14th March 2025
Complete guide to taking your dog to the beach
Oh, we do love to be beside the seaside, especially when there are dogs in tow. There’s just something so joyful about watching a streak of fur dash across the sand, tongue lolling to the side and eyes wide in salt-kissed delight. Oh yes, we can certainly learn a lot about enjoying life from our furry friends.
When it comes to dog-friendly beach days, there are some key facts to remember to ensure everyone has a relaxed and, most importantly, safe time. From packing the essentials to choosing the right spot, this guide has everything you need to know about taking your dog to the beach.
Which beaches are good for dogs?
There are lots of things to consider when choosing the perfect beach for your dog-friendly day out. Simple things like ensuring it’s the right time of year for dogs are always important, while added extras like facilities and size can help take your coastal adventures to the next level.
Dog restrictions - While some beaches welcome dogs throughout the year, there are many that operate under seasonal restrictions or, in some cases, complete bans. Often, these restrictions run in line with school holidays, giving you a loose idea of when to look for totally dog-friendly beaches. We recommend checking online beach guides for seasonal restrictions.
Facilities - Beaches with car parks and cafés nearby are great for easy access to amenities as well as handy bins for the disposal of poo bags.
Tides - Although a lot of beaches are great fun at any time of day, some benefit from a low tide when great swathes of sand are revealed - pawfect for some sandy zoomies!
Type of beach - Quiet, secluded coves are fantastic for nervous dogs, while open stretches of sand are a haven for those who love nothing more than sprinting off towards the horizon.
Location - Does the beach back onto a road? Is it a steep walk to get to the beach from the car park? Are there cliffs? These are all important considerations when choosing the right beach for you and your dog.
When to take your dog to the beach
Winter - One of our favourite times of year for a beach visit with the pooch, winter promises quieter sands and access to significantly more dog-friendly beaches. Wrap up warm, fill your pockets with plenty of treats, and explore the UK’s beautiful coast with your dog by your side.
Spring - If you love a spot of sun-worshipping and wave-watching, spring is just the season. Not only do you get to enjoy sun-soaked sands, but the weather is a little cooler than the height of summer, allowing you to spend a little more time paddling in the ocean with your furry best friend.
Summer - A popular season for beach days for very good reason, summer is the time of year when the beach is on everyone’s minds. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit the beach with your dog in the summer as it’s a little cooler and easier to find shade.
Autumn - Whether it’s Indian Summers or wind-swept walks along golden stretches, there’s no bad time to visit the beach in autumn. Dog restrictions also tend to finish by the end of September, opening up many more beaches for pup-approved days out.
What to take to a dog-friendly beach
So, you’ve chosen the perfect beach for your next adventure, but, what to bring? If, like us, you’re tempted to take everything just in case, we’ve created a list of the essentials so you can keep things streamlined.
Towel - Yes, a towel might seem obvious, but taking a towel for the dog too is endlessly useful. It provides something to lie on if the sand is hot and helps keep the car relatively sand-free when you return.
Shade - Choosing a beach that offers shade is amazing, but sometimes you’ll need to take your own. Umbrellas and pop-up tents are great for keeping the sun off and helping to keep your dog at a safe temperature.
Cooling mat - These handy bits of kit are great for keeping your dog cool in warmer weather. Or, you can simply dunk a towel in the sea for a refreshing accessory.
Sun cream - Even if you have your trusty shade, ensuring your dog has protection from the sun is imperative. After you’ve done a patch test (checking for irritation when using products on their skin is always a good idea, even when it’s pet-safe), apply dog-friendly sun cream to any areas where there is less fur and the skin is exposed. Think nose, ears, and around the mouth but also the belly if your dog has mastered the art of rolling over.
Poo bags - As with anywhere you visit with the dog, remember to leave only your footprints (and pawprints) behind.
Water - Whether you’re visiting for an hour or half a day, bring ample water for you and your dog. We recommend avoiding public water bowls, instead bringing your own water bottle and portable dog bowl. Do not let your dog drink sea water.
Toys - Everyone loves beach games, including our four-legged friends. Bringing toys to the beach is a great way to add some extra stimuli to the day. Just make sure to take them all away with you at the end of the day.
Treats - Whether your dog needs a little encouragement with recall or you don’t want them to feel left out when you tuck into a picnic, having a bag of high-value treats is always a good idea.
Lead - Even if it’s an off-lead beach, making sure you have one to hand can be helpful should the beach be particularly busy. If there are other dogs on leads or small children nearby, it’s always good etiquette to pop a lead on your dog too.
Top tips for taking your dog to the beach
Too hot to handle - Make sure you check the temperature of the sand before stepping onto the beach with your dog. If the sand is too hot to hold your hand there for more than three seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Lead the way - When walking to and from the beach, it can be helpful to keep your dog on a lead, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area as there could be grazing cattle in nearby fields.
Rinse off - Not only does a quick rinse when returning home keep interiors nice and sand-free, it also prevents your dog’s coat from build-up.
Swimming lessons - Making sure your dog is confident and capable in the water is so important when visiting a dog-friendly beach.
Be aware - From rip currents in the sea to other dogs on the beach or adders in the dunes, being aware of your surroundings and your dog's location at all times is paramount to enjoying a fun day at the beach safely.
No skimming stones - Not a common tip, but one that’s always worth a mention. We recommend avoiding the age-old activity of stone skimming as dogs will happily launch themselves at any moving target, whether it’s a ball or a stone.
Cars are for travel only - Never leave your dog in the car when going to the beach.
Keep it short - If you’re visiting in the summer, keep your beach days short and sweet to keep your dog safe and happy. Keep an eye on their panting and make sure to bring enough water and shade to keep them cool and hydrated.
Do not eat - Be aware of harmful and toxic substances on beaches, such as palm oil, and ensure your dog doesn't pick anything up.
Excited to hit the beach with your dog by your side? Explore our beautiful dog-friendly cottages near the sea and start planning your coastal escape today.