Treat Your Dog To A Getaway Too, Without The Stress
There’s something especially heart-warming about packing the car boot, strapping in the kids, and watching your dog’s ears flap excitedly in the back seat. Holidays are better when the whole family’s involved, and yes, that includes the furry members too.
But planning a pet-friendly break in the UK? It’s not just about picking the right place to stay. It’s about making the journey comfortable, the destination safe, and the whole experience stress-free (for both of you).
Here’s how to plan a pet-friendly holiday in the UK that doesn’t end in soggy dog beds, no-dogs-allowed signs, or mid-journey meltdowns.
First Things First: Where Can You Actually Take Your Dog?
You’d be surprised how many UK locations roll out the red carpet for dogs. From cosy cottages in the Lake District to seaside boltholes in Cornwall, and even dog-welcoming city breaks in places like York or Edinburgh, it’s not hard to find somewhere both you and your pet will enjoy.
Over the years, attitudes have changed towards dogs, with many businesses now realising that they’re not just a pet, they’re an extension of us and part of the family; something hospitality can’t often afford to ignore.
Websites like Dog Friendly Cottages and The Good Dog Guide help owners find places that don’t just ‘allow’ (tolerate) dogs, they genuinely cater for them, which is a great place to start with your pet-friendly holiday planning.
If you’re looking for beaches where your dog can sprint at full tilt, consider places like:
- Westward Ho! (Devon): Great sands, year-round dog-friendly zones.
- Holkham Bay (Norfolk): Practically made for zoomies.
- Rhossili Bay (Wales): Regularly ranks among the UK’s best.
What Kind of Accommodation Should You Look For?
This one’s important because ‘dog-friendly’ doesn’t always mean truly pet-inclusive.
Look for places that offer:
- Secure, enclosed gardens (for that first-thing-in-the-morning dash)
- Water bowls and dog beds on request
- Easy-clean flooring (because muddy paws and carpets don’t mix)
- Nearby walking trails or beaches
- No hidden restrictions (like ‘no dogs on furniture’ or ‘small breeds only’)
Some hotels even offer dog room service, treats on arrival, or canine spa treatments. Yes, that’s a real thing.
Pack Like a Pro (For Them Too)
We all know how we pack for ourselves; outfits we won’t wear, books we won’t read. But when it comes to your dog, a little smart prep goes a long way.
It’s important to pack a lot of home comforts and things they’re familiar with, to put them at ease in the new holiday environment. Remember, for dogs, being away from home can be a big thing.
We recommend packing their bed and blanket, plus their favourite chews and toys to reduce anxiety and give them maximum comfort. Outside of that, it makes sense to pack their usual food (plus any medication), poo bags (just in case you’re holidaying somewhere without a local shop) and plenty of towels for post-muddy walks.
As a responsible owner, you should always keep your dogs collar and ID tag up to date (which is a legal requirement), especially if you’re planning some time away. You should also consider a GPS Dog Tracker, which keeps your dog’s location up to date on your phone, ideal for any stress moments, if you’re dog gets lost in it’s new holiday surroundings.
And don’t forget the travel essentials, especially if your dog’s not used to long car journeys. Portable water bowl, harness seatbelt or crate, window shade, and a few short breaks enroute make all the difference.
Plan Activities Ahead
Not every pub with a beer garden is dog-friendly. Not every trail is safe for off-lead fun. And not every attraction will let your pooch through the gates. So, do a bit of research.
Local tourism boards will list pubs, cafés, nature reserves, and even historical sites that welcome dogs. Think pub walks with dog bowls at the bar, or National Trust sites with designated dog-friendly zones.
And if you want to hit a museum or a spa for a few hours? Check if there’s a local dog-sitter or doggy day care nearby. Many destinations now offer drop-in pet care services for holidaymakers.
Health & Safety Bits That Are Easy to Forget
Let’s be honest most UK holidays involve a fair bit of drizzle, hills, or sheep. So it pays to be prepared.
- Make sure your dog’s microchip details are up to date
- Bring flea and tick treatment, especially if you’re heading rural
- Take note of the nearest vet to your holiday stay (just in case)
- Avoid hot days in the car and never leave your dog unattended in it
- Watch out for cliff edges, fast rivers, or unsecure fencing if you’re off the beaten track
Also, check ahead for local restrictions, like dog bans on beaches during summer months. During lambing season, if you’re holidaying in the countryside, there could be some areas that are restricted to dog owners. These vary from council to council and can catch you off guard.
Remember The Rules
If you’re heading to a popular walking spot or staying in shared accommodation, remember the golden rules:
- Always clean up after your dog, even on moors or woodland
- Keep them on a lead near livestock, roads or wildlife areas
- Be mindful of barking (especially in B&Bs or campsites)
Being a respectful guest with a dog helps make sure more places stay dog-welcoming.
Final Thoughts
Planning a pet-friendly holiday doesn’t mean compromising, it just means being a bit more thoughtful. And honestly, seeing your dog’s tail wagging like mad as they charge into the sea or curl up in a cosy holiday cottage corner makes it absolutely worth it.
Whether you’re wandering through Peak District trails, strolling along a Cornish harbour, or just chasing sticks in a Scottish glen, the UK has countless corners to explore, with your dog right by your side.
You don’t need to leave anyone behind. You just need to plan well and maybe pack an extra towel.
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