The UK’s best locations for a dog friendly getaway, revealed!
21.06.23 June 21, 2023 Owning a Dog

The UK’s best locations for a dog friendly getaway, revealed!

Summer holiday season is fast approaching, and according to a recent study, 72% of Brits still prefer staycations in 2023, despite international travel having opened up again post-pandemic. And when it comes to holidaying as a pet parent, staycations can be the paw-fect way to enjoy some much-needed R&R without having to leave your beloved dog behind. Luckily, the UK has plenty of gorgeous locations on offer, ideal for hosting a well-deserved break for you and your dog. Naturally, for those holidaying on home soil with a pooch, ensuring your destination of choice has plenty to keep both you and your pup happy and entertained is key. Nobody likes a ‘ruff deal’! With this in mind, we quizzed 2,000 UK dog owners about their thoughts on booking a holiday abroad if it meant leaving their four-legged friend behind, as well as asking them to share their top staycation choices and must haves for when they’re booking a dog friendly getaway. Using our findings, we then compared key data points relating to holidaying with a dog for the top 45 locations (that had come from the survey) and awarded a number of points for each in order to inform our list of the UK’s best locations for a dog friendly getaway. Read on to learn more...   That Guilty Feeling According to our findings, one in eight (13%) UK dog owners say they never holiday abroad because they feel guilty leaving their four-legged friend behind, instead opting for staycations here at home. And one in nine (11%) told us they actually choose to take their pet abroad with them when they go! For almost half, whilst they admit it bothers them to leave their pooch behind, leaving them with family and friends gives them peace of mind to enjoy a holiday outside of the UK from time to time. Interestingly, almost ten percent of dog owners we surveyed (8%) told us they never opt take a staycation with their dog. Regionally, it was Birmingham residents discovered to be feeling the guiltiest when it comes to leaving their doggo behind when jetting off on their jollies, as more than a quarter of residents (28%) say they never holiday away from UK soil as they simply cannot leave their pet behind. In stark contrast, just seven percent of Leeds residents would do agree. Women were found to be the most likely to forgo an international getaway due to the guilt they felt about leaving their dog behind, with one in six saying they never holiday abroad for this reason (16%), compared to just one in nine men (11%). A fifth of male dog owner (21%) even stated that leaving their pet behind whilst they get in some air miles does not bother them at all and they can do so guilt free.   The Price of True Love: Just How Much are UK Dog Owners Willing to Pay for a Dog Friendly Staycation? When we quizzed our panel of dog lovers about how much they’d be willing to spend to bring their four-legged friend away with them on a UK staycation, we learned that UK dog owners are willing to fork out an extra £50 per night on average to take their furry friend along with them on their UK staycation. On this basis, with 11 million dogs living in the UK alone in 2023, if each pooch enjoyed a single night away each year, it would mean an additional £550million for the UK travel industry According to our findings, Londoners are the biggest spenders on this front with residents in the capital sharing that they’d be willing to pay £65.41 per night on average in order to treat their pet to join them in some R&R. The average additional cost per night dog owners in the city would splash out for their dog to join them on their UK staycation   UK City  Avg. £ (GBP) per night London  £65.21  Newcastle  £60.00  Belfast  £56.30  Manchester  £55.17  Liverpool  £51.53  Bristol  £51.09  Birmingham  £45.53  Southampton  £37.33  Leeds  £37.15  Nottingham  £36.36  Cardiff  £35.09  Glasgow  £33.17  Norwich  £31.60  Sheffield  £28.68  Edinburgh  £18.50    Meanwhile, Edinburgh dog owners would pay the least (£18.50 per night on average), splashing out a substantial £46.91 less per night than those in the UK’s capital. Those aged between 25 and 34 were revealed to be the most generous when it came to their dogs, saying they’d be willing to splash out a whopping £73.17 on average per night so their pet could come along on their UK getaway. In comparison, those over 65 say they’d spend they least (£19.29).   How Much are UK Dog Owners Willing to Pay for a Dog Friendly Staycation Next, we asked the survey panel to share their favourite dog-friendly holiday locations, with Newquay in Cornwall claiming top spot amongst UK dog owners. Other popular locations included Whitby, York, Windermere, and London. Whilst at the bottom of the list, Douglas on the Isle of Man was found to be the least in favour with UK dog owners. Alongside Douglas, Derby, Reading, Southwold, and Nottingham all found themselves amongst the least favoured within the rankings.   What do Brits Want the Most from a Dog Friendly Staycation? We also asked our 2,000 dog owners to share their top considerations when booking a dog friendly staycation, with plenty of places to walk their pup coming out at the top of the list (42%). Other staycation “musts” included having dog friendly pubs in the local area (36%), plenty of dog friendly accommodation to pick from (35%), and of course, a good range of dog friendly restaurants and cafes (35%).   UK Dog Owners Top Considerations When Booking a Dog-Friendly Staycation Places to go walking - 42% Dog friendly pubs - 36% Dog friendly accommodation -35% Dog friendly restaurants/cafes - 26% A dog friendly garden in your accommodation -15% A vets close by - 13% Dog friendly beaches nearby - 12% Dog friendly shops (non-dog/pet shops) - 12% Dog friendly transport - 10% Relaxing Surroundings – 7%   The UK’s Best Locations for a Dog Friendly Getaway, Revealed Finally, we compiled and compared key data points relating to holidaying with a dog in 45 UK locations, all of which were informed by our pet owner survey.Points were then awarded based on the highest number of local walking routes, dog friendly pubs, hotels and other accommodation, vets in the area, pet shops, and of course the average weather. So, who came out as top dog? We reveal all... 1. Bath, Somerset Overall, Bath was crowned the UK's top location for a dog friendly getaway in our rankings, scoring 72 points out of a possible 100. Despite missing out on a place in the top 20 locations for a dog friendly holiday in our initial survey findings, the city secured the number one spot in our rankings thanks to its 56 dog friendly pubs within a 10-mile radius (0.56 per 1,000 residents), 20 B&Bs and hotels in the area, and an average of 18.8 dry days per month between June and September. Bath also scored highly for dog friendly aspects such as having 12 RCVS vets in the local area (0.13 per 1,000 residents), and 40 dog friendly pubs within a 10-mile radius (0.43 per 1,000 residents).   2. Lincoln Although it was found to be the top choice for a dog-friendly staycation by UK dog owners according to our survey, Newquay in Cornwall placed at number nine in the rankings. Lincoln scored just half a point behind leading city, Bath with 71.5/100, and those visiting the cathedral city in search of a dog-friendly getaway can take advantage of its 121 local walking routes (1.10 per 1,000 residents), 103 dog-friendly cottages and self-catering options, as well as an average temperature across June to August of 21 degrees Celsius. Additionally, Lincoln boasts 18.6 dry days per month on average across June to August, and 22 dog-friendly restaurants (0.22 per 1,000 residents).   3. Whitby, North Yorkshire The North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitby is up next, placing at number three on our list of the UK’s top holiday locations for a dog-friendly staycation (71/100). Tourists considering a trip to the beautiful seaside town of Whitby in the coming months with their pup in tow can enjoy 100 local walking routes (7.94 per 1,000 residents), 52 dog friendly pubs within a 10-mile radius (1 per 1,000 residents), 35 pet shops (0.67 per 1,000 residents), and an average temperature across June to August of 20.3 degrees Celsius – not forgetting fish, chips and plenty of ice cream too!   4. Bakewell, Peak District In fourth place is the pretty Peak District town of Bakewell, which scored 70.5 points out of a possible 100. Dogs and their owners visiting the beautiful market town for a dog friendly staycation this summer will be greeted by a very generous 325 local walking routes (92.88 per 1,000 residents), 45 dog-friendly pubs (12.86 per 1,000 residents), and 20 RCVS vets in the local area (5.72 per 1,000 residents), and five pet shops within a 10-mile radius of the town (1.43 per 1,000 residents).   5. Southwold, Suffolk Number five is on the list is another pretty seaside town, Southwold, which is located a little further down the UK coastline in Suffolk. Scoring 70 out of a possible 100, alongside easy access to the beach, visitors to the coastal Suffolk town of Southwold will find eight dog friendly restaurants (8.42 per 1,000 residents), four pet shops (4.21 per 1,000 residents), an average of 18.6 dry days per month between June and September, as well as an average daytime temperature of 21 degrees Celsius across the same three-month period.   The Full List of Rankings Rank  Location   Score (out of 100)  1  Bath, Somerset   72 2  Lincoln   71.5 3  Whitby, North Yorkshire   71 4  Bakewell, Peak District   70.5 5  Southwold, Suffolk   70 6  Oxford   69.5 7  Skegness, Lincolnshire   69 8  Keswick, Cumbria   67 9  Newquay, Cornwall   66.5 10  Sandown, Isle of Wight   66  11  Helmsley, North Yorkshire Moors 64.5 12  Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire   64  13  Salisbury, Wiltshire   62.5 14  Torquay, Devon    62  15  Cheltenham, Gloucestershire   61.5 16  Derby   61  17  Windermere, Cumbria   58  18  Eastbourne, Sussex   55  19  Bamburgh, Northumbria    54.5 20 Inverness, Highlands  54 21 Norwich, Norfolk    54 21 Norwich, Norfolk  53.5 22 Ilkley, Yorkshire Dales 53 23 York 52.5 24 Melrose, Scottish Borders 52 25 Great Yarmouth, The Norfolk Broads 50.1 26 Brighton 50 27 Dover, Kent  48 28 Bristol 45 29 Blackpool 44.5 30 Douglas, Isle of Man  44 31 London  43.5 32 Nottingham 43 33 Reading, Berkshire 41 34 Bournemouth, Dorset 41.5 35 Plymouth, Devon 41 36 Edinburgh 40 37 Swansea, Wales 39 38 Cardiff, Wales 38 39 Southend on Sea, Essex 36 40 Newcastle Upon Tyne 33.5 41 Lancaster 33 42 Birmingham 26.5 43 Liverpool 26 44 Glasgow 20 45 Belfast 14   The Lowest Scoring UK Escapes At the very bottom of the dog-friendly holiday rankings was Belfast securing an overall score of just 14 out of 405. Sadly, despite being a popular tourist destination, the Northern Irish city received a low score and placed last on our list of rankings due to having just 14 dog friendly pubs within 10 miles of the city (0.02 per 1,000 residents), six dog friendly hotels and B&Bs, two dog friendly self-catering options, and an average of 13.4 dry days per month between June and August. Other locations that placed at the bottom end of the list, included Glasgow (20/100), Liverpool (26/100), Birmingham (26.5/100) and Lancaster (33/100).   Top Tips for Holidaying with Your Dog With our findings in mind, we thought we would share some of our top tips for holidaying with a dog....   Traveling to and Around your Destination with a Dog Whether you opt to reach your staycation venue by train, car, or bus, traveling with a dog can take a bit of careful pre-preparation and planning. For example, if your dog is not used to traveling by vehicle, it’s advisable to get in some practise runs locally, before you head off on a longer journey. This will give your pet plenty of time to get used to the new smells, sounds and general surroundings, as well as familiarising them with the unusual sensation of being inside a moving vehicle. If you’re traveling to your destination by car specifically, then it’s worth noting that in the UK (and in many other countries) it is a legal requirement to secure your dog whilst driving, this is for your own safety as well as theirs. The Highway Code states in their Rules about Animals, that when in a vehicle, dogs must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract drivers or injure you, or themselves. If you find they have managed to get loose in the vehicle, then you must find a safe place to pull over and stop the car quickly. As such, there are a number of ways in which you can ensure your dog is safely secured and still comfortable, especially if you have a lengthy drive ahead of you. If you have the space, then for smaller dogs especially, it’s often preferable to have them inside the main car space alongside the rest of the family. In this instance, you may find a doggy booster seat to be the best solution for your pet as it allows them to ride safely up front, giving them the opportunity to see what’s going on outside of the car, whilst still being secured via a harness attachment. This option is better suited to smaller breeds. For larger breeds, you could opt for a tether. This clever attachment fixes to ISO fix point or to your seatbelt and means you can safely attach it to your pet's travel harness, meaning they cannot wander around your vehicle freely whilst in motion. Alternatively, you may decide that a travel crate or carrier in the boot of the vehicle is a more suitable option as it gives you back that valuable space in the main body of your car. If you do choose this method of securing your pet, you can make sure they feel safe and comfortable by adding in their favourite bed or pet blanket to help make the crate a little more comfortable for their journey. Finally, make sure you plan in plenty of stops along the way. This will allow your pet to stretch their legs, have a drink of water or a small snack, as well as getting in those much-needed toilet breaks, and give you chance to praise and reassure them.   What to Pack? Much like with humans, dogs tend to come with a rather large number of travel essentials. When packing for a holiday with your pooch, we’d recommend considering the following items, even for a shorter getaway: • Bedding and blankets• A few of their favourite toys• Food and snacks• Doggy bowls• Plenty of poo bags• Any medication they might be on• A doggy first aid kit• Harnesses, collars, and leads• Any wet weather gear they may need (onesies, coats, etc.)• Spare towels you don’t mind the dog using• Doggy shampoo + pet wipes• Details of local vets – just in case!• A rucksack or bag to pop the essentials in for when you’re out and about.   Conclusion It’s great to see so many dog owners enjoying all the UK has to offer, there really is an abundance of choice when it comes to getting out and about and exploring the beautiful country we live in. We hope our study has highlighted some of the beautiful destinations on home soil that are there to explore. And dog or no dog, we truly believe there is something for everyone just a stone's throw away from home. Whether you prefer a city break, a countryside jaunt with a good dog friendly pub at the end, or even a coastal break, wherever your travels take you to this summer, we hope you and your pet enjoy your adventures! Our Study Sources and Methodology Survey of 2,000 UK dog owners conducted in June 2023 Population Data - https://worldpopulationreview.com/ and https://www.citypopulation.de/en/uk  of local 'Walking Routes' per 1,000 residents - https://www.plotaroute.com/routes/walking  of 'Dog Friendly Pubs' per 1,000 residents - https://www.dogfriendly.co.uk/ and https://www.useyourlocal.com/  of 'Dog-Friendly Hotels & B&Bs' - https://www.dogfriendly.co.uk/hotels-b-and-b  of 'Dog-Friendly Cottages & Self Catering' - https://www.dogfriendly.co.uk/cottages-and-self-catering  of 'Dog Friendly Restaurants' Listed on TripAdvisor, per 1,000 residents - https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ - limited searches to specific places and not surrounding areas  of RCVS Vets in Local Area per 1,000 residents - https://findavet.rcvs.org.uk/home/  of 'Pet Shops' (within 10 miles of location) per 1,000 residents - https://www.yell.com/ and For Douglas: Google Listings  Dry Days June - Aug - https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather Temp Days June - Aug - https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather 

By Megan Willis

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Summer holiday season is fast approaching, and according to a recent study, 72% of Brits still prefer staycations in 2023, despite international travel having opened up again post-pandemic.

And when it comes to holidaying as a pet parent, staycations can be the paw-fect way to enjoy some much-needed R&R without having to leave your beloved dog behind.

Luckily, the UK has plenty of gorgeous locations on offer, ideal for hosting a well-deserved break for you and your dog. Naturally, for those holidaying on home soil with a pooch, ensuring your destination of choice has plenty to keep both you and your pup happy and entertained is key. Nobody likes a ‘ruff deal’!

With this in mind, we quizzed 2,000 UK dog owners about their thoughts on booking a holiday abroad if it meant leaving their four-legged friend behind, as well as asking them to share their top staycation choices and must haves for when they’re booking a dog friendly getaway.

Using our findings, we then compared key data points relating to holidaying with a dog for the top 45 locations (that had come from the survey) and awarded a number of points for each in order to inform our list of the UK’s best locations for a dog friendly getaway.

Read on to learn more...

 

That Guilty Feeling

White dog in a suitcase

According to our findings, one in eight (13%) UK dog owners say they never holiday abroad because they feel guilty leaving their four-legged friend behind, instead opting for staycations here at home. And one in nine (11%) told us they actually choose to take their pet abroad with them when they go!

For almost half, whilst they admit it bothers them to leave their pooch behind, leaving them with family and friends gives them peace of mind to enjoy a holiday outside of the UK from time to time.

Interestingly, almost ten percent of dog owners we surveyed (8%) told us they never opt take a staycation with their dog.

Regionally, it was Birmingham residents discovered to be feeling the guiltiest when it comes to leaving their doggo behind when jetting off on their jollies, as more than a quarter of residents (28%) say they never holiday away from UK soil as they simply cannot leave their pet behind. In stark contrast, just seven percent of Leeds residents would do agree.

Women were found to be the most likely to forgo an international getaway due to the guilt they felt about leaving their dog behind, with one in six saying they never holiday abroad for this reason (16%), compared to just one in nine men (11%).

A fifth of male dog owner (21%) even stated that leaving their pet behind whilst they get in some air miles does not bother them at all and they can do so guilt free.

 

The Price of True Love: Just How Much are UK Dog Owners Willing to Pay for a Dog Friendly Staycation?

Two dogs sat on a beach

When we quizzed our panel of dog lovers about how much they’d be willing to spend to bring their four-legged friend away with them on a UK staycation, we learned that UK dog owners are willing to fork out an extra £50 per night on average to take their furry friend along with them on their UK staycation.

On this basis, with 11 million dogs living in the UK alone in 2023, if each pooch enjoyed a single night away each year, it would mean an additional £550million for the UK travel industry

According to our findings, Londoners are the biggest spenders on this front with residents in the capital sharing that they’d be willing to pay £65.41 per night on average in order to treat their pet to join them in some R&R.

The average additional cost per night dog owners in the city would splash out for their dog to join them on their UK staycation

 

UK City 

Avg. £ (GBP) per night

London 

£65.21 

Newcastle 

£60.00 

Belfast 

£56.30 

Manchester 

£55.17 

Liverpool 

£51.53 

Bristol 

£51.09 

Birmingham 

£45.53 

Southampton 

£37.33 

Leeds 

£37.15 

Nottingham 

£36.36 

Cardiff 

£35.09 

Glasgow 

£33.17 

Norwich 

£31.60 

Sheffield 

£28.68 

Edinburgh 

£18.50 

 

Meanwhile, Edinburgh dog owners would pay the least (£18.50 per night on average), splashing out a substantial £46.91 less per night than those in the UK’s capital.

Those aged between 25 and 34 were revealed to be the most generous when it came to their dogs, saying they’d be willing to splash out a whopping £73.17 on average per night so their pet could come along on their UK getaway.

In comparison, those over 65 say they’d spend they least (£19.29).

 

How Much are UK Dog Owners Willing to Pay for a Dog Friendly Staycation

Cavapoo on a white bed

Next, we asked the survey panel to share their favourite dog-friendly holiday locations, with Newquay in Cornwall claiming top spot amongst UK dog owners. Other popular locations included Whitby, York, Windermere, and London.
Whilst at the bottom of the list, Douglas on the Isle of Man was found to be the least in favour with UK dog owners. Alongside Douglas, Derby, Reading, Southwold, and Nottingham all found themselves amongst the least favoured within the rankings.

 

What do Brits Want the Most from a Dog Friendly Staycation?

White dog sticking their head out of a car window on a roadtrip

We also asked our 2,000 dog owners to share their top considerations when booking a dog friendly staycation, with plenty of places to walk their pup coming out at the top of the list (42%).

Other staycation “musts” included having dog friendly pubs in the local area (36%), plenty of dog friendly accommodation to pick from (35%), and of course, a good range of dog friendly restaurants and cafes (35%).

 

UK Dog Owners Top Considerations When Booking a Dog-Friendly Staycation

  1. Places to go walking - 42%
  2. Dog friendly pubs - 36%
  3. Dog friendly accommodation -35%
  4. Dog friendly restaurants/cafes - 26%
  5. A dog friendly garden in your accommodation -15%
  6. A vets close by - 13%
  7. Dog friendly beaches nearby - 12%
  8. Dog friendly shops (non-dog/pet shops) - 12%
  9. Dog friendly transport - 10%
  10. Relaxing Surroundings – 7%

 

The UK’s Best Locations for a Dog Friendly Getaway, Revealed

Finally, we compiled and compared key data points relating to holidaying with a dog in 45 UK locations, all of which were informed by our pet owner survey.
Points were then awarded based on the highest number of local walking routes, dog friendly pubs, hotels and other accommodation, vets in the area, pet shops, and of course the average weather.

So, who came out as top dog? We reveal all...

1. Bath, Somerset

Bath, UK

Overall, Bath was crowned the UK's top location for a dog friendly getaway in our rankings, scoring 72 points out of a possible 100.

Despite missing out on a place in the top 20 locations for a dog friendly holiday in our initial survey findings, the city secured the number one spot in our rankings thanks to its 56 dog friendly pubs within a 10-mile radius (0.56 per 1,000 residents), 20 B&Bs and hotels in the area, and an average of 18.8 dry days per month between June and September.

Bath also scored highly for dog friendly aspects such as having 12 RCVS vets in the local area (0.13 per 1,000 residents), and 40 dog friendly pubs within a 10-mile radius (0.43 per 1,000 residents).

 

2. Lincoln

Lincoln UK

Although it was found to be the top choice for a dog-friendly staycation by UK dog owners according to our survey, Newquay in Cornwall placed at number nine in the rankings.

Lincoln scored just half a point behind leading city, Bath with 71.5/100, and those visiting the cathedral city in search of a dog-friendly getaway can take advantage of its 121 local walking routes (1.10 per 1,000 residents), 103 dog-friendly cottages and self-catering options, as well as an average temperature across June to August of 21 degrees Celsius.

Additionally, Lincoln boasts 18.6 dry days per month on average across June to August, and 22 dog-friendly restaurants (0.22 per 1,000 residents).

 

3. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Whitby stairs

The North Yorkshire seaside town of Whitby is up next, placing at number three on our list of the UK’s top holiday locations for a dog-friendly staycation (71/100).

Tourists considering a trip to the beautiful seaside town of Whitby in the coming months with their pup in tow can enjoy 100 local walking routes (7.94 per 1,000 residents), 52 dog friendly pubs within a 10-mile radius (1 per 1,000 residents), 35 pet shops (0.67 per 1,000 residents), and an average temperature across June to August of 20.3 degrees Celsius – not forgetting fish, chips and plenty of ice cream too!

 

4. Bakewell, Peak District

Bakewell peak district

In fourth place is the pretty Peak District town of Bakewell, which scored 70.5 points out of a possible 100.

Dogs and their owners visiting the beautiful market town for a dog friendly staycation this summer will be greeted by a very generous 325 local walking routes (92.88 per 1,000 residents), 45 dog-friendly pubs (12.86 per 1,000 residents), and 20 RCVS vets in the local area (5.72 per 1,000 residents), and five pet shops within a 10-mile radius of the town (1.43 per 1,000 residents).

 

5. Southwold, Suffolk

Beach huts in southwold

Number five is on the list is another pretty seaside town, Southwold, which is located a little further down the UK coastline in Suffolk.

Scoring 70 out of a possible 100, alongside easy access to the beach, visitors to the coastal Suffolk town of Southwold will find eight dog friendly restaurants (8.42 per 1,000 residents), four pet shops (4.21 per 1,000 residents), an average of 18.6 dry days per month between June and September, as well as an average daytime temperature of 21 degrees Celsius across the same three-month period.

 

The Full List of Rankings

Rank 

Location 

 Score (out of 100) 

Bath, Somerset  

72

Lincoln  

71.5

Whitby, North Yorkshire  

71

Bakewell, Peak District  

70.5

Southwold, Suffolk  

70

Oxford  

69.5

Skegness, Lincolnshire  

69

Keswick, Cumbria  

67

Newquay, Cornwall  

66.5

10 

Sandown, Isle of Wight  

66 

11 

Helmsley, North Yorkshire Moors

64.5

12 

Stratford Upon Avon, Warwickshire  

64 

13 

Salisbury, Wiltshire  

62.5

14 

Torquay, Devon   

62 

15 

Cheltenham, Gloucestershire  

61.5

16 

Derby  

61 

17 

Windermere, Cumbria  

58 

18 

Eastbourne, Sussex  

55 

19 

Bamburgh, Northumbria   

54.5

20

Inverness, Highlands 

54

21

Norwich, Norfolk   

54

21

Norwich, Norfolk 

53.5

22

Ilkley, Yorkshire Dales

53

23

York

52.5

24

Melrose, Scottish Borders

52

25

Great Yarmouth, The Norfolk Broads

50.1

26

Brighton

50

27

Dover, Kent 

48

28

Bristol

45

29

Blackpool

44.5

30

Douglas, Isle of Man 

44

31

London 

43.5

32

Nottingham

43

33

Reading, Berkshire

41

34

Bournemouth, Dorset

41.5

35

Plymouth, Devon

41

36

Edinburgh

40

37

Swansea, Wales

39

38

Cardiff, Wales

38

39

Southend on Sea, Essex

36

40

Newcastle Upon Tyne

33.5

41

Lancaster

33

42

Birmingham

26.5

43

Liverpool

26

44

Glasgow

20

45

Belfast

14

 

The Lowest Scoring UK Escapes

City skyline

At the very bottom of the dog-friendly holiday rankings was Belfast securing an overall score of just 14 out of 405.

Sadly, despite being a popular tourist destination, the Northern Irish city received a low score and placed last on our list of rankings due to having just 14 dog friendly pubs within 10 miles of the city (0.02 per 1,000 residents), six dog friendly hotels and B&Bs, two dog friendly self-catering options, and an average of 13.4 dry days per month between June and August.

Other locations that placed at the bottom end of the list, included Glasgow (20/100), Liverpool (26/100), Birmingham (26.5/100) and Lancaster (33/100).

 

Top Tips for Holidaying with Your Dog

Family walking their dog on a beach

With our findings in mind, we thought we would share some of our top tips for holidaying with a dog....

 

Traveling to and Around your Destination with a Dog

Whether you opt to reach your staycation venue by train, car, or bus, traveling with a dog can take a bit of careful pre-preparation and planning.

For example, if your dog is not used to traveling by vehicle, it’s advisable to get in some practise runs locally, before you head off on a longer journey. This will give your pet plenty of time to get used to the new smells, sounds and general surroundings, as well as familiarising them with the unusual sensation of being inside a moving vehicle.

If you’re traveling to your destination by car specifically, then it’s worth noting that in the UK (and in many other countries) it is a legal requirement to secure your dog whilst driving, this is for your own safety as well as theirs.

The Highway Code states in their Rules about Animals, that when in a vehicle, dogs must be suitably restrained so they cannot distract drivers or injure you, or themselves. If you find they have managed to get loose in the vehicle, then you must find a safe place to pull over and stop the car quickly.

As such, there are a number of ways in which you can ensure your dog is safely secured and still comfortable, especially if you have a lengthy drive ahead of you.

KONG Ultimate safety tether

If you have the space, then for smaller dogs especially, it’s often preferable to have them inside the main car space alongside the rest of the family. In this instance, you may find a doggy booster seat to be the best solution for your pet as it allows them to ride safely up front, giving them the opportunity to see what’s going on outside of the car, whilst still being secured via a harness attachment. This option is better suited to smaller breeds.

For larger breeds, you could opt for a tether. This clever attachment fixes to ISO fix point or to your seatbelt and means you can safely attach it to your pet's travel harness, meaning they cannot wander around your vehicle freely whilst in motion.

Brown labrador in the boot of a car

Alternatively, you may decide that a travel crate or carrier in the boot of the vehicle is a more suitable option as it gives you back that valuable space in the main body of your car. If you do choose this method of securing your pet, you can make sure they feel safe and comfortable by adding in their favourite bed or pet blanket to help make the crate a little more comfortable for their journey.

Finally, make sure you plan in plenty of stops along the way. This will allow your pet to stretch their legs, have a drink of water or a small snack, as well as getting in those much-needed toilet breaks, and give you chance to praise and reassure them.

 

What to Pack?

Much like with humans, dogs tend to come with a rather large number of travel essentials. When packing for a holiday with your pooch, we’d recommend considering the following items, even for a shorter getaway:

• Bedding and blankets
• A few of their favourite toys
• Food and snacks
• Doggy bowls
• Plenty of poo bags
• Any medication they might be on
A doggy first aid kit
Harnesses, collars, and leads
• Any wet weather gear they may need (onesies, coats, etc.)
• Spare towels you don’t mind the dog using
Doggy shampoo + pet wipes
• Details of local vets – just in case!
A rucksack or bag to pop the essentials in for when you’re out and about.

 

Conclusion

It’s great to see so many dog owners enjoying all the UK has to offer, there really is an abundance of choice when it comes to getting out and about and exploring the beautiful country we live in.

We hope our study has highlighted some of the beautiful destinations on home soil that are there to explore. And dog or no dog, we truly believe there is something for everyone just a stone's throw away from home.

Whether you prefer a city break, a countryside jaunt with a good dog friendly pub at the end, or even a coastal break, wherever your travels take you to this summer, we hope you and your pet enjoy your adventures!

Our Study Sources and Methodology

  • Survey of 2,000 UK dog owners conducted in June 2023
    Population Data - https://worldpopulationreview.com/ and https://www.citypopulation.de/en/uk 
  • of local 'Walking Routes' per 1,000 residents - https://www.plotaroute.com/routes/walking 
  • of 'Dog Friendly Pubs' per 1,000 residents - https://www.dogfriendly.co.uk/ and https://www.useyourlocal.com/ 
  • of 'Dog-Friendly Hotels & B&Bs' - https://www.dogfriendly.co.uk/hotels-b-and-b 
  • of 'Dog-Friendly Cottages & Self Catering' - https://www.dogfriendly.co.uk/cottages-and-self-catering 
  • of 'Dog Friendly Restaurants' Listed on TripAdvisor, per 1,000 residents - https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ - limited searches to specific places and not surrounding areas 
  • of RCVS Vets in Local Area per 1,000 residents - https://findavet.rcvs.org.uk/home/ 
  • of 'Pet Shops' (within 10 miles of location) per 1,000 residents - https://www.yell.com/ and For Douglas: Google Listings 
  • Dry Days June - Aug - https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather
  • Temp Days June - Aug - https://www.meteoblue.com/en/weather 

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Speak softly, stroke their throat or chest, offer a tiny sip of water if they’re settled enough, and move them away from dust, strong smells, or other obvious triggers. When to worry about reverse sneezing? Reverse sneezing is worth worrying about if it becomes frequent, lasts longer than a minute, or your dog seems unwell afterwards. Signs that need a vet call include distress, nasal discharge, a new cough, noisy breathing between episodes, pale or blue gums, lethargy, or a drop in appetite. What triggers reverse sneezing in dogs? Reverse sneezing is usually triggered by irritation in the throat or nasal passages. Common causes include dust, pollen, mould, strong household scents, excitement, pulling on the lead, eating or drinking too fast, temperature changes, and being a flat-faced breed with shorter airways. How long is too long for a dog to reverse a sneeze? Anything lasting longer than about a minute is a sensible point to call your vet. Most reverse sneezing episodes pass within a few seconds to around a minute, and dogs usually seem completely normal again straight afterwards.

    By Adele Busby

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  • How to Cut Dog Nails That Are Black
    19.08.26 August 19, 2026 Health

    How to Cut Dog Nails That Are Black

    Trimming black dog nails can feel like a guessing game, but it really does not have to be. This guide walks you through how to cut dog nails that are black with confidence, covering everything from spotting the quick before you snip to choosing the right tools, handling the odd nick along the way, and building a calmer routine over time. Whether you are starting from scratch or just looking to feel less uncertain with the clippers, there is something here to help you and your dog get through nail day in one piece. How to Tell Where the Quick Is on Black Dog Nails The quick is the living core of your dog’s nail. It contains blood vessels and nerves, so if you catch it with the clippers, it bleeds and stings — not ideal for anyone involved. With light-coloured nails, you can usually spot it as a soft pink shadow running through the centre, which makes the whole job much more straightforward. With black nails, that shadow disappears completely, and that’s exactly why so many pet parents feel stuck before they’ve even picked up the clippers. The good news? You don’t have to guess. You just need to slow down and read a few reliable clues. Start by shining a small torch or your phone’s flashlight through the nail from underneath. On finer nails, this can reveal the quick as a darker oval shape within the nail. It won’t work for every dog, but it takes about three seconds to try and it’s genuinely useful when it does. If the light doesn’t show much, nail texture becomes your next guide. Trim a tiny sliver from the tip and look at the cut surface. At first it’ll appear solid and chalky, white or grey all the way through. That’s safe ground. Keep taking small slivers, checking each time, and eventually the centre will shift. It might look darker, almost black, or you’ll notice a small grey dot appearing in the middle. That dot is your cue to stop. You’re getting close to the quick. Nail shape tells you something before you even make a cut, too. Most dog nails curve downward and taper toward the tip, and the quick follows that same curve. It typically sits further back than you’d expect, so if the nail has a definite hook at the end, trimming just that hooked portion is usually where you want to start. One last thing: a calm dog makes all of this much easier. When they’re tense and pulling away, it’s harder to look closely and work carefully. Keeping an eye on your dog’s body language throughout the trim helps you spot early signs of stress before things unravel. The Tools That Make Black Nail Trims Safer and Calmer Having the right tools ready before you start makes a real difference when you’re working with black nails. They help you make smaller, more controlled cuts, reduce the chance of catching the quick off guard, and keep the whole experience calmer for your dog from the very first snip. Sharp scissor-style or guillotine clippers. Blunt clippers crush rather than cut cleanly, which is uncomfortable for your dog and makes it much harder to read the cut surface. Sharp blades give you a clean edge — exactly what you need when taking black nails back little by little. A nail grinder. If clippers feel a bit too all-or-nothing, a grinder lets you remove nail gradually and gives you much finer control over how much you take off. Many dogs also find the sensation less startling than a sudden snap. A small flashlight or phone torch. Holding a light against the top of the nail can help you spot the quick’s shadow before you cut. It doesn’t work on every dog, but it takes seconds to try and is well worth doing. Styptic powder. Have this within arm’s reach before you begin. If you nick the quick, it works fast — and knowing it’s right there helps you stay calm rather than scrambling. High-value treats. Something your dog doesn’t get at any other time, like a small cube of cheese or a bit of cooked chicken, makes the session feel worthwhile for them and keeps their focus in the right place. A non-slip mat or towel. This gives your dog something to grip, helps them feel a little more settled, and means less wriggling for you to work around. What is styptic powder? It stops minor bleeding almost instantly if you nick the quick. It’s a staple in any dog nail trimming kit, so always have it to hand before you start. None of these are hard to find, and together they genuinely change how confident you feel tackling black nails at home. If you’re building out your grooming kit, you’ll find plenty of dog care essentials over at Lords and Labradors. Good preparation really is the best dog nail trimming tip there is — have everything ready before your dog sits down, and you’re already off to a better start. A Step-by-Step Way to Cut Black Dog Nails Without Hitting the Quick Once you understand how to read the nail, the actual cutting becomes far less daunting. Trimming black dog nails safely is really about slowing down, taking tiny slices, and trusting what you see rather than guessing where to stop. Settle your dog before you pick up the clippers. Sit on the floor together, offer a few treats, and let them sniff the clippers. A calm start makes everything that follows easier. Find a comfortable position for you both. Some dogs are happy lying on their side while you kneel beside them. Others prefer sitting upright with a paw gently lifted. Work with your dog rather than forcing a hold that makes them tense. Press the toe pad gently to extend one nail at a time. This gives you a clear view and keeps the paw steady without gripping so tight that your dog pulls away. Start with a small snip at a slight angle. Take just the very tip off. You’re not trying to do it all in one go — you’re just getting started. Check the cut surface before you snip again. Hold the nail up to the light and look at the cross-section. A chalky white or grey centre means you’re well away from the quick and safe to continue. Keep going in tiny increments, checking every time. As you get closer, the centre of the nail will start to shift. The moment you see a darker grey or black dot beginning to appear in the middle, stop on that nail. That dot is the quick showing itself, and one slice further could cause real discomfort. Reward your dog between nails, not just at the end. A treat after each one keeps things positive and gives your dog a natural moment to breathe and reset. Stop if your dog tells you they’ve had enough. Panting, pulling the paw away, or going rigid are all signs to pause — even if you’ve only done two nails. Pushing through rarely ends well. Split the session across days if that’s what your dog needs. Front paws today, back paws tomorrow. There’s no rule that says all twenty nails have to happen at once, and honestly, your dog will thank you for it. A note on the black dog nail quick: In lighter nails, the quick shows up as a visible pink line running through the centre. In black nails, you simply can’t see it from the outside, which is why reading the cross-section matters so much. A small dark dot or a soft pale ring appearing in the centre after a snip is your signal to stop. That’s the quick beginning to surface, and going any further risks pain and bleeding. The whole point of learning how to cut dog nails that are black is building confidence through small wins, not racing to finish. Three nails done calmly is genuinely better than twenty done with your dog stressed and wriggling. If your dog tends to find grooming difficult, it’s worth thinking about how you handle other anxious moments together — the same approach that helps keep dogs calm during stressful situations like fireworks applies just as well here. What to Do if You Nick the Quick Nicking the quick when you’re learning how to cut dog nails that are black happens to almost every pet parent at some point. It looks more dramatic than it is — a small dark red bleed from the tip of the nail — and it tends to startle you far more than it hurts your dog. Take a breath. You’ve got this. Here’s exactly what to do: Stop trimming and set the clippers down. Apply styptic powder or cornstarch directly to the nail tip. Hold gentle pressure with a clean cloth or your finger for 30 to 60 seconds. Keep your dog calm and still with a quiet voice and a soft, steady touch. Once the bleeding slows, check the nail before letting your dog wander off. Styptic powder is a clotting agent that stops bleeding quickly — and it’s the single most useful thing to have nearby during any nail trim. Purdue University’s veterinary guidance specifically recommends that you keep styptic powder available when clipping a pet’s nails to stop bleeding if you clip too short. Pick some up before your next session if you don’t already have it. For aftercare, keep the paw clean and dry for the rest of the day. Avoid rough-surface walks for 24 hours, and check back on the nail over the next day or so for any redness or swelling. If the bleeding hasn’t slowed within 5 to 10 minutes, or your dog seems to be in genuine pain rather than just briefly unsettled, call your vet. That’s the sensible thing to do — not a sign that anything has gone seriously wrong. How to Make Nail Trims Easier Next Time The biggest dog nail trimming tip anyone can give you? Trim more often. It sounds almost too simple, but when you’re working out how to cut dog nails that are black, consistency matters just as much as technique. Dogs who seem completely impossible to trim can surprise you once a calm routine clicks into place. Trim every 3 to 4 weeks. Regular sessions keep nails at a manageable length and make each one shorter and less stressful — for both of you. Reward after every single nail. Use something your dog genuinely loves, like a small piece of cheese or chicken, and give it the moment you finish each nail rather than saving it until the end. Handle paws between sessions. A minute or two of gentle paw touching while you’re watching TV or winding down costs nothing and builds real tolerance without any pressure attached. Take a little, more often. Small snips every few weeks feel far less daunting than trying to tackle seriously overgrown nails after a long gap — and you’ll stay well clear of the quick. Keep the setup consistent. Same spot, same time of day, same calm energy. Dogs read routine surprisingly well, and familiarity genuinely helps settle nerves. Start puppies early. Even pretend trims with no cutting involved help young dogs learn that paw handling is completely normal. Pro tip: Trimming a tiny amount every 2 to 3 weeks is far safer than waiting until nails are overgrown — especially when you’re navigating the black dog nail quick. Think of each session as a training opportunity rather than a chore to get through. Dogs who once wriggled, whined, or flatly refused can absolutely learn to sit calmly for a trim. It just takes consistency, patience, and a well-stocked treat supply. When to Ask a Groomer or Vet for Help Sometimes, the most caring thing you can do is hand the clippers to someone else. If you have worked through how to cut dog nails that are black and still feel uncertain, that is completely fine. Some dogs have nails that are genuinely thick, curved, or difficult to read, even for owners who have been doing this for years. Others simply will not settle, no matter how many treats you offer or how carefully you have set the scene. Professional groomers trim nails every single day. They know how to read the nail, position the dog, and work with a calm confidence that only comes with real experience. Booking a session or two is not admitting defeat. It is a smart way to watch someone skilled work up close, ask questions, and pick up the kind of practical knowledge that no article can fully replace. Your vet is equally worth considering, especially if your dog has unusually thick nails, any history of paw injuries, or anxiety that makes handling genuinely difficult. They can trim safely and point you toward ways to make future sessions less stressful for your dog and for you. The most important shift is this: professional help is a starting point, not a last resort. Once your dog has had a calm, positive experience with someone who knows exactly what they are doing, you will often find that the next trim at home feels a little easier too. Frequently Asked Questions How do you know where the quick is on black dog nails? You find the quick on black dog nails by trimming tiny slivers and checking the cut surface each time. A chalky white or grey centre is usually safe; when you start to see a darker dot or change in the middle, stop. A torch underneath the nail can sometimes help too. Can I trim my dog’s black nails? Yes, you can trim your dog’s black nails if you go slowly and take very small amounts at a time. The safest approach is to remove the hooked tip first, check the cut surface after every snip, and stop as soon as you see a darker centre appearing. How do you trim severely overgrown dog nails? Trim severely overgrown dog nails by taking off only a little at a time and spreading the work over multiple sessions if needed. Tiny, regular trims every 2 to 4 weeks are safer than one big cut, especially with black nails, because they help you avoid catching the quick.

    By Adele Busby

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