Leaving your dog at home when you go on vacation can feel like leaving a family member behind. It’s hard enough leaving them to go to work. Thankfully, there are plenty of dog-friendly travel options in Canada that will accommodate your four-legged friend. Whether you’re set on a beach trip, a winery, or something more relaxed, here’s how you can bring your dog along for the fun.
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Visit a dog-friendly beach
Many beaches across Canada are dog-friendly, and that’s good news for your pup. Many dogs can’t contain their excitement the first time they run on the sand and get a taste of the ocean. Even if your dog doesn’t like water, there’s a good chance they’ll love the beach.
Some of the most popular dog-friendly beaches in Canada include:
- Spanish Banks Beach in Vancouver. This beach offers off-leash areas with ocean access, scenic views of the mountains and city skyline, and plenty of room for chasing sticks and zoomies.
- Willows Beach in Victoria. The water at Willows Beach is calm, and it’s perfect for dogs who like to get wet, but not swim. However, note that dogs are only allowed on this beach from October 1 to April 30, and they are not allowed in certain areas at all.
- Acadia Beach in Vancouver. Acadia Beach is part of Pacific Spirit Regional Park and has a large off-leash area for your pup to run around. It’s quiet, and has plenty of driftwood and rocks to climb.
Taking your dog to the beach can be an exciting adventure for everyone. Just remember that when you visit a dog-friendly beach – even if dogs are required to be on-leash at all times – you will encounter off-leash dogs. That’s why it’s essential to train your dog to listen and stay calm. You don’t want your dog to run off and get into a fight with another dog whose owner is nowhere to be seen.
Unfortunately, that happens when owners don’t have control of their dogs. Before vacationing with your furry friend, invest in professional dog obedience training for your dog’s safety and your own peace of mind.
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Cabin retreats
Cabin rentals offer the perfect blend of comfort, quiet, and nature, especially for dogs who are used to city sidewalks. Many cabins are tucked away in peaceful, secluded areas, making them ideal for dogs who want to roam and relax.
Dog-friendly options are everywhere, and companies like Tree Cabins in British Columbia offer beautiful cabin properties with plenty of nature for you and your dog to enjoy. They even offer complimentary treats for your pup. If your dog’s usual excitement is a jog around the block, a weekend in a cabin will feel like bliss.
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Camping adventures
Dogs love camping, and it’s not just about the hot dogs. Since dogs love being outdoors, camping is ideal since you’ll be spending most of your time outside. There are thousands of dog-friendly campgrounds listed on BringFido, along with reviews and specific pet policies.
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Dog-friendly wineries
If you love visiting wineries and breweries, there’s a growing number of dog-friendly wineries popping up all over the U.S. \
For example, there are a handful of dog-friendly breweries and wineries in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario.
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National parks
While some areas are restricted, many national parks have dog-friendly trails and campsites. For example:
- Kejimkujik National Park. Explore Merrymakedge beach, the waterfalls, and drumlin hills with your pup before spending the night in a yurt or cabin. Just remember to keep them on a leash to avoid disturbing the reptiles and amphibians.
- Kouchibouguac National Park. Take your pup on a long on-leash walk along Callanders Beach, hike through forests, and get a good night’s sleep in a pet-friendly oTENTik.
- Jasper National Park. As Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain park, this place is ideal for camping adventures with your pup. Bring your RV or tent and explore plenty of dog-friendly trails.
- Terra Nova National Park. You can hike, explore the ponds and bogs, and camp in a tent or A-frame cabin with your pup.
Regardless of which park you visit, get the rules ahead of time and be prepared with poop bags, plenty of water, and a leash no longer than three metres.
Take your next adventure with your dog
Traveling with your dog requires extra planning, but it’s well worth the effort. Whether you head out to a dog-friendly beach, a national park, a winery, or camp out in the woods, there are countless opportunities to include your pup on your next vacation.
