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With pet ownership on the rise in the UK, we’re looking to fill our summer weekends with endless staycations with our four-legged pals.

From Scottish castles, to cosy inns and even lakeside cabins – we’ve rounded up some of the best dog-friendly staycations in the UK so you can plan all your summer holidays, #TeamCocopup style.

The Bradley Hare, Wiltshire

The Bradley Hare, located in the charming village of Maiden Bradley in southwest Wiltshire, is a cosy country Inn that opened in 2021. Perfect for all your cottage core fanatics, The Bradley Hare has twelve homely and is located on the Duke of Somerset’s idyllic Estate.

The inn offers elevated countryside interiors and was designed by James Thurstan Waterworth, ex-European Design Director for Soho House. The Coach House is filled with cosy home from home details, with certain rooms featuring glorious freestanding baths. No to mention, all five bedrooms in the Coach House are all dog-friendly.

You can take their four legged friends out on relaxing strolls (and zoomies) around the estate or in the romantic 18th century Stourhead gardens. What’s more, all dogs will be treated as well as their owners with some delicious dog treats in their bedrooms too – hurray!

HOW: Weekend rates will start from £150 per room per night including breakfast. Dogs are allowed in the bar area of the Pub, the Skittle Alley, and all outside areas. For more information visit www.thebradleyhare.co.uk

Image by Emily Hunt

Glenapp Castle, Scotland

Glenapp Castle is a fabulously dog-friendly, 21-bedroom luxurious castle hotel tucked away on the breath-taking Ayrshire coast, Scotland. The castle is hidden away in 110 acres of stunning gardens and local woodland. It’s easy to get lost within the Castle’s extensive grounds or escape to the majestic Scottish countryside for long walks and beautiful views of Ailsa Craig and Northern Ireland – it really is the perfect dog-friendly escape! All furry friends will receive a welcome pack of specially selected doggie treats, bedding and bowls for both food and water. Glenapp Castle can even arrange a dog sitting on request, for those who want to take part in one of the 65 indoor and outdoor activities on offer.

Glenapp Castle has four spacious dog-friendly rooms at the castle. All of which have access to the gardens outside – which is ideal for late night doggy business. The hotel doesn’t allow dogs in the castle restaurant or the drawing room (where food is being served), but dogs are more than welcome to explore the grounds and take a swim in the glen. Guests can also take their four-legged friend along to the star-gazing activities on offer at the hotel. Wrap up in a warm blanket with your dog for a magical evening beneath the stars.

HOW: Guests can stay in one of Glenapp Castle’s Garden View Suites from £470 on a B&B basis. Dog-owners staying at the hotel will be required to pay a £25 housekeeping charge. www.glenappcastle.com / 01465 831212 For more information on dog friendly stays click here.

Castle Hotel Windsor, Francis Hotel BathQueens Hotel Cheltenham

Doggies are part of the family at Castle Hotel Windsor, Francis Hotel Bath and the Queens Hotel Cheltenham. Located in some of the UK’s most historic towns and cities, these M Gallery hotels are situated in the heart of their destinations, just a stone’s throw away from sought-after attractions, cultural activities and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Francis Hotel Bath is set in the heart of Bath and is a luxury 98-room boutique hotel has a contemporary interior design and beautiful outdoor terrace for alfresco dining and drinks. Queens Hotel Cheltenham is one of the first purpose-built hotels in Europe, while Castle Hotel Windsor was established as one of Windsor’s finest boutique properties steeped in history dating back to 1528.

The hotels are delighted to welcome up-to two well-trained dogs per room, for a cost of £30 per dog per day. Paw-fect hotel amenities include bowls, feeding mats, treats, beds and poop bags as well as specially-chosen doggie walking routes to discover the best of each town or city. These pampered pooches will surely enjoy their stay just as much as their owners do.

T&C’s: Dog friendly room reservations must be made in advance. Cost is £30.00 per doggie, per night. Please note that no dogs are to be left unattended in the hotel, grounds or car park and there are no pets allowed in the restaurant, lounge and bar areas, however they are welcome to dine with guests in the alfresco dining spaces.

HOW: Rates at Francis Hotel Bath start from £139.00 inclusive of breakfast // Rates at Castle Hotel Windsor start from £154.00 inclusive of breakfast // Rates at Queens Hotel Cheltenham start from £117.00 inclusive of breakfast. For more information and to book please visit: Francishotel.com //castlehotelwindsor.com // queenshotelcheltenham.com

Kylesku Hotel, Sutherland

Kylesku is a beautiful, 11-bedroom boutique hotel in the northwest Scottish Highlands, specialising in ultra-local seafood, meats and produce. The hotel is a magical haven surrounded by sea lochs, dramatic peaks and rolling hills. Whilst its well-renowned restaurant brings in many guests from all around the country, a stay here will truly make guests feel as if they are escaping the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

This stunning highlands hotel is located along the North Coast 500 route and is totally remote, surrounded by stunning views, dramatic landscapes, and beautiful beaches – perfect for sea-loving doggos like TeamCocopup Charlie.

All 11 rooms at Kylesku Hotel are dog-friendly and dogs of all sizes are welcome. Pooches will receive a great welcome at Kylesku Hotel and will be provided with their own “doggy pack” which includes a feeding mat, a towel for drying off after adventures at the beach, a jar of dog biscuits, “poo bags” and a map of all the best places to go for dogwalks.

HOW: From £147 for 2 guests including breakfast and it is £15 per dog, per night / www.kyleskuhotel.co.uk / /www.highlandcoasthotels.com

The Royal Golf Hotel, Dornoch

Surrounded by the well-trimmed rolling green, beautiful seascapes and scented gorse, The Royal Golf Hotel, Dornoch is not just a golfers’ paradise, but also the perfect spot for pampered pooches.

With beautiful golden sand beaches, heather filled moors and woodland areas on all sides, there are plenty of dog-friendly activities nearby for everyone to enjoy whilst staying at the dog-friendly Royal Golf Hotel. Water dogs like TeamCocopup will love a stay at Royal Golf Hotel Dornoch with miles upon miles of golden sand with deep blue water and fresh sea air to enjoy at Dornoch beach.

Dogs are allowed in all guest rooms, as well as the reception and bar if it is not too busy. Doggie bags and baskets are also available on request for extra good pups.

HOW: From £129 for 2 guests including breakfast and it is £15 per dog, per night / www.royalgolfhoteldornoch.co.uk/www.highlandcoasthotels.com

Habitat Escapes – Lower Mill Estate and Silverlake

Habitat Escapes, which is the official holiday company for Lower Mill Estate in the Cotswolds and Silverlake in Dorset, certainly gets the TeamCocopup seal of approval. It offers a range of pet friendly properties from cottages to lakeside homes ensuring that guests can holiday in style with their four legged friends.

Walkies at Habitat Escapes will surely get dogs’ tails wagging. Both sites are nature reserves sprawled over hundreds of acres. The scenic reserves are perfect for guests and their dogs to explore, allowing pets to run free, collect sticks, and splash in streams. Dogs will need to be kept on leads in certain areas of both estates to help protect wildlife but in the woodlands, heathlands and fields dogs can roam free. Dog friendly houses at Lower Mill Estate include the Barn Owl and Rowan Cottage.

HOW: Stay at Barn Owl for two nights from £1,029. The property is pet friendly and sleeps up to eight guests.

HOW: Stay at Rowan Cottage for two nights from £819. The property is pet friendly, and sleeps up to six guests.

For more information and to book, please visit www.habitatescapes.com

Have you heard the bow wow buzz going around? Dogs and pet owners are raving about a new feeding technology – one that provides dogs with plenty of reasons to bark with happiness.

If you have an older pet or a dog that tends to dispense its food over the floor, you’ll need to find out more about the elevated dog bowl. Not only does this bowl serve the needs of geriatric canines, it allows dog owners to keep their pet’s feeding area cleaner.

To learn more about the benefits of single elevated dog bowls, you’ll need to review its benefits. Knowing this information will give you the confidence needed to make a switch to a better dog feeding system.

What is an Elevated Dog Bowl?

Before sharing the benefits of an elevated dog bowl, you’ll need to know more about the bowl’s features. As the name suggests, an elevated dog bowl sits, elevated, above the ground. Its heavier weight and design keep it in place during meal time. It’s available in different sizes to accommodate the feeding needs of small to large pets.

Why You Should Buy a Dog Bowl that Sits Above the Ground

Buy an elevated dog bowl to ensure your pet’s comfort and health and to make clean-ups faster and more efficient. See why your choice in a dog bowl can make all the difference in the comfort and happiness of your pet.

1. Improve Your Dog’s Overall Physical Comfort and Health

As dogs get older, they need some assistance. After all, they reach old age fairly fast. Therefore, to enhance their quality of life, it’s important to use a feeding bowl that improves their posture and makes it easier for them to eat.

A dog that bends close to the ground can develop spinal problems or a bad back. Therefore, using an elevated dog bowl especially helps dogs who suffer from joint discomfort or arthritis. The closer the dog is to its food, the easier it is for him to receive nourishment and also enjoy better intestinal health.

2. Elevated Bowls Add to Your Home’s Decor

You can choose elevated bowls in a variety of lovely shapes and designs. While some bowls convey a more contemporary look, other bowls display a more traditional style. In fact, some of the bowls don’t look like bowls at all but resemble interesting knick-knacks.

3. Elevated Dog Bowls Keep Your Home Tidy and Neat

If your dog’s food or water is closer to the floor, your dog is more likely to make a mess. Therefore, food or water is more likely to end up scattered or spilled on the floor. Dogs create fewer messes when their bowls are higher.

4. Elevated Dog Bowls Make Feeding Much Simpler

An elevated dog bowl allows you to feed your dog with more ease. If you are older and have problems with arthritis or back pain, you won’t have to stoop or strain yourself when adding food or water to the bowl.

5. An Elevated Dog Bowl Improves Your Dog’s Behavior

Some dogs like to break free from eating and use their bowl as a toy. For instance, they’ll carry their water bowl around and sprinkle, or, in some cases, drench the floor or furnishings with water. An elevated dog bowl prevents this from happening. In turn, your dog will be better behaved.

Add an Elevated Dog Bowl to Your Shopping Cart Today

Now is the time to make the switch to a dog bowl that sits higher off the ground. Making the purchase will make it more comfortable for your dog to eat and keep everything more orderly.

There is something about Cambridge that instantly makes you fall in love. Maybe it’s the punters, drifting along on the River Cam, maybe it’s the allure of the city’s cobblestoned streets, or even the hallowed halls of the numerous famous universities that call it home. Whatever it is – TeamCocopup certainly felt the love during our dog-friendly visit to the Graduate Hotel Cambridge – which takes all these elements and turns them into a truly unique hotel stay.

Part of the wonderfully quirky Graduate Hotels Group, Graduate Hotel Cambridge is an idyllic retreat located on The River Cam that was inspired by this university town’s rich traditions. Academic influences are rife, with plenty of handsome leatherbound books occupying the shelves a hanging double-helix centrepiece, and 100 year-old punting boats hung gleefully on the walls.

Colourful college crests adorn the main desk in the lobby which is manned by the lovely hotel staff. Beyond that is the Garden Bar, a striking wraparound bar, with leather barstools and cosy booths and plenty of charm. There is a broad range of cocktails and bar snacks on offer here, plus a vast array of specialty beers. It is also dog friendly – and perfect for well-behaved pooches like TeamCocopup.

We stayed in one of the hotel’s Graduate Riverview King rooms with a balcony. Overlooking the River Cam, the rooms offered all the creature comforts – with plenty of vibrant design details. An Indian-inspired headboard is matched with a bright green armchair, with punter-inspired shelving and checked curtains. The mish-mash of colour, texture, and print works very well here – and envelope you in a comfy and quirky atmosphere.

The Garden House, the hotel’s main restaurant, boasts a delectable seasonal menu that celebrates the best of East Anglian cookery. Helmed by Executive Adam Wood, this open grill kitchen is a cacophony of aromas as soon as you enter. For starters, we sampled the grilled cockles, which offered just the right kick. This was followed by the delicious, glazed beef short rib with brussels and celeriac, and impossibly-tender grilled Herdwick lamb, salsify and quince. Paired with a bottle of the restaurant’s gorgeous Argentinian Malbec and you would be hard-pressed to find a better spot for a romantic Valentine’s Day meal.

This fabulously dog friendly hotel is perfectly situated in the town’s historic centre, within walking distance to all the tourist sites, local pubs and colourful shops.

We recommend visiting Cambridge Wine Merchants for its diverse range of wines and spirits – or better yet book in for a tasting. The Old Bike Shop is an excellent, dog friendly spot for lunch and the Cambridge Botanical Garden is also another lovely dog friendly day out.

You can’t go to Cambridge and not go punting and Scudamore’s station on Granta Pi is right next to the hotel. Here you can see the Mathematical Bridge, the Bridge of Sighs and all of Cambridge’s most idyllic sites.

There is no better way to end the day than at The Graduate’s own garden, which is situated right on the River Cam. Charlie loved sitting in the freshly cut grass, while we enjoyed a nice pot of tea watching the punters slowly drift by, as they have done for hundreds of years. The Graduate is truly an idyllic retreat on the River Cam – and the ideal location for a Valentine’s Day staycation that’s more than a bit extraordinary.

Visit graduatehotels.com for more information or to make a reservation

Nothing banishes the winter blues better than a soul-enriching dog friendly staycations with your favourite four-legged pals.

Our resident doggy reporter, TeamCocopup Charlie is always on the look-out for the best dog friendly staycation destinations in the UK – so you can find the perfect pet-friendly retreat no matter what you fancy this winter.

The Randolph Hotel, Oxford

Conveniently located in the city’s cultural epicentre, this handsome Oxford property is nestled within the University of Oxford and its iconic colleges, including Trinity and St. John’s. The quirky design of this 151-bedroom hotel was inspired by the university’s history. The Randolph is also close to St. Giles Street and its vibrant restaurants, bars, as well as the world-famous Radcliffe Camera and Ashmolean Museum – making all the highlights of Oxford just a quick walk away.

The interiors are bursting with bold hues, textural elements inspired by the region’s natural resources and locally inspired art which tells the narratives of Oxford’s past. You can warm up in the intimate snug, a cosy nook between restaurant and private dining with a bohemian spin on a traditional English library space. The Morse Bar remains, preserving the building’s heritage (when Inspector Morse was filmed at the hotel) with original design elements such as oak wooden panelling, and a perfect spot to get lost in a good book. This fabulously pet-friendly property also allows travellers to take their furry companion with them on their trip for an extra £25 per night.

The Graduate, Cambridge

Positioned along the idyllic banks of the River Cam, the 148-room Graduate Cambridge is surrounded by the University of Cambridge, within walking distance of several colleges, and a stone’s throw from the city’s best restaurants, bars and shops.

The hotel’s design authentically incorporates the history of the city, with the river as the focal point, especially in the lobby bar. The beauty of the pastoral landscapes is reflected in the rich colour palettes, patterns and textures in the hotel. The pet-friendly hotel also allows travellers to take their furry companion with them on their trip for an extra £20 per night.

The lobby will also be home to a hanging DNA installation to celebrate Rosalind Franklin, a pioneer in the development of DNA at the University of Cambridge. The guest rooms use an abundance of “Cambridge Blue”, with wallpaper replicating school gates, punting boats on either side of the bed, whimsical lamp shades in the shape of a penny coin and striking wood and leather desks to give a studious library atmosphere. So, you can get the Ivy league experience even if you have never set foot on those hallowed halls.

Garden House is the new restaurant within the hotel, nestled on the banks of the River Cam. Adam Wood, formerly of London’s award winning Perilla, leads the kitchen with his focus on open-flame cooking and seasonal East Anglian produce and certainly tantalises the tastebuds.

Treehouse Hotel, London

Treehouse Hotel is undoubtedly one of London’s most eco and dog-friendly hotels, The Ulti-Mutt Staycation guest package, launched in partnership with Lily’s Kitchen, is perfect for pampered pooches.

Described as an eco-oasis in the heart of central London, the Treehouse Hotel welcomes furry four-legged friends to enjoy a curated package packed with delicious natural treats from Lily’s Kitchen.

Dogs are certainly spoiled at the hotel with gorgeous Settle dog beds offered in each room. These eco-friendly doggie beds, made in the UK from regenerated plastic bottles, are super plump and outrageously comfy too. Four-legged VIPs will also be offered a pooch-ified mini-bar or room service menu, plus access to the new Treehouse Canine Concierge who will take care of canine necessities.

The Bradley Hare, Maiden Bradley

The Bradley Hare is situated in the beautiful village of Maiden Bradley is a fabulous dog-friendly retreat in southwest Wiltshire. The inn is located on the Duke of Somerset’s Estate and has twelve homely and individually-designed bedrooms.

Each bedroom is unique, overseen by ex-Soho House extraordinaire James Thurstan Waterworth, and boasts 18th & 19th century antique furniture. All the rooms will offer guests those sought-after home from home comforts, some with vast elegant freestanding baths and all with sumptuous beds and linens, fit for a duke or duchess.

With a ‘dine anywhere’ environment, the ever-changing menu echoes The Bradley Hare’s ethos and promises local and seasonal ingredients which will be used to produce exceptional pub classics.

Pet parents looking for ideal dog walks can travel a short distance from Bruton, Frome and Bath, Hauser & Wirth, King Alfred’s Tower, Longleat and Stour head – the splendid 18th century world-famous landscape garden and house which is run by the National Trust, there is so much visit right on its doorstep at the Bradley Hare.

The Kimpton Fitzroy, London

Housed in a landmark building, the Kimpton Fitzroy oozes old-world glamour from its classically-stylish public spaces to the elegant 334 bedrooms in the hotel. Designed by Tara Bernerd & Partners and Russell Sage Studio, the bright, comfortable interiors tip a hat to the building’s past without neglecting its present.

The fabulous Kimpton Fitzroy welcomes pooches of all shapes and sizes and has partnered with sustainable pet food company Marleybones and their team of talented and certified animal nutritionist to create a bespoke ap-PET-isers menu, for four-legged VIPs to enjoy.

Featuring the highest quality and natural ingredients, the dishes are prepared by our team of experienced chefs, who will make sure your beloved pets are treated like the royalty they are.

Our intrepid doggy reporter TeamCocopup Charlie and doting dog mum Hannah spent the first few days of 2022 at the beautiful Wharton Lodge Cottages, an idyllic visit which has refreshed and invigorated our favourite doggy duo for the new year.

Located near the Forest of Dean and surrounded by the picturesque natural landscapes of the Wye Valley, Wharton Lodge Cottages is the kind of place that postcards are made of.

Just three miles from the charming market town of Ross-on-Wye and a fifteen minute drive away from the wondrous Forest of Dean, Wharton Lodge is the perfect retreat for those looking for a relaxing winter getaway. Wharton Lodge Cottages is part of the Premier Cottages portfolio.

Finding Wharton Lodge is a piece of cake as the property boasts its own online visitor’s guide that will give you everything you need from ‘What Three Words’ directions to dog friendly places to visit. It will even recommend a few charming dog friendly pubs and restaurants.

The three luxury, dog friendly cottages are quintessential country-chic. Grosvenor, Harewood and Elgar are run by the lovely Nicky and George Cross, who live in a handsome building on-site and will welcome you to your designated cottage with a smile. The three cottages ooze with warmth and familiar comforts, elegant without being too stuffy and are a true home from home in Ross-on-Wye.

We stayed in the beautiful Grosvenor Cottage, which comfortably sleeps three and boasts plenty of room to relax and unwind. Grosvenor boasts a generously-sized master suite and an extra single bedroom, perfect for small families. Downstairs, there is an elegant lounge complete with log burner, flatscreen TV and bluetooth speakers too.

The fully-equipped kitchen also comes with a lovely welcome hamper full of breakfast essentials and of course all the necessary tools to make a perfect cuppa. Breakfast can be enjoyed in the outdoor courtyard or in the kitchen, both offering their own lovely countryside views. Grosvenor is one of two dog friendly cottages on-site and comes with its own private walled courtyard garden, which is perfect for late night doggy business.

Plenty of places claim to be dog friendly, but with Nicky and George parents to three darling Labradors of their own, Wharton Lodge Cottages surely takes the dog friendliness up a notch. Wharton Lodge boasts its own beautifully maintained walled garden and glasshouse. The property is surrounded by 13 acres of parkland, perfect for pooches like Charlie with a little bit too much energy. A ball-throw and hose are also conveniently located at the field entrance, while a dog waste bin is located in the outhouse. Small details — sure, but all important touches that any dog owner would appreciate.

Wharton Lodge serves as a perfect base to explore the nearby sites. There is plenty to see in the nearby Golden Valley, Brecon Beacons, Malvern Hills and the Cotswolds. The historical cathedral cities of Gloucester, Hereford and Worcester are also within driving distance. For a lovely meal, visit The Moody Cow or the Hostelries – which each offer an elevated take on pub classics.

Forest of Dean offers plenty of stunning circular walks, and for adventure-seekers there is also mountain biking and even a Go Ape acropark. Beyond the Forest, there are also several National Trust Houses to visit that will take your breath away.

Since our visit was set during the new year holiday period, we unfortunately missed out on a few activities in Ross-on-Wye. However, thanks to the hospitality of Nicky and George and the truly fabulous, cosy and effortlessly luxurious cottages at Wharton Lodge – our visit was certainly an unforgettable one.

Wharton Lodge is part of the Premier Cottages portfolio. Unlike many of the very large holiday rental websites, Premier Cottages does not add a booking fee to the price of its holidays. This means guests can save 15% or more by booking with Premier as their prices are “all inclusive” with no hidden charges, cleaning fees or service costs. In peak holiday periods this can result in savings of hundreds of pounds. With Premier you book direct with the cottage owner rather than through a central reservations number and all properties have been inspected and rated 4* or 5* by the national tourist board.

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To book Wharton Lodge visit www.premiercottages.co.uk or call Nicky and George at: 01989 750140

TeamCocopup Charlie and doting dog mum Hannah Tan-Gillies headed to vibrant and bustling Stratford to check out the newly-opened The Gantry. Coined as Stratford’s coolest new dog friendly destination, The Gantry blends East London cool with a decidedly sleek, contemporary aesthetic that we couldn’t get enough of.

Part of The Hilton’s Curio Collection, The Gantry is certainly unlike any Hilton you’ve ever stayed at. The 290-room hotel is all about contrasts and mixes the well-known hospitality and amenities of The Hilton Group, with the dynamism of Stratford’s art scene.

We stayed in one of the hotel’s stunning suites. Occupying a generous 41 square metres and with incredible views of the Olympic Park and the City, the suites are anything but ordinary. A large lounge area greets you when you walk in, two 49’ screen TVs enhance the indulgence of the space, while a Dyson hair dryer, espresso machine and free standing bath and separate shower create an atmosphere of effortless luxury.

TeamCocopup too was greeted with a warm welcome, and though wasn’t allowed in a few of the hotel’s common spaces, certainly got the VIP treatment in the suite.

A gorgeous welcome package from General Manager Saurabh Kukreja greeted us at our room. And while some of The Gantry’s soon-to-be-opened spaces, such as Stratford Grocer & Co, and the Sky Bar and Terraces, were still closed during our visit – the care package gave us a taste of what’s in store at the hotel in the months to come.

The hotel’s restaurant, Union Social, is vibey without being stuffy and offers a fabulous menu of fusion cuisine helmed by Chef Salvatore Coco. For starters, we indulged in a plate of charcuterie from Bottega, fresh-baked, rosemary-infused focaccia and olive oil, fried tofu and Nocarella olives. To follow, we sampled the cleverly-named ‘oven sesame’ glazed south coast sea trout, which sat on a delicate brew of miso, tamari-mirin infused ginger broth, blanched pak choi and bean sprouts.

For a heartier dish, the slow cooked Hampshire grass fed beef cheeks, dressed with Lychgate red wine jus and pressed lyonnaise potatoes offered the perfect winter dish – and was slow cooked to absolute perfection. The Asian-inspiration extends to the desserts, with the vegan Thai Empress Rice Pudding an absolute sensation.

The Gantry’s striking terrace, complete with mid-century modern fire pit, is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail or two. The striking, stylish space is inviting even in the thick of winter, and a precursor of what we can expect when the hotels’ Sky Bar, the highest in East London, eventually opens its doors.

The hallways are never really a focal point in any hotel review, but the hallways at The Gantry, filled with a wonderfully curated selection of artwork from Jealous Gallery are certainly worth talking about. The hallways celebrate the spirit of the East London’s dynamic art scene – underscoring The Gantry’s commitment to uplifting the local community. Guests can also purchase the artwork on the walls.

From the eclectic lobby, the buzzy Union Social restaurant on the first floor, the stylish Coupe wine bar, and the art-filled hallways, The Gantry is a love letter to the vibrancy and juxtapositions of Stratford’s local community and is undoubtedly more than a place to rest your head. We shall certainly be returning.

WWW.THEGANTRY.COM

It’s easy to mistake The Duncombe Arms as just another idyllic country-side pub in Staffordshire, but driving past this truly fabulous locale without entering its world would be a true travesty. Don’t be fooled by an unassuming stone façade, because The Duncombe Arms is so much more than a country-pub (although in that regard, the Michelin-recommended pub is excellent too).

TeamCocopup Charlie and I stayed in The Walnut House, located just a few paces away from the main building. The dog-friendly Walnut House offers ten individually-designed bedrooms that exude country-side chic. While designed as ‘pub with rooms’, in many ways The Walnut House is more of a ‘home from home’ with each room expertly balancing modern luxuries with familiar touches of home.

We stayed in the Game Birds room. A dark mouse grey shade from Farrow & Ball is balanced a rich and vibrant artisanal wallpaper of – you guess it – game birds. A wool throw, a handsome collection of books, and a Roberts Radio add a softness to the interiors. Large French doors open to a patio with pastoral views of The Dove Valley, perfect for those travelling with hyper-active pooches.

Outside of your room, a quirky selection of art from the Crane Kalman Gallery in London adorn the walls, giving The Walnut House a decidedly boutique-hotel appeal, which doesn’t feel out of place amidst the pastoral landscapes of Ellastone. The Duncombe Arms also offers self-catering accommodation for those travelling in larger groups. The Garden Cottage is peak cottage-core, while the Old Barn is rustic chic at its finest.

The heart of The Duncombe Arms must be the pub, which during our stay, was always filled with clinking glasses, familiar chatter, and wonderful aromas. Look for Hotel Manager James Oddy who has all the best recommendations on what to order – whether that’s with the hotel’s excellent elevated pub menu or extensive 200-wine strong wine list.

The food at Duncombe Arms is second-to-none and it quickly becomes apparent why The Michelin Bib Gourmand, The Good Pub Guide, and included in Estrella Damn Top 50 Gastro Pubs have all included it on their best pubs lists.

There are several dining rooms at The Duncombe Arms to suit whatever you fancy, each one offering a slightly different take on the classic English pub, from a cosy snug to a fairy-light covered conservatory. A new addition is the glass-walled extension that offers plenty of romance in the evenings and is also the ideal spot for Sunday brunch.

The menu mixes pub classics with a creative spattering of modern British dishes. The menu is full of surprises and maximises the high-quality locally-sourced ingredients available in Staffordshire. From the autumn menu, the caramelised cauliflower (a humble side) was a clear standout, as was the Mackerel with aioli and tarragon and the buttered baby carrots and aubergine. It truly says something about the quality of the cooking when even the sides, often an afterthought in many other establishments, continue to delight in new and exciting ways.

For mains, the pork loin with white bean, truffle and parsnip tantalises with its perfect balance of texture, flavour and pizazz while the 40-aged dry wood rib eye steak, served with tick cut chips, was (unsurprisingly) delicious too.

So, if you are looking for a dog friendly staycation that will surely dazzle, we highly recommend The Duncombe Arms. There is no other place in Derbyshire that will, not just serve an impeccable pub meal, but will welcome you to your ‘home from home’ quite like it.

A deluxe double room at The Walnut House at The Duncombe Arms starts at £195 for double occupancy including breakfast. For more information visit https://www.duncombearms.co.uk/

If you are now the proud owner of a new Silver Labrador puppy, then you might not know exactly how to start training them. With so many different specific ways to train certain types of dogs, it can be overwhelming trying to find the best options for your new furry friend. Here’s a guide on How to Train Your Silver Labrador.

However, getting the basics down is not as hard as you might think. It is everything else that can become complicated, especially if you make a mistake or take misinformation and myths as fact.

Getting started

The basics of training most dogs will always be the same – getting them potty-trained, building a relationship with them, and generally trying to get them used to live with you and/or your family.

Labradors were bred for intelligence, and they are smart dogs that can sometimes learn up to hundreds of commands. However, to do this, they need to be trained well by somebody that they can actually feel comfortable around.

Before you dive into any complex or risky training, take some time to just enjoy your dog’s presence, doing the very basic types of training that all dogs will need anyway. If they can get comfortable around you and learn to trust you, then everything else becomes a lot easier.

How should I teach a Silver Lab?

Silver Labradors are highly training-friendly, boasting good moods and a fairly high level of patience alongside being quite smart. They can also be very social, both with humans and other dogs, which allows them to become integrated well and avoid anxiety or isolation.

However, when it comes time to teach your Silver Labrador puppy more than the bare minimum, what do you want to train them on first? More importantly, how should you approach their training in a way that actually benefits them?

Looking to enhance your home’s functionality? Check out our guide on how to integrate the latest dog doorbell training device into your space for a seamless pet-friendly environment.

Social Interaction

Always make sure that you give your Lab puppy chances to interact with others. While Labradors get a good reputation for being social animals, they still need to develop this themselves – ideally across a range of activities and with a range of different people.

The best way to do this is through exercise, either by taking them for walks and meeting new people or allowing them to play with other dogs. Shrug off bad interactions with angry dogs and try to aim for good ones – the more positive they are, the better they are for your Lab.

This is also important for preventing unexpected outbursts. If a Labrador feels like it can get along with most dogs and people, it will not get into fights as often and will be more likely to simply avoid a snarling or barking dog instead of engaging with them.

Positive Reinforcement

Always use positive reinforcement to train your Silver Lab, not negative reinforcement. While it can be tempting to punish them for doing things that they should not be doing, the Lab will usually interpret this as you being mean, which can drive a small rift between the two of you.

Positive reinforcement is far better. By praising, cuddling, or giving treats to your Lab after they do something good, you can reinforce good behaviour and make it a lot easier for them to adopt habits that you want. Be sure not to over-feed them with treats, or they might gain extra weight.

Positive reinforcement should also be considered if they start demanding more treats or doing things that they should not be doing. Even if they are trying to get your attention, you should not simply feed them – this could lead to them getting greedy and trying it over and over again.

Potty Training

Potty training often means that you have to praise your dog for doing his business in the right place. Make sure that you teach your puppy where they should be going, and try to learn the signs that they might show if they need to poop while they are still indoors.

A large part of the training is learning how your dog reacts to different things, so you are also training yourself to understand what your pup is communicating. If they have a certain habit – like scratching at the door or staring out the window – then be sure to learn what it means and why they do it.

Potty training is also important for any Silver Labrador puppy that came from another family. You never know where they might have taught it to do its business, so be sure to re-teach them instead of assuming that they are already fully potty-trained.

Other Training Tips

Working with a Silver Lab can be complicated at first, so being able to adapt might be key for getting them to behave how you want. Never just rely on the basics when there might be other options that you should be using instead.

Unexpected Situations

Try to put your Silver Lab in unusual situations, like adding distractions or giving it food in different places instead of one spot. This can help them develop to be a bit more observant, instead of relying on the exact same routine and not having to think about much.

This might also help if you have a very consistent schedule that means you always come home from work at the same time. Teaching your Lab to be patient and deal with unexpected situations can be very important and is not always something that you will consider at first.

Third-Party Training Help

Getting outside help with your training is always a good idea, especially if you have never owned a Silver Lab puppy before – or any kind of puppy – and have no idea where to start.

Online puppy training is a good option, allowing you to build up a proper training structure without having to keep a trainer in the same physical room. This makes it far easier to improve your relationship with your puppy and allows them to focus entirely on you.

On top of that, many online sites run by professional trainers will have a whole host of other facts on how to care for your Silver Lab puppy. Considering how much misinformation is out there about dog training and development, getting advice from actual experts can be a huge benefit.

Most puppy owners, especially new puppy owners, worry about how they can bond with their puppy. They also wonder how to teach their small dog or puppy to feel comfortable when they pick them up. Most puppies do not love being picked up for various reasons, such as they see this as a threat. Learning how to work things out with your puppy is important.

Taking your dog to an obedience training class is also a good idea. Most pet owners do not seem to understand why it is important for them to take their dogs to these classes. If you wonder when it’s time to find a dog obedience trainer, we will help you work this out. This applies to dogs of all sizes but is especially important for small dogs who will likely have to experience being picked up more frequently throughout their life. If you are unsure of how to do this before taking the dog to an obedience class, here are some tips to help you.

Limit Use

Whenever possible, keep your dog (or puppy) off-leash. Using a leash can make it difficult to try and interact with your dog on their terms. This might make them feel caged while their little legs are still fully pre-adapted to the hunt-and-chase game. Make them feel comfortable and gain freedom. This will be the first step to bonding with them.

Rally Your Dog

Rallying your dog will go a long way in helping you figure out the basic body language of your dog. The dog will be well trained and comfortable being touched and held by people. Remember, most dogs are not for the idea of being held or touched without them feeling threatened.

Use A Cue

One of the main reasons you want your dog to like being picked up is that it will lessen the chances of them biting or trying to run away. A great way to make your dog feel comfortable around your arms when you pick them up is to use a cue to do so.

This means that when you reach for your dog or puppy, you should first give them a cue (such as a word or a movement). This can be done in two ways: using a direct cue, for instance, using the word ‘pickup’ or lending a hand to your puppy to see how it reacts. This is helpful because it gives your dog a choice to either obey your command or avoid your hand.

Keep It Pleasant

This idea is mostly for small dogs, especially when they are young and can appreciate the attention. This is something that pet owners mostly forget to give their pets. It creates a bond between you and the dog, making it easier for you to pick up the dog. One simple solution is to give the dog a chance to get used to being picked up at an early stage in their life. We do this by rewarding them for being picked up with an affectionate petting session or a treat. Many small dogs will learn that being picked up is a great thing, but unfortunately, we may never know how many dogs go their entire lives without ever being picked up because their owners never offered it.

Train To Calm The Dog Down

It might be hard to calm down your dog if you are not calm, so you should first be calm and relaxed. With this, you can now teach your dog to remain calm, relaxed, and willing to be picked up. It’s one thing to have a big dog who doesn’t mind getting picked up, but how do you explain why you want to pick them up to your puppy? A calm and confident dog is a safe dog.

Be Kind To Your Dog

Be gentle when you pick up your small dog. You’re probably going to have to move him around a bit, but keep your tone calm and relaxed. Relaxed dogs know what it means to be picked up by their parents. Keep your arms open and let the dog fall gently to the ground if he gets scared. Don’t get angry or jump back; it’s okay just to be aware of his feelings and be okay with him getting scared or nervous around you.

It could seem like a big task to teach your small dog how to be fine with being picked up, but it should feel overwhelming. If you continue to struggle to keep your small dog calm and relaxed while picking it up, then it might be time to call in the professionals to give you and your dog a hand.

Get your posh paws on because The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel has partnered with pet care brand, Pet Pavilion, to launch the ultimate dog-friendly experience.

The Belmond property is rolling out the red carpet for posh pooches, who can now snooze on luxury pet beds and be whisked away in style by a doggy taxi service for professional grooming and pampering treatments at Pet Pavilion’s and enjoy a menu of nutritious doggy delights.

Located just a stone’s throw away on King’s Road, Pet Pavilion’s expert groomers provide a stress-free environment for pets to be pampered, with an amazing treatment menu that includes a classic bath, trim and blow dry to mani-pedis and dog facials. Four-legged will be picked up from The Cadogan by Pet Pavilion’s doggy taxi and chauffeured to their appointment, where they will be pampered in doggy spa rituals before being transferred back to the hotel. Guests can book the grooming services in advance or request them while on the property at the concierge, subject to availability.

The culinary team at The Cadogan hotel have developed a carefully curated menu of dog-friendly dishes to get all tails wagging and ensure that every breed and palate is catered for. Pampered pooches can even have their meals delivered to their rooms by a dedicated butler service – bone appétit!

Pet Pavilion products are also available in-room at The Cadogan, ensuring the finest experience for canine guests, including stainless steel feeding bowls and sumptuous bedding, perfect after a walk at the beautiful Cadogan Place Gardens. Gift boxes are also available, featuring delicious treats and toys to keep playful pups entertained.

Primely positioned midway between Chelsea and Knightsbridge, The Cadogan is an intimate home in the heart of the city. It boasts 54 individually designed rooms, captivating artwork and design details honour the hotel’s rich heritage.