Why Taking Your Dog On Holiday Will Be The Best Decision You Ever Made

Are you tired of leaving your furry friend behind when you go on holiday? Well, we have great news for you – taking your dog on a UK holiday could be the best decision you ever make! With a growing number of dog-friendly cottages, beaches, and attractions across the country, you and your four-legged companion can enjoy a holiday like never before.

A recent survey in the UK reveals that about 36% of people proudly share their lives with a dog! Even more exciting, an impressive 38% of these dog owners choose to take their furry friends along on their holiday adventures. In a poll conducted in 2020, every single dog owner surveyed shared that their beloved pets play a significant role in enhancing their happiness and bringing love and affection into their lives. So, if holidays are about embracing joy and making unforgettable memories, why not bring your canine companion along for the adventure? After all, they might be the perfect travel buddy!

Tips for travelling with your dog

Embarking on a UK holiday with your dog is not just a simple trip; it's an experience filled with numerous benefits that positively impact your well-being. Beyond the companionship, having your furry friend with you can actually help reduce stress levels and increase physical activity throughout your travels.

But what about your pet? How can you make them feel as relaxed and excited about your holiday as you are? We've put together our top tips in how both you and your furry best friend can have an enjoyable and relaxing break together.

Plan ahead: Research dog-friendly accommodation and activities along your route. Make sure your furry friend has a comfortable place to stay and plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs.

Pack smart: Remember essentials like food, water, bowls, leashes, and waste bags. Don't forget their favourite toys or bedding to make them feel at home on the road.

Safety first: Secure your dog in the car with a harness or crate to keep them safe during the journey. Also, ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations and flea/tick prevention.

Enjoy the journey: Make sure you walk your dog before starting your journey, to get rid of excess energy so you can enjoy a relaxing trip to your holiday destination, and remember not to feed close to your departure, just in case fido becomes car sick. Take lots of breaks and try not to stop at service stations but at view points and picnic sites, so your dog is able to have a proper sniff and stretch amongst nature!

Essentials to pack for your dog-friendly holiday

1. Dog food and treats for the duration of the holiday

2. Water bowl and portable water bottle

3. Collar with identification tag and leash

4. Dog bed or blanket for comfort

5. Toys or chew bones to keep them entertained

6. Any necessary medications or supplements

7. Poop bags for clean-up during walks

8. Brush or grooming supplies

9. Doggy first aid kit with items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers

10. Any necessary documents, such as vaccination records or microchip information

Choosing the right accommodation

As the largest provider of dog-friendly cottages with over 12,000 dog-friendly holiday homes to choose from all over the UK, we understand that your dog is a cherished member of your family, and believe they should be included in your holiday plans. That's why we offer a wide range of UK holidays that warmly welcome your four-legged companion.

We believe that your pet deserves a break too, therefore we go the extra mile to ensure that your four-legged friend is well taken care of during your stay. That's why we have introduced our more than dog-friendly range of holiday homes that provides doggy extras to make your pet's stay as comfortable as possible. Each cottage is equipped with;

• A cosy dog bed and towels

• Poo bags

• Water bowls

• Dog tags with the cottage address on

• Treats and toys to keep your furry friend entertained during their stay.

• Our cottages provide detailed information about dog-friendly attractions near so you can plan your activities accordingly.

And with our "pets go free" cottages you can bring your beloved pooch along on your holiday at no extra cost.

Un-fur-gettable dog-friendly destinations

The UK is a pawfect paradise for our canine companions but some top destinations for a welcoming holiday are;

Cornwall - With its beautiful beaches and coastal walks, Cornwall is a great spot to bring your dog for a holiday. There are many dog-friendly attractions, making it easy to enjoy the charms of this seaside destination with your furry friend.

The Lake District - The Lake District offers stunning scenery and countless walking trails that are perfect for exploring with your dog. With plenty of dog-friendly pubs you and your pup can enjoy a relaxing holiday in this picturesque national park.

Northumberland - Northumberland boasts vast sandy beaches and historic castles that you and your dog can explore together. Enjoy a scenic getaway in this stunning part of the UK.

The Peak District - The Peak District is a paradise for dog owners, with its vast open spaces and numerous walking trails. There are many dog-friendly pubs and accommodation in the area, making it easy to plan a holiday that both you and your furry friend will enjoy.

The Cotswolds - The Cotswolds is known for its picturesque villages and rolling countryside, making it a great destination for a holiday with your dog. There are plenty of dog-friendly pubs and walking trails to explore, ensuring a memorable trip for both you and your canine companion.

Looking for more dog-friendly inspiration?

Travelling with your furry companion can bring a whole new level of excitement and joy to your adventures. Whether you're exploring the rugged coastline of Cornwall, enjoying a pint at a cosy pub in the Cotswolds, or relaxing on a dog-friendly beach in Norfolk, there's no shortage of pet-friendly destinations to explore in the UK. By taking the time to research and plan ahead using our dog-friendly travel guides, you can ensure that your next holiday will be stress-free and filled with tail-wagging fun. From pet-friendly accommodation to off-leash parks and pet-friendly attractions, there are plenty of options to choose from to make sure that your four-legged friend has the time of their life. So pack up your pup, grab your bags, and get ready for a memorable adventure that you and your dog will cherish for years to come.

About Us

cottages.com is your go-to destination for an extensive selection of memorable cottage holidays. With a wealth of experience spanning over 45 years, we boast a portfolio of over 21,000 holiday homes spread across the UK, catering to every budget. We're committed to maintaining a high standard of service to our customers by abiding by ABTA's Code of Conduct Our excellent Trustpilot rating reflects the high level of customer satisfaction we strive for. We believe in keeping things simple, so you can focus on making lasting memories with your loved ones from the moment you book with us.