‘Ruff’ Guide: The Search for the UK’s Most Dog Friendly Holiday

From city breaks to seaside escapes, get ready for some serious dog friendly staycation inspiration! 

It is estimated that 60% of dog owners plan their holidays around their pets.  But, which UK location offers the best holiday experience for both you and your dog? 

From pet friendly Airbnb’s to the number of dog friendly beaches, our ‘ Ruff Guide’ reveals the best places to go, if you have a dog in tow.   

‘Ruff’ Guide to the UK’s Most Dog Friendly Staycation Destinations

Taking 28 of the most popular UK holiday destinations, the study uses seven criteria to determine which locations offer the most for dogs (and their owners). 

The Most Dog Friendly Holiday Destination Revealed for 2021

Edinburgh tops the list as the most dog friendly location. Scoring 656 points in total, Edinburgh was top dog for green space, pet friendly Airbnb’s and places to eat. The only thing this Scottish city break lacks is a beach (well, you can’t have everything!). 

Rest your Paws

Forget the stress of the airport and look closer to home for a place to put your paws up and chill out. We found that Edinburgh, Bournemouth, Brighton and Bognor Regis have the most dog friendly accommodation, with a combined total of 1,224 dog friendly listings on Airbnb.

Stretch your Legs

Feel the wind in your whiskers and head to Anglesey for the most dog friendly beaches and green space. This island off the north-west coast of Wales has beautiful landscapes and miles of dog friendly sand – head to Rhosneigr for the perfect mix.     

Treat for you, Treat for the Dog

Both Newquay and Blackpool had the most dog friendly pubs, bars and restaurants to choose from, making enjoying a snack after a walk on the beach a breeze. Newquay tops the list with 180 different pubs, restaurants or cafes, welcoming both you and your pooch for a pupstop snack, followed by Blackpool with 178. 

Pet-Safe Staycations

There is never a good time for your pup to get poorly, but it can happen at any time, even on holiday. Edinburgh came out on top for having the most vets and dog sitters to help you out when you’re away from home. 

Holidays should be a fun-filled time for all of the family, so we asked Head Vet Sean to give us some top tips when taking your dog on holiday with you.

Head Vet at tails.com, Sean Mccormack said: “Any dog-parent will tell you that a holiday with your pooch is simply unbeatable. And with the scrappage of the EU Pet Passport, it’s likely that more and more dog owners will be choosing dog-friendly holidays in the UK. 

“When you’ve got four more legs coming along on the trip, there are a few extra essentials to keep in mind when planning your staycation. So I’ve put together some of my favourite holiday hacks to make your dog-friendly break as enjoyable and safe as possible.”

Getting there…

• Take a long walk before you set off – perfect for a last-minute toilet break and to tire them out for the journey ahead. 
• Seatbelt /Pet Car Seat: The Highway Code requires dogs to be suitably restrained for both your safety and theirs. The simplest way to do this is a dog seatbelt or a pet car seat which will offer protection should you have to brake suddenly. 
• Along the way: Plan your rest stops along the way. Many motorway service stations will have a grassy area for you both to stretch your legs. 

What to Pack…

• Food: Remember to pack a plentiful supply of your dog’s favourite food. Dry kibble dog food is perfect if you’re camping or staying somewhere without a fridge.
• Treats and Toys: Don’t forget to take plenty of their favourite treats and toys, especially if you’re planning on visiting a dog friendly pub and need to keep them entertained. For a beach holiday, check to see if your toys float! 
• Portable water bottle and bowl: Keep a bottle of fresh water in your bag and a portable bowl, just in case. 
• Towels, blankets and bedding: Pack plenty of fluffy towels (for sandy or wet fur), comfortable blankets (to make them feel safe and warm), and take their bed so they feel at home. 
• Tether spiral and long lead: Perfect for keeping your dog safe if you are camping or visiting the beach.
• Poo bags: Keep them attached to the lead so you have them with you, wherever you go. 
• Raincoat and cooling jacket: British summers can be incredibly warm, but they can also be incredibly wet, too. Pack for all eventualities with a raincoat and cooling jacket to keep your pooch comfortable whatever the weather. 

Safety First… 

• Number for a local vet: Make a note of the contact details for a local vet, just in case you need them whilst your away from home.  
• Pet first aid kit: Many of the items in a human first aid kit cross over with a pet first aid kit. Sensitive sun cream and tweezers are also great to include. 
• ID Tags: Many dog friendly Airbnb’s now include temporary ID tags to attach to your dog’s collar when you’re away, in case they get lost. If not, it could be worth including your mobile phone number on your usual tag, so you can be contacted straight away.