Everything you need to know about taking your dog on holiday

Planning a trip with your four-legged friend? This guide will help you organise a dog-friendly holiday.

A family of four stand on a rocky beach with a red Cocker Spaniel smiling at each other

Taking your dog on holiday is a lovely idea. Those footprints in the sand don’t look right without four pawprints alongside them. But the reality can be stressful, and even harmful for your dog, if not planned properly. 

We’re taking a deep dive into everything you need to know when planning a dog-friendly holiday.

In this guide:

Should you take your dog on holiday?

This depends on your individual pooch, where you’re going, and what kind of holiday it is. Think about what kind of things you’ll be doing there, and whether this suits your dog.  

Ask yourself questions like: 

  • will you be visiting busy beaches? If so, is your dog relaxed and confident in new, busy environments?
  • are you going somewhere with lots of other dogs? If yes, how does your pup feel around unknown dogs?
  • are long car journeys on the agenda? Will your dog be able to relax on them?  

These are just some examples of the kind of questions you need to ask yourself when planning a holiday with your dog. Exploring the world with your best pal sounds like a dream. But it may not always be best for them to tag along.   

If you’re unsure, or think your pet might struggle with something on your travels, contact an accredited behaviourist or trainer. They can assess the best behaviour or training plan to help your dog prepare for their trip. 

Puppies and dogs with medical needs 

Puppies and young dogs that are still growing (up to 18 months in large breeds) shouldn’t over-exercise. Doing so can cause problems with their bone development. So, it’s important to find out what’s appropriate for your dog before you set off. 

Some dogs may also have medical needs. Some of which could mean that it's more sensible for them to stay home, either with you or someone you trust. If in doubt, ask your vet if they think it’s a good idea to take your dog with you. 

Some conditions, like arthritis or diabetes, may mean your dog needs consistent and controlled exercise, while avoiding over-exercising. Speak to your vet about how to achieve this balance on holiday together.

10 top tips for holidaying with your dog

Keeping your hound happy on holiday is important. Here are our tips to give you and your pal the best possible chance of success.

  1. 1

    Keep to their routine

    Most  dogs love routine. So, it’s best to keep as close to theirs as possible. For example, by feeding them at the same time you would at home. 

  2. 2

    Keep their food the same

    Take their regular food and make sure their diet remains the same as it would back home. 

  3. 3

    Rest is important

    There’s lots to do and explore. But remember, most dogs need (on average) 16 to 18 hours of rest or sleep per day, so make sure this is planned into your schedule. 

  4. 4

    Alone time

    Don’t leave them alone for too long. Most accommodation will allow you to leave them as long as you’re still on the premises. Just make sure they’re confident and relaxed spending time alone.

  5. 5

    Creature comforts

    Take comforts from home, like a blanket they can snuggle up to.

  6. 6

    Microchip info

    Check that your pup’s microchip details are up to date. If the details are wrong and your dog goes missing while you’re away, it’ll be harder to be reunited. 

  7. 7

    Preventative treatment

    Different countries, and different parts of the UK, have varying disease risk. So, it's best to make sure your dog is up to date with vaccinations, flea, tick, and worming treatment before travelling. Some insects that transmit diseases may not be covered by your usual flea...
    Show details

    Different countries, and different parts of the UK, have varying disease risk. So, it's best to make sure your dog is up to date with vaccinations, flea, tick, and worming treatment before travelling. 

    Some insects that transmit diseases may not be covered by your usual flea or worm treatments. So, it’s best to speak to your vet beforehand.

  8. 8

    Research local vets

    Make sure to research where the local emergency vet is. Just in case your dog needs to be seen while you're away. We’d also recommend having their veterinary history at hand. 

  9. 9

    Keep your dog safe

    A holiday could be a big change for your dog. Stay with them and avoid leaving them alone in an unfamiliar environment if they find it too unsettling. Practise training, like recall and settling, in different environments. This will help keep your pup safe and calm in new...
    Show details

    A holiday could be a big change for your dog. Stay with them and avoid leaving them alone in an unfamiliar environment if they find it too unsettling. 

    Practise training, like recall and settling, in different environments. This will help keep your pup safe and calm in new and exciting destinations.

  10. 10

    Extra support

    Support your dog on holiday. It’s a major change in routine for them. This also applies for when you return home. Your dog will have spent a lot of time with you and may need help adjusting to being left home alone again.

What to pack for your pooch

Swimming costume, check. Inflatable unicorn, check. That book you’ve been trying to find time for, check.  

But what about your dog? What do you need to pack for them? Here’s a few things you won’t want to forget:

  • food and food bowl
  • tasty treats
  • water (for the journey) and water bowl
  • lead, harness, collar, and tag with relevant contact details. Take a long lead if you’re worried about recall
  • toys, rewards, and enrichment (to occupy them when you want to relax)
  • familiar comfy bed / blanket for their new environment
  • towels
  • poo bags
  • cool mat (if going to a warm destination)
  • warm wear (if going to a cold destination)
  • sun cream (dog-safe)
  • your dog’s medication if they’re on any.  

Tell your accommodation you’re bringing your dog and ask what they provide for pups. While some won’t offer anything, others may have a bed and bowls ready and waiting for their arrival.  

This can save you packing and carrying as much with you. But it’s still important to consider whether your dog will be confident using the provided items.

Taking your dog on holiday abroad

So, what about if you want to take your pooch with you overseas? Exploring the world with four paws by your side may sound like the dream. But it may not be the right choice for your dog.  

There are diseases abroad that your dog won’t be exposed to in the UK. And while your vet can advise how best to avoid these, it’s no guarantee. Have a chat with them to help you decide. Staying home may end up being the right choice for your dog. 

If you do decide to bring your dog along, knowing what you need to organise beforehand is vital. This will ensure a smooth adventure for you both.  

Preparing to take your dog abroad

It’s important to check the rules for the country you’re visiting as they vary from place to place. Some countries require blood tests and medical examinations before travel. Also, some breeds are banned in certain countries. 

If you’re planning to travel outside of Europe, you may be required to obtain an export health certificate (EHC). 

Different countries have varying disease risks. So, parasite prevention and vaccinations are especially important. This includes normal flea and tick treatment, and repellents that help protect against fly and mosquito bites.  

Some medications will need to be used throughout the time you’re away. Your vet can advise you on what you need to be up-to-date with, and recommend any additional measures before you travel. 

Before travelling abroad, contact your vet well in advance as some of the processes can take many months. You may also need to see a different vet to your usual one to obtain the travel documents. 

Make sure you’ve checked whether dogs are allowed on the beach before you go. You’ll find some are closed to our four-legged friends, especially during the summer months. Some may also be closed or have restricted access in early winter during the seal pup season. Read through our guidance for dog safety by the sea for more important information to keep your furry pal safe on your travels.

How to get an animal health certificate (AHC) formerly a pet passport 

If you’re travelling to an EU country or Northern Ireland from Great Britain, you need to get an animal health certificate for any four-pawed pal you bring with you. Note that this has replaced the pre-Brexit pet passport system.  

Your certificate can cover up to five dogs and must be acquired within the 10 days before you travel.  

You can get a certificate as long as every dog you’re travelling with: 

  • is microchipped
  • already has an up-to-date rabies vaccination.

If your dog needs a rabies vaccination or their current one has expired, you’ll need to wait 21 days after the jab to be eligible for an animal health certificate. Day one is the day after vaccination.  

Let your vet know that you need an AHC when you take your pup for their vaccination. They can issue a rabies vaccine certificate and advise whether they can prepare it. Only official veterinarians can issue this document.  

While it’s not a requirement of the animal health certificate, it’s strongly recommended to ensure their annual vaccinations are also up to date. Different annual jabs cannot be given at the same time as a rabies vaccine, so plan ahead.  

You can find out more information about AHCs on the GOV.UK website.  

Preparing your dog for warm weather abroad

Countries outside of the UK can see warmer temperatures than we do. So, check the forecast and have a warm weather plan in place for them. Check out our warm weather advice.

Taking your dog to France

If you’re taking your dog on holiday to an EU (European Union) country, like France, there are some important things to think about beforehand. These considerations apply for assistance dogs as well as pets.  

Need to know 

Before travelling to an EU country, you need to:  

  • make sure your dog is microchipped. If not already microchipped. this needs to be done at the same time as their rabies vaccination. If they’re not microchipped before or when they’re vaccinated, they won’t be able to travel.
  • get them vaccinated against rabies. If they’ve already been vaccinated, check with your vet that this vaccine is up to date and that they’re okay to travel.
  • get their travel documents together. For EU countries, this will be an animal health certificate. You can read the rules and criteria for this document on the GOV.UK website.
  • make sure your dog has had their tapeworm treatment. This only applies for certain countries (although we would always recommend that your dogs are up to date with their routine flea and worm treatment anyway). Check whether your destination is one of them online. Your dog may also need another treatment in the days before returning home to Great Britain.
  • check your return journey. The rules for returning to Great Britain from abroad with your dog depend on where you’re returning from. They usually involve getting a worming treatment 24-120 hours before arrival back in the UK. This can be done by any vet but must be signed off on the AHC before returning. Plan ahead to find out how and where you can do this.
  • if you plan on bringing more than five dogs, check you meet the criteria. Usually, the limit of travel is five dogs for EU countries. If you are traveling with over 5 animals you may require an export health certificate.
  • organise some pet insurance. Some pet insurance plans may already cover short trips abroad, but it’s best to check.  

You can find out more detailed information about the travelling to France on the GOV.UK website.  

Travel

There are several ways of travelling to France with your dog from Great Britain. These include ferry, car, and plane, with the Eurostar train not currently allowing canine companions, except assistance dogs.  

We wouldn’t recommend taking your dog on a plane. But if you really need to, check the regulations of the airline you’re using, and the country you’re travelling to, beforehand.  

Taking your car and using the Eurotunnel or ferry are generally better choices if you’re partnered with a pooch. But make sure to check the ferry or Eurotunnel rules before you travel. Most ferries allow dogs if you’re travelling by car, but they must remain in the vehicle. We wouldn’t recommend ever leaving your dog alone in a car. Which is why travelling abroad may not be the right choice for your dog. But if you do, make sure they’re relaxed spending time alone, the temperature is controlled, and that the car alarms are turned off. Some ferry companies now have dedicated pet lounges, so check beforehand.

Some ferries also require your dog to wear a muzzle, for example. You can teach your dog to wear a muzzle in a positive way so they feel confident and relaxed.  

Some popular ferry routes to France include:  

  • Portsmouth to Le Havre
  • Portsmouth to Caen
  • Portsmouth to Cherbourg
  • Portsmouth to St. Malo
  • Newhaven to Dieppe
  • Poole to Cherbourg
  • Plymouth to Roscoff
  • Dover to Calais
  • Dover to Dunkirk. 

It’s also worth noting that since Brexit, you can’t take any meat or dairy products into the EU – including dog food. This is unless you have written confirmation from your vet that your dog’s health needs require that food product. Find out more on the EU's website. 

Being in France with your dog 

Trains within France require small dogs to be in a travel bag or carrier, while larger dogs must wear a muzzle throughout travel. Tickets for your pup will cost 50% of the usual fee, with assistance dogs travelling for free.  

Accommodation in France is largely dog-friendly, often charging a small extra fee. As always, it’s important to check with wherever you intend on resting your weary bones before turning up there.   

While we wouldn’t recommend bringing your pet snail along to a French restaurant, most spots tend to welcome canine companions with open arms. It may be outside only, but many offer their inside space too. Either way, it’s a good idea to check with the restaurant beforehand.  

And in terms of walking your woofer around, some parks don’t allow dogs. So, bear this in mind before you visit. You don’t want your best furry pal winding up in a French prison cell. They won’t find any Michelin-star chefs in there.

Taking your dog to Spain

Spain is a fan favourite for Brits holidaying abroad. But how does it compare for our four-legged friends? If you decide to take your dog to Spain, here’s some handy advice to help you on your trip.  

Need to know 

Before travelling to an EU country, you need to:  

  • make sure your dog is microchipped. If not already microchipped. this needs to be done at the same time as their rabies vaccination. If they’re not microchipped before or when they’re vaccinated, they won’t be able to travel.
  • get them vaccinated against rabies. If they’ve already been vaccinated, check with your vet that this vaccine is up to date and that they’re okay to travel.
  • get their travel documents together. For EU countries, this will be an animal health certificate. You can read the rules and criteria for this document on the GOV.UK website.
  • make sure your dog has had their tapeworm treatment. This only applies for certain countries (although we would always recommend that your dogs are up to date with their routine flea and worm treatment anyway). Check whether your destination is one of them online. Your dog may also need another treatment in the days before returning home to Great Britain.
  • check your return journey. The rules for returning to Great Britain from abroad with your dog depend on where you’re returning from. They usually involve getting a worming treatment 24-120 hours before arrival back in the UK. This can be done by any vet but must be signed off on the AHC before returning. Plan ahead to find out how and where you can do this.
  • if you plan on bringing more than five dogs, check you meet the criteria. Usually, the limit of travel is five dogs for EU countries. If you are traveling with over 5 animals you may require an export health certificate.
  • organise some pet insurance. Some pet insurance plans may already cover short trips abroad, but it’s best to check.  

You can find out more detailed information about the above considerations on the GOV.UK website. 

It’s also a good idea to speak to your vet before taking your dog to Spain. Extra anti-parasite measures may be needed due to Spain having some diseases that we don’t in the UK.  

Travel

As with any country, if air travel with your dog can be avoided, it should be. It’s possible to get the ferry to Spain from Great Britain. The main routes are:   

  • Portsmouth to Santander
  • Plymouth to Santander
  • Portsmouth to Bilbao.  

Most ferries allow dogs if you’re travelling by car, but they must remain in the vehicle. We wouldn’t recommend ever leaving your dog alone in a car. Which is why travelling abroad may not be the right choice for your dog. But if you do, make sure they’re relaxed spending time alone, the temperature is controlled, and that the car alarms are turned off. Some ferry companies now have dedicated pet lounges, so check beforehand.

Some ferries also require your dog to wear a muzzle, for example. You can teach your dog to wear a muzzle in a positive way so they feel confident and relaxed.  

Being in Spain with your dog 

While Spain may cater well for us humans, it’s not always the same for our four-pawed pals.

There are many dog-friendly areas in Spain, but pet restrictions are robust compared to that of the UK. So, you should check each place you plan on visiting beforehand to make sure your dog can tag along.

Taking your dog to Ireland

The Emerald Isle can make for an excellent holiday destination for you and your pup. From the stunning coastline to the cosy city pubs. And all on Great Britain’s doorstep.  

But as with any overseas trip, it’s important to read up about what life will look like for your furry friend while you’re there.  

If you’re taking your dog to Ireland, you need to follow the same preparation procedures as you would for any other EU country.  

Need to know  

For Northern Ireland, you’ll need a pet travel document (PTD) if you're taking them from Great Britain (England, Scotland or Wales) to Northern Ireland.

Before travelling you need to:  

  • make sure your dog is microchipped.
  • they do not need rabies vaccinations or tapeworm treatment if you have a PTD. These rules also apply to assistance dogs.
  • get their travel documents together. You can apply for a Northern Ireland pet travel document online. It’s free to apply and will last for as long as you own the pet. If you live in Northern Ireland, you do not need a PTD for travel to and from Great Britain.

For more information check the GOV.UK website for NI travel.

Travel

As with anywhere, taking a dog to Ireland by air is a complicated process, and is often a stressful experience for the pup. Your pet’s microchip will be scanned at the port or airport. Officials will check that the microchip number matches the one on your pet’s PTD. 

Ferries are the best way to travel to Ireland from Great Britain. 

Popular routes include:

  • Cairnryan to Larne
  • Cairnryan to Belfast
  • Fishguard to Rosslare
  • Holyhead to Dublin
  • Liverpool to Belfast
  • Troon to Larne.  

Being in Ireland with your dog 

While Ireland is largely dog-friendly, there are certain parks and restaurants where pooches aren’t permitted. So, it’s always good practice to check with anywhere you plan on visiting beforehand.

Taking your dog to Australia

The idea of an Aussie road trip might be an appealing one. But we’d strongly recommend against bringing your dog anywhere by air travel, particularly long-haul. Long-haul travel is likely to be very distressing for your dog.  

Here are some more reasons why it’s not a good idea, and important information for if you do decide to travel. Again, we’d really advise you don’t. 

Need to know

Australia has some of the strictest disease-related security in the world. This means that a lot of testing and disease prevention is needed before your pup can travel. This process can take many months, and they’ll need to be in quarantine upon arrival.  

With all this considered, on top of a long flight, you should think carefully about whether taking your furry pal is the right choice. We’d strongly discourage doing so, particularly for a short trip.   

Travel

You can only really travel to Australia by plane. We wouldn’t recommend bringing your dog on a plane unless it’s absolutely essential.  
 
If you do need to fly with your furball, make sure you check the regulations of the airline you’re travelling with beforehand.  

It's also important to build up your dog’s confidence being inside a crate in the weeks and months before you fly. Speak to your vet about how you can best prepare them for the journey.   

Brachycephalic dogs 

Travelling can be particularly dangerous for brachycephalic dogs – dogs with flatter faces. These dogs can overheat easily.  

Many long-haul flights transit via extremely hot places like Dubai. So, if you do have to travel, make sure to avoid the summer months.  

Being in Australia with your dog  

Australia has some diseases that pets in the UK aren’t exposed to. Not to mention the added risk of snake or insect bites. So, it’s a good idea to speak with a local vet shortly after arriving.  

Australian restaurants usually allow dogs in their outside spaces. But as with anywhere, it’s important to check that your pup will be allowed in before turning up. This also applies to cafes, beaches, and parks.

Can you take your dog on a plane in the UK?

We wouldn’t advise air travel for your dog. But if you really need to travel by plane, it’s likely that your dog will have to go in the hold. You need to be sure they can cope with this – it’ll likely be very stressful for them. Make sure you speak to an accredited trainer or behaviourist beforehand who can help them prepare.

If you really do need to bring your dog along for your flight, check the specific regulations of your airline and destination country.  

Some airlines have a minimum age for pet travel, and often require you to provide a carrier that’s compliant with their policy. It also needs to be comfortable enough for your dog to settle down in for the full flight duration. Make sure they feel confident and relaxed with it, which will require some practice beforehand.  

Some airlines also ask for a “Fit to Fly” certificate which you can get from your vet. Look up whether you’ll need one of these beforehand.

Many airlines don’t allow brachycephalic dogs due to their respiratory issues. We advise that you don’t use this kind of transport for your dog, particularly in warmer months. Most dogs cannot be gradually introduced to plane travel and therefore will likely find travelling by plane stressful. So, we always recommend leaving your pup at home. 

Can you take your dog on a road trip?

If you do decide to take you dog on holiday with you, make sure they’re up to it. 

Check out our advice on top tips for preparing your dog for a trip when travelling by car. That way you can explore even more of the UK with your pooch. 

Can you take your dog on the train in the UK?

You can generally use trains across the UK with up to two canine companions at a time. You may get an extra charge if you’re travelling with more.  

For more advice on taking your dog on the train, check out our public transport advice to make sure you’re prepared.

Holidaying with your dog in the UK

Here in the UK, we’re lucky to live somewhere with so much to offer our four-legged friends. But it’s important to check your destination has plenty to offer the both of you.  

Dog-friendly accommodation, restaurants, walks, and attractions are key things to look out for. You don’t want your pup to be turned away like an underage teenager at a nightclub.  

Find out which places will welcome your furball with open arms. And check if the accommodation and attractions are good places for pooches to be. Make sure there’s plenty of green space so your dog can explore, stretch their legs and get sniffing.

Dog-friendly accommodation in the UK

Paw-liday Inn? Or perhaps The Fur Seasons? The place you choose to stay with your dog will likely depend on the time of year if you’re staying the UK. In winter, you might crave a cosy cottage. You may prefer to go glamping in summer.  

There’s plenty of dog-friendly accommodation to choose from:  

  • cottages  
  • hotels / B&B 
  • caravan or lodge in a holiday park  
  • log cabins  
  • glamping in a yurt.   

Top tip: ask your accommodation questions like where the most appropriate toilet spot for your dog is, especially at night. That way you have a plan and know what to expect before you get there. 

Need to know: The accommodation may charge a small amount to add your pooch to your booking. However, you’re saving on pet sitting which is likely to be far more expensive.  

UK dog-friendly places to visit

Once you know where you’re going and have chosen your accommodation, you need to start planning your itinerary. When you’ve got your dog with you, you want to be sure where will let them in, and where won’t.  

Firstly, consider where you can eat and drink. Think about what ‘dog-friendly’ looks like for your pup. Then, look up dog-friendly pubs, restaurants and cafes in your chosen destination. You may find that your pooch can join you but only at a table outside – a good option in warmer months. 

Not all dogs will feel confident and relaxed in this situation, especially if they haven’t been out to eat with you before. Teaching them to settle beforehand will help. And taking a toy or chew may help keep them occupied. If they still don’t seem to enjoy the experience, speak to an accredited trainer or behaviourist for advice. 

You also need to consider what activities you’re going to do. There are many outdoor attractions that you’ll be able to take your pup along to. However, indoor ones may need research so you know if they’re dog-friendly.

Here are some beautiful walks, beaches, woods and road trips you and your four-legged friend might like to try out:

Wandering the endless miles of breathtaking British countryside and coastline is a great way to holiday with your dog. But don’t shy away from a city break if your pooch feels more relaxed in urban areas. Cities can make the perfect dog-friendly weekend break.  

But which city is the best for you and your dog? Check out our report on which city is the happiest place for dogs.

And there are many more dog-friendly strolls to have a go at around the UK. Check out our list of 12 woodland walks your dog will adore to plan your next hike with your hound.   

Before you set off on a walk, make sure your dog  walks nicely on the lead and doesn’t pull. This will make it far more enjoyable for both of you and you can take in the scenery as you stroll. 

Countryside considerations

There may be livestock or other new situations which you and your dog might come across on your trip. 

So, check the countryside code  before taking your dog to a new area. As a rule, it’s always a good idea to keep your dog on their lead around livestock. 

The countryside is home to all sorts of new sights and unusual or scary sounds. Your dog may feel startled if it’s new to them, so be prepared to support them if they need it. 

To sum up  

A holiday with your best furry pal can strengthen your human-hound bond, giving you memories to cherish forever. But there’s a lot to think about, and to prepare, before you set off.  

Read our advice, and always speak to your vet, before you travel. The important thing is that your best pal feels comfortable and confident throughout. Happy holidaying! 

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