Pugs in pubs: snub-nosed dog breed makes fashion statement in Britain, and businesses seek to cash in on the craze
Pug-dedicated cafes are all the rage in London, with owners taking their dogs for cocktails and afternoon tea – but vets urged would-be owners to consider the breed’s health issues before buying one
Pugs are the new fashion must-have in Britain, with owners, in love with their saggy faces and big eyes, even taking them for cocktails and afternoon tea in Pug-dedicated cafes.
In East London’s agonisingly trendy Brick Lane neighbourhood, a dozen people stand outside gawping adoringly into the Pugs and Pals cafe.
Inside is a cacophony of barking and yapping. On its opening day, the bar dedicated to Pug lovers is a hit, even though it is a weekday.
“It’s a fantastic thing to have your dog with you in a cafe or a restaurant,” says Sally Afrasiab, 46, the proud owner of eight-year-old Dude, who sports a Peruvian hat and a bow tie.
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She is among the pug fanatics who post pictures of their dolled-up dogs on the social networking site Instagram.
“He has more clothes than I have!” Afrasiab says, laughing.