We’re almost 2 years into the pandemic now, and the way we live has changed. But what hasn’t changed is the love for travel and the excitement of exploring new places!
Many places have now opened their borders once more and are allowing travel. Chances are you spent many more hours than usual bonding with your dog during the lockdown, and it may be hard to imagine doing any traveling without them now.
The good news is that you don’t need to leave them behind when you go on your next adventure! Discover these dog-friendly destinations that you can put on your travel bucket list.
Table of Contents
1. Barcelona, Spain
If you want to spend some time in sunny Spain with your dog, you’re in luck! Barcelona is very dog-friendly and also very beautiful. Many of the big tourist attractions won’t allow your dog inside with you, but the city is just waiting to be explored by you and your furry friend.
You don’t just have to take your pup around looking at beautiful architecture with you. There are plenty of dog-specific things to do, like taking your pup to the park (Park Güell is an excellent choice), visit the beach (Playa del Llevant caters specifically for dogs), or treat your dog to a snack at one of the pet bakeries in the city. Before you travel, don’t forget to make a list of where to stay in Barcelona that will accept your furry friend.
2. Vancouver Island, Canada
Vancouver Island, British Colombia is filled with wide-open spaces and plenty of stunning hikes, so make sure your dog can handle being active. Across the island, you’ll find dog-friendly accommodation, and off-leash dog parks are also scattered throughout the region.
There’s also a multitude of pet-friendly restaurants where you and your pet can dine together. If you’re looking for a resort-style vacation complete with sandy beaches, you’ll find dog-welcoming resorts on the Gulf Islands. The Pacific Rim region is packed with outdoor adventures like surfing and paddleboarding, which you can do with your pup.
3. St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands has no quarantine requirements, making it the perfect spot for a quick getaway with your dog. The only thing your dog will need is a rabies vaccination certificate (within the last 6 months) and an official health certificate.
Pet-friendly accommodation will be no problem, with a number of hotels, villas, and smaller condos available for you and your pet to stay in.
The beaches are beautiful but double-check if your dog is allowed before going. Cane Bay Beach may be a good choice for your pup to romp around on. As long as you keep your dog on a leash, they should be able to explore the island with you.
4. Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is known as the most dog-friendly city down under. Plenty of hotels and restaurants in the area allow dogs, and the calm beaches are a wonderful place for your fluff to let loose. Be aware that dogs may only be allowed off-leash at certain times of day during summer.
Dogs are welcome on leash at almost all parks. If you want to spoil your pooch with some shopping, Chapel Street in South Yarra, a dog-friendly shopping district.
Just be careful and keep your dog away from wildlife or creepy crawlies. Australia has some of the most dangerous creatures in the world, so keep your fluff safe, be aware of the nearest local vet and take a first aid kit!
5. Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is the ideal spot to take your pup if you want a tropical Thai vacation. It’s a backpacker’s dream, so be prepared to do a lot of walking with your dog!
It’s a hub of exciting cultural adventures, and if you want to get away from the hustle and into nature there are plenty of hikes and trails.
If you want to treat your dog, book a night or two at the Ketawa Pet-Friendly Hotel. Here, your dog can play with the 8 house dogs, splash in the dedicated pet pool, and even have a luxurious bath and pamper. Visit their cafe to buy a delicious treat or a new toy!
6. Belgium
This delightful European city is surprisingly dog-friendly. Your pup can travel on Belgian Rail trains with you (for free if they’re crated, a few Euro per trip for larger dogs), so it’s exceptionally easy to get around together.
You can take your pick of where you want to stay, with the options ranging from fancy hotels to Airbnb rentals. Once you’ve found your spot, head out for some exploring around Bruges, a medieval city, visit the palace in Brussels, or simply marvel at the architecture.
When you need to stop for a bite, you’ll be pleased to know that most restaurants are happy for your dog to sit with you at an outdoor table. Some of them will allow your pup inside too, but it’s best to check before going in.
7. United Kingdom
The UK consists of England, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islands. Ireland is the only country that may be hard to visit with your dog, but you can move freely between the others without the need for microchips or pet passports.
That’s a lot of ground for you to cover, with plenty of amazing views, interesting cultural experiences and a lot of pub lunches to be had. One of the best things about traveling with your dog in the UK is that pups are allowed on trains for free as long as they’re leashed.
Dog-friendly accommodation is easy to find, although restaurants aren’t as up to speed. Many pubs will allow your pup inside with you, but not all formal dining establishments will.
8. United States
The United States is extremely vast, which makes it a huge adventure. You can find pretty much any type of vacation you’re looking for! Beaches, deserts, snow, whatever you like.
There are a ton of dog-friendly places in the USA, which is why we recommend doing a road trip with your pup! You could fly from state to state with your dog, but getting a pup on a flight can be a lot more complicated. In a car, they’re right there with you the whole way and you can experience the journey together.
It’s generally easy to travel from state to state without hassle. Some states do have regulations, so check this page for your destination state before getting into trouble. If you’re going to Hawaii or Alaska, your dog will need extra health certificates.
The options are many. You can hire a car (great if you have a small dog) or an RV (might be the better choice if you have a large pup). Either way, make sure your dog is safe in the moving vehicle, cool enough, and has access to water.
There are plenty of dog-friendly hotels and motels across the US. Finding pet-friendly restaurants is more difficult. You might also find yourself stuck if you want to visit cultural attractions like museums.
But there are tons of national parks, dog parks, hiking trails, and even water sports that you and your dog can take part in together. Activities vary widely by region, but all in all, there’s plenty to do and some beautiful scenery to take photos of with your pup!
In short
The 8 best travel destinations for dogs are:
- Barcelona, Spain
- Vancouver Island, Canada
- St. Croix, US Virgin Islands
- Melbourne, Australia
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Belgium
- United Kingdom
- U.S
Conclusion
These dog-friendly travel destinations prove that you don’t need to leave your best furry friend at home when you’re out having exciting adventures! With just a bit of planning and preparation, you can have an entirely pup-friendly vacation, from travel to accommodation to eating out.
Don’t forget to pack carefully for your dog, especially if they’re a picky eater or need special food. Some comfort items would be a good idea too, like their favorite toy or blanket.
Have fun!
Bio:
Mike Powell has been an avid dog lover since he was a child. His pets are part of every area of his life, including travel. He shares his knowledge and useful information on dog nutrition, exercise, and accessories at Dog Embassy.