Find your dog’s perfect holiday by breed
Date published: 13 Mar 2026
At Dog Friendly Cottages, we know every dog is different. Some are zoomie-powered beach lovers, some prefer a gentle woodland wander, and others are happiest snoozing beside a pub fire after a short stroll. That’s why we’ve created this breed match booking tool – a simple way to help you sniff out the best destinations based on your dog’s size, temperament and energy levels. Just choose your dog’s breed and we’ll suggest places across the UK that suit them down to the ground.
For the high-energy adventurers – border collies, spaniels and huskies
If a quick lap of the park simply won’t cut the biscuit, you’ll need a destination that can keep up with your pup. Breeds like border collies, springer spaniels and huskies thrive on long walks, wide open spaces and plenty of opportunities to burn off energy.
Top destinations for energetic breeds:
The Lake District
With its endless fells, scenic valleys and splash-worthy lakes, the Lake District is basically a playground for energetic pups. From gentle lakeside strolls to more challenging hill walks, there’s plenty to keep busy paws moving all day long.
Browse our dog-friendly Lake District cottages
Snowdonia (Eryri)
Dramatic landscapes, rugged trails and quiet valleys make Snowdonia perfect for dogs that never seem to run out of battery. Just don’t be surprised if your dog is still ready for another walk when you’re ready for tea.
Browse our dog-friendly Snowdonia cottages
Northumberland Coast
Miles of sandy beaches mean zoomies are fully encouraged. It’s the perfect place for a game of fetch that never seems to end. What’s more, tonnes of the beaches are dog-friendly year-round, so it’s a win-win.
For the beach-loving water babies – labradors and retrievers
If your dog sees water and immediately thinks: “Must. Jump. In.” then odds are you’ve got a labrador, golden retriever or Portuguese water dog. They’re happiest when their paws are sandy and their ears slightly soggy. So you need a destination that promises plenty of coastal walks and swimming spots.
Top destinations for paddle-loving breeds:
Cornwall
Cornwall is a dream for water-loving dogs. With hundreds of dog-friendly beaches (especially outside peak summer restrictions), your retriever can spend the day splashing in the surf while you enjoy sea views and pasties.
Browse our dog-friendly Cornwall cottages
Norfolk Coast
Big skies, vast beaches and charming seaside villages make Norfolk perfect for dogs who enjoy a gentle paddle followed by a well-earned snooze.
Browse our dog-friendly Norfolk cottages
Pembrokeshire
This Welsh coastal gem offers dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and plenty of dog-friendly beaches – ideal for pups who love exploring as much as they love swimming.
For the small-but-mighty explorers – dachshunds, terriers and cockapoos
They may be small, but these dogs have personalities the size of a Great Dane. Dachshunds, terriers and cockapoos are curious little explorers who love sniffing out new sights and smells. They’re perfect companions for gentle countryside rambles and exploring charming towns.
Because of their smaller legs (especially those famously low-slung dachshunds), they’re often happiest with shorter but interesting walks.
Top destinations for smaller breeds:
The Cotswolds
Picture-perfect villages, cosy pubs and rolling countryside make the Cotswolds ideal for relaxed adventures. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll followed by a nap by the fire.
Browse our dog-friendly Cotswolds cottages
Yorkshire Dales
Beautiful valleys, peaceful footpaths and plenty of dog-friendly pubs mean your small explorer can sniff their way through some of England’s prettiest scenery.
Browse our dog-friendly Yorkshire Dales cottages
Suffolk countryside
Quiet lanes, nature reserves and charming villages make Suffolk a brilliant option for dogs who love exploring without the hustle and bustle.
For the laid-back loungers – bulldogs, basset hounds and greyhounds
Not every dog wants to climb mountains before breakfast. Some breeds are all about slow strolls and maximum relaxation. Bulldogs, basset hounds and retired greyhounds are often happiest with gentle walks followed by long naps. If your dog’s holiday motto is “less hike, more snooze”, then you’ll want to look for destinations with flat walking routes and dog-friendly pubs and cafés.
Top destinations for relaxed breeds:
The New Forest
With its peaceful woodland trails and wild ponies, the New Forest offers gentle walks that are perfect for dogs who prefer to take life at a slower pace.
Browse our dog-friendly New Forest cottages
Devon countryside
Rolling hills, riverside paths and sleepy villages make Devon a brilliant destination for relaxed rambles.
Browse our dog-friendly Devon cottages
North York Moors villages
While the moors themselves can be dramatic, the surrounding villages offer lovely gentle walks and welcoming pubs where dogs are always greeted like VIP guests.
For the social butterflies – friendly family breeds
Some dogs simply love everyone. Other dogs. Strangers. The postie. Breeds like French bulldogs, beagles and cavapoos are famously sociable, which means they thrive in more lively destinations where there’s plenty going on. You could even call them city slicker dogs. They’re the type of hounds to enjoy bustling seaside towns, plenty of pub and café stops and busy walking routes.
Top destinations for sociable breeds:
Brighton
This vibrant seaside city is packed with dog-friendly cafés, pubs and beach walks – perfect for dogs who enjoy a bit of people-watching.
Browse our dog-friendly Brighton cottages
St Ives
Art galleries, harbour walks and dog-friendly spots make St Ives ideal for pups who like being part of the action.
Browse our dog-friendly St Ives cottages
Whitby
Historic streets, seaside charm and plenty of dog-welcoming pubs mean sociable dogs will have plenty of new friends before the day is done.
Find your dog’s perfect match
Of course, breed is just one piece of the puzzle and every dog is completely unique. But if you can match your dog’s size, energy and temperament to a destination then you’ll both be living your best holiday life. Discover your pup’s paw-fect holiday destination – be it by the sea or somewhere wonderfully remote – today with Dog Friendly Cottages.
Meet the author
Annabel JacksonAnnabel loves exploring new parts of the UK with her family, including French bulldog, Albie. They’re regular visitors to North Wales and Norfolk, but have also made some paw-some memories in the Peak District, Cotswolds, Highlands and Cornwall.
