{"id":3163,"date":"2026-05-07T09:56:02","date_gmt":"2026-05-07T08:56:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/?p=3163"},"modified":"2026-05-07T10:12:50","modified_gmt":"2026-05-07T09:12:50","slug":"accepting-dogs-into-your-holiday-let","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/accepting-dogs-into-your-holiday-let","title":{"rendered":"Accepting Dogs into your Holiday Let"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"color: #598d9d;\"><strong>As a holiday let owner, deciding whether to make your property dog-friendly can feel like a big decision.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p>On one hand, it opens your doors to a wider audience and can boost your income. On the other hand, there\u2019s the consideration of extra cleaning, potential wear and tear, and managing guest expectations.<\/p>\n<p>The truth is, demand has never been stronger. Since the Coronavirus pandemic, pet ownership has risen significantly (by around 62%), and more holidaymakers than ever want to bring their dogs along for the trip rather than leave them behind.<\/p>\n<p>So, is it worth it?<\/p>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border: 1px solid #598d9d; padding: 15px; margin: 20px 0; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p><strong style=\"color: #598d9d; font-size: 18px;\">Skip to..<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul style=\"list-style-type: none; margin: 10px 0 0 0; padding: 0;\">\n<li style=\"margin-bottom: 8px;\"><a style=\"color: #333; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;\" href=\"#accept-pets\">Should I Accept Pets Into My Holiday Let?<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"margin-bottom: 8px;\"><a style=\"color: #333; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;\" href=\"#benefits-pets\">Benefits of Allowing Pets in Your Holiday Let<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"margin-bottom: 8px;\"><a style=\"color: #333; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;\" href=\"#considerations-pets\">Considerations for Making Your Holiday Let Dog-Friendly<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"margin-bottom: 8px;\"><a style=\"color: #333; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;\" href=\"#wales-locations\">Why Mid, South and West Wales is Perfect for Dog Friendly Stays<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"margin-bottom: 8px;\"><a style=\"color: #333; text-decoration: none; font-weight: bold;\" href=\"#work-with-us\">Why Work with Coast and Country Holidays?<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p><strong><em>Let\u2019s take a closer look at the pros, the considerations, and how to make your Welsh holiday let work brilliantly for both you and your guests&#8230;<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2 id=\"accept-pets\">Should I Accept Pets Into My Holiday Let?<\/h2>\n<div>\n<p>Pet-friendly holidays are continuing to grow in popularity across the UK.<\/p>\n<p>In 2025, around <strong>27% of our bookings were for dog-friendly properties<\/strong>, showing just how strong and consistent this demand is. With an estimated <strong>12 million dogs in the UK<\/strong>, this market isn\u2019t going anywhere.<\/p>\n<p>By allowing dogs in your holiday let, you give yourself access to a large and loyal audience, and that often translates into more bookings and stronger returns.<\/p>\n<p>Many dog-friendly properties earn around <strong>11% more annually<\/strong>, with some owners seeing even greater gains depending on location and facilities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h2><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3175 aligncenter\" style=\"font-size: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2022\/09\/sleepy-2.jpg\" alt=\"Sleepy dog on sofa\" width=\"640\" height=\"411\" \/><\/h2>\n<hr \/>\n<div>\n<h2 id=\"benefits-pets\">Benefits of Allowing Pets in Your Holiday Let<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\">If you&#8217;re considering making your Welsh holiday let dog-friendly, here&#8217;s how it could benefit you:<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>1. <strong>Increase Your Income<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div>\n<p>A large proportion of holidaymakers actively filter for dog-friendly properties when searching \u2014 meaning if you don\u2019t accept dogs, you may not even appear in their search results.<\/p>\n<p>By welcoming dogs, you:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Expand your audience instantly<\/li>\n<li>Improve your booking potential<\/li>\n<li>Make your property more competitive<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border-left: 5px solid #598d9d; padding: 12px 15px; margin: 15px 0; font-family: sans-serif; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0; color: #333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18px; vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;\">\ud83d\udc15<\/span><\/strong>At Coast and Country Holidays, over 50% of our properties accept dogs, and many owners see clear financial benefits as a result.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Head to our latest <a href=\"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/holiday-let-market-insights-report-mid-west-and-south-wales\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Holiday Letting Market Insights Report<\/a> for more insights on how to boost bookings and increase your holiday let income.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>2. <strong>Boost Low-Season Bookings<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div>\n<p>Dog owners tend to holiday all year round, not just during peak summer months.<\/p>\n<p>Autumn (especially October) is a particularly popular time for pet-friendly stays. During this period:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Many beaches lift dog restrictions<\/li>\n<li>Walking conditions are ideal<\/li>\n<li>Destinations are quieter and more appealing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By accepting dogs, you\u2019re more likely to see an increase in bookings during quieter seasons \u2014 helping to smooth out peaks and troughs in occupancy.<\/p>\n<p>This is especially true in destinations like Pembrokeshire or the Brecon Beacons for example, where outdoor space and dog-friendly beaches make it hugely appealing to pet owners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>3. <strong>Encourage Longer Stays<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div>\n<p>Dog owners often prefer longer breaks so their pets can properly enjoy the holiday too.<\/p>\n<p>Additionally:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Many prefer not to leave dogs in kennels<\/li>\n<li>Travelling with a dog makes short stays less appealing<\/li>\n<li>Guests are more likely to \u201csettle in\u201d for longer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>This can result in:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Higher booking values<\/li>\n<li>Fewer changeovers<\/li>\n<li>More consistent occupancy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border-left: 5px solid #598d9d; padding: 12px 15px; margin: 15px 0; font-family: sans-serif; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0; color: #333; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.4;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 18px; vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;\">\ud83d\udc15<\/span><\/strong>Longer stays can also reduce operational workload, with fewer cleans and check-ins.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-3188 aligncenter\" style=\"font-size: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2022\/09\/doggie-3.jpg\" alt=\"naughty dog ripping paper\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/h3>\n<hr \/>\n<div>\n<h2 id=\"considerations-pets\">Considerations for Making Your Holiday Let Dog-Friendly<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<p>While the benefits are strong, it\u2019s important to go in with a balanced view.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>1. <strong>Wear and Tear<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div>\n<p>Although most dogs are well-behaved, accidents can happen. Preparing your property properly will help minimise any risk.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Simple ways to protect your property:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Install child gates to block off certain areas<\/li>\n<li>Use pet-friendly flooring like tiles or lino in high-traffic spaces<\/li>\n<li>Create a mud room or utility area for drying off<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border-left: 5px solid #598d9d; padding: 12px 15px; margin: 15px 0; font-family: sans-serif; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0; color: #333;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u2b50 TOP TIP: <\/span><\/strong>A dog towel by the door is a simple but thoughtful touch \u2014 especially after muddy countryside walks or beach trips.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>Our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/spring-cleaning-your-holiday-let\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guide on spring cleaning your holiday let<\/a>, for expert tips on keeping your holiday let spotless for your guests.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<h3>2. <strong>Allergic Guests<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div>\n<p>While allergies to pet hair are relatively uncommon, it\u2019s still important to maintain a high standard of cleanliness for all guests.<\/p>\n<p>To manage this:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Deep clean after every stay<\/li>\n<li>Regularly wash soft furnishings<\/li>\n<li>Invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border-left: 5px solid #598d9d; padding: 12px 15px; margin: 15px 0; font-family: sans-serif; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0; color: #333;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u2b50 TOP TIP:<\/span> <\/strong>Make sure to set clear expectations in your listing e.g. \u201cpet-friendly property\u201d helps guests make informed decisions.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>3. <strong>Dog-Proof Your Property<\/strong><\/h3>\n<div>\n<p>Ensuring the property is safe for dogs is just as important as protecting it.<\/p>\n<h4><strong>Key things to consider:<\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Enclosed gardens (check regularly for gaps or weak points)<\/li>\n<li>Add chicken wire where needed for smaller dogs<\/li>\n<li>Remove toxic plants (such as daffodils, ivy, and lilies)<\/li>\n<li>Avoid recent use of chemicals or pesticides before guest arrival<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can also enhance the guest experience by providing:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Dog bowls<\/li>\n<li>A dog bed or blankets<\/li>\n<li>Waste bags<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border-left: 5px solid #598d9d; padding: 12px 15px; margin: 15px 0; font-family: sans-serif; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0; color: #333;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u2b50 TOP TIP: <\/span><\/strong>A small \u201cdog welcome pack\u201d with treats and a list of local dog-friendly spots is a great way to stand out \u2014 and often leads to better reviews.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-4965 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2023\/03\/blog-25.png\" alt=\"Dog welcome pack\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2 id=\"wales-locations\">Why Mid, South and West Wales is Perfect for Dog Friendly Stays<\/h2>\n<div>\n<p>Mid, South and West Wales are ideal locations for dog-friendly holidays, offering a mix of coastline, countryside and open space that guests (and their dogs) love.<\/p>\n<p>With the Wales Coastal Path, wide sandy beaches and scenic rural areas, there are endless opportunities for walking and exploring. Many beaches also become dog-friendly outside peak season, helping to drive off-peak bookings.<\/p>\n<p>From the coastline of Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion to the countryside of Carmarthenshire and Mid Wales, these regions naturally attract dog owners looking for space, scenery and a slower pace.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div style=\"background-color: #f1f6f7; border-left: 5px solid #598d9d; padding: 12px 15px; margin: 15px 0; font-family: sans-serif; border-radius: 4px;\">\n<p style=\"margin: 0; color: #333;\"><strong><span style=\"color: #000000;\">\u2b50 TOP TIP: <\/span><\/strong>Highlight nearby dog-friendly walks, beaches and pubs in your listing or in your welcome pack \u2014 it\u2019s often a key factor when guests are choosing where to stay.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-3289 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/13\/2019\/12\/The-winding-coastal-path-above-Solva-in-Pembrokeshire.png\" alt=\"The winding coastal path above Solva in Pembrokeshire\" width=\"640\" height=\"427\" \/><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2 id=\"work-with-us\">Why Work with Coast and Country Holidays?<\/h2>\n<p>Managing a dog-friendly holiday home can be a lot of work, but at Coast and Country Holidays, we make it easy for you. Our full-service management includes:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Housekeeping and Maintenance:<\/strong> We ensure your property is thoroughly cleaned and well-maintained after each guest.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inspections and Feedback:<\/strong> Our team carries out regular inspections and provides detailed feedback to ensure your property stays in excellent condition.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Health and Safety Compliance:<\/strong> From fire risk assessments to ensuring your property meets all necessary legal requirements, we\u2019ve got you covered.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Regulations Support:<\/strong> Stay on top of compliance and avoid the stress of keeping up with legal regulations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>By partnering with us, you can enjoy the benefits of running a dog-friendly holiday let without the hassle of day-to-day management!<\/p>\n<p><strong>For more information about letting your cottage with us, complete the form below to request contact from our team. You&#8217;ll also receive a copy of our FREE Owner Guide.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div style=\"margin-top: -25px; margin-bottom: 20px;\"><script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"https:\/\/sykescottages.jotform.com\/jsform\/253063706513957\"><\/script><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As a holiday let owner, deciding whether to make your property dog-friendly can feel like a big decision. On one hand, it opens your doors to a wider audience and can boost your income. On the other hand, there\u2019s the consideration of extra cleaning, potential wear and tear, and managing guest expectations. The truth is, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":189,"featured_media":3175,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1537],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3163","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-owner","location-wales"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3163","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/189"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3163"}],"version-history":[{"count":53,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3163\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":4068,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3163\/revisions\/4068"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3175"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3163"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3163"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.welsh-cottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3163"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}