Finding genuinely dog-friendly accommodation can be challenging. "Dogs welcome" doesn't always mean what you hope, and the details matter. This guide helps you find, evaluate, and book accommodation that truly works for you and your dog, avoiding common pitfalls and disappointments.
Where to Search
Specialist Dog-Friendly Sites
Dedicated Platforms:
- Sites specifically for dog-friendly holidays
- Often better filtering
- Properties selected for dogs
- Useful information included
Advantages:
- Pre-screened for dog welcome
- Often include dog-specific details
- Reviews from dog owners
Examples: Various dog-specific holiday websites exist. Search "dog-friendly holiday cottages UK."
General Accommodation Sites
Mainstream Platforms:
- Booking.com, Airbnb, etc.
- Wide selection
- Filter for "pets allowed"
- Variable quality of dog welcome
Tips:
- Use pet filters
- Read policies carefully
- Check reviews mentioning dogs
- Contact before booking
Direct with Owners
Owner Websites:
- Often best prices
- Direct communication
- Negotiate requirements
- Clearer policies
Finding Direct:
- Note property names from aggregators
- Search directly
- Often better experience
Agencies
Holiday Let Agencies:
- Many have dog-friendly sections
- Curated selections
- Often useful filters
- Varying charges
What to Look For
Essential Features
Non-Negotiable:
- Dogs explicitly welcome
- Enclosed garden (for most trips)
- Suitable location for walks
- Clear about restrictions
Why These Matter:
- "Pets considered" isn't reliable
- Gardens prevent constant lead walks
- Walk access affects daily life
- Hidden restrictions cause problems
Important Details
Check For:
- Number of dogs allowed
- Size restrictions
- Breed restrictions
- Extra charges
- Damage deposits
- Rules about furniture/beds
- Rules about leaving dogs alone
- Where dogs allowed in property
Nice to Have
Useful Extras:
- Dog-specific amenities (bowls, treats)
- Secure fencing mentioned
- Good dog reviews
- Nearby dog-friendly pubs/beaches
- Walking from doorstep
Questions to Ask
Before Booking
Always Clarify:
The Basics:
- How many dogs can I bring?
- Are there breed or size restrictions?
- What's the additional charge?
- Is there a damage deposit?
The Garden:
- Is the garden fully enclosed?
- What type of fencing?
- Any gaps a dog could escape?
- Is it secure for my size/type of dog?
The Property:
- Which areas can dogs access?
- Are dogs allowed on furniture?
- Can dogs be left alone in the property?
- Is there an area for muddy/wet dogs?
The Location:
- What walking is available nearby?
- How close are roads?
- Are there other dogs/animals on site?
- Any hazards I should know about?
For Multiple Dogs
Additional Questions:
- Is there an extra charge per dog?
- Any maximum number?
- Is there enough space for multiple dogs?
- Sufficient outdoor space?
See our Travelling with Multiple Dogs guide.
Understanding Policies
"Dogs Welcome"
What It Might Mean:
- Genuinely warm welcome
- Dogs accepted but not prioritised
- Basic tolerance only
- Marketing language
How to Tell:
- Specific dog information suggests genuine
- Reviews mentioning dogs
- Dog amenities provided
- Direct communication feeling
Restrictions to Watch For
Common Limitations:
Numbers: "Maximum 2 dogs" or "1 dog only" - if you have more, look elsewhere.
Size: "Small dogs only" or "dogs up to 15kg" - often excludes most dogs.
Breeds: Some exclude certain breeds. Ask if unsure.
Where: "Dogs not allowed upstairs" or "not on furniture" - consider practicality.
Alone: "Dogs must not be left alone" - affects your flexibility.
Extra Charges
Typical Costs:
- £20-50 one-off fee
- £10-30 per dog per night
- £5-15 per dog per night
- Damage deposit £100-500
What's Reasonable: Some charge is reasonable for extra cleaning. Excessive charges suggest dogs are tolerated not welcomed.
Reading Reviews
What to Look For
Positive Signs:
- "Really dog-friendly"
- "Garden was secure"
- "Great walking from door"
- "Provided dog bowls and treats"
- "Landlord really understood dogs"
Warning Signs:
- "Garden not as secure as described"
- "Dogs tolerated but not welcomed"
- "Better options for dogs elsewhere"
- "Restrictive rules about dogs"
Review Tips
Search Strategy:
- Filter reviews mentioning "dog"
- Read carefully
- Look for specifics
- Recent reviews more relevant
Avoiding Problems
Common Pitfalls
The Unsecure Garden: "Enclosed garden" can mean minimal fencing. Ask specifically about security.
The Unexpected Rules: Rules appear on arrival that weren't clear when booking. Clarify everything beforehand.
The Grudging Welcome: "Dogs accepted" with attitude. Look for enthusiastic welcome instead.
The Location Issue: Remote but near busy road. Beautiful but no walking. Research beyond the property.
The Cleaning Charge Surprise: Additional charges mentioned late. Clarify all costs upfront.
Prevention
Protect Yourself:
- Ask questions before booking
- Get policies in writing (email)
- Read reviews carefully
- Trust your instincts
- Be willing to walk away
Booking Process
Before You Book
- Search with appropriate filters
- Shortlist based on features needed
- Check reviews mentioning dogs
- Contact with questions
- Evaluate responses
- Decide based on full picture
Making the Booking
When Booking:
- Confirm dog welcome in writing
- Clarify all charges
- Note any restrictions
- Keep confirmation emails
- Note cancellation policy
After Booking
Before Travel:
- Confirm details closer to date
- Note any specific instructions
- Have contact numbers
- Know arrival process
Specific Accommodation Types
Cottages
See our Cottages guide.
Key Points:
- Gardens usually available
- Self-catering flexibility
- Variable welcome
- Ask about security
Hotels
See our Hotels guide.
Key Points:
- Check which room types allow dogs
- Ask about dog-friendly areas
- Clarify charges per night
- Often can't leave dogs alone
Pubs with Rooms
See our Pubs with Rooms guide.
Key Points:
- Usually genuinely dog-friendly
- Built-in dining option
- Often smaller rooms
- Great atmosphere
Holiday Parks
See our Holiday Parks guide.
Key Points:
- Check specific unit policies
- On-site restrictions vary
- Facilities for dogs vary
- Some parks better than others
Camping
See our Camping guide.
Key Points:
- Usually very dog-friendly
- Check site rules
- Pitching restrictions sometimes
- Lead rules often apply
Peak Season Booking
When to Book
Peak Times (Book Early):
- School holidays
- Bank holiday weekends
- Christmas/New Year
- Easter
- August
How Early:
- Peak weeks: 3-6 months ahead
- Popular destinations: Even earlier
- Last minute: Limited dog-friendly options
Off-Peak Advantages
Benefits:
- More availability
- Lower prices
- More flexibility
- Dog-friendly places easier to find
Cancellation and Changes
Understand Policies
Before Booking:
- Know cancellation terms
- Understand refund timeline
- Check what affects dogs
Common Issues:
- Dog becomes ill
- Weather affects travel
- Change of circumstances
Protection
Consider:
- Holiday insurance covering pets
- Flexible cancellation options
- Deposits vs full payment
Frequently Asked Questions
How far ahead should I book dog-friendly accommodation?
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In peak season, book 3 to 6 months ahead. Off-peak, 1 to 3 months is usually fine. Last-minute bookings are possible but choice is limited.
Should I pay extra for a secure garden?
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Usually yes. It allows toilet breaks without leads, provides a safe space for your dog, and reduces overall stress.
What if accommodation doesn't match the description?
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Document the issues and contact the owner or agent straight away. Request a resolution and leave an honest review afterwards.
Are booking sites or direct bookings better?
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Direct bookings are often better for clearer communication, more flexibility, and sometimes better prices. Both approaches can work.
How many dogs can most properties accommodate?
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One to two dogs is standard. Finding places that accept three or more is harder. Always confirm before booking.
Should I mention my dog's breed when booking?
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Yes, especially for breeds that may be restricted. It is better to clarify early than be turned away later.
Book With Confidence
Finding genuinely dog-friendly accommodation requires research and questions, but gets easier with experience. Ask the right questions, read reviews carefully, and choose properties that truly welcome dogs - not just tolerate them.
The best accommodation makes your dog feel welcome, not just permitted.
Luke has booked countless accommodations for Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, and Molly. Experience has taught the value of asking questions, checking gardens, and choosing properties that genuinely embrace dogs.
★★★★☆
25 global ratings
Top reviews
SM
We were nervous about booking as our rescue collie can be an escape artist, but the garden was genuinely secure with proper fencing all around. The owner even sent photos before we arrived to reassure us. Dog bowls and treats were provided, and there were great walks straight from the door. Really felt like our dog was welcomed, not just tolerated.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Sarah! We're so glad your rescue felt safe and secure. We know how important proper fencing is for anxious dogs. Hope to welcome you back soon!
JT
Lovely cottage and genuinely dog-friendly, but we were surprised by a £75 cleaning charge that wasn't clearly stated when booking. The property itself was excellent - secure garden, walks nearby, and the owner was helpful. Just wish the costs had been clearer upfront. Would still recommend but check all charges first.
Helpful
Seller Response
We apologise for any confusion. We've now made our pricing clearer on all platforms. The cleaning charge covers deep cleaning for guests with allergies. Thank you for the feedback.
ED
Booked this cottage for our two labradors and it was perfect. The owner clearly has dogs themselves - they suggested the best local walks, warned us about the farm dogs next door, and even had a mudroom set up with towels and a tap for washing paws. Garden was brilliant and completely secure. This is what dog-friendly should mean!
Helpful
OH
The listing said 'enclosed garden' but there were gaps in the hedge big enough for our spaniel to get through. We spent the first hour blocking holes with furniture. The cottage itself was fine but we couldn't relax as we had to watch the dog constantly. Really disappointed as this was the main reason we chose this property.
Helpful
Seller Response
We're sorry to hear this. The hedge has been professionally checked and reinforced since your stay. We take garden security very seriously.
CB
Hard to find places that take three dogs but this one welcomed them with open arms! Huge secure garden, plenty of space inside, and the location was perfect for walks. No issues at all. The owner even sent a welcome message asking about each dog by name. Will definitely return.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Charlotte! Lovely to have you and your pack stay with us. You're welcome back anytime!
TW
The property allowed dogs but you could tell it wasn't enthusiastic about it. Long list of rules on arrival about where dogs couldn't go, furniture they couldn't touch, and we had to keep them downstairs. Garden was okay but not particularly secure. For the price, there are better options where dogs are actually welcomed.
Helpful
Seller Response
We're sorry you felt this way. Our house rules help us maintain the property for all guests, including those with allergies. We do genuinely welcome dogs and hope you found the cottage comfortable overall.
JT
Booked a dog-friendly room at this hotel and it exceeded expectations. Dog bed, bowls, and treats provided. Staff were genuinely welcoming to our spaniel, and the grounds were perfect for morning walks. Only £15 per night extra which felt very reasonable. Will definitely book again.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Jessica! We love having four-legged guests and we're so glad you both enjoyed your stay.
MA
Cottage was lovely and very dog-friendly with a secure garden. Only issue was that to access walks we had to cross a fairly busy road which wasn't mentioned in the description. Not a dealbreaker but would have been good to know. Everything else was excellent though.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you for the feedback Michael. We've added information about road access to our listing.
RC
Nothing about restrictions in the listing, but on arrival we were presented with a sheet of rules - no dogs upstairs, not allowed on any furniture, must be crated if left alone. We wouldn't have booked if we'd known. Felt mis-sold. Had to find alternative accommodation. Very disappointing experience.
Helpful
Seller Response
Our house rules are available on request before booking. We're sorry this didn't work for you.
DW
Our rescue is nervous of new places but this cottage made it easy. Quiet location, secure garden, and we could walk straight out into fields from the back gate. The owner left detailed notes about the property and local walks. Really thoughtful touches that showed they understand anxious dogs. Highly recommend.
Helpful
Seller Response
So lovely to hear your rescue settled in well! We know how important those first few hours are for anxious dogs. You're both welcome back anytime.
SW
Lovely property and very dog-friendly overall. Garden was described as 'secure' but one section of fence was a bit rickety - fine for our lazy labrador but might not suit energetic dogs. Owner fixed it immediately when we mentioned it. Everything else was spot on and we'd return.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Sophie, we appreciate you letting us know and we're glad you enjoyed your stay overall!
AR
One of the best things about this cottage was the walking - straight out the door into beautiful countryside. Garden was secure, cottage was spotless, and the owner clearly loves dogs. Our two spaniels had the best week. Already booked for next year!
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Andrew! The walks really are special here - we never get tired of them! Your spaniels are lovely and we can't wait to have you all back next year.
LG
Beautiful cottage and genuinely dog-friendly, but the location was very remote. Nearest dog-friendly pub was 40 minutes drive and walks were quite samey after a few days. Would have been helpful to know this before booking. Great for a quiet retreat but we prefer more variety.
Helpful
BS
Stayed in the dog-friendly room above the pub and it was perfect. Dog bed provided, fresh water bowl, and our terrier was welcome everywhere downstairs. Great atmosphere, good food, and genuinely welcoming. Better than most hotels we've tried. Excellent value too.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thanks Benjamin! We love having dogs in the pub. Hope to see you and your terrier again soon!
HP
Booked for our German Shepherd but then received email saying only dogs under 20kg allowed. This wasn't in the original listing. Had to cancel and lost deposit. Very frustrating. Owners should be clearer about restrictions upfront.
Helpful
Seller Response
We apologise for the confusion. Size restrictions are now clearly stated in all our listings.
GT
This holiday park unit had everything - secure decking area, walks on site, dog washing station, even dog-friendly cafe. Our two cocker spaniels loved it. Clean, modern, and the whole park was really geared up for dogs. Slight premium on price but worth it for the facilities.
Helpful
EP
The owner was brilliant - answered all my questions before booking, sent photos of the garden fencing, and checked in during our stay. Cottage was as described, garden was secure, and location was good for walks. Only minor issue was slightly dated kitchen but that's being picky. Very dog-friendly overall.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Emily! We're renovating the kitchen this winter. Glad you and your dog enjoyed the stay!
DH
Cottage was nice and dog-friendly but £30 per night per dog felt steep, especially as we have two. That's an extra £420 for the week on top of accommodation costs. Garden was good and property was clean but the charges made it feel like dogs were a burden rather than welcomed.
Helpful
RE
After reading reviews about gardens not being secure, I was nervous, but this owner sent detailed photos and videos before we arrived. Fencing was perfect - over 6ft high, no gaps, proper gates. Our rescue greyhound could finally have off-lead time safely. Owner clearly understands what dog owners actually need. Brilliant stay.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Rachel! Garden security is our top priority. So pleased your greyhound felt safe. Come back anytime!
MC
Campsite was really dog-friendly - dogs allowed everywhere on leads, lovely walks from site, and no extra charges which was refreshing. Facilities were basic but clean. Staff were friendly and several had their own dogs on site. Not luxury but exactly what we needed for a simple break with our border collie.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thanks Matthew! We try to keep it simple and affordable for everyone. See you next time!
JB
Our dog became ill during the stay and the owner was amazing - recommended local vet, checked on us regularly, and even extended our stay by a day at no charge so we didn't have to rush home. The cottage itself was lovely and very dog-friendly. Really appreciated the kindness shown.
Helpful
Seller Response
We were just glad we could help during a stressful time. Hope your dog is fully recovered now!
CW
While dogs were technically allowed, the whole experience felt restrictive. Small garden, rules about furniture, couldn't leave dog alone at all. Compare this to other places we've stayed where dogs are genuinely welcomed. The property itself was fine but for a dog-friendly holiday, look elsewhere.
Helpful
VM
Finding accommodation for our four dogs is always challenging but this place was brilliant. Huge secure garden, plenty of space inside, and reasonable charges (£50 total, not per dog). Owner was relaxed and welcoming. Clearly experienced with dogs. We've already recommended to our dog walking group!
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Victoria! Loved having your pack stay with us. Four dogs definitely makes for a lively holiday!
RB
What you see is what you get with this cottage. Description was accurate, garden was as shown in photos, and charges were clear upfront. Not the fanciest place but clean, comfortable, and genuinely dog-friendly. Garden security was good for our springer spaniel. Fair pricing and no hidden fees. Would book again.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thanks Richard! We believe in being upfront about everything. Appreciate the honest review!
LF
Such thoughtful touches made this stay special - dog bowls, treats, poo bags, even a list of best local walks with distances and difficulty. Garden was secure with a proper fence and the cottage was spotless. Our golden retriever loved it. These details show the owner really cares about canine guests. Highly recommended.
Helpful
Seller Response
Thank you Laura! We love making our four-legged guests feel at home. Glad your golden enjoyed it!
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