Howler’s Is Coming — A New Breed of Diner for Pets and Their People
At Boston Made, Inc., we’re not afraid to disrupt industries. We’ve built businesses across everything from retail to service, education to e-commerce—and now, we’re bringing that same fearless energy to the food and hospitality space. The next chapter in our journey is one of our boldest (and most fun) ideas yet.
At Boston Made, Inc., we’re not afraid to disrupt industries. We’ve built businesses across everything from retail to service, education to e-commerce—and now, we’re bringing that same fearless energy to the food and hospitality space. The next chapter in our journey is one of our boldest (and most fun) ideas yet.
Introducing Howler’s — a pet-friendly diner concept built for the modern pet lover and their four-legged best friend.
But before we get into what Howler’s is, let’s talk about why we’re doing it.
The Restaurant Industry Is Changing Fast
The American restaurant scene has always been a reflection of culture—and right now, the culture is shifting. According to the National Restaurant Association, the U.S. restaurant industry is projected to generate over $1 trillion in sales by the end of 2025. That’s a historic high—and proof that people are more eager than ever to dine out.
But here’s the twist: people aren’t just dining out for the food anymore. They’re dining out for connection, experience, and identity. Diners want more than a meal—they want a space that reflects who they are and what they value.
At the same time, 72% of pet owners in the U.S. consider their pets to be part of the family. That’s not just a feel-good stat—it’s a market-shaping shift. People are traveling with their pets more, shopping for them more, and yes—wanting to include them in social experiences like brunches, happy hours, and casual dinners.
That’s where Howler’s comes in.
So, What Is Howler’s?
Howler’s is our fresh, forward-thinking take on the classic American diner—reimagined through the lens of the modern pet-loving generation.
It’s a pet-friendly restaurant concept that blends nostalgia with innovation, giving guests a full-service diner experience in a space designed to welcome both humans and their furry companions.
Imagine retro-inspired booths, playful murals, pup-focused menu items, and staff trained not just in hospitality—but in animal friendliness and care. It’s a place where dog bowls are as common as coffee mugs. Where conversations happen over milkshakes while a golden retriever lounges by your feet. Where pet parents feel seen, heard, and welcomed—not just tolerated.
And yes—it’s where we host Yappy Hour.
What’s Yappy Hour?
Think happy hour, but with tail wags.
Yappy Hour at Howler’s will be a daily (and eventually weekend-special) social event featuring drink and food specials for humans, and treats and pup-tinis for dogs. It’s a community-building experience where dog owners can unwind, connect, and celebrate the bond they share with their pets—all in a space that’s designed for it.
No awkward outdoor-only seating. No side-eye from staff or guests. Just good vibes, great food, and paws on the patio (or even inside, depending on local ordinances).
Food for You. Treats for Them.
The menu at Howler’s will hit all the marks you’d expect from a classic diner: hearty breakfasts, stacked burgers, loaded fries, milkshakes, salads, and sandwiches with a twist. But we’re not stopping there.
We’re also creating a dedicated dog menu, with vet-approved recipes for safe, simple, and delicious pet treats. Whether it’s a pup patty, peanut butter banana bites, or a special “Bone Appétit” platter, every dog that comes through our doors gets treated like a VIP (Very Important Pup).
The Bigger Vision
Howler’s is more than just a restaurant. It’s a lifestyle experience. It’s a physical embodiment of the values we hold at Boston Made—creativity, community, compassion, and boldness.
We’ve seen firsthand how pets bring people together.
Howler’s is the next step in that journey. It’s where the leash meets the latte. Where dogs aren’t just allowed—they’re part of the story. And where every detail, from the flooring to the flatware, is designed with inclusivity and joy in mind.
Looking Ahead
Right now, we’re in active development—scouting locations, building our prototype, and finalizing partnerships to make Howler’s a standout in the growing pet-friendly hospitality market. We’ll be rolling out more updates in the coming months, including design previews, menu teases, and of course—our first Yappy Hour launch party.
In a world that often feels too fast, too sterile, and too disconnected, Howler’s is a place to slow down. To eat well. To laugh hard. And to do it all with the ones who matter most—human and canine alike.
Stay tuned. The future of dining is going to the dogs—and we’re proud to lead the pack.
— Nate
Founder, Boston Made, Inc.
Is Your Dog Ready to Dine Out?
A pet-friendly restaurant is only fun if everyone, including the dogs at the next table, can relax. Before bringing your dog to any dining spot, think honestly about whether your pup is ready for the experience.
- Can your dog settle on a mat or at your feet for an extended period?
- Is your dog comfortable around strangers, other dogs and noise such as clattering dishes and conversation?
- Does your dog respond reliably to basic cues like sit, down, leave it and stay?
- Can your dog ignore food on the floor and on nearby tables?
- Is your dog healthy, vaccinated and clean?
If the answer to several of these is “not yet,” start with short visits to a quiet patio during off-peak hours and build up gradually.
Dining Etiquette for Pet Parents
- Keep the leash short and in hand. Tie-outs to chairs or tables can turn into accidents if a dog lunges.
- Bring a mat or small blanket. It gives your dog a defined spot to settle.
- Exercise first. A good walk before dinner helps your dog relax.
- Pack the basics. Water, a collapsible bowl, waste bags and a few small treats or a quiet chew.
- Keep dogs off furniture unless the restaurant says otherwise.
- Read the room. If your dog is stressed, barking or restless, it is fine to call it a night early.
A Note on Local Rules
Rules for dogs in restaurants vary. Health codes in many places restrict animals inside food service areas, with exceptions for service animals, while outdoor patios may be permitted depending on state and local regulations. That is why pet-friendly dining concepts need to work closely with local health departments, and why spaces can look different from one town to the next. When visiting any restaurant with your dog, check its policy ahead of time.
Keeping Pup Treats Safe
Sharing food with your dog is part of the fun, but some human foods are dangerous for dogs. Common ones to avoid include:
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions and garlic
- Foods sweetened with xylitol
- Cooked bones, which can splinter
- Very fatty or heavily seasoned foods
Stick to treats made for dogs, keep portions small and account for them in your dog’s daily food intake. If your dog has allergies, a sensitive stomach or a medical condition, ask your veterinarian which treats are appropriate. If you think your dog has eaten something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service right away.
Questions Pet Parents Ask
Can puppies come to a pet-friendly restaurant?
Ask your veterinarian when your puppy’s vaccinations make public outings appropriate, and keep early visits short.
What if my dog does not get along with other dogs?
A busy social setting may not be the right fit yet. Work with a reward-based trainer, and consider quieter outings first.
Are pet menus safe for every dog?
Even dog-friendly recipes may not suit every dog. Check ingredients and talk to your vet about any dietary restrictions.
