A pub named after the ­Edinburgh's most famous dog has come under fire after it turned away a pet-owner -because it is a dog-free zone.

The Greyfriars Bobby Bar in central Edinburgh overlooks the statue of the Skye Terrier, who spent 14 years guarding the grave of his owner. But management at the bar have been criticised after they turned away Tracie Knight and her dog Tenzin.

The 34-year-old was told her pet was not allowed inside the premises because customers were "genuinely uncomfortable" around pets and the pub has only one room.

Ms Knight, who says her dog is often described as a blonde look-a-like to the famous terrier, said: "I just laughed. I couldn't believe it - they trade off their connection with Greyfriars Bobby.

"I don't see why more places in Edinburgh don't let dogs in - Tenzin's no trouble and in fact he's less trouble than some drunk people."

The Greyfriars Bobby Bar website boasts that it is "famous for the city's most loyal watchdog", who is buried next door in the ­Greyfriars Kirkyard.

A spokesman for the bar said the policy has been in place for at least a decade, and added: "Some guests are genuinely uncomfortable around dogs and the pub has just the one room.

"There is an outdoor seating area where dogs are very welcome and we obviously welcome assistance dogs."