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What do the regulations say?

As pet owners, we have the right to move freely with our pets. In many countries, there are no laws or legal acts regulating the issue of bringing dogs to the beach, and the only guideline we need to consider are local regulations and ordinances issued by the beach owner. Before deciding on a seaside holiday with your dog, it is worth making sure whether it will be possible to take them with you, in order to avoid leaving your dog in the room for long hours.

Where can you take your dog and where can't you?

Depending on the regulations regarding the presence of dogs, beaches can be divided into three categories:

1. Beaches with a total ban on animals -

where, regardless of the time of year, day, or crowd, there is an absolute ban on bringing animals, and breaking the rule is penalized.

2. Beaches with limited access for dogs -

where walking with dogs is allowed at certain times of the day and/or during specific seasons (e.g., in the early morning or evening hours, or outside the summer season)

3. Dog-friendly beaches designated for pets and their owners -

where you can freely stay with your dog, and they will always be welcome!

Safety first -

The beach is a public place, and it is necessary to follow the applicable rules. Therefore, it is essential to secure your dog properly to ensure they do not pose a danger or cause discomfort to others on the beach. If your dog accompanies you during sunbathing, remember that:
• every dog brought to the beach should be secured according to the rules (leash, muzzle)
• it is unacceptable for the dog to roam freely between other people's towels. Even on beaches where dogs are allowed, your dog should stay close to the owner
• like humans, dogs are guests on the beach, and they should not interact with the natural wildlife (e.g., seals), or chase birds.

Think it through - is it a good idea?

Before taking your dog to the beach, ask yourself if this type of relaxation will be enjoyable for both you and your dog, considering the following factors:

• Heat

- Remember, dogs might not share your enthusiasm for the scorching sun. Due to their limited ability to regulate their body temperature, dogs can easily overheat and suffer from heatstroke, which poses a serious risk to their health and life.
- If you decide to bring your dog during sunny hours, ensure they have shelter, such as an umbrella, and cool fresh water to drink. You should also wet their fur and belly to help cool them down.

• Crowds

If the beach is crowded, your dog might feel bored and frustrated due to the lack of space to move around freely. Having to lie still on a towel could cause more stress than staying back in a quiet room at a guesthouse.
Perhaps a walk along an empty beach in the evening or early morning, when there is no heat or crowds, could be the perfect alternative for your dog instead of being on hot sand during the day?

• Water activities

When deciding to swim with your dog in the sea, remember that while the sea is vast, not everyone may appreciate swimming near your dog. Respect this and choose a secluded spot that ensures comfort for others and your dog.
Also, remember that seawater might not be beneficial for your dog’s skin and could cause allergic reactions!

Clean up after your dog!

As in any public place, you are responsible for cleaning up after your dog at the beach. Arguments like “tourists leave more trash behind” won’t justify leaving waste behind. Dog droppings not only make the beach less pleasant but also provide opponents of allowing dogs on beaches with valid reasons. So, be sure to clean up whatever your dog leaves on the sand!