Planning a pet friendly holiday can be incredibly rewarding, but it does take a bit of extra preparation. Whether you’re exploring Ireland’s lush green landscapes or the UK’s picturesque countryside, making sure your trip is pet-friendly is key. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips on planning dog-friendly holidays, from must-have travel essentials to the best destinations for you and your four-legged companion.
Best Pet-Friendly Holidays Destinations in the UK
1. Lake District, England
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Why go? Gorgeous lakes, rolling hills and endless walking trails
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Why go? Gorgeous lakes, rolling hills and endless walking trails
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Pet-friendly holiday highlights:
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Many pubs welcome dogs with open arms (and treats!)
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Lake Windermere offers dog-friendly boat rides
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Stay in charming pet-friendly cottages or inns
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2. Cornwall, England
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Why go? Beautiful beaches and coastal paths
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Dogs are welcome year-round at beaches like Holywell Bay and Watergate Bay
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Explore the South West Coast Path with your pup
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Dog-friendly accommodations abound, from luxury hotels to cosy lodges
3. Scottish Highlands, Scotland
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Why go? Dramatic landscapes, castles and serene lochs
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Hike Ben Nevis or take scenic walks around Loch Ness
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Many B&Bs and pubs are dog-friendly
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Explore pet-friendly castles like Blair Castle
4. Cotswolds, England
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Why go? Picturesque villages and countryside charm
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Wander through Bourton-on-the-Water or Chipping Campden
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Stay in cosy, dog-friendly inns
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Enjoy long countryside walks and dog-friendly gardens
5. Snowdonia National Park, Wales
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Why go? Rugged mountains and lush valleys
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Trails suitable for dogs of all energy levels
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Stay in pet-friendly cottages or campsites
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Relax in dog-welcoming pubs after a day of adventure
Best Pet-Friendly Holidays Destinations in the Ireland
1. Ring of Kerry, County Kerry
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Why go? Stunning coastal drives and charming villages
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Plenty of scenic stops for walks and photo ops
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Dog-friendly accommodations and restaurants
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Explore Killarney National Park (on-lead areas)
2. Connemara, County Galway
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Why go? Wild landscapes and beaches
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Walk along the white sands of Dog’s Bay Beach
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Explore the scenic trails in Connemara National Park
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Stay in dog-friendly B&Bs or self-catering cottages
3. Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow
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Why go? Rolling hills, forests and waterfalls
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Walks in Glendalough or the Sally Gap
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Many cafes and pubs are dog-friendly
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Dog-friendly lodges and guesthouses abound
4. Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
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Why go? Dramatic cliffs and iconic landmarks
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Visit the Giant’s Causeway (dogs allowed on leads)
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Walk the sandy beaches of Portrush or Portstewart
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Stay in pet-friendly accommodations nearby
5. Dingle Peninsula, County Kerry
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Why go? Breathtaking views and cosy Irish charm
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Pet-friendly holidays highlights:
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Dog-friendly beaches like Inch Beach
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Many pubs and restaurants welcome pets
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Scenic walks along the coastline
Best Websites to Find Pet-Friendly Holidays Accommodations
PetsPyjamas
- Specialises in pet-friendly stays across the UK and Ireland
- Offers exclusive pet packages, including treats and amenities
Canine Cottages
- Focused on dog-friendly holiday cottages
- Filters for features like enclosed gardens and nearby walks
Airbnb
- Use the "Pets Allowed" filter to find pet-friendly homes
- Many hosts highlight dog-friendly amenities in their listings
Booking.com
- Filter for "Pet Friendly" under amenities
- Great for hotels, apartments and B&Bs
Sykes Holiday Cottages
- Hundreds of dog-friendly cottages across the UK and Ireland
- Many include features like dog beds and bowls
Top tip: Always check the reputation of the place before booking. Most of the sites above give you the option to see photos of the accommodation, this is essential for you to know if you will have enough space to stay with your pet.
Also, check out the comments and reviews from previous guests about the place, it helps you to see if previous experiences have been good.
You can also ask the owners if you have any specific questions or if your pet needs special care or facilities.
Pet-Friendly Cottage Holidays Recommendations
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Cornwall: Treworgey Cottages, Dog-friendly cottages with private gardens and an on-site dog agility course.
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Lake District: Brackenrigg Lodge, Cottages with stunning views and pet-friendly trails nearby.
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Wales: Ty Gwilym Holiday Cottages, Near Snowdonia, perfect for exploring with pets.
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Scotland: Glencoe Cabins, Cosy cabins in the Highlands with pet-friendly policies.
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Ireland: Dunowen House, County Cork, Luxury cottages with pet amenities and outdoor space.
Tips for Keeping Your pet Comfortable and Healthy in holidays
Traveling or introducing your dog to a new environment can be exciting but also a bit stressful for your furry friend. With some preparation and the right tools, you can ensure your dog stays comfortable, healthy and happy throughout the experience.
1 - Stick to a Routine
Maintaining your dog’s usual feeding, walking and sleeping schedule can help reduce stress. Bring their regular food to avoid digestive issues.
2. Prioritise Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when traveling or adapting to unfamiliar surroundings. Products like DoggyRade prebiotic drinks are perfect for keeping your dog hydrated while also supporting gut health. If you’re traveling with a feline friend, KittyRade prebiotic drinks are equally beneficial. Introduce these drinks a few days before your trip to help your pet get used to the taste.
3. Keep Them Entertained
Interactive toys are lifesavers for reducing anxiety and boredom. Consider lick mats to keep your dog engaged or toys that hide chews, which encourage mental stimulation and calmness.
4. Be Prepared for Digestive Upsets
Travel and new environments can sometimes upset your dog’s tummy. Having the TummyRade Assist: Digestive Support Kit for Dogs on hand ensures you’re ready for any digestive issues that might arise. This kit provides gentle, effective support to keep your pet feeling their best. Check that content with 11 Causes and Best Treatments for Dog Diarrhea
5. Gradual Familiarisation
Before the trip, let your dog explore new items like their hydration drinks, interactive toys, and the TummyRade Assist kit. This reduces the novelty factor and makes them feel more secure when you’re on the move.
6. Comfort is Key
Pack their favourite blanket, bed, or a piece of clothing with your scent to help them feel at home. Maintaining a sense of familiarity can work wonders for their comfort.
With these tips and the right products, you can make any new environment a positive and stress-free experience for your pet!
Pet-Friendly Holiday Checklist
To help you prepare everything you need for your pet friendly holiday, we've prepared this checklist to make sure you don't forget anything and have everything ready for the perfect trip with your pet.
✅ 1. Health & Safety
- Vet check-up (vaccinations, flea/tick prevention)
- Updated ID tag and microchip details
- Pet first aid kit
✅ 2. Travel Essentials
- Collar, harness and leash
- Portable water bowl and fresh water
- Food, treats and travel-friendly containers
- DoggyRade range
- Waste bags for clean-ups and disposable dog pads
✅ 3. Comfort Items
- Favourite toys and blanket
- Dog bed or crate for rest
- Grooming tools (brush, wipes)
- Interactive toys
✅ 4. Documentation
- Vaccination records (if required)
- Pet insurance details
- Contact info for local vets
✅ 5. Destination Prep
- Check pet policies for accommodations and attractions
- Map out dog-friendly parks, beaches and cafes
- Plan travel breaks for walks and bathroom stops
✅ 6. Weather Gear
- Raincoat or cooling mat (depending on the season)
- Paw balm for hot or rough surfaces
DoggyRade Range – The Essential Products for Your Pet’s Holiday
Planning a holiday with your pet? The DoggyRade range has everything you need to keep them happy, healthy and ready for adventure. Here’s a closer look at each product and why it’s perfect for travel or changes in routine:
DoggyRade Prebitoic Drinks
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What it does: A delicious, low-calorie isotonic drink that rehydrates your dog faster than water. Enriched with prebiotics to support gut health and improve digestion
- Why it’s perfect for holidays: Long journeys, hot days, or new environments can lead to dehydration. DoggyRade helps your pet stay hydrated and feel their best
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DoggyRade Prebiotic Chewies
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What it does: Tasty, long-lasting chews that are great for dental health and keeping your dog entertained
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Why it’s perfect for holidays: Ideal for keeping your dog calm and occupied during travel or in unfamiliar surroundings
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DoggyRade Meat Snacks
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What it does: Bite-sized treats packed with superfoods and prebiotics, perfect for training or rewarding good behaviour
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Why it’s perfect for holidays: Lightweight and easy to carry, these treats are great for encouraging good behaviour while exploring new places. You can hide them in interactive toys and keep the dog relaxed and entertained
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YummyRade Meal Enhancer
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What it does: A tasty gravy topper that makes any meal irresistible while supporting your dogs gut health with prebiotics
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Why is it perfect for holidays: Picky eater? YummyRade ensures your pet enjoys their meals, even in new or distracting environments. Also its a great why the boos their immune system with prebiotics and beneficial amino acids
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TummyRade Assist: Digestive Support Kit for Dogs
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What it does: A gentle solution for dogs with sensitive stomachs, formulated created by veterinarians to help maintain digestive balance and promote hydration during times of dietary transitions or occasional digestive
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Why it’s perfect for holidays: Changes in diet or stress can upset your dog’s stomach. TummyRade Assist helps maintain digestive balance and prevents discomfort. Contains 1 x 500ml DoggyRade Pro and 4 x 50g TummyRade Digestive Mix
