How to be a regal beagle

Ahead of her engagement to Prince Harry, Meghan Markle moved one of her two beloved dogs to London – a beagle named Guy. Guy is a rescue dog originally from Kentucky who stole Meghan’s heart as quickly as Prince Harry and the pair have been inseparable ever since.

But how does a ‘commoner’ beagle adjust to royal society in London? In this special canine-focused year – the Chinese Year of the Dog - Visit London has put together the top 5 things a Regal Beagle must do to adjust to London life:

1. Find a home away from home

Every royal dog needs a little time away from the limelight for some rest and relaxation, in these delightfully dog-friendly abodes.

• Rubens at the Palace – dog friendly hotel by St James’ Park, offering a welcome hamper, a dog menu, plus walking, sitting and grooming services.
• Egerton House Hotel, Knightsbridge – offers a romantic doggy afternoon tea, which features specially made treats, including chicken and beef meatloaf, homemade dog biscuits and even doggy ice cream.

1. Try out a new hobby

Socialising and meeting new friends is a must for any new pooch in London.  From yoga (or ‘doga’) to skateboarding lessons and iPad classes – Guy can expand his mind and his body in our ultimate list of doggy classes:

• Downward dog takes on a whole new meaning at ‘Doga’ – Yoga classes for dogs and their owners.  Doga provides a mindful connection with your dog as you mimic your pet’s breathing patterns and stay controlled throughout the pose to ensure your pet’s comfort.
• With doggy iPad masterclasses and bespoke training that includes teaching your dog how to ride a skateboard, City Dog can take your dogs skillset to a whole new level! 
• Dogs and their owners that workout together, stay together! Dog House Fitness is a boutique spin and box studio that opened just a few months ago in South London. Both instructors and clients can bring in their dogs and let them roam free in the lobby/cafe area, so on any given day you will find furry temporary residents looking for cuddles and having a ball!

1. Discover a good date location

Harry and Meghan don’t need to leave Guy at home while out on a date in London! From doggy brunch to dinners, here are some of our favourites:

• Shakeshack’s special dog menu, the ‘Pooch-ini’ includes ShackBurger® dog biscuits, peanut butter sauce and vanilla custard. A delicious date night awaits! Venues across London.
• A romantic Doggy Sunday Brunch is a must after a walk round Hampstead Heath! Doggy Sunday is on the first Sunday of every month at Gaucho’s Hampstead Restaurant, with a different theme every month. The day includes a three-course meal including Argentinian steak for humans and plenty of treats for hounds. £5 for every dog is donated to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
• Close to his home at Kensington Palace, Guy can take a trip with Meghan to Italian restaurant, Daphne’s. Owners can enjoy delicious food and even purchase a luxury dog bowl, but pooches must stick to the fun code of conduct where ‘ Dogs with real diamonds in their collars must be addressed as HRH’

1. Em-‘bark’ in a little retail therapy

Dogs put the waggy tail in retail, but where does a royal dog go for a wardrobe that is fit for a king?

• Whether it’s chic dog bowls to serve your dog’s favourite dish, a sleek lead and collar, or the most luxurious dog beds, Mungo & Maud near Sloane Square has options fit for a royal dog. The handwoven Leather Dog Bed, made from the finest Italian leather would look perfect in Meghan and Harry’s cottage!
• A diamond collar is a must for any royal pooch and the Verve London Pet Boutique & Bar Lounge in Notting Hill offers a range of Swarovski collars alongside special ‘prince’ dog bowls – perfect for the definitive regal beagle.
• After his iPad Masterclass, Guy will be able to hop online and order some delights for himself and should look no further than StyleTails for designer goodies.  Favourites include the Kensington Dog Trench coat – the upmost in sartorial elegance for this pampered pooch.

1. Paw-take in some pampering

It’s a tough life being constantly in the public eye as a royal pooch. Luxurious pet-pampering is an absolute must to ensure you look your absolute best:

• From pedicures with a special vanilla and milk thistle paw soak to a refreshing blueberry and vanilla facial, dogs are treated like prince and princesses at the Pet Spa in Chelsea.  Make sure your pup is red-carpet ready with the special ‘Sparkle Treatment’ including a bow tie for boys and a pink ribbon for girls. 
• Waggin’ Tails, located between Chelsea and Fulham, offers more than just dog grooming. Whether your pet needs a quick Four Paw Pedicure, a coat trim or a place to stay for the day they offer a range of services to ensure any regal dog leaves relaxed, gorgeous and smelling sweet!
• A pre-groom consultation is key to the grooming process at Sniffles Dog Grooming Spa in Hampstead. Even if it’s one of their regulars having “the usual” they still always use a body brush with every dog to check their condition, and decide what shampoo will work best today. Every dog is then treated to ear plucking and cleansing, nail trim and mouthwash followed by a good overall wash and dry, before finishing with the requested haircut and full natural body spray for a nice lasting aroma.

For more information on what to see and do in Royal London: www.visitlondon.com/royal

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