Booking a holiday with your dog in the UK? Not all “dog-friendly” listings live up to the name. Some merely tolerate dogs, while others offer thoughtful touches that make your dog feel like a valued guest. This guide breaks down how to find truly dog-welcoming accommodation, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your trip is smooth, safe, and memorable for both you and your four-legged friend.

What Does “Dog-Friendly” Really Mean?

The terms “dog-friendly” and “dogs allowed” often get used interchangeably, but they can mean very different things in practice:

  • Dogs Allowed: This typically means your dog is permitted on the premises, but there may be restrictions — such as breed or size limitations, limited room availability, or no access to shared areas like lounges or dining rooms. Often, these places charge extra per night and offer no dog-specific amenities.
  • Dog-Friendly: This suggests a property goes out of its way to welcome dogs — offering items like beds, bowls, treats, doggy welcome packs, and information on nearby dog walks. Staff are usually genuinely happy to host pets, and rules are more accommodating.
Quick Tip

If a place simply says “pet-friendly” without details, follow up and ask what that includes. Sometimes it just means your dog can stay — with lots of conditions.

Where to Find Proper Dog-Friendly UK Accommodation

There are now several trusted ways to source genuinely dog-friendly places to stay, including specialised booking sites, search filters, and peer-reviewed listings.

1. Use Trusted Dog-Friendly Booking Platforms

These websites specialise in pet-accommodating stays and often personally vet listings:

  • Paws & Stay – Carefully selected dog-welcoming stays across the UK.
  • Dog Friendly Retreats – Over 30,000 UK cottages where dogs are welcome.
  • Canine Cottages – A highly rated, dog-focused platform with verified customer reviews.

2. Use Pet Filters on Mainstream Sites

Airbnb, Booking.com and Expedia allow you to filter results by “pet-friendly” – but be sure to read the property description and reviews thoroughly. Not all pet-friendly listings actually go the extra mile.

3. Check Reviews, Forums & Blogs

Dog-loving communities on Facebook, Reddit, and Mumsnet often share first-hand reviews of properties. Pet travel blogs can also be a goldmine of vetted stays with real-world insights.

What to Look For in Truly Dog-Friendly Stays

A genuinely dog-welcoming property often includes several of the following:

Dog-Specific Amenities

  • Dog beds, bowls, and blankets provided
  • Welcome treats or toy packs
  • Secure enclosed gardens or courtyards
  • Dedicated dog-wash stations (especially near beaches or trails)
  • Waste bins and dog poo bags

Practical Extras for Owners

  • Local vet and emergency info in the welcome folder
  • Maps and guides for local walks
  • Ground floor or easy-access rooms for older dogs
  • Dog-safe cleaning supplies and laundry facilities

Flexible, Dog-Loving Policies

  • Dogs permitted on furniture or beds (or at least not banned)
  • No breed or size restrictions
  • Multiple dogs allowed
  • Clear rules around unattended dogs (some allow with crate, others don’t)

Ideal Locations

  • Near dog-friendly beaches, parks or national trails
  • Away from busy roads or loud urban areas
  • Close to dog-friendly pubs, cafes and attractions
Quick Tip

The best properties show photos of dogs on-site and include pet amenities in their main descriptions. If it’s hard to find pet information, it might not be a top-tier dog-friendly spot.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask these important questions:

  • Are there any additional pet charges?
  • Are there restrictions on breed, size or number of dogs?
  • Are dogs allowed on beds or sofas?
  • Are there secure outdoor areas?
  • Can dogs be left alone in the property?
  • Are bowls, towels or bedding provided?
Quick Tip

Always get answers in writing — either through the booking platform or via email — to avoid disputes later on.

Hotels vs. Holiday Cottages: Which Is Better?

Dog-Friendly Hotels:

  • Pros: Staff on-site, meals available, often in convenient locations.
  • Cons: May charge per dog, restrict dogs to certain rooms or exclude them from public areas.

Dog-Friendly Holiday Lets:

  • Pros: More space and freedom, enclosed gardens, kitchens for meal prep, no shared walls.
  • Cons: Often self-catered, so less support if anything goes wrong.

Many owners prefer cottages for longer stays and hotels for quick weekends.

Holiday Styles That Work for Dogs

Some destinations naturally lend themselves to travelling with dogs. Here are a few types of dog-friendly breaks:

  • Beach Breaks: Check seasonal dog restrictions, but many UK beaches allow dogs year-round.
  • Countryside Retreats: Perfect for long walks, fresh air and quiet surroundings.
  • City Stays: Surprisingly viable! Cities like Edinburgh, Manchester and York have dog-friendly cafes, parks and boutique hotels.
  • Camping & Glamping: Lots of outdoor options now cater to dogs, including bell tents, shepherd’s huts and caravans.

Before You Travel: Preparation Tips

To make your stay smoother and safer:

  • Stick to familiar food – Sudden diet changes can upset your dog’s stomach.
  • Bring a doggy first aid kit – Include any prescribed medication, tick removers, bandages, etc.
  • Get your dog microchipped – And check your contact info is up to date.
  • Pack familiar bedding and toys – Helps settle dogs in new environments.
  • Exercise them before check-in – A tired dog is less likely to be restless.

Final Thoughts

A little research goes a long way. Booking truly dog-friendly accommodation in the UK ensures your pup isn’t just tolerated, but welcomed. Whether it’s a countryside escape or a city break, the right stay can make all the difference.

Focus on properties with real dog-welcoming policies and thoughtful amenities — and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The more you know before you go, the more relaxing your break will be.

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