Dog-Friendly UK in Summer

Summer brings the best weather but also the greatest challenges for dog owners. Beach restrictions apply at many destinations, heat poses real risks, and popular spots overflow with visitors. However, with clever planning, summer can still deliver wonderful dog holidays.

This guide covers everything you need to know about travelling with your dog in summer, from navigating beach restrictions to keeping your dog safe in the heat.

The Summer Challenge

Restrictions and Crowds

Beach Restrictions: Many beaches restrict dogs between May and September:

• Typically 10am-6pm or similar
• Some beaches ban dogs entirely
• Others have dog-free zones
• Restrictions vary by beach

Crowds:

• School holidays (late July to early September)
• Popular destinations very busy
• Accommodation premium pricing
• Beaches crowded

Heat Risks

Serious Concerns:

• Heatstroke can be fatal
• Dogs can't cool down as efficiently as humans
• Hot sand burns paws
• Hot cars kill in minutes

Most at Risk:

• Brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldogs, Pugs, Bulldogs)
• Thick-coated breeds
• Elderly dogs
• Overweight dogs
• Dogs with health conditions

Navigating Beach Restrictions

Understanding the Rules

Beach restrictions typically:

• Apply during summer months (often May-September)
• Restrict times (usually 10am-6pm)
• Cover specific zones (not always entire beach)
• Vary significantly between beaches

Strategies for Beach Access

Early Morning: Most restrictions don't start until 10am. Arrive early for:

• Cooler temperatures
• Empty beaches
• Full access before restrictions
• Best walking conditions

Evening: Restrictions typically end at 6pm:

• Cooling temperatures
• Golden hour light
• Fewer crowds as day-trippers leave
• Pleasant walking conditions

Year-Round Beaches: Many beaches have no restrictions. Prioritise these:

• Saunton Sands, Devon
• Fistral Beach, Newquay
• Most Northumberland beaches
• Many Norfolk beaches
• Scottish beaches (rarely restricted)

Dog Zones: Some restricted beaches have:

• Designated dog-friendly sections
• Areas beyond restriction zones
• Nearby alternative beaches

Best Summer Beach Destinations

Minimal Restrictions:

Northumberland: Most beaches unrestricted. Quieter than southern coasts. Cooler temperatures. See our Northumberland guide.

Scotland: Very few beach restrictions. Cooler climate. Spectacular scenery. See our Scotland guide.

Norfolk: Many year-round beaches. Wells, Holkham (sections), Brancaster. See our Norfolk guide.

North Devon: Saunton Sands unrestricted. Large beaches with dog zones. See our North Devon guide.

Heat Safety

The Danger is Real

Dogs die every summer from heatstroke. This is entirely preventable.

Temperature Awareness:

• Above 20°C: Exercise caution
• Above 25°C: Limit outdoor activity
• Above 28°C: Only essential short walks
• Hot pavement test: If too hot for your hand, too hot for paws

Keeping Dogs Cool

Walking Schedule:

• Early morning (before 8am ideally)
• Evening (after 7pm)
• Avoid midday and afternoon entirely
• Shorter walks than usual

Water Access:

• Swimming is excellent cooling
• Carry water always
• Offer frequently
• Paddle in streams and shallow water

Shade and Rest:

• Rest in shade during hot periods
• Air-conditioned spaces
• Cool flooring (tiles, etc.)
• Paddling pool in garden

Cooling Equipment:

• Cooling mats
• Cooling coats
• Portable shade
• Wet towels

Heatstroke: Know the Signs

Warning Signs:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Bright red tongue/gums
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Collapse

Emergency Response:

• Move to shade immediately
• Cool with tepid (not cold) water
• Wet ears and paws
• Fan if possible
• Emergency vet immediately
• Call ahead so they're prepared

Hot Cars Kill

Never leave dogs in cars. Ever.

• Even "for a minute"
• Even with windows open
• Even in shade
• Cars heat to lethal temperatures in minutes

If You See a Dog in Distress:

• Call 999
• Note registration
• Try to find owner
• In emergency, breaking window may be justified (document everything)

Best Summer Destinations

Cooler Climate Options

Scotland:

• Naturally cooler temperatures
• Minimal beach restrictions
• Spectacular scenery
• Longer daylight (walking until 10pm possible)

See our Scotland guide and Highlands guide.

Northumberland:

• Cooler than southern England
• Sea breezes
• Empty beaches
• Castle-dotted coast

See our Northumberland guide.

Lake District:

• Lakes for swimming
• Mountain breezes at altitude
• Early morning fell walking
• Water access throughout

See our Lake District guide.

Water-Based Destinations

Swimming keeps dogs cool. Prioritise destinations with:

• Lake access
• River swimming
• Sea swimming (early/late)
• Multiple water opportunities

Best Options:

• Lake District
• Scottish Lochs
• Norfolk Broads
• River-focused destinations

Altitude Benefits

Higher ground offers cooler temperatures:

• Scottish Highlands
• Lake District fells (early morning)
• Yorkshire Moors
• Welsh mountains

Walk early, rest during heat, walk again in evening.

Summer Activities

What Works

Early Morning Beach Walks: Before restrictions and before heat. The best summer activity.

Lake and River Swimming: Cooling and fun. Multiple daily swims keep dogs comfortable.

Woodland Walks: Shade provides cooler conditions. Stick to forests during hot periods.

Evening Exploration: Restaurants, pubs, towns in cooler evening hours.

Rest Days: Accept that very hot days may mean minimal activity. That's okay.

What to Avoid

Midday Anything: Stay indoors during hottest hours (11am-4pm on very hot days).

Hot Pavement Walking: Burns paws. Test with your hand first.

Extended Sun Exposure: Even with water access, prolonged sun causes problems.

Pushing Through: If it's too hot, stop. No walk is worth heatstroke.

Accommodation Considerations

Summer-Specific Needs

Essential:

• Air conditioning or reliable cooling
• Shaded outdoor space
• Water access nearby
• Ground floor (easier for early/late access)

Helpful:

• Enclosed garden for cool morning/evening
• Tiled or cool flooring
• Nearby swimming
• Walking from doorstep

Booking Realities

Summer Challenges:

• Premium pricing
• Limited availability
• Dog-friendly rooms book fastest
• Popular destinations solid

Strategies:

• Book months ahead
• Consider less popular destinations
• Midweek often easier
• Self-catering offers more flexibility

School Holidays

Planning Around Crowds

Peak Periods:

• Late July to early September
• Bank holiday weekends
• Maximum crowds and prices

Strategies:

Timing:

• Early July (schools still in)
• Early September (schools back)
• Midweek throughout

Location:

• Lesser-known destinations
• Scotland (always quieter)
• Working beaches (less tourist-focused)
• Inland rather than coastal

Timing Your Day:

• Early morning (before crowds)
• Evening (as crowds leave)
• Avoid 11am-4pm at popular spots

Breed-Specific Summer Advice

Heat-Sensitive Breeds

Brachycephalic (Flat-Faced): French Bulldogs, Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers:

• Highest risk of heat problems
• Extremely limited summer activity
• Air conditioning essential
• Consider cooler destinations only

See our French Bulldog guide.

Thick-Coated Breeds: Huskies, Malamutes, some spaniels:

• Struggle significantly in heat
• Early/late walking only
• Water access essential
• Consider grooming (not shaving)

Northern Breeds: Bred for cold climates:

• Summer is challenging
• Scotland ideal destination
• Swimming important

Heat-Tolerant Breeds

Some breeds cope better:

• Thin coats
• Lighter builds
• Desert-origin breeds

Still need caution but can handle more activity.

Month-by-Month Guide

June

Weather: Warming but not extreme usually. Beaches: Restrictions in effect at many. Crowds: Building, especially weekends. Best For: Scottish trips, lake holidays, before school holidays.

July

Weather: Often hottest. Heatwave risk. Beaches: Full restrictions. Busy. Crowds: School holidays begin late month. Best For: Scottish Highlands, lake swimming, early morning only.

August

Weather: Warm to hot. Variable. Beaches: Full restrictions. Very busy. Crowds: Peak season throughout. Best For: Water-based holidays, cooler destinations, early/late activities.

Early September

Weather: Cooling. Often excellent. Beaches: Restrictions ending at some. Crowds: Schools back. Quieter. Best For: Best of summer with fewer restrictions and crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still enjoy beach holidays in summer with my dog?

Yes, but plan around restrictions. Early morning and evening access usually available. Choose year-round beaches where possible.

What time can dogs go on beaches in summer?

Varies by beach. Many allow dogs before 10am and after 6pm. Some have no restrictions. Check specific beaches.

How do I keep my dog cool in summer?

Early/late walks only, swimming access, shade, water always available, cooling mats, air-conditioned accommodation, avoid hot surfaces.

Is it safe to walk my dog in summer?

Yes, with precautions. Walk early morning and evening only. Avoid hot pavement. Watch for overheating signs. Some very hot days may mean very minimal walking.

Which UK destinations are best for dogs in summer?

Scotland and Northumberland offer cooler temperatures and minimal restrictions. Lake District provides swimming. Norfolk has year-round beaches.

Can dogs get sunburned?

Yes, especially pink-nosed and light-coloured dogs. Dog-safe sunscreen exists. Shade is important.

Summer Requires Planning, Not Avoiding

Summer dog holidays are absolutely possible with proper planning. Understanding restrictions, prioritising heat safety, and choosing appropriate destinations ensures enjoyable breaks for dogs and owners.

The key: Work with summer's challenges rather than against them. Early mornings, evening adventures, water access, and cooler destinations unlock wonderful experiences.

Luke navigates summer with Charlie, Buster, Ember, Simba, Max, and Molly. The pack has learned that 6am beach walks beat midday every time, and Scottish summers offer the best of both worlds.