New place, same routine: keeping your dog happy on holiday
Aug 3, 2026
Summer holidays are all about making memories. Whether you’re heading to the coast, exploring the countryside or enjoying a few slower days somewhere new, there’s a good chance your dog is coming along for the adventure too.
For us, a change of scenery is exciting. For dogs, it can feel a little different.
New smells, sounds, different sleeping spots and changes to their daily routine can leave some dogs feeling unsure at first. The good news? With a little planning and a few familiar habits, you can help them settle in and enjoy the holiday just as much as you do.
Before you set off
A little preparation before you leave can make your holiday much more relaxing once you arrive.
Make sure your dog's microchip details are up to date, with your current address and phone number registered. It's also worth checking their ID tag is up to date and easy to read before you head off.
Before travelling, check they're up to date with vaccinations and flea and worm treatments too. Hopefully you'll never need it, but it's a good idea to know where the nearest veterinary practice and emergency out-of-hours clinic is to where you're staying, just in case.
Travel
If you're travelling by car, remember that dogs must be safely restrained by law. A secure harness, travel crate, pet carrier or dog guard will help keep everyone safe during the journey.
It's also worth planning regular breaks so everyone can stretch their legs, have a drink and enjoy a proper sniff around before continuing the journey. Rather than stopping only at busy motorway services, look out for quieter dog-friendly pubs, parks or walking spots along your route. It turns the journey into part of the adventure rather than simply getting from A to B.
Keep the familiar bits familiar
Your destination might change, but aspects of your dog’s routine don’t have to.
Dogs thrive on knowing what comes next, so sticking to familiar mealtimes and bedtime routines can make a big difference, with enough exercise and stimulation during the day to keep them feeling settled. Even if your walks happen on a beach instead of around the local park, heading out at your usual time gives your dog something predictable to look forward to.
It’s often these small routines that help everything else feel a little more normal.
Pack more than the essentials
Food and water bowls? Of course. But don’t forget the things that smell like home.
Their favourite blanket, a well-loved toy, or even their usual bed can help make a new place feel much more like home. These familiar comforts can help your dog relax after a busy day of exploring.
Let them explore at their own pace
Everything is new when you’re away. Rather than trying to fit lots into the first day, give your dog time to take everything in. A walk around your accommodation or a gentle stroll through the local area lets them explore all the new sights and smells without feeling overwhelmed.
After all, sniffing isn’t just fun - it’s one of the ways dogs make sense of the world.
Don't forget to schedule some downtime
It's easy to fill every day with adventures when you're away, but holidays can be surprisingly tiring for dogs too.
Most dogs need around 16 to 18 hours of sleep or rest every day, and all the extra walking, sniffing and excitement can leave them needing even more time to recharge. Make sure there's plenty of opportunity to relax back at your accommodation between adventures.
A well-rested dog is much more likely to enjoy tomorrow's walk too.
Choose dog-friendly places that work for everyone
Not every holiday cottage, café or walking route is equally dog-friendly.
A little research before you travel can save a lot of stress once you arrive. Look for accommodation with secure outdoor space, nearby walking routes and places where dogs are genuinely welcome.
The easier your holiday is for your dog, the more enjoyable it becomes for everyone.
If you’re looking for inspiration, these websites are a great place to start your search for a dog-friendly UK stay:
Canine Cottages – thousands of cottages with dog-friendly features, from enclosed gardens to coastal escapes.
Dog Friendly Retreats – handpicked holiday homes designed with dogs in mind.
Paws & Stay – unique stays and independent places that welcome four-legged guests.
PetsPyjamas – hotels, cottages and country house stays that offer plenty of dog-friendly options.
National Trust Holidays – cottages in some of the UK’s most beautiful locations, many of which welcome dogs.
Make your holiday home feel safe
When you first arrive, give your accommodation a quick once-over before letting your dog explore.
Check garden fences and gates are secure, look for any obvious escape routes and make sure there aren't any hazards waiting to be discovered. Every holiday cottage is different, and a couple of minutes checking everything over can help avoid unnecessary worry later.
If your dog needs to spend a little time on their own while you're out, remember that many dog-friendly accommodations ask owners not to leave pets unattended for long periods. Bringing a favourite chew or a stuffed Kong can help them relax in an unfamiliar environment if you do need to pop out briefly.
Looking for somewhere new to explore?
The UK is full of brilliant dog-friendly destinations. A few favourites include:
The Lake District, with endless walking routes and dog-friendly pubs.
Northumberland’s coastline, where wide beaches give dogs plenty of space to explore.
The Norfolk Broads for peaceful waterside walks.
The New Forest, where woodland trails and open heathland make every walk feel like an adventure.
Pembrokeshire’s coastal paths, offering miles of scenic walks together.
Wherever you're exploring, remember it's new territory for your dog too. Keep them on a lead until you're confident it's safe, particularly around livestock, wildlife, cliff edges or fast-moving water. Once they've had a chance to settle into their surroundings, you can both relax and enjoy discovering somewhere new together.
Don't forget to pack...
Dog food (plus a little extra)
Treats
Portable water bottle
Collapsible bowls
Lead, harness and spare lead
Bedding and favourite blanket
Favourite toys
Doggy first aid kit
Waste bags
Drying coat or old towels
Any medication
Vaccination details (if needed)
Wherever you decide to go, the best part isn’t the destination itself. It’s the moments in between, the time spent together and the memories you make along the way.
Because every walk counts, whether it’s five minutes around the block or somewhere completely new.