUND: A few of our canine companions from The Fountain Inn in Leek. Note the absence of Dougal, who was, no doubt, knee deep in biscuits at the time!

All Caldmore Taverns welcome dogs with open arms. Your huggable hounds aren’t just allowed, they’re expected.

Next time you’re in need of a pint, bring your furry friend with you and see if they can sniff out the treat jar.

And, if you happen to pop into The Fountain Inn, don’t forget to say hello to Dougal. Just be sure to take a biscuit or he may not let you leave.