Helpful information about walking with your dog on The South West Coast Path

5 mins read •

Walking with your dog.

Going on a walking holiday? Why not bring your four-legged friend too.. Walking with your dog can be a delightful experience for both of you. Not only does it provide physical exercise, but it also stimulates your dog’s mind as they explore and sniff around. This can help them expend excess energy, leading to a better night’s sleep for your furry friend.

Walking with your dog

Can I bring my dog on my walking holiday?

Yes, you can take your dog with you on your walking holiday. However, there are many things to consider when walking with your dog. Your dog should be well-behaved and respectful of others, as there are often many people, dogs, and other animals along the paths. Dogs usually enjoy these walks as much as their owners do.

Finding dog friendly accommodation

One of the biggest challenges of bringing your dog on a walking holiday is finding dog-friendly accommodations. The South West Coast Path passes through many popular holiday towns and villages, where many accommodations are not dog friendly. While we have a large selection of accommodations listed on our website, we do not specifically identify which ones are dog-friendly. We recommend sending enquiries to confirm their pet policies.

What to bring when walking with your dog:

When walking with your dog you should ensure that you have all the essentials for both yourself and your dog.

Food: Bring enough food for the entire duration of your walk, as there may not always be places to buy more.
Water Bottle: Carry water for both yourself and your dog, as it may not always be available along the route.
Treats: Bring extra treats to reward your dog for good behavior.
Poo Bags: Essential for cleaning up after your dog.
Bedding/Blankets: For your dog’s comfort.
Towels: To dry your dog if they get wet or muddy.
Toys/Balls: To keep your dog entertained.
Dog Lead & Collar: Ensure your dog wears a collar with your contact details.
First Aid Kit & Paw Care: Bring medical supplies for emergencies.
Name Tag & Microchip: Ensure your dog is micro-chipped and has a name tag to facilitate a quick reunion if they get lost.

Luggage Transfers can transport dog items such as food, bedding, and toys, provided they are in a handled bag with a label.

Cleaning up after your dog

By law, you must clean up after your dog on public land, with fines of up to £1000 for non-compliance. While the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 does not apply to agricultural land, woodlands, marshland, moor, or heath, it is advisable to clean up after your dog at all times.

Safety tips when walking with your dog on all paths:

- Visibility and Control: Always keep your dog in sight; use a lead if your dog doesn’t have a reliable recall.
- Hydration: Carry enough water for your dog to prevent dehydration, especially in summer. Collapsible travel bowls are handy, and many cafes provide dog bowls.
- Cliff Edges: Keep your dog away from cliff edges, as they can be loose and are often home to wildlife.
- Livestock: Use a short lead around livestock such as sheep, cows, and horses, irrespective of how well-trained your dog is.
- Courtesy: Prevent your dog from running up to people uninvited, as not everyone likes dogs. This can be dangerous, especially near cliffs.
- Mining Areas: Be cautious of uncapped mineshafts hidden in the undergrowth in mining heritage areas.
- Waste Disposal: Always bag it and bin it wherever you are to maintain cleanliness and prevent the spread of diseases.
- Name Tag & Microchip: Ensure your dog has a name tag and is micro-chipped so you can be easily reunited if your dog gets lost. When on holiday, use a temporary tag with your contact information.
- Beach Hazards: Be cautious of what your dog eats, as some items along paths and beaches can be harmful.
- Hot Cars: Never leave your dog in a hot car, even if it seems cool due to a sea breeze.
- Ticks: Be aware of ticks.
- Emergencies: In case of an emergency involving your dog or another dog, call 999 rather than attempting a rescue yourself.

You can click here to view our ‘Staying safe when walking and hiking’ article.

Dog Walking on lead on South West Coast Path

Coast Path walking with your dog

When walking with your dog on the South West Coast Path, safety near cliff edges is paramount. Many areas of the South West Coast Path are unsafe for dogs to roam free, so it is highly recommended to keep your dog on a lead.

Beach access

Many beaches ban dogs during the summer months. If your route crosses a beach, it is usually marked. Keep your dog on a lead, do not linger, and stick to the path. Check in advance if your route requires crossing a beach. Some beaches allow dogs year-round, and you can visit local council websites to find dog-friendly beaches and their regulations. For example, you can click here to view the dog friendly beaches in Cornwall.